Things to do in Belfast

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Belfast City Hall which includes chateau or palace, a garden and heritage elements
Belfast City Centre showing markets, street scenes and signage
Victoria Square Shopping Centre featuring interior views and modern architecture
Stormont Parliament Buildings showing a statue or sculpture, a monument and an administrative buidling
Crown Liquor Saloon featuring nightlife, a bar and interior views

Belfast Attractions

The capital and largest city of Northern Ireland, Belfast began as a hamlet on the River Lagan that blossomed as a haven for repairing and building ships. While the city's maritime history is its defining feature, Belfast is packed with culture and heritage that make it a fascinating destination to explore. Visit the former Harland and Wolff shipyards where the famous RMS Titanic was built, or spend your time exploring Belfast's unique neighborhoods, like the Gaeltacht Quarter where Irish culture finds its heart. With a wealth of Edwardian architecture and modern structures, the city has an abundance of eye-catching sights to see and exciting things to do.

Belfast must see attractions

1. Titanic Belfast

The Titanic Belfast is a large complex, with the appearance of a gleaming iceberg rising above the skyline near the River Lagan. It tells the story of the RMS Titanic, which sank on its maiden voyage from Southampton to New York in 1912. Learn the true story of the ship that inspired a 1997 Oscar-winning movie.
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Titanic Belfast featuring modern architecture and signage

2. Grand Opera House

Delight your senses with your choice of performances at the Grand Opera House in the heart of Belfast. The building was constructed in an Oriental style at the end of the 19th century. Select from musicals, dramas, operas, dance shows and comedies for an entertaining evening in the Northern Ireland capital.
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Grand Opera House featuring interior views, theater scenes and heritage elements

3. Victoria Square Shopping Centre

Whether you have expensive tastes or get your retail thrills from grabbing a bargain, Victoria Square Shopping Centre offers something to suit you. This bustling mall is at the heart of Belfast’s main shopping district. Head here to find everything you need to fill a whole day, from great shopping to entertainment and eating options. Make sure you bring a camera so you can capture the gorgeous views of Belfast that are visible through the building’s glass roof.
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Victoria Square Shopping Centre featuring shopping and interior views

4. Waterfront Hall

Planning for the Waterfront Hall, on Lanyon Place on the riverfront, began in 1989 and construction finished in 1997, the same year it opened its doors.
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BA7NM1 Waterfront Hall Belfast Northern Ireland

5. Belfast City Hall

The green domes of Belfast City Hall are proud symbols of the capital of Northern Ireland. The hall’s primary use is for the city council to gather and discuss policies, but its pleasant green areas and open courtyard attract students and vacationers. Learn about Belfast’s fascinating past at the site responsible for city government.
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Belfast City Hall which includes heritage architecture, a park and a castle

6. Belfast Castle

Belfast Castle is a symbol of the city and can be seen from across town. A visit to the castle is a must for history enthusiasts and those wanting to appreciate the best views of the city. Admire the romantic-looking Scottish baronial architecture, wander the castle’s expansive grounds, have a traditional Irish meal in its cellar, or hike Cave Hill.
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Belfast Castle showing chateau or palace, a park and heritage architecture

Recommended things to do in Belfast

Number of things to do
215
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
A Walk Through the Belfast Cemetery with Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Belfast

Free Things to Do in Belfast

Touring on a shoestring budget in Belfast? Spend time, not your paycheck, on fabulous experiences.

Big Fish - If you want to discover more of the cultural and artistic side of the region, be sure to pay a visit.

Lagan Meadows - Make this place your first stop for a bit of fun during your stay.

The Hall of Friendship - If you're interested in bygone eras, this is one stop you can't miss.

Linen Hall Library - Well known among those who reside here, this place is worth exploring.

St. Anne's Cathedral - Incorporate a bit of spirituality into your travels by spending some time at this holy site.

Black Mountain - Appreciate the stark contrast between the city and nature's splendor at this special spot.

Dover Street Millennium Park - Renew your mind and body by spending time with Mother Nature.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Belfast

Belfast was built up around its distinct quarters. Originally centered around industry trades, the quarters are now popular destinations for their rich history, unique culture, and vibrant local flavor.

Cathedral Quarter - The Cathedral Quarter is home to the St Anne's Cathedral and many of Belfast's oldest and most architecturally impressive buildings. Known as the cultural quarter, it hosts the annual Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival and the street performance-focused Festival of Fools, centered around the Belfast Community Circus School. The Cathedral Quarter also features the Northern Ireland War Memorial and the historic Custom House Square.

Queen's Quarter - Named after the Queen's University Belfast, the Queen's Quarter is a lively student area. The long-running Belfast Festival at Queen's, now known as the Belfast International Arts Festival, takes place in the quarter each autumn. Visit the incredible 28-acre (11-ha) Botanic Gardens, stopping by the Ulster Museum on the way. Queen's Quarter also contains part of the Golden Mile, where the city's best bars and restaurants are found.

Titanic Quarter - Doused in Titanic heritage, the Titanic Quarter is the area where the famous ship was built in 1912. New developments give the quarter a unique character that mixes modern innovation with history. At the Titanic Dock and Pump House, see the original site-unchanged since 1911-where the RMS Titanic last sat on dry land. You can also visit the restored and renovated SS Nomadic, the tender of the Titanic.

What to See in Belfast

With thousands of years of history, Belfast has plenty of sights both ancient and modern. Slip back in time to 1912 at the Titanic Belfast Maritime Museum, located in the former Harland and Wolff shipyard where the RMS Titanic was built. Belfast is the hometown of author CS Lewis, and literary lovers can visit CS Lewis Square to see bronze sculptures from The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe. For a taste of modern Belfast, head to Windsor Park, the home of the Northern Ireland national football team, or Kingspan Stadium to catch an Ulster Rugby match.

Sightseeing in Belfast

In addition to fascinating history, Belfast is full of opportunities for adventure in nature and modern culture. Beautiful and wild Northern Ireland is home to numerous filming locations for the TV series Game of Thrones, with many scenes filmed in The Paint Hall studios in Belfast itself. Take a day to exploreGame of Thrones sites outside of the city, or inspire your imagination with a visit to the dramatic geological formations of Giant's Causeway and other natural wonders of the region. Take a step back in time with a stop at Hillsborough Castle, an 18th-century Georgian country house with rooms filled with items from the Royal Collection and immaculately manicured gardens. In Cave Hill Country Park, visit Belfast Castle and take in views overlooking the entire city and Belfast Lough. The park is full of lush trails for hiking and walking as well as gardens and the historic caves for which the area is named.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Belfast? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Belfast

Titanic Belfast featuring modern architecture and signage

Titanic Belfast

Arrive at the historic birthplace of the British passenger ship that sank in 1912 and learn about its tragic voyage.

Titanic Belfast
Titanic Belfast which includes modern architecture, a river or creek and boating

SSE Arena

Catch an event at SSE Arena during your trip to Belfast. Discover the fascinating museums in this walkable area, or seek out the local tours.

SSE Arena
Queen\'s University of Belfast featuring heritage architecture

Queen's University of Belfast

Take a campus tour or just explore the area of Queen's University of Belfast, during your trip to Belfast. Discover the acclaimed theater scene in this walkable area, or seek out the local tours.

Queen's University of Belfast
Grand Opera House featuring interior views, theater scenes and heritage elements

Grand Opera House

Attend a mesmerizing spectacle in Belfast’s creative hub, which has been at the forefront of performing arts for over a century.

Grand Opera House
Victoria Square Shopping Centre featuring shopping and interior views

Victoria Square Shopping Centre

Find upscale designers, chain brands, a wide selection of restaurants and a multi-screen movie theater under one roof in lively Belfast city center.

Victoria Square Shopping Centre
Waterfront Hall

Waterfront Hall

Sitting on the banks of the Lagan River in Belfast, the Waterfront Hall is a landmark of the city and ranks as one of the world’s leading conference venues, hosting a huge array of events from concerts and shows to exhibitions and competitions.

Waterfront Hall
Belfast City Hall which includes heritage architecture, a park and a castle

Belfast City Hall

Relax amid the sculptures, monuments and plants of the garden and take a tour of the Baroque-style interior of this historic site.

Belfast City Hall
Belfast Castle which includes heritage architecture, a fountain and a castle

Belfast Castle

With views across the city and centuries of history, this classical sandstone building is one of the most popular free attractions in Belfast.

Belfast Castle
Belfast Botanic Gardens which includes heritage elements, heritage architecture and a park

Belfast Botanic Gardens

Appreciate the diverse range of tropical plants in the historic greenhouses of this park and visit Northern Ireland’s largest museum.

Belfast Botanic Gardens

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Belfast

Belfast City Hall showing heritage elements, a castle and heritage architecture

Belfast City Centre

4/5(6 area reviews)

Centred around Donegall Square, Belfast City Centre boasts the iconic Waterfront Hall, Victoria Square's commercial and leisure hub, and historic landmarks like Albert Clock and City Hall. Easily accessible via Belfast Suburban Rail stations.

Belfast City Centre
St. George\'s Market featuring food and markets

Belfast Central District

4.5/5(342 area reviews)

The city's central core has cultural riches, shops, bars and restaurants to entertain visitors day and night.

Belfast Central District
Metropolitan Arts Centre featuring modern architecture and a city

Cathedral Quarter

4.5/5(13 area reviews)

Developing arts and culture hub, the Cathedral Quarter offers artist spaces, cultural events, and performances at St. Anne's Cathedral. Must-visit spots include Custom House Square, Northern Ireland War Memorial, and the Metropolitan Arts Centre. Enjoy dining at The Muddlers Club or unwind at The John Hewitt pub.

Cathedral Quarter
Queens Quarter

Queens Quarter

4.5/5(99 area reviews)

Queens Quarter is a destination visitors seek out for is ample dining options, fascinating museums, and picturesque gardens. You might also want to check out attractions like Belfast Botanic Gardens or Ulster Museum while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Queens Quarter
Titanic Belfast featuring interior views

Titanic Quarter

4.5/5(33 area reviews)

Waterfront regeneration with historic maritime landmarks, Titanic Quarter offers the Titanic Belfast attraction, Catalyst Inc science park, and Belfast Harbour Marina. Accessible via Translink Metro Services and NI Railways.

Titanic Quarter
Ravenhill Stadium

Ballynafoy

While visiting Ballynafoy, you might make a stop by sights like Ravenhill Stadium and Ormeau Park.

Ballynafoy
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Belfast

Cultra as well as a small group of people

Holywood

Cave Hill Country Park featuring caves, hiking or walking and tranquil scenes

Newtownabbey

Photo by Lawrence Mc Cann

Ballyclare

Down

Ballynahinch

Bangor

Bangor

Mount Stewart House and Gardens featuring a house, a garden and heritage architecture

Newtownards

Photo by Michael Mulholland

Crumlin

Photo by Nick Devonshire

Lisburn

Frequently asked questions

Is Belfast worth visiting?
Renowned for its bars and pubs and nature, finding fun things to do in Belfast is simple. Be sure to add Grand Opera House to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Belfast?
Start your adventures with a visit to Titanic Belfast and Belfast Castle. Then, explore different parts of Belfast for a quick bite and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Belfast?
The top tourist attraction in Belfast is Grand Opera House, so don't forget to put it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Belfast?
You can easily tour leading attractions like Grand Opera House, Belfast Castle and Ulster Museum with a three-day getaway in Belfast. On average, most travelers plan two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a little longer and head to Ballymena.
Is Belfast a walkable city?
With vibrant neighborhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city center, Belfast is a good destination to experience on foot. Enjoy wandering between Grand Opera House and Ulster Museum. Then take a stroll through Belfast City Centre, located 0.6 miles from the center, and Belfast Central District, which is roughly 0.1 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Belfast with kids?
If you're searching for sights and activities for all the family, here are some fabulous ideas for what to do in Belfast with kids.

What to do in Belfast for adults?
Waterfront Hall and Lisburn Road are just a couple of the things to do in Belfast. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Belfast?
In Belfast, St. Anne's Cathedral is a must-see spot for anyone wanting to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the parks and other neighborhoods, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's a simple way to discover the best free things to do in Belfast.

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