Belfast 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Belfast Itinerary for the Curious Tourist

This itinerary focuses on exploring Belfast’s history, culture, and cuisine, balancing iconic landmarks with off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Day 1: Arrival & Historical Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Belfast International Airport (BFS) or George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD).

  • Transportation: Taxi or bus from the airport to your accommodation in the city center. Consider a pre-booked shuttle for convenience and ease of arrival.

  • Accommodation: For this itinerary, we’ll assume you’re staying in the heart of Belfast, like the Cathedral Quarter or near Titanic Belfast.

  • Things to do:

    • Explore the vibrant Cathedral Quarter: Immerse yourself in Belfast’s historic past with its cobbled streets, Victorian architecture, and traditional pubs. Check out the St. Anne’s Cathedral, a stunning landmark that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding historic buildings.
    • Visit Crumlin Road Gaol: This iconic Victorian-era prison offers tours into its chilling past, detailing stories of infamous prisoners and the history of justice and punishment in Northern Ireland.
    • Dine at The Muddlers Club: Indulge in a fine dining experience with their seasonal menus featuring local produce and innovative dishes.

Day 2: Political Landscape & Street Art

  • Things to do:

    • Explore the murals of Belfast: A walk through the city will reveal stunning examples of street art that depict its history, struggles, and resilience. The Falls Road and Shankill Road are both known for their political murals, showcasing the city’s complex past and present.
    • Reflect at the Peace Walls: Witness the lasting impact of “The Troubles” by strolling along these unique walls that once divided communities and now stand as powerful symbols of peace.

  • Food & Drink:

  • Enjoy a traditional Irish meal at The Crown Liquor Saloon: Experience the grandeur of this historic pub while savoring delicious food like their famous “Ulster Fry” breakfast or hearty pub grub.

  • Dinner at a restaurant in the Cathedral Quarter: This area is bursting with character and offers a variety of restaurants serving international cuisine, tapas, and traditional pub fare.

Day 3: Cultural Immersion & Titanic Legacy

  • Morning: Explore Crumlin Road Gaol, now a museum, and delve into its history as a site of both punishment and reconciliation during the Northern Ireland conflict.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Peace Walls and learn about the political context behind these unique structures. Take a guided tour to understand their significance in representing the city’s tumultuous past and the ongoing process of peace-building.

  • Things to do:

  • Enjoy a traditional Irish meal at The Crown Liquor Saloon: This historic pub, with its ornate Victorian decor, is worth a visit for its ambiance alone.

  • Explore the Titanic Belfast museum: Discover the story of the ill-fated RMS Titanic and its connection to Belfast’s shipbuilding history.

  • Evening: Catch a live music performance in Belfast’s bustling music scene, which often features traditional Irish music sessions in pubs throughout the city.

Day 4: Nature & History Escape

  • Day trip to the Mourne Mountains: Explore the breathtaking beauty of this mountain range, known for its dramatic peaks and stunning scenery.

  • Things to do:

    • Hike one of the many trails: Enjoy a day trip to the Mourne Mountains and experience the stunning natural beauty.

  • Food & Drink:

    • Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at a scenic spot in the mountains.

Day 4-5:

  • Explore the Botanic Gardens and enjoy the vibrant colors of the tropical ravine and the serene beauty of the rose garden.
  • Take a walk through the Ulster Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts related to the RMS Titanic, as well as exhibits on art, history, and science.

Things to do:

  • Visit the Ulster Museum’s “Titanic Belfast: The Untold Story” exhibition: Learn about the ship’s construction and the stories of those who sailed on it.
  • Explore the city’s history: Take a tour of the Ulster Folk Museum, where you can see what life was like in Belfast in the past.

Day 5-6:

  • Enjoy a traditional Irish meal at The Crown Liquor Saloon: This could be a great opportunity to try some local delicacies, and perhaps even explore the “Troubles” history of the area through their historical exhibits and presentations.
  • Visit a historic pub in the Cathedral Quarter for a pint and live music.

Day 6-7:

  • Explore the Belfast Food Market: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary scene, sampling local produce and delicacies.

  • Experience the history of the Titanic Quarter: Visit the Titanic Quarter to see the ship’s construction site and learn about the struggles and triumphs of this historical endeavor.

  • Enjoy a leisurely visit to a coffee shop in the Cathedral Quarter: Relax with a cup of coffee or tea and a delicious pastry, and soak up the atmosphere.

Day 7:

  • Visit a local attraction like Crumlin Road Gaol: Learn about the history of Belfast’s “Troubles” and the city’s role in the conflict.
  • Take a walk along the Black Mountain Trail: Enjoy stunning views of Belfast City and the surrounding countryside.

Accommodation:

  • Consider staying at an Airbnb or guesthouse for a more authentic experience, choosing one within walking distance of the Titanic Quarter and the murals.

Things to consider:

  • History: The history of “The Troubles” is deeply interwoven with the city’s identity.
  • Transportation: Explore the city on foot, by bus (Belfast has an extensive public transport network), or through a taxi service for these days.
  • Accommodation options:

For the curious traveler:

  • Explore the murals of Belfast: Walk around and discover the history of the city’s “Troubles” era.
  • Visit Crumlin Road Gaol: This historic prison offers a fascinating glimpse into Belfast’s past.

Day 7:

  • Explore the Titanic Quarter: Enjoy the museums, restaurants, and shops in this revitalized area.
  • Take a walk through the Botanic Gardens: Enjoy the beauty of nature and learn about local efforts to preserve the gardens and their historical significance.

Dining options:

  • Belfast’s vibrant food scene: Embrace the city’s culinary heritage by visiting the “Titanic Quarter” for authentic Belfast fare, from seafood dishes at the Fish Market to traditional Irish cuisine in the historic Cathedral Quarter.
  • Enjoy a variety of restaurants:

Accommodation Options:

  • Luxury: The Merchant Hotel, Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast

  • Mid-range:

  • Cumberland Lodge: A historical hotel offering breathtaking views of the city.

  • Europa Hotel: Known for its resilience during “The Troubles” (it’s been bombed more than any other building in the UK), this hotel can be a good option for exploring Belfast’s history and enjoying a luxurious stay.

Unique Experiences:

  • Experience a traditional Irish meal at the Europa Hotel: Their “Titanic Afternoon Tea” is a delightful way to immerse yourself in the city’s heritage while enjoying delicious treats.
  • Stay in a historic building: Immerse yourself in Belfast’s past by booking a stay in a hotel or guesthouse with historical significance.

Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at The Merchant Hotel: Indulge in a luxurious experience and savour the history of the “Titanic” as you enjoy a spread of scones, finger sandwiches and pastries.

Things to know:

  • Book your tickets for the Titanic Belfast: This museum offers a fascinating look at the ship’s history and construction.
  • Enjoy a variety of local attractions: From the iconic Titanic Belfast building to the vibrant pubs and restaurants in the city, there’s something for everyone in the “Titanic” Quarter.

Things to do:

Explore the historic docks area: Take a walk along the Lagan River and see the legacy of Belfast’s shipbuilding industry.

  • Visit the SS Nomadic, the last surviving ship from the Titanic era: This floating museum allows you to step back in time and experience the grandeur of the White Star Line.
  • Enjoy the nightlife and live music venues: The “Titanic” Quarter is a great place to experience the city’s history and culture.

Things to know:

  • “Belfast Food Market”:

  • Located in the heart of the city, it’s a vibrant hub for local food producers and vendors to showcase their creations.

  • Enjoy a variety of fresh, locally sourced produce from around the region.

  • Explore the history of the Titanic:

  • Visit the Titanic Quarter to see the shipyards where the ship was built.

  • Consider exploring “Titanic Belfast” for interactive exhibits about the ship’s construction and its ill-fated maiden voyage.