What are the Must-Visit Places to Visit in Belfast?
Belfast is the largest city and capital of Northern Ireland. It’s a vibrant and historic city, offering an array of activities and attractions. From the spectacular Belfast Castle and the vibrant Cathedral Quarter to the tributes to the historical and political legacy of the city. There is something for everyone, so it’s no surprise that Belfast is a top tourist destination for Northern Ireland. From a stroll through the cobblestone streets of Belfast city centre to hikes in the mountains and more, we have gathered the top 10 places to visit in Belfast for any tourist. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or a few weeks there are plenty of amazing sights and attractions to discover.
1. Titanic Belfast
Titanic Belfast is an iconic and inspiring visitor attraction located in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, situated at the heart of Belfast’s regenerated waterfront. This must-visit attraction is dedicated to Belfast’s maritime heritage and its connection to the iconic ill-fated Titanic. Titanic Belfast offers something for everyone, whether you’re visiting alone or with family, with interactive exhibitions, walks through individually themed galleries, and café’s & shops. This four-story building was designed to resemble the stern of a ship, offering amazing views of Belfast’s skyline.
2. SS Nomadic
SS Nomadic is another Titanic related museum located close to Titanic Belfast, offering an exciting glimpse into the era of passenger travel in 1911. This last White Star ocean liner is a renowned museum, offering fun & engaging experiences for all ages, including costumed character actors, interactive experiences. Guests may explore recreation rooms like the dining saloon, the first-class lounge, and the third-class cabins, as well as the interactive displays and museum artifacts.
3. Ulster Museum
Located near Belfast Castle lies Ulster Museum, one of the largest museums in Northern Ireland and one of the best top attractions throughout the region. Here visitors can discover the rich history and culture of Northern Ireland as well as explore fascinating exhibitions on topics such as dinosaurs, mummies, and ancient artifacts. The Ulster Museum also houses a large collection of fine art, natural history displays, and interactive activities. There’s something for everyone making it one of the most popular family attractions in Belfast.
4. Belfast Botanic Gardens
Belfast Botanic Gardens is an oasis right in the heart of Belfast City! It may not be a top attraction for all visitors but if you like plants and gardens this is a great place to explore. Amongst its attractions are impressive tropical greenhouses filled will exotic plants from all over the world, as well as herbaceous borders filled with a spectrum of exquisite colours blooming throughout Spring and Summer. One of its gems is the Palm House – an iconic cast iron Victorian glasshouse that is home to many rare species from desert mountains, antarctic deserts, rainforests -all waiting to be admired.
5. HMS Caroline
HMS Caroline is a unique historic attraction located in Belfast’s Alexandra Dock. It’s a relic of WWI, with this famed light cruiser being built in 1914 as part of Britain’s battle against Germany’s U-boat fleets against preying on merchant ships during The Great War. HMS Caroline offers a remarkable experience to walk through her corridors and reminisce about her storied past as part of a guided tour. On board visitors will find interactive exhibitions, audio tours and much more – giving you an insight into life on board a WWI warship. It really is a unique way to learn about this extraordinary naval history
6. Crumlin Road Gaol
Crumlin Road Gaol is one of Belfast’s most popular attractions, located only 3 miles from the city centre; it offers visitors the opportunity to discover this historic old prison which has been closed since 1996 and regularly tours during certain times of year. Guests can explore the grounds including entrance ways, decorated with iron gates & an impressive tower – enjoy regular guided tours before descending into cells to learn more tales about prisoners & staff. Evening tours are also available so you can get a hauntingly historic feel at night-time at this iconic piece of Northern Ireland’s history
7. Belfast Castle
For any stay in Belfast, the iconic landmark establishing some of Belfast’s very best views from atop Cave Hill is a must visit place! Built-in 1870 upon solid Antrim basalt rock – providing convincing proof that basalt could be effectively quarried for building stone – Kincora Hall was constructed on the same area as a replica castle for Seventh Marquis Edward Richardson (Ireland’s Prime Minister from 1865-1866). This period castle stands overlooking Belfast and Belfast Lough, offering stunning views from high up on Cave Hill. It also serves as a spot for delicious afternoon teas with traditional treats & cakes (all accompanied by panoramic views over Belfast).
8. St Anne’s Cathedral
St Anne’s Cathedral, also known as St Anne’s Cathedral Church of Ireland or simply as ‘The Cathedral’, is a Belfast-must-see situated in Donegall Street right in the centre of Belfast. St Anne’s was established on its present site in 1899 and also plays regular national & international events and concerts related to its grandiose space throughout the year all while managing regular services & religious gatherings too. Its awe-inspiring architecture within makes it a worthy experience when visiting this Cathedral not to mention its granite spire, which reach high above Belfast City giving you magnificent views for miles around!
9. Cave Hill Country Park
Situated in North Belfast lies Cave Hill Country Park which covers 235 hectares across lands over limestone plateau in its centre – popularly known locally as “Napoleon’s Nose’ – this country park provides spectacular views at every turn! The park offers hikers & dog walkers a vast land of hills & forests providing hours of escapism with plenty of fresh air at each venture down different pathways taken! Not only does Cave Hill provide some of Northern Ireland’s best views over Cushendall Bay but it also serves as home to its fair share or wildlife – (which I highly suggest keep an eye out for during each ramble)
10.Culloden Estate & Spa/h2> Last but definitely not least we have Culloden Estate & Spa – this five-star hotel has long been established alongside local attractions such as Cave Hill Country Park with many considering it one of best venues for luxury leisure & relaxation in Northern Ireland! Featuring Belfast’s most popular spa with state-of-the-art facilities – the spa includes heated pools, steam rooms & saunas (To name just a few!) but that’s not all if you are looking for great traditional food from their renowned 5 AA Rosette winning restaurant “Mitchell’s’, then this is your place! If you are looking for an immersive experience in comfort & luxury then look no further than Cascade Rockpool happy hour – where visitors can enjoy amazing cocktails and conversation as they marvel at amazing views from within If you are visiting beautiful Belfast and want to discover some amazing attractions and sights they we highly recommend any one of these must see landmarks or activities! You can find out more information about each one by visiting www.discovernorthernireland.com to help plan your perfect stay in this wonderful part of Northern Ireland with endless attractions to enjoy! Make sure you pay any one or all of these ten places to visit when visiting beautiful Belfast!
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