Belfast Guide

Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is located on the River Lagan. Belfast is surrounded by low basaltic hills which are believed to be the inspiration of, “Gulliver’s Travels”. Famous for its shipping industry, Belfast is where the “Titanic” was built in 1911. Located on the eastern coast of Northern Ireland, this city enjoys especially long evenings in the summer with the sun setting after 22:00 (10:00) in the evening.

The Belfast City Tour is a wonderful way to begin a holiday in Belfast. Experienced guides take visitors to places such as the H&W Shipyards (home of the Titanic), Parliament and the city centre. Visit Stormont Castle (past home of Prime Ministers, M15 during the Troubles and the current home of the Northern Ireland Executive). See Queens University and the Belfast Botanic Gardens (this is worth a separate trip as guests have the chance to stroll through the Palm House featuring a 400-year-old Xanthorrhoea as well as the tropical gardens and the rose gardens. Learn about the Troubles, see the most bombed hotel in the world and have questions answered by knowledgeable and friendly tour guides.

History enthusiasts will enjoy the Titanic Walking Tour. Visitors can take a walking tour of Queens Island, the birthplace of the Titanic. Knowledgeable tour guides take guests to the Titanic Drawing Office, the Titanic’s Dock and Pump-House and the Titanic’s Slipways. Guests also have the chance to see the SS Nomadic, the world’s last White Star vessel. Launched in 1911, the SS Nomadic still floats in Belfast.

Belfast’s Ghost Walk is sure to be a hit with historians and adventurers alike. Walk the dark alleys of the city and listen to tales about Jack the Ripper, the haunting of the Lucifer Match Factory and the Belfast Bodysnatchers. This wonderfully creepy trip is best saved for adults.

Shoppers will not want to miss a visit to Victoria Square. Enjoy shopping at a diverse medley of shops such as Hollister, Calvin Klein and Fossil. Check out new products at Apple, grab a burger, eat some Chinese or try Italian before taking your kids to Build-A Bear. Finish off the shopping experience with coffee and pastries at Starbucks.

Belfast is an exciting city just waiting for the explorers out there. The Cathedral Quarter, Belfast City Hall, the Ulster Museum and the Enclaves of Belfast are just a few more things to do when on holiday in Belfast.