Belfast City Centre offers a charming mix of interesting architecture, diverse heritage and lively arts and culture. After Northern Ireland abandoned its turbulent past, the capital’s downtown has charged onward with a unique mix of new and traditional. Visit Belfast’s City Centre to watch a show, walk the historic waterfront and relax at a pub.
At the town’s core is Belfast City Hall, a magnificent green-domed Baroque Revival structure built in 1906. Admire its imposing façade and take a free guided tour of the interior. Walk through the surrounding Titanic Memorial Garden to commemorate those who lost their lives on the ill-fated ship, which was built in a Belfast shipyard.
Cross the street to the city’s oldest library, the Linen Hall Library, known for its Irish collections and the beautiful Victorian warehouse it occupies.
Stop for pub food and a refreshing ale at the well-preserved Crown Liquor Saloon before visiting the Grand Opera House to appreciate its oriental architecture or watch a performance.
Stroll through lively Cathedral Quarter, named for St. Anne’s Cathedral. This former industrial area features prominent cultural institutions, including the iconic Oh Yeah Music Centre. Check online schedules to find memorable exhibitions or concerts.
Toward the River Lagan, view the Gothic designs of the grand 19th-century Albert Memorial Clock.
On the square in front of the proud Belfast Customs House, look for TheBig Fish. This innovative public sculpture of a large blue salmon uses ceramic tiles to celebrate Belfast and the revival of the river’s ecosystem.
Travel to the Queen’s Quarter to see palms and tropical ferns at the Belfast Botanic Garden or wander the picturesque grounds of Queen’s University. Explore exhibits of archaeology, local history and art at the Ulster Museum.
Belfast City Centre includes most of the historic downtown and the river’s western shore. Many areas are navigable on foot, with bus, rail and taxi connections also available. Use the center as a base to travel to more distant attractions such as the Titanic Belfast or Windsor Park stadium.
