Best Places to Stay in Belfast
When visiting Belfast for the first time, the Central District is the obvious choice for your accommodation. Nestled around Donegall Square, this vibrant area is steeped in the charm of old Belfast, showcasing stunning architecture like the impressive City Hall. It’s a lively commercial spot where the city buzzes with life. Just a short stroll away lies the Cathedral Quarter, home to the iconic St Anne’s Cathedral. This neighbourhood is the artistic heartbeat of the city, brimming with creativity, colourful street art, and plenty of murals to admire. If you’re after a more tranquil yet quirky atmosphere, head south to the Queen’s Quarter, centred around Queen’s University. It’s filled with character, featuring quaint old bookstores, vintage shops, and trendy coffee spots that make it a favourite among the younger crowd. And, if you have a penchant for nautical history, the Titanic Quarter in the north is a must-visit. This area has undergone a fantastic transformation and is home to Belfast’s crown jewel, the Titanic Museum.
Where to stay to be near the popular attractions in Belfast
Belfast isn’t a sprawling metropolis, so getting around is a breeze. For the best access to the city’s highlights, aim for a hotel in either the Central District or the Cathedral Quarter. You’ll find yourself right at the heart of stunning sites like City Hall, St Anne’s Cathedral, and the Grand Opera House. Don’t miss the Victorian charm of St George’s Market, bursting with fresh produce and unique handcrafted goods. If you’re keen to delve into Belfast’s intriguing yet complicated past, you can easily walk or take a quick bus ride to the Solidarity Wall and Crumlin Road Gaol.
Where to Stay with Your Family in Belfast
Families will find the Titanic Quarter a brilliant place to stay, with enough attractions to keep everyone entertained for days. At the top of your list should be the Titanic Experience, famous for being voted the world’s best tourist spot. It features nine interactive galleries filled with rides and reconstructions that will captivate children and adults alike. All areas within Titanic Belfast are accessible, ensuring a fun day out for everyone. To get an even closer look at maritime history, you can board the SS Nomadic, the last remaining passenger ship of the iconic White Star Line, which has been beautifully restored. The Titanic Hotel is a fantastic choice, placing you at the centre of all this excitement.
Where to Stay as a Solo Traveller
For solo travellers, the welcoming Queen’s Quarter is an excellent base. With hostels scattered around the university, you’ll easily meet fellow adventurers to explore the city’s nightlife. If shared accommodation isn’t your thing, don’t worry—there are private rooms available too! Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Botanic Gardens or, if the infamous Belfast drizzle makes an appearance, catch an indie film at the Queen’s Film Theatre. Alternatively, the nearby Ulster Museum offers delightful events like Wellbeing Wednesdays, featuring Tai Chi sessions followed by a mindful exploration of its collections.
Where to Find Cheap Hotels in Belfast
If you’re looking to keep costs down, Belfast has several budget-friendly hotel options. The ETAP Hotel offers rooms for under €60 a night, plus they have triple rooms available that go for about €80—perfect for those looking to save. Located just south of the city centre and near Great Victoria Street train station, it's very convenient. For those who want to be in the thick of things, the Travelodge Belfast Central is just steps from Donegall Square and the lively nightlife, including the popular Garrick Bar, known for its folk music. They offer accessible rooms and each room comes with a comfy king-sized bed. For about €100 a night, consider the well-regarded Ramada by Wyndham, which boasts a lovely restaurant with an outdoor terrace for those rare sunny days. Depending on your travel dates, you might also score a room at the 4-star Radisson Blu Belfast, featuring stylish Nordic-inspired decor right in the heart of the Gasworks district.
