Belfast Things To See: A Guide for Tourists Visiting for the First Time

Belfast is a vibrant city and has a lot to offer for tourists. It is the capital and largest city of Northern Ireland and was founded in the 17th century. It is one of the oldest cities in Ireland and has had many influences throughout its long history. Belfast has a population of approximately 300,000 people and is known for its beautiful architecture, culture, and history. From historical sites to outdoor activities and entertainment, Belfast has something for everyone. This guide will provide visitors with helpful information about the best things to do while visiting Belfast.

A Brief Introduction to Belfast

Belfast has a long and fascinating history, stretching back over 400 years. It was originally settled by the British in 1603 and soon became a major trading port and industrial center. Over time, Belfast grew and flourished, becoming an important center of shipbuilding and engineering. During the 18th century, Belfast was one of the most important port cities in the British Isles and was a hub of commerce, culture, and industry.

In the 19th century, Belfast experienced rapid growth as it became an important industrial center. It attracted immigrants from across Europe and its population grew exponentially. By the late 19th century, Belfast was the largest city in Ireland and one of the most important commercial and industrial centers in Europe.

In the 20th century, Belfast saw a period of decline as industry shifted away from the city. However, in recent years it has seen a resurgence in popularity as tourists flock to the city to experience its history, culture, and sights. Today, Belfast is an exciting and vibrant city with much to offer both locals and visitors alike.

Top 10 Things to Do in Belfast

Belfast offers something for everyone, from historical sites to outdoor activities and entertainment. Here are 10 of the best things to do when visiting Belfast:

1. Visit the Titanic Belfast Museum

The Titanic Belfast Museum is one of the most popular attractions in Belfast. It is a state-of-the-art interactive museum dedicated to the history of the Titanic and its passengers. The museum features nine interactive galleries that tell the story of the Titanic through the eyes of the passengers, crew, and other people involved with the ship’s construction. Visitors can explore replicas of the ship’s decks, experience interactive exhibits, and watch 3D films that tell the story of the Titanic’s fateful voyage.

2. Explore City Hall

City Hall is one of Belfast’s most iconic buildings and was built in 1906. It is one of the city’s most impressive landmarks and is home to many important civic events. Visitors can explore City Hall’s grand interior, which includes a marble staircase, ornate ceilings, stained glass windows, and a spectacular stained glass dome.

3. Tour Stormont Estate

Stormont Estate is an impressive building complex located on the outskirts of Belfast that houses Northern Ireland’s parliament buildings. Visitors can take guided tours of Stormont Estate which offer insight into Northern Ireland’s government and history. The tours include visits to important buildings such as Stormont Castle, Parliament Buildings, The Great Hall, and more.

4. Explore Belfast Castle

Belfast Castle is a 19th century castle located on Cave Hill in Belfast. It was built by the 3rd Marquess of Donegall in 1870 and features neo-Gothic architecture. Visitors can explore the castle’s grand interior which includes ornate fireplaces, intricate woodwork, and impressive stained glass windows.

5. Take a Cruise on Lough Neagh

Lough Neagh is a large freshwater lake located just outside Belfast and is one of the biggest lakes in Europe. Visitors can take a cruise on Lough Neagh which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside as well as an opportunity to spot wildlife such as swans, ducks, and seals.

6. Visit St George’s Market

St George’s Market is one of Belfast’s oldest markets and offers visitors a unique experience. The market features stalls selling fresh produce, handmade items, local crafts, antiques, and more. Visitors can also sample some traditional Northern Irish cuisine such as Ulster frys (a type of fried potato pancake) or Boxty (a type of potato cake).

7. Walk Across Carrickfergus Castle

Carrickfergus Castle is an imposing 12th century castle located just outside Belfast overlooking Belfast Lough. Visitors can take a tour of the castle which includes exploring its many towers, dungeons, and battlements. Visitors can also take a walk across its impressive bridge which offers stunning views across Belfast Lough.

8. Walk Along the River Lagan

The River Lagan runs through the heart of Belfast and is one of its most popular attractions. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along its banks which offer stunning views of the city’s skyline as well as an opportunity to spot wildlife such as salmon and otters.

9. Visit Crumlin Road Gaol

Crumlin Road Gaol is a former prison located in North Belfast that dates back to 1845. Visitors can take guided tours of the prison which provide an insight into what life was like for prisoners during its time as an active prison. The tours include visits to various cells, exercise yards, and execution chambers as well as audio-visual displays that tell stories of the prison’s past inmates.

10. Take a Tour of St Anne’s Cathedral

St Anne’s Cathedral is a stunning Gothic style cathedral located in Belfast city centre that dates back to 1899. Visitors can take guided tours of the cathedral which include exploring its many architectural features such as stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and marble pillars as well as learning about its history and importance to Belfast.

Popular Tours Related to Belfast

1. Castle Tour from Belfast

This full-day tour from Belfast takes visitors on a journey through Northern Ireland’s past as they visit some of Northern Ireland’s most impressive castles including Carrickfergus Castle, Dunluce Castle, Kinbane Castle, Dunseverick Castle, Fort Stewart, and Dunseverick Harbour. Visitors will learn about the rich history of these castles while taking in some breathtaking scenery along the way. The tour also includes visits to some of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful beaches including Portstewart Strand and Ballycastle Beach. At each stop along the tour visitors will learn about local history and get magnificent views across Northern Ireland’s stunning coastline. For those looking for a unique cultural experience during their visit to Northern Ireland this tour will not disappoint! Book a Castle Tour from Belfast here.

2. Game Of Thrones Tour from Belfast

This full-day Game Of Thrones tour from Belfast takes visitors on an immersive journey through some of Northern Ireland’s most breathtaking landscapes that featured in the hit TV show Game Of Thrones®. During this tour visitors will visit some iconic filming locations such as The Dark Hedges (The King’s Road), Winterfell Castle, Cushendun Caves (where Melisandre gave birth to her shadow baby), Ballintoy Harbour (where Theon Greyjoy returns home), Larrybane Quarry (Renly Baratheon’s camp), Castle Ward (Winterfell), Murlough Bay (Dragonstone), Carrick-a-Rede Bridge (where Brienne of Tarth fights off three men),and Downhill Strand (Dragonstone). This tour will give visitors an unrivalled experience as they explore these iconic filming locations in person! Book a Game Of Thrones Tour from Belfast here.

3. Giant’s Causeway Tour from Belfast

This full-day Giant’s Causeway tour from Belfast takes visitors on an awe-inspiring journey along Northern Ireland’s stunning North Antrim Coastline visiting some incredible sights along the way including The Dark Hedges (The King’s Road), Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (where Brienne fought off three men), Ballintoy Harbour (where Theon Greyjoy returns home), Larrybane Quarry (Renly Baratheon’s camp), Dunluce Castle (House Greyjoy), Portstewart Strand (Dragonstone), White Park Bay (where Sandor Clegane fights Beric Dondarrion), Mussenden Temple (where Daenerys Targaryen overlooks Dragonstone), Downhill Strand (Dragonstone), and finally The Giant’s Causeway itself! This unique tour includes both narrative guided walks around each sight as well as plenty of time for visitors to explore each sight at their own pace! Book a Giant’s Causeway Tour from Belfast here.

Conclusion

Belfast is an exciting city with much to offer for both locals and visitors alike! From historical sites to outdoor activities and entertainment there is something for everyone in this vibrant city! This guide has provided visitors with helpful information about 10 of the best things to do when visiting Belfast as well as 3 popular tours related to Belfast that are definitely worth considering when planning your visit! We hope this guide has helped you make your visit to Belfast even more enjoyable!