Top 7 Attractions in Belfast City

From the birthplace of the Titanic to the panoramic city views from Belfast Castle, you’ll find a plethora of historic landmarks and world-class visitor attractions in Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland and once a powerful ship-building center.  There is a vibrancy to this lively, compact, vibrant city which makes it an obvious choice for a city break or a memorable vacation.

Here is our “Mini Bucket List” for the top 7 attractions to visit while touring Belfast City………..

Crumlin Road Gaol, Belfast City. 

Take a guided tour of Crumlin Road Gaol and hear about the history of the prison from when women and children were held within its walls through to the political segregation of republican and loyalist prisoners and learn about why the decision was taken to close the prison. During the tour of the Gaol you will be taken by your tour guide to visit the underground tunnel that used to connect the gaol to the Crumlin Road Courthouse. You will also get a chance to sit in the Governor’s chair, view all the wings from the circle and of course pay a visit to the condemned man’s cell before seeing the execution cell where the majority of the 17 men were hanged.

Belfast Castle and Cave hill

For generations, Cave Hill has been synonymous with Belfast, with its imposing outline visible throughout the city. The landmark, named for the five caves located on the side of the cliffs, contains a wealth of natural, archaeological and historical features, including Belfast Castle, and offers superb views of the city from a variety of vantage points. The restored sandstone Belfast Castle was built in a Scottish baronial style with the main part of the building built over two floors and having semi circular round towers at the corners. Outside the castle has a sweeping stone staircase overlooking the formal landscaped gardens and the mature mixed woodland.

Belfast Botanic Gardens, Belfast City. 

Looking for a bit of greenery in Belfast City? Check out the Botanic Gardens, another of the top attractions to see in Belfast. The Botanic Gardens is an important part of Belfast’s Victorian heritage. It was established in 1828 by the Belfast Botanic and Horticultural Society, in response to public interest in horticulture and botany. Discover the Palm House and the Tropical Ravine on a leisurely afternoon stroll.

Titanic Quarter, Belfast City.

Explore the Titanic Quarter in Belfast City, where you can visit Titanic Belfast, the world’s largest Titanic visitor experience, with interactive galleries exploring the history, the heritage, the sights, sounds, smells and stories of the Titanic. Afterwards see the old drawing offices, where Titanic was transferred from dreams to paper, or board the White Star Line’s only remaining ship at Hamilton Dock, the SS Nomadic  which was built as a tender to the Titanic. Also located in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter and echoing the early 20th century maritime era is the HMS Caroline, a World War 1 Light Battle Cruiser and the last surviving ship from the Battle of Jutland in 1916.  The cabins have been recreated as if the crew were still living on board. Don’t forget to take a photograph of the two great yellow-painted gantry cranes Samson and Goliath, which have become icons of Belfast, dominating the entire city skyline.

Belfast City Murals

Visit the murals scattered around the city to learn about the history and culture of Belfast and Northern Ireland. West, North and East Belfast have the political edge, with many murals in and around the Nationalist Falls Road bearing an Irish historical theme.

Black Taxi Tours, Belfast City.

The famous Belfast Black Cab tour offers a great way to explore the famous wall art and the political history and modern history of the remarkable city of Belfast. The knowledgeable drivers supply an informative tour sprinkled with some local tidbits, and reflect on both the city’s intrinsic traditions and the story of the Troubles in Belfast City.

St. George’s Market, Belfast City. 

Step foot inside St. George’s Market, one of Belfast’s oldest attractions and breath in the wonderful aroma of fresh produce from local suppliers.  There has been a Friday market on the St George’s site since 1604 and the present award-winning St George’s Market, was built between 1890 and 1896. This charming Victorian building offers one of the most vibrant and colorful destinations that Belfast has to offer.

Plan Your Visit To Belfast.

Belfast is the perfect getaway, with warm city welcomes, a buzzing nightlife, fantastic restaurants and a unique history and heritage. If you are looking to explore Belfast City on your next vacation, contact Specialized Travel Services by email to newyork@jeremyd50.sg-host.com or fill in our contact form 

Take a look at our Northern Gems tour to for some tour inspiration and to help with your plans for your next vacation to Ireland.  Get ready for the road trip of a lifetime.

Note: Featured image at the top of the blog is of Belfast City Centre © Christopher Heaney & Visit Belfast