A Tourist’s Guide to Belfast

Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland and the second-largest city on the island of Ireland. It is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city with a rich history, a unique culture, and a special place as the gateway to the rest of the country. Belfast is also one of the most beautiful and welcoming cities in Europe, so it’s no wonder that it’s one of the top tourist destinations in the United Kingdom.

History of Belfast

Belfast is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the British Isles. It has been inhabited since at least the Iron Age, and evidence suggests that it was a thriving port by the 12th century. The city was officially founded in 1613 by English settlers, but it was mostly Irish people who settled there. The city quickly grew to become an important trading port and industrial hub, with a strong textile industry.

In the 19th century, Belfast saw a lot of growth and development, with the completion of the Belfast and County Down Railway in 1848 and the opening of Queen’s University in 1849. The city was also an important hub for trade and industry in the 20th century, with shipbuilding and engineering becoming major industries.

Facts about Belfast

Today, Belfast is home to around 334,000 people, making it the 11th largest city in the UK. It is also one of the most visited cities in Northern Ireland, with over 5 million tourists visiting each year. The city is known for its unique culture, which includes traditional Irish music and dance, as well as a large number of pubs and restaurants.

Belfast is also home to many popular tourist attractions, including the Titanic Museum and Belfast Castle. There are also several museums dedicated to its history and culture, such as the Ulster Museum and the Museum of Orange Heritage. The city is also renowned for its thriving music scene, with many popular venues hosting live music events throughout the year.

Things to Do in Belfast

Belfast offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for things to do during the day or night, there is something for everyone in Belfast. Here are some of the best things to do in Belfast:

Explore Belfast City Centre

Belfast city centre is packed with attractions, from historic buildings and monuments to shopping areas, markets and parks. Stroll around the city centre and explore its many gems, such as City Hall, St. George’s Market, Donegall Square and Victoria Square. You can also visit some of Belfast’s famous streets and attractions, such as Royal Avenue, Castle Street and Custom House Square.

Visit Some Local Attractions

There are plenty of attractions to visit in Belfast. One of the most popular is the Titanic Museum, which tells the story of the iconic ship with interactive displays and recreations. You can also visit Belfast Castle, which dates back to 1177 and offers stunning views over the city. Other popular attractions include Ulster Museum, Botanic Gardens and Cave Hill Country Park.

Experience Live Music

Belfast is well-known for its vibrant music scene. There are plenty of live music venues around the city centre, such as The Limelight, The Black Box and The Empire Music Hall. You can also visit some of the city’s most popular music festivals and events, such as Stendhal Festival of Art and Music and Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival.

Eat Some Local Food

Belfast is home to some amazing restaurants and cafes that serve up delicious local dishes. Visit one of the traditional Irish pubs and enjoy a hearty meal of shepherd’s pie and Guinness stew. Or you can sample some of the city’s best seafood at places like Mourne Seafood Bar or Deanes Fish & Chip Shop. If you’re looking for something sweet, be sure to try an Ulster Fry or a portion of banana bread from a local bakery.

Take a Tour

If you’re looking for a more in-depth experience of Belfast, then taking a tour is a great way to learn more about the city’s history and culture. There are many options available, such as walking tours, bus tours and boat tours. You can also book a private tour with a local guide who will take you around all of Belfast’s popular sights and share their knowledge of the city with you.

Popular Tours in Belfast

One great way to experience all that Belfast has to offer is to book a tour with a knowledgeable local guide who will show you all of the city’s best spots. Here are two popular tours that you can book in Belfast:

Belfast City Sightseeing Tour

This tour will take you around all of Belfast’s main attractions, from the Cathedral Quarter to the Titanic Museum and Belfast Castle. Along the way your guide will explain the history and culture of each spot and provide interesting stories about life in Belfast. You’ll also have time to explore on your own and take photos. Book this tour here.

Game Of Thrones Tour

Experience the land that inspired some of your favorite scenes in Game Of Thrones on this tour! Your guide will take you around some of the locations used in the show, such as Castle Ward, Downhill Beach and Tollymore Forest Park. Along the way they will explain how these spots were used in Game Of Thrones and share interesting stories about filming in Northern Ireland. Book this tour here.

Conclusion

Belfast is a vibrant city full of history and culture that you won’t find anywhere else in Europe. From historic sites to lively bars and restaurants, there’s something for everyone in Belfast. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week there are plenty of things to do and see in this beautiful city. And if you’re looking for something more immersive, be sure to book one of the popular tours available in Belfast to get an even deeper understanding of this incredible city.