Belfast

Belfast is Northern Ireland’s capital. It was the birthplace of the RMS Titanic, which famously struck an iceberg and sunk in 1912. This legacy is recalled in the renovated dockyards' Titanic Quarter, which includes the Titanic Belfast, an aluminium-clad museum reminiscent of a ship’s hull, as well as shipbuilder Harland & Wolff’s Drawing Offices and the Titanic Slipways, which now host open-air concerts.
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Top attractions in Belfast

Titanic Belfast
1. Titanic Belfast
4.5
(39993)
Museum
Event venue
Self-guided Titanic museum offering 9 interactive galleries that re-tell the iconic story.
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An amazing experience. Easy to get tickets at venue at no more than any online offers. Cafe served nice coffees and snacks whilst the seafood chowder and lambs stew for lunch in the restaurant were excellent. There were a couple of bottlenecks early in the story due to the coach parties but we skipped past this and soon found ourselves immersed for nearly 3 hours in a spectacularly well done experience.
Fabulous! The audio tour helps so much. Be prepared to spend hours here! The staff so very helpful. The place is very clean. The gift shop is amazing. Don't forget to go over the road to the Nomadic ship in the dry dock. It's wonderful and the gentleman we spoke to, so very knowledgeable. Thank you for an amazing day out Belfast!
Essentially the most detail about the Titanic that you can cram into one (huge) building. Parts of the museum are very immersive. The latter half, which touched on the disaster itself, was somber and meaningfully engaging.
Amazing museum with so much information. It would be easy to spend the day there and take your time going through every section. Really interesting!
What an incredible museum! From the early history of Belfast’s industry that attracted the shipyards, to the manufacturing, sailing, demise, and discovery of the Titanic, all aspects were covered. It was amazing. There was also a really interesting gondola ride in the museum (about 5 minutes long) that glides you through what it was like for the ships builders pounding the rivets by hand. I highly recommend the ride. There’s also a bypass if you opt-out. I highly recommend coming to check out Titanic Belfast if you have any interest in the Titanic. Recommend buying tickets online in advance if possible, for your preferred timed entry. Getting to the museum via the Glider (G2) was very easy.
Titanic Belfast – A Must-Visit Experience Yesterday I had the chance to explore Titanic Belfast, and I have to say it was one of the highlights of my trip. The moment you see the building itself, you get a sense of how special the place is – its striking design instantly makes you feel connected to the story of the Titanic. Inside, the atmosphere is both grand and moving. The exhibitions take you on a journey from Belfast’s shipbuilding history to the creation and tragic voyage of the Titanic. I really liked how immersive everything was – it’s not just about reading facts, but actually experiencing the story through interactive displays, visuals, and sounds. What stood out most to me was how the museum balances history with emotion. You learn about the engineering brilliance behind the ship, but you also feel the human stories that make the Titanic so iconic. It’s educational, emotional, and beautifully presented. For anyone visiting Belfast, I’d definitely call this a must-visit attraction. Whether you’re passionate about history, curious about the Titanic, or just want a unique experience in the city, Titanic Belfast is worth every minute. It’s more than a museum – it’s a journey through time and atmosphere that stays with you long after you leave.
Such a fun thing to do while in Ireland. The museum is very large with lots to look at and read. I love how there is a small ride in the museum that explains the conditions of the workers on the ship. This experience definitely exceeded my expectations. The gift shop is very nice with lots of options.
Tastefully done, immersive museum. There's even a short ride that takes you through the inner workings of ship building (can be bypassed though and you can get the same info by reading the placards if the line is too long). The ticket includes entry to the Nomadic, which you can visit before or after the Titanic. Note, there is a children's discovery game you can pick up for free at the museum and it does have questions regarding the Nomadic as well. If you drive, there are two parking lots on site that aren't a rip off.
Crumlin Road Gaol Visitor Attraction and Conference Centre
2. Crumlin Road Gaol Visitor Attraction and Conference Centre
4.6
(6494)
Museum
Sights & Landmarks
Jail that closed in 1996 and now hosts public tours, live music and paranormal investigation events.
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Very pleasantly surprised. A very informative look at life in the prison and a fairly complete history. The condemned cell and the gallows were very thought provoking. Value for money, particularly as there's free parking on site as well as a fully licenced bar in one of the wings!
A fantastic restoration and story of a Gaol throughout Belfast's last hundred years plus. Following a well planned trail you get stories, an idea of life for a variety of prisoners, the punishments, the stories and the hardships. The building itself is a stark reminder of Victorian views of punishment, separation in cells, menial work, cleanliness, religious overlay and solid structural integrity. The cafe in the former kitchens is great the food was lovely and value for money. Service was really friendly.
Wow! You will not regret coming here! Super kind staff and super interesting to learn about the history behind these walls. I met two ladies who told me that their father was incarcerated here when it still held prisoners!
What a great experience. Really well done being interactive and thoughtful with a good mix of technology integrated into the actual spaces. Although the entire space is not accessible to you, they make good use of the example spaces they created. You could spend a lot of time here and have different experiences in each section you go into. Quite emotionally moving too. Don't forget to check out the cafe.
A victorian Gaol I hear you say, Crumlin Gail takes you back in time and through the history of The Troubles. An interesting insight you won't find anywhere else and a well preserved piece of history. Worth a visit to the hangmans noose which at the end of the tour makes you think of those who having committed those heanous crimes came to an end.
One of the most well curated museum I’ve visited. Interactive, informative with a well-mapped visitor journey. Definitely a must a visit in Belfast. Do expect to spend 2-3 hours here as it has a lot of information and videos.
It would have been five stars if the cafe had been open! We spent about 4 hours at the Gaol and had lunch at the distillery next door. The Gaol is definitely worth a visit, to learn about the Victorian view of appropriate penal conditions for men women and children, as well as about the imprisonment of people during the Troubles. The exhibits are well laid out but the individual stories, set in different cells by video, tended to overlap with those in adjacent cells. The video would benefit enormously from subtitles. Nevertheless the overall impression was vivid and authentic.
One of the highlights of our visit to Belfast. We paid extra for the guided tour which was money well spent as our guide was entertaining, informative and brought the whole thing to life. Not to be missed.
Belfast City Hall
3. Belfast City Hall
4.6
(2462)
City Hall
Sights & Landmarks
In addition to city offices, this ornate 1906 building has a cafe, public art & a Titanic garden.
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A lovely spot right in the heart of Belfast! The architecture is stunning, and the exhibitions inside are really interesting. Great place to relax and learn a bit of local history. Highly recommend stopping by!
Belfast City Hall is a stunning landmark and a must-see when visiting the city. 🏛️ The architecture is beautiful, especially when lit up at night, and the grounds around it are always lively and well-kept. Inside, the free exhibitions give a fascinating insight into Belfast’s history and culture. It’s right in the heart of the city, making it easy to visit and enjoy whether you’re sightseeing, relaxing in the gardens, or taking photos. A real highlight of Belfast!
Belfast City Hall is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city, right in the heart of Donegall Square. The grand Baroque Revival architecture, with its domes and statues, makes it an impressive sight from the outside, and the surrounding gardens are perfect for a stroll or a quiet break. Inside, the free public tours are excellent, giving insight into Belfast’s history, the building’s design, and even the famous stained-glass windows that commemorate different aspects of the city’s heritage. ✨ Travel Tips: • 🎟 Entry is free, and guided tours are offered daily, highly recommended. • 🕰 Allow at least 1–2 hours if you plan to do a tour and explore the exhibits inside. • 📸 Don’t miss the illuminated view of City Hall at night, it looks spectacular. • 🚶 The location is central, so it’s easy to combine with shopping, dining, or visiting other landmarks nearby. • ☕ Plenty of cafés and pubs are within walking distance if you want to enjoy local food or drink after your visit.
While visiting Belfast, came over to City Hall. History and Significance Birth of a City Symbol: The City Hall was commissioned after Queen Victoria granted Belfast official city status in 1888, recognizing its massive industrial expansion in shipbuilding, linen, and engineering. A grand civic building was deemed necessary to reflect this elevated status. The Titanic Connection: The building has a strong link to the RMS Titanic. Lord Mayor William Pirrie, who was Lord Mayor just before construction, was also the managing director of the Harland and Wolff shipyard where the Titanic was built. He is credited with the idea for both grand projects. Many of his skilled shipyard workers were involved in the intricate fit-out of the City Hall's interiors, providing an insight into the luxurious finish of the Titanic's lounges and suites, as the carving and paneling are very similar. Construction and Style: Designed by architect Sir Alfred Brumwell Thomas in the Baroque Revival style, the building was constructed using Portland stone and opened its doors in 1906. The cost was a significant £369,000, funded largely by the profits of Belfast's municipal gasworks. Wartime Resilience: During World War II, the City Hall served as a crucial center for civil defense and stood firm during the Belfast Blitz in 1941, although the roof above the Banqueting Hall was destroyed and later rebuilt. Location: It stands on the site of the former White Linen Hall, which was the heart of the city's once-thriving international linen industry. Architectural and Unique Features The Dome: The central feature of the skyline is the distinctive 173-foot copper dome. Originally bright copper, it has oxidized over the years to its recognizable green patina. Opulent Interiors: The interior is equally grand, featuring a stunning array of marbles (including Carrara, Pavonazzo, and Brescia), sweeping marble staircases, mosaic tiling, and the Rotunda, which leads the eye up to the dome. The Council Chamber is paneled in Irish oak. Stained Glass Windows: The hall is home to a magnificent collection of stained glass windows, which are visual narratives of the city's past, depicting monarchs, coats of arms of the provinces of Ireland, and commemorating significant events like the 36th (Ulster) Division. The Coat of Arms: The city's motto, "Pro tanto quid retribuamus" (What shall we give back in return for so much?), is found on the coat of arms. The crest features symbols like the seahorse and ship, signifying Belfast's maritime importance, and the bell, which is a play on the first syllable of the city's name (Belfast).
Belfast City Hall, a magnificent civic building in the heart of Belfast, Northern Ireland, is a symbol of the city's rich history and prosperity. Completed in 1906, it was built to commemorate Queen Victoria granting Belfast city status in 1888. Designed by Sir Alfred Brumwell Thomas, the building is a stunning example of Baroque Revival architecture. Its most prominent features are the elegant green copper dome and the white Portland stone facade. The interior is equally impressive, with intricate marble staircases, mosaic floors, and stained-glass windows depicting scenes from the city's past. The City Hall's grounds are a public park and home to several notable memorials, including the Titanic Memorial Garden, dedicated to the victims of the famous shipwreck. Historically, the building has served as a center for civic life and a focal point during significant events, including World War II and the Troubles. Today, Belfast City Hall remains the seat of the Belfast City Council and a major tourist attraction. Visitors can explore a self-guided exhibition on the city's history or take a guided tour to see the grand interiors, including the Council Chamber and the Rotunda. The City Hall stands as a testament to Belfast's industrial heritage and a living part of its modern identity, welcoming visitors and locals alike to its historic grounds.
Belfast City Hall is a magnificent Baroque Revival building completed in 1906, serving as the seat of Belfast City Council. It's a grand architectural statement reflecting Belfast's industrial prosperity at the turn of the 20th century. There are guided tours offer an "extraordinary glimpse" into areas not usually accessible to the public, including the Italian and Greek marble-clad Rotunda, the Irish-oak paneled Council Chamber (where you can sit in the Lord Mayor's throne!), and the Robing Room with its civic regalia. After your tour, you can visit a unique exhibition across 16 rooms that explores the history of Belfast. The surrounding gardens are popular and feature the Titanic Memorial Garden, commemorating those who died on the ship, with a plaque listing all 1,512 names. Overall it's a top choice for visitors to Belfast, offering a blend of impressive architecture, rich history, and insights into the city's civic life.
I didn’t go inside, but the building looked absolutely beautiful from the outside. Its grand architecture and impressive dome really stand out in the city center. It’s a great spot for photos and definitely worth seeing while walking around Belfast.
BELFAST GEM I feel like the City Hall is the prettiest thing to exist in Belfast. It gives the city centre a lot of character. I Would have loved to go inside.
Ulster Museum
4. Ulster Museum
4.7
(5358)
Art museum
Museums
Classical Renaissance-style setting for displays on Irish art, natural history & industry.
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Absolute gem in the middle of Belfast. Came here with two relatively young kids. Didn’t have overly high expectations, but it absolutely did not disappoint. Arrived early and there was plenty of space for pictures as it was quiet. Exhibits were well laid out, and explained at the start, along with markers in the lifts in case you got confused. So much to see and learn about. Several interactive features too which kept the kids happy. Friendly and welcoming staff, along with some really unique items to see. By far the best museum I have been to on this island. Would 100% go back, with or without kids. Good for all ages, easy to find, and right in the middle of the botanical gardens for the added beauty as you’re walking up. Parking is pretty limited to on-street so I would recommend parking up along the embankment and walking through the gardens. Also, it’s completely free to visit!
An absolutely phenomenal museum and an essential top of the list attraction for any visit to Belfast. Finding a Brueghel in the wild was amazing, as was the rest of the art on display, the various eras of historical artefacts and the myriad of zoological specimens. You can spend a long time in here and there's something for all the family. Free entry, but I highly recommend making a donation if you are able.
Really well curated museum that tells a story, instead of merely presenting artefacts. There are 4 floors, containing exhibitions on art, science and history. Unfortunately we had to leave after 2 hours but you can easily spend more time in there.
The museum is good and vast. It has many exhibitions of historic and prehistoric things, ice age, medieval, Egyptian etc. Also natural museums, animal, sea and birds. They have also nice mineral museum and art gallery. One can spend decently 2 to 3 hours here. They quite educative as well.
So much to see and learn! And free entry too! Just make a donation if you want to. Well worth it if you do. An all round winner in my books! Such a wide range of subjects, interests and an amazing layout! I felt like a kid on a treasure hunt! So much fun! I absolutely loved it! I took the hop on hop off city tour and got off at the stop just across the street! Will definitely go again! A "MUST DO" if you're in Belfast!
We had a brilliant afternoon at the Ulster Museum with our two little ones (aged 2 and 3). They especially loved the three Discovery Rooms – so many interactive things to play with, touch and explore. It kept them entertained for ages and was perfect for young children. Such a fantastic, family-friendly museum and amazing that it’s completely free. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Belfast with kids!
An interesting museum with exhibits from throughout the history of Ireland. Well laid out and very informative. Good Cafe in the Museum serving a good variety of food and drinks. Staff were all really helpful.
What a fantastic museum! There are a lot of very different things to see : paintings, photographs, minerals, historical objects... I especially loved the part on the Troubles, it was very interesting. I higlhy recommend to visit this museum if you're in Belfast!
SS Nomadic
5. SS Nomadic
4.5
(3992)
Museums
Historical landmark
Maritime museum aboard the storied ship built to carry 1st- & 2nd-class passengers to the Titanic.
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Entry is included with the Titanic Museum ticket. It should be noted that the last entry for the SS Nomadic closes earlier than the museum, so if you are visiting during the afternoon, make sure you check the times. I had to run and only just made it. If you do miss it, the ticket is valid for a year for one entry, so you can come back another day. I found the ship visit to be very interesting. Everything was nicely laid out, and the information boards were informative. Staff were polite and happy to chat. There was some work occurring, so some parts were closed, but this did not detract from the experience. You have to go across a cobbled area to access the ship. There is wheelchair accessibility to most areas. The Crew Space and Flying Bridge Deck can only be accessed by steps.
With your Titanic museum entry ticket, you can enter this boat. Very old, well maintained remaining ship from the White Star Line, Nomadic is here still intact. Highly recommended to come visit here as its very impressive and has a lot of history!
So glad we went! Last surviving White Star Line vessel in existence. Free entry here when you go to the Titanic museum and honestly was not expecting much when they told us but wow, they don't make tinder boats like this. Powder room, bar, segregated stairwells by class, even the details in the woods and flooring change drastically by class. Very cool to see.
Great to see this tender. You can walk through it and up onto the deck. Lots of interesting history here, and you never hear about these lost icons. Recommend a visit if going to the Titanic exhibition.
The last White Star Line ship in existence. It served as a tender for the RMS Titanic. Admission to this is included in museum tickets, and it's definitely work walking over here to check out. You can go on all three levels and the upper decks and there are more exhibits in here.
It was a brilliant experience to able to visit this transfer ship that was used for the RMS Titanic, standing at dock kept in a solid condition! Exploring the interior rooms modelled around the Titanic was fascinating for seeing the communal areas along the lush floor; dining areas included as part and the areas are linked by grand staircases. We were able to walk on deck to get up close to the funnels, could even grab the steering wheel and turn it!
Honestly, I did not know that The White Star company still had one remaining ship. The story behind this ship was gallant, but then sad as it lost its uses. It received a reprieve from the scrapyard three times, and has mostly been restored, and continued to be renovated.
This is the last white star ship left and was used to get people out to the ships from the harbour. It's a nice viewing and takes about 20 minutes. This is included if you go to Titanic Belfast. Shows your how the student classes lived and the staff on the ship.
Botanic Gardens
6. Botanic Gardens
4.6
(8958)
Botanical garden
Nature & Parks
Elaborate public garden dating to 1828, featuring tropical species & an elegant domed conservatory.
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Everything you’d want from a botanical garden I guess. Nice sized park, free to enter and has a good mix of things to see between the more modern climate controlled greenhouse and the larger and more traditional greenhouse. A group of us wandered around for a while early on a Sunday to pass some time before lunch and all seemed to like it.
I was absolutely delighted to discover this hidden treasure. The staff are warm and welcoming, and the gardens and greenhouse are immaculately cared for with such dedication. It’s hard to believe that a place this beautiful is completely free to enjoy. Every corner is stunning, and the atmosphere is uplifting. An utterly amazing experience, thank you for creating and maintaining such a wonderful haven. Keep up the fantastic work! 🌿✨
Absolutely gorgeous green space in the middle of the City, such a beautiful space to wonder around in and with it being completely free as well is an added bonus. Such a beautiful place to just wander around, grab a wee coffee at the Coop Coffee Co truck in entry and away you go for a peaceful walk and enjoy Squirrel watching.
Excellent place to spend a nice few hours. Highly recommended to visit on a weekend so you get free parking around the garden. Enjoy your time at the Botanic Indoor garden and make sure you reach in the morning hours to avoid disappointment.
Very stunning location for the entire family. The beautiful colours of the flowers is music to the soul. It is definitely a surreal point to get away from the buzzing noise of the city.
It’s a green oasis in the city. It’s spacious and dog friendly. It feels more like a city park rather than a botanical garden. However, it’s still a clam and relaxing place to spend a day
Nice place but most of the indoor gardens were closed after 3.30pm. so I couldn't visit those. Very nice place to take a day out and play with kids.
Free public space with fantastic orangery. Even during autumn it's interesting to visit! And we spotted a few squirrels!
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Q&A about Belfast

My favorite city in Ireland is galway 😍 and you have to visit a lot of pubs. Irish people are just the friendliest :)
H
Hallie Nader
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Weather in Belfast

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