Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is one of the best tourist places in Europe. Belfast City is a lovely travel destination, and it’s a must-see for travelers like me to add to their bucket lists. Interestingly, Belafast is infamously known as the birthplace of the terrific tragedy of Titanic. To clarify, the Titanic ship was built in Belfast. The city has a monument to pay homage to those who lost their lives in the sinking of the Titanic. I am here talking about the well-known Titanic Belfast.

Other than this, a massive site in Belfast named Titanic Quarter exists. It was the site where the infamous ship was built. Northern Ireland itself is a well-known tourist spot. Northern Ireland has a temperate maritime climate. Therefore, it is preferable to plan your visit during the summer. This way you can enjoy your travel. But if you want to experience real fun in Ireland’s snow, you should preferably visit during the winter months. You can learn more about Belfast here.

1. The Landmarks In Belfast

Belfast City has several hidden gems that you should see. The city’s landmarks are indeed impressive. In addition, Belfast landmarks are among Europe’s top attractions. Belfast certainly will not fail to amaze you. From Parliament Buildings and Ulster Hall to the Grand Opera House, they are worth a visit. Here is a list of the famous landmarks in Belfast-

1.1. Belfast Castle

Belfast Castle is located in Cave Hill Country Park, with its main entrance where Innisfayle Park meets Downview Park West, just off Antrim Road. It was built in the late 12th century. This castle has gone through many modifications since its construction. This castle is indeed an exemplary piece of architecture. Be it the interiors or exteriors, this castle is just stunning. Interestingly, it is the venue for many events year-round.

Several weddings are also hosted in this castle. In addition, the castle grounds are also a popular picnic spot. You can find restaurants, adventure parks, and more near this landmark. Cave Hill Country Park is among them and is a must-visit.

Fun Things to Do at Belfast Castle-

• Explore the castle at your own pace.
• Enrich your knowledge regarding the castle and its history.
• Adore the picturesque landscape
• Go hiking at Cave Hill.
• Finally, enjoy some exotic meals in the restaurants nearby.

1.2. Botanic Gardens

Constructed in 1828, the Botanic Gardens is among Belfast’s top attractions. These gardens are among the most recognizable greenhouses in the entire United Kingdom. The vantage points of the now public park are the tropical plants. Botanic Gardens were previously private gardens- a century ago. Undoubtedly, it is the right place to relax after a hectic journey. Botanic Gardens is also one of the best places to learn about Belafst’s agricultural history. Botanic Gardens are located just near Queen’s University.

Apart from this, the Ulster Museum is located within the Botanic Gardens in Belfast. Ulster Museum is one of the most famous museums in the world. The museum has rich collections from different eras of Belfast and North Ireland’s history. The architecture of the museum building is indeed impressive. If you are interested in Belfast’s history, the museum’s collections and exhibitions will surely interest you.

Fun Things to Do at Botanic Gardens

• Walk in the lush green environment and have a great time.
• Also, add knowledge about tropical plants.
• Learn about the history of botanic gardens.
• Discover different plant species.
• Finally, visit the Queen’s University and Ulster Museum to make the visit even more comprehensive.

1.3. Belfast City Hall

Belfast City Hall is an iconic landmark. Constructed in the 1900s, the city hall is a famous meeting place for the Belfastians. Interestingly, even tourists love meeting at this place. The city hall is located in Donegall Square and is built in an area of around 6070 square meters, including the courtyard. It is presently the venue for several famous events- concerts, parties, weddings, etc.

Belfast City Hall certainly is an architectural masterpiece. The exciting part is that visitors are offered self-guided tours at the venue. Gardens adjoining the city hall are also spectacular and will surely interest you. There is an art and history exhibition for the visitors during their visit. The vantage point of the visit certainly is these exhibitions. Belfast City Hall is situated in the city centre of Belfast.

Fun Things to Do at Belfast City Hall

• Discover fascinating stories about the city hall and its past.
• Be stunned by the beautiful landscape and surroundings.
• See the exhibitions at the city hall to make the visit worthwhile.
• Enjoy an exciting meal at the nearby gourmet restaurant.
• Finally, also visit the adjoining gardens and have a wonderful time.

1.4. St Anne’s Cathedral

Better known as the Belfast Cathedral, this Anglican church is in the cathedral quarter. St Anne’s Cathedral is one of the most recognizable churches in Northern Ireland. It is also among the famous religious buildings in Belfast. St Anne’s Cathedral was constructed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the foundation stone laid in 1899 and the completion of the nave in 1904, continuing with additional constructions in subsequent years. Several vantage points of the church will surely interest you. These include the forty-meter-high spire, marble tiles, delicate stonework, beautiful woodwork, and more!

Other than this, there are pieces of art and history at the cathedral. In addition, the landscape is also just stunning. The best part for the visitors is they get self-guided audio tours at the venue. Therefore, visitors can learn about the cathedral at their own pace. Tour guides are also available. This famous landmark should undoubtedly be a part of the travel itinerary.

Fun Things to Do at St Anne’s Cathedral

• Explore the church and its majestic innards as you would like.
• Admire the beautiful artwork at the church.
• Attend the local ceremonies to enrich your knowledge about Belfast’s culture.
• Witness the beautiful landscape and be amazed.
• Learn amazing stories about the cathedral’s history.

1.5. St George’s Market

The list of must-see landmarks will be incomplete without a mention of St George’s Market. St George’s Market was built in the 19th century. It is now home to around 300 vendors. If shopping is your fantasy, it is a must-go place. You will find almost everything at this marketplace, from food to clothes and utensils. There is also a wide range of products, from local to imported brands.

Undoubtedly, St George’s market is the liveliest place in Belfast. You will always find some hustle and bustle here. That too often, till the midnight hours. Other than this, many events like dance shows and art exhibitions are organized regularly at this marketplace. St George’s Market is among Belfast’s topmost and unmissable attractions.

Fun Things to Do at St George’s Market

• It’s time for some shopping! Buy some of the fanciest products from the famous marketplace.
• Know fascinating stories about the three hundred vendors.
• Have some chit-chat with the locals and have fun.
• Enjoy the exhibitions and performances at this marketplace.
• Finally, treat yourself to some mouth-watering delicacies available in this marketplace.

2. Accommodation During Your Visit

Are you looking for places to stay during your travel? Don’t worry! We have got it all sorted for you. From five-star hotels to reputed guest houses, Belfast has plenty of accommodation options. Peartree Hill and The Merchant Hotel are some of the options worth mentioning. There are also cheap accommodation options available.

For the ones who want to delve into the local life of Belfast, guesthouses are the best options. You can get a glimpse of the life of locals in Belfast at guesthouses because these are- owned by the locals. So, if you want to see a day in Belfast, book your room in the guesthouse.

So, When Are You Planning Your Trip to Belfast?

I certainly hope it is very soon!! To say it all, Belfast landmarks are certainly iconic masterpieces. You can indeed expect a wonderful visit to Belfast. Don’t forget to add the famous landmarks mentioned above to your must-see list.

Last Updated on July 8, 2024 by Sathi Chakraborty