Things To Do In Belfast This Weekend

Belfast is the capital and largest city of Northern Ireland, and it has a long, rich and fascinating history. Founded by the Normans in the 12th century, Belfast has gone through numerous periods of growth and change over the centuries, from being a major trading port in the 19th century to becoming an important industrial city following the Industrial Revolution. Today, it is a vibrant and modern city, full of culture, history and interesting things to do for the weekend visitor.

With its unique blend of British and Irish culture, Belfast is a great weekend destination for both tourists and locals alike. From its beautiful Victorian architecture to its world-renowned nightlife and entertainment scene, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Belfast. In this guide, we’ll look at some of the best things to do in Belfast this weekend, including cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and nightlife spots.

Explore Belfast’s Historic Architecture

Belfast’s stunning Victorian architecture is one of its defining features, and it’s a great place to start your exploration of the city. The city centre is filled with iconic landmarks, such as the City Hall, St. George’s Market, and the Albert Memorial Clock Tower. Take a stroll around the area and admire the 19th-century architecture, or join one of the popular guided tours that take you around the city’s most famous sights.

Visit the Titanic Quarter

One of Belfast’s most popular attractions is the Titanic Quarter, a regenerated area of the city that was once the home of the iconic ship’s construction dock. Today, it’s a vibrant hub of culture and entertainment, with museums, galleries, shops and restaurants all located within walking distance. One of the highlights is the Titanic Belfast museum, a state-of-the-art interactive center that celebrates the history of this famous maritime disaster.

Take a Trip to Belfast Castle

For a taste of history and culture, take a trip to Belfast Castle. Located on Cave Hill in North Belfast, it offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. Inside the castle you’ll find an impressive collection of Irish antiques, as well as guided tours and a cafe serving traditional fare. During summer months, there are also outdoor concerts held in the courtyard.

Go Shopping in Belfast’s Markets

Belfast is known for its bustling markets, filled with fresh fruit and vegetables, homemade breads and cakes, locally crafted jewelry, and traditional Irish knits. You can find something for everyone in St. George’s Market or St Anne’s Square Market on Saturdays and Sundays respectively. Or if you’re looking for something less traditional, explore one of Belfast’s many independent boutiques and art galleries scattered throughout the city centre.

Visit One of Belfast’s Parks or Gardens

Belfast is home to an array of parks and gardens that are perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Take a stroll through one of the city’s award-winning parks such as Botanic Gardens or Ormeau Park; or explore one of Belfast’s secret gardens such as Cave Hill Country Park or Whitewell Garden. These tranquil spots are filled with lush greenery and beautiful flowers – perfect for a relaxing weekend stroll.

Sample Some Local Cuisine

No weekend in Belfast is complete without sampling some of the local cuisine. From traditional Irish dishes like colcannon and boxty to more contemporary options such as fish & chips or steak & Guinness pie, you can find something to suit every taste. There are plenty of cozy pubs and restaurants around town to choose from; or you can even pick up some tasty treats at one of Belfast’s many street food markets.

Experience Belfast’s Nightlife

If you’re looking for a lively night out during your weekend in Belfast, there are plenty of options to choose from. From buzzing bars and pubs to cool clubs playing everything from jazz to techno, there’s something for every taste. Make sure to check out Cathedral Quarter for some cool live music venues; or head to the lively Donegall Square area for some late-night dancing.

Join an Interesting Tour

One of the best ways to get to know a city is to join an interesting tour that takes you around all the sights and attractions. In Belfast there are plenty of exciting tours available for visitors to enjoy. A popular choice is the Belfast Sightseeing tour, which takes you on a journey around some of the most iconic landmarks in the city such as City Hall, Stormont Parliament Buildings and Queen’s University. Alternatively, you could enjoy a guided walking tour of Belfast’s historic streets and buildings; or take part in a Game Of Thrones tour which will take you to some of the most famous filming locations in Northern Ireland.

Explore Belfast’s Surrounding Areas

Belfast is surrounded by some stunning scenery, so why not spend some time exploring its surrounding areas during your weekend visit? There are plenty of beautiful coastal towns and villages to explore in Northern Ireland such as Donaghadee and Portstewart; while just an hour away you can find stunning countryside destinations such as Mourne Mountains or Lough Neagh.

Conclusion: Things To Do In Belfast This Weekend

Whether you’re looking for cultural attractions or outdoor activities, there’s plenty to see and do during a weekend in Belfast! From exploring its unique Victorian architecture to sampling some delicious local cuisine, there are so many exciting things to experience in this vibrant city. And with so many interesting tours available ranging from guided walking tours to Game Of Thrones themed excursions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this weekend in Belfast!