Titanic Belfast
You don’t have to be Leonardo DiCaprio screaming from a ship’s bow to appreciate the Titanic experience in Belfast. It’s a shrine to the world’s most famous ill-fated ship, located right where it was built. The interactive exhibitions will have you feeling like a first-class passenger, minus the icy water swim at the end. Pro-tip: Avoid any “king of the world” reenactments on their main staircase; they don’t go down well.
St George’s Market
If your idea of fun involves food, music, and a shopping spree, St George’s Market is your paradise. Operating since the 1890s, this market is perfect for sampling local delicacies and discovering unique crafts. Just remember, it’s called sausage rolls, not “piggy turnovers.” Locals swear by the soda bread — get it before it’s gone!
Crumlin Road Gaol
No, this isn’t just for those with questionable pasts. Crumlin Road Gaol offers visitors a chilling insight into life behind bars. It’s fascinating, creepy, and spine-tingling—everything your usual hotel stay tries to avoid. The guided tours delve into history without making you feel like you’ve committed a crime.
Ulster Museum
Perfect for artsy types and those seeking to escape Belfast’s famously unpredictable weather, the Ulster Museum houses everything from dinosaurs to mummies. No, they aren’t alive — you can leave your running shoes at home. For a bonus, entry is free! Which means more pennies for those all-important pub visits later on.
Botanic Gardens
If you’re in dire need of a green reprieve, head to the Botanic Gardens. Ideal for walks in Belfast or spontaneous picnics, it boasts stunning floral displays and the famous Palm House. Watch out for the plants, though; they might not be following the social distancing rules.
City Hall
Belfast City Hall isn’t just a pretty face on postcards. This stunning building is open for guided tours, allowing you to explore its cavernous rooms and learn about the city’s past. Despite looking very much like a wedding cake, public sampling of the exterior decoration is discouraged.
C.S. Lewis Square
Immerse yourself in the fantastical world of Narnia… without actually needing to fit inside a wardrobe. This homage to celebrated author C.S. Lewis showcases monumental sculptures of his beloved characters. Be brave like Aslan and avoid a selfie with the White Witch — she’s had enough drama lately.
The Peace Walls
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, the Peace Walls tell a powerful story about Belfast’s history. Whether you have the heart of an artist or a history buff, these murals provide insight and inspiration. Plus, there’s no better way to catch the essence of Belfast’s gritty but hopeful spirit. Bring a camera, an open mind, and, importantly, a sense of humour.
The Cathedral Quarter
This vibrant area is the heart of Belfast’s cultural scene. Think cobblestoned streets, tantalising restaurants, lively bars, and intriguing street art. Ideal for the social butterfly or any butterflies pretending to be socialised. Here, you’ll see why Belfast’s nightlife rivals any major city. Just remember: karaoke is always a personal choice.
Cave Hill
For those who venture beyond the city’s bustle, Cave Hill offers panoramic views of Belfast that are well worth the climb. Rumoured to have inspired Jonathan Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels,” the hill’s profile resembles a sleeping giant — minus the snoring. After tackling this adventure, you might understand why Swift chose to write instead of climb.