Top things to do in Belfast
1. Titanic Belfast
Right on the slipways where the ship was built, Titanic Belfast tells the story of the city's shipyards and the people who worked them. Give yourself a good few hours, then wander the Titanic Quarter outside. Check opening times before you visit.
2. Belfast City Hall
The grand domed centrepiece of Donegall Square is hard to miss. Stroll the grounds, look out for the memorials, and see if a free tour is running on the day you visit.
3. St George's Market
Belfast's last surviving Victorian covered market is at its liveliest at the weekend, with local produce, street food, crafts and often a bit of live music. Go hungry. Check opening times before you visit.
4. Crumlin Road Gaol
This former Victorian prison on the Crumlin Road offers guided tours through the cells, the tunnel and the history of the people held there. It's atmospheric, a bit eerie, and well worth booking ahead.
5. Ulster Museum and Botanic Gardens
Spend a morning in the Ulster Museum, from dinosaurs to modern art, then step straight out into the Botanic Gardens and the Palm House. A sound way to spend a rainy or sunny day alike.
6. Cave Hill Country Park and Belfast Castle
Climb up to McArt's Fort on Cave Hill for the best view over the city and Belfast Lough. Belfast Castle sits on the lower slopes, with gardens and woodland trails to explore.
7. Cathedral Quarter
Cobbled lanes, street art, St Anne's Cathedral and plenty of places to eat and drink make the Cathedral Quarter the city's creative heart. It's especially lively in the evenings and during festivals.
8. Political murals and black taxi tours
The murals of west and north Belfast tell the story of the city's past in paint. A black taxi tour with a local driver adds the context and the stories behind them, from both sides.
9. The Lagan Towpath
Follow the River Lagan out of the city on foot or by bike, past meadows, locks and woodland. It's flat, peaceful and feels miles from the city centre within minutes.
10. W5 and Belfast Zoo
W5 science centre in the Titanic Quarter is packed with hands-on exhibits for curious kids (and adults). Up on the slopes of Cave Hill, Belfast Zoo makes a great family day out too. Check opening times before you visit.
Belfast by area
Belfast City Centre
The city centre is where you'll find City Hall, St George's Market and the Cathedral Quarter, all within easy walking distance of each other and the main shopping streets.
Explore the Belfast City Centre map →East Belfast
East Belfast is home to Titanic Belfast, W5 and the old shipyards, along with busy local high streets on the Newtownards Road, Castlereagh Road and around Ballyhackamore.
Explore the East Belfast map →North Belfast
North Belfast takes in Cave Hill, Belfast Castle and Belfast Zoo, plus Crumlin Road Gaol, so it's the place to go for big views and fresh air.
Explore the North Belfast map →South Belfast
South Belfast is the university quarter, with the Ulster Museum, Botanic Gardens and the start of the Lagan Towpath, plus plenty of cafés along the way.
Explore the South Belfast map →West Belfast
West Belfast is the heart of the city's mural trail and has a proud community spirit, with local shops and trades along the Falls and Shankill roads.
Explore the West Belfast map →Lisburn Road
The Lisburn Road is known for its independent boutiques, cafés and salons, a long, leafy stretch that's great for a browse and a bite to eat.
Explore the Lisburn Road map →Eat, drink and shop local
Explore the Belfast map
Find trusted local cafés, shops and trades, all in one place.
FAQ
What is there to do in Belfast?
Highlights include Titanic Belfast, Belfast City Hall and St George's Market. See the full list above, and check opening times before you visit.
Is Belfast good for a day out?
Absolutely. You could easily fill a day with the city centre sights alone, and a long weekend lets you add Cave Hill, the Titanic Quarter and the Lagan Towpath.
Where can I find local businesses in Belfast?
Browse The Local Plot map for Belfast to find local cafés, shops and trusted trades, each with their own profile page.