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 Dublin take just under an hour, though many Irish travellers prefer to drive or take a bus or train from the Republic.

• Getting there by land: From Dublin, you can reach Belfast in about 2 hours by car. Bus and train services are frequent, with the Enterprise train connecting Dublin Connolly to Belfast Lanyon Place in just over 2 hours.

• Price of different transport options: Bus fares from Dublin start at around €10–€15 one-way if booked in advance. Train tickets are typically €17–€30, depending on the time and how early you book.

Best time to visit Belfast

Each season in Belfast brings its own character and atmosphere.

• Spring (March to May) is perfect for city breaks, with blooming parks and mild temperatures (8°C to 15°C). It’s a quieter time for exploring cultural sights and museums.

• Summer (June to August) is the warmest and sunniest, averaging 14°C to 19°C. With long daylight hours and outdoor festivals, it’s ideal for walking tours and coastal drives.

• Autumn (September to November) is cooler, with temperatures from 10°C to 14°C. The fall colours are beautiful in places like Botanic Gardens and Cave Hill.

• Winter (December to February) can be chilly (3°C to 8°C), but festive lights, Christmas markets and cosy pubs make it a charming time to visit, especially for shorter getaways.

Practical information for Belfast holidays

• Spoken languages: English is the main language. Irish Gaelic and Ulster Scots are used in some communities.

• Local habits and customs: Belfast is very welcoming. Locals are chatty and helpful, but avoid sensitive political topics in casual conversation.

• Tips: Tipping around 10% in restaurants is appreciated if service isn't included. It’s also customary to round up in taxis or leave small tips in hotels and cafés.

• Currency: Northern Ireland uses Pound Sterling (£). Many ATMs are available and credit/debit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Be aware that some businesses may not accept euro.

• Getting around: The city is compact and easy to explore on foot. Metro buses serve all main areas, and the Belfast Bikes scheme is great for short distances. For longer day trips, car hire or guided tours are popular.

• Electricity and plugs: The voltage is 230V with UK-style three-pin sockets – no adaptor needed if travelling from the Republic.

Getting around Belfast

Belfast’s size makes it ideal for walking, with most major attractions within a short stroll of the city centre. Metro buses cover the wider city, and taxis are easy to find. For trips further afield – like to the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge or the Mourne Mountains – organised tours, buses or rental cars are the best option. The Glider service offers fast connections across the city, and the city’s expanding cycling network makes bike rental a scenic option too.

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.