Belfast holidays

Good to know for Belfast holidays

Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, offers a unique blend of historical sites, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you're exploring the Titanic Quarter, wandering the historic streets, or heading out to the Giant's Causeway, here's what you need to know to make your Belfast holiday memorable.

How to reach Belfast

• Flight Time: Direct flights to Belfast from London take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

• Transfer Time to the City Centre: Belfast is served by two main airports: George Best Belfast City Airport (about 5 km from the city centre) and Belfast International Airport (about 20 km from the city centre). Transfer times are approximately 10-15 minutes from the City Airport and around 30-40 minutes from the International Airport by taxi.

• Price of Different Transport Options: A taxi from Belfast International to the city centre can cost around £30-£35, while the Airport Express bus service (300) is a cheaper option at about £8 for a single ticket. From the City Airport, a taxi costs around £10-£15, with regular bus services (600) costing approximately £2.50 for a single journey.

Best time to visit Belfast

Choosing the best time for your Belfast holiday "depends on your expectations," with each season offering its own charm and set of activities.

• Spring (March to May) sees the city bloom with flowers, with average temperatures of 8°C to 15°C. It's a great time for sightseeing before the peak tourist season.

• Summer (June to August) is high season, with warmer weather (average 14°C to 19°C) and the most daylight hours, ideal for exploring the city and the countryside.

• Autumn (September to November) offers cooler temperatures (average 10°C to 14°C) and beautiful autumnal colours in the city's parks and surrounding countryside.

• Winter (December to February) has the coldest weather (average 3°C to 8°C) and shorter days, but you'll find festive markets and fewer tourists.

Practical information for Belfast holidays

• Spoken Languages: English is the official language, with some communities speaking Irish Gaelic and Ulster Scots.

• Local Habits and Customs: Belfast is a friendly city, but it's wise to avoid discussing political or religious topics. Pubs are a central part of social life; remember to order drinks at the bar.

• Tips: Tipping in restaurants is customary, usually around 10% of the bill if service isn't included. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also appreciated but not mandatory.

• Currency: The currency in Belfast is the Pound Sterling (£). ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most places.

• Getting Around: Belfast is compact and walkable, but it also has an efficient public transport system, including buses and trains. The Belfast Bikes share scheme is a popular way to explore.

• Electricity/Plugs: The standard voltage is 230V, with UK-style three-pin sockets. Visitors from outside the UK will need an adaptor.

Getting around Belfast

Belfast's efficient transport network makes it easy to navigate. The city has an extensive bus service operated by Metro that connects key areas and attractions. Visitors can also explore on foot, as many landmarks are within walking distance of one another. Taxis are readily available for convenient travel, while rental cars provide the flexibility to explore further afield. Cycling is also popular in Belfast, with dedicated bike lanes and rental options available. For a unique experience, take advantage of the Belfast Bikes scheme, which provides bike rental stations throughout the city centre.

A holiday in Belfast promises a mix of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and natural beauty. With these tips, you're well-equipped to experience the best of what this dynamic city and its surroundings have to offer.

Things to do in Belfast

Belfast, the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland, is brimming with rich history, cultural landmarks and family-friendly attractions:

• Titanic Belfast: Immerse yourself in the story of the RMS Titanic at this award-winning museum, showcasing interactive exhibits and artefacts.

• Ulster Museum: Discover Northern Ireland's diverse heritage through fascinating exhibits on art, history and natural sciences.

• Botanic Gardens: Stroll through these picturesque gardens, home to exotic plants, Victorian glasshouses and a charming rose garden.

• Belfast Zoo: Enjoy a day of wildlife adventures at Belfast Zoo, where families can encounter animals from around the world and explore interactive exhibits.

• Crumlin Road Gaol: Step back in time with a guided tour of this historic prison, offering insights into Belfast's turbulent past.

Nature & Outdoors in Belfast

Enjoy a leisurely walk or cycle along the Lagan Towpath, which follows the serene River Lagan. Discover the enchanting beauty of Cave Hill Country Park, which provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. Enjoy the tranquillity of the Botanic Gardens, which are home to lush greenery and exotic plants. Belfast, with its abundance of outdoor opportunities, invites adventurers to immerse themselves in nature's beauty.

Quick day trips from Belfast

Belfast, a city rich in culture and history, also serves as a perfect starting point for exploring the beauty of Northern Ireland through quick day trips. Just a stone's throw away, you can discover quaint towns, breathtaking landscapes, and unique attractions.

• Giant's Causeway: An unmissable natural wonder, the Giant's Causeway is a short drive from Belfast. Marvel at the thousands of hexagonal basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. The site offers stunning coastal walks and the mythic tales of giants add a mystical charm to your visit.

• Carrickfergus Castle: Explore one of Northern Ireland's most well-preserved medieval structures. Just a 20-minute drive from Belfast, Carrickfergus Castle stands as a testament to the country's Norman past. Enjoy guided tours that bring to life the history of sieges, battles, and diplomacy.

• Bangor: For a leisurely seaside day out, head to Bangor. This coastal town boasts a marina, beautiful gardens, and the North Down Museum, where you can dive deep into the local history. The scenic coastal path offers breathtaking views and a chance to unwind by the sea.

• Hillsborough: A picturesque Georgian village located about 20 minutes from Belfast, Hillsborough is perfect for those looking to experience Northern Ireland's charm. Visit the historic Hillsborough Castle, official residence of the Queen when she's in Northern Ireland, and stroll through the beautiful gardens that surround it.

Each of these destinations offers a unique glimpse into the scenic beauty and rich heritage of Northern Ireland, making them perfect for quick day trips from Belfast.

Discover more fun things to do in Belfast in our guide.

While Belfast itself is not located on the coast and thus doesn't have beaches within the city, its position in Northern Ireland means that stunning coastal landscapes and beautiful beaches are within easy reach for a day trip. Here's a guide to some of the nearest and most beautiful beaches to Belfast, perfect for those looking to combine a city break with some time by the sea.

Nearest beaches to Belfast

• Helen's Bay and Crawfordsburn Beach: Located about 20 minutes drive from Belfast, these beaches are part of Crawfordsburn Country Park and offer lovely sandy stretches, woodland walks, and excellent facilities. They're ideal for families and those looking for a quick escape to nature.

• Bangor Marina and Ballyholme Beach: Just a bit further from Helen's Bay, Bangor offers a marina for sailing enthusiasts and a sandy beach popular for walks, paddling, and enjoying the seaside atmosphere.

• Portmuck Beach: Approximately 40 minutes from Belfast, Portmuck is a small, picturesque harbour with a charming beach offering views of the Isle of Muck and excellent spots for rock pooling.

Beaches with sunbeds and facilities

While the beaches near Belfast tend to be more natural and less commercial, meaning sunbeds and extensive facilities might not be as common as in more traditional seaside resorts, the following locations are well-regarded for their amenities:

• Tyrella Beach: Located a bit further away, about 1 hour and 20 minutes by car, Tyrella Beach offers a wide, flat, sandy beach with lifeguards during the summer months, making it safe for swimming.

Beaches for water sports

The coastline around Belfast and further afield in Northern Ireland offers several spots for water sports enthusiasts:

• Surfing: The North Coast, about an hour and a half drive from Belfast, has several surfing spots, with Portrush and Portstewart being particularly popular.

• Windsurfing and Kite Surfing: Ballyholme Beach near Bangor is known for its windsurfing and kite surfing, thanks to favorable wind conditions.

• Sailing: Bangor Marina is one of the largest marinas in Northern Ireland and offers excellent facilities for sailing.

Exploring these beaches provides a wonderful complement to a holiday in Belfast, allowing visitors to experience the scenic beauty and tranquility of Northern Ireland's coastline. Whether you're interested in water sports, seaside walks, or simply relaxing by the sea, the beaches near Belfast offer a refreshing escape.

What to eat in Belfast

Belfast's culinary scene offers a delightful array of flavours, showcasing both traditional Irish fare and international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes:

• Ulster fry: Start your day with this hearty breakfast consisting of bacon, sausage, eggs, black pudding, white pudding and potato bread.

• Irish stew: Indulge in this comforting dish featuring tender lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots and onions simmered in a rich broth.

• Boxty: Sample this traditional Irish potato pancake, served with various fillings such as bacon, cheese or smoked salmon.

• Soda bread: Enjoy a slice of this iconic Irish bread made with flour, baking soda, buttermilk and salt, served fresh with butter.

• Fish and chips: Savour crispy battered fish served with chunky chips, mushy peas and tartar sauce, a beloved classic on Belfast's dining scene.

Embracing Sports in Belfast

Belfast, a city rich in history and culture, also offers a vibrant sports scene that invites both locals and visitors to engage in a variety of activities. Whether you're a spectator or an active participant, Belfast provides ample opportunities to experience sports in a local setting.

Local sports events in Belfast

• Local Football and Rugby Culture: Experience the local passion for football by catching a match at Windsor Park, home of the Linfield Football Club and the Northern Ireland national football team. For rugby fans, the Kingspan Stadium, home to the Ulster Rugby team, offers an electrifying match-day atmosphere.

• Stadiums or Arenas: The SSE Arena is not only a venue for concerts but also hosts sporting events, including ice hockey matches featuring the Belfast Giants, the city's professional team.

• Where to Go to Watch a Match: Belfast's pubs and sports bars, such as The Crown Liquor Saloon or The Errigle Inn, are great places to watch live sports, offering a convivial atmosphere to enjoy a game with locals.

Sports facilities for travellers in Belfast

Belfast caters to visitors looking to stay active:

• Swimming-Pools: The Olympia Leisure Centre and Aquatics Centre provides state-of-the-art swimming facilities for those looking to take a dip or clock some laps.

• Yoga and Fitness: Numerous studios and gyms across the city offer yoga, fitness classes, and personal training sessions to keep up with your exercise routine while on holiday.

• Tennis: The Windsor Tennis Club Belfast and other local clubs welcome visitors looking to play, with courts available for hire.

Cycling in Belfast

Exploring Belfast by bike is a wonderful way to see the city:

• Bike Rental: Belfast Bikes, the city’s public bike-sharing scheme, offers convenient bike rental options with stands located throughout the city.

• Popular Cycling Routes: The Lagan Towpath is a scenic route that takes you from the city centre along the River Lagan, offering beautiful views and a peaceful riding experience.

Hiking around Belfast

The natural landscape surrounding Belfast is ideal for hiking:

• Popular Hiking Routes: Cave Hill Country Park offers trails with panoramic views of the city, while the Divis and Black Mountain paths provide a more rugged hiking experience in the Belfast Hills.

Water sports in Belfast

Belfast's location offers opportunities for water sports enthusiasts:

• Canoeing and Kayaking: The River Lagan and nearby Strangford Lough are popular spots for canoeing and kayaking, with equipment hire and guided tours available.

• Sailing: Belfast Lough offers sailing experiences, with several clubs and centres providing lessons and boat hire.

Golf courses in Belfast

Northern Ireland is famous for its golf courses, and Belfast is no exception:

• Golf Courses: The Royal Belfast Golf Club, the oldest golf club in Ireland, and the Belvoir Park Golf Club are just two of the prestigious courses offering excellent golfing experiences within reach of the city.

A holiday in Belfast allows you to immerse yourself in the local sports culture, from joining the roar of the crowd at a football or rugby match to enjoying the tranquillity of a golf course or the thrill of water sports. Whether you're a sports fan or an active participant, Belfast has something for everyone.

Seasonal events in Belfast

Belfast, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, hosts an array of seasonal events that capture the spirit of the city. From traditional markets to modern celebrations, Belfast offers visitors a chance to experience its unique charm throughout the year. Explore more fun things to do in Belfast during your holiday.

New Year

• New Year Celebrations: Belfast rings in the New Year with spectacular fireworks displays and lively parties across the city. Customary gatherings in the city centre and at the Titanic Quarter offer a festive atmosphere to welcome the new year.

Christmas shopping and markets

• Christmas Markets: The Belfast Christmas Market at City Hall is a highlight of the festive season, offering a delightful mix of international and local crafts, food, and drink. The market typically runs from mid-November to late December.

• Christmas Shopping: Belfast's shopping districts, including Victoria Square and the Lisburn Road, are bustling with festive activity, making the city a prime destination for finding Christmas gifts and seasonal treats.

Easter

• Easter Celebrations: Belfast observes Easter with various events, including traditional church services, Easter egg hunts, and family-friendly activities across the city, reflecting the community spirit of the holiday.

Festivals in Belfast

Belfast's festival calendar is packed with events that celebrate the arts, culture, and heritage of the city.

• Belfast International Arts Festival: Held in October, this festival features theatre, dance, music, and visual arts from around the world.

• Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival: Taking place in May, this vibrant festival offers a mix of music, comedy, theatre, and art in one of Belfast's most historic areas.

• Belfast Pride: Celebrated in late July or early August, Belfast Pride is one of the biggest and most colourful LGBTQ+ celebrations on the island, promoting diversity and equality with a parade and various events.

• Culture Night and Day: A celebration of culture, creativity, and the arts, with free events, performances, and workshops across Belfast, typically occurring in September.

• St. Patrick's Day: On March 17th, Belfast hosts a lively parade and a range of events to celebrate Ireland's patron saint, featuring music, dancing, and plenty of green.

These events offer a glimpse into the cultural fabric of Belfast, providing visitors with myriad opportunities to engage with the local community, enjoy traditional celebrations, and experience the modern vibrancy of the city. Don't miss our guide to Belfast's top attractions to enjoy your stay fully.