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Contents
Day 1
Morning (7am–11am)
Breakfast: Start your day at Oliver's, a popular cafe near St. George's Market, known for its delicious breakfast options like Breakfast Hash, honey-glazed chorizo or halloumi, and excellent coffee.
Attraction: Ulster Museum
Established in 1929, the Ulster Museum combines history, art, and science. From dinosaur skeletons to ancient treasures, it's a family-friendly attraction, completely free to explore!
Nearest stops:
City Sightseeing Belfast: Queen’s University Stop #10
City Tours Belfast: Queen’s University Stop #10
Highlights:
- Explore exhibits featuring diverse treasures, from ancient Egyptian mummies to the stunning Game of Thrones tapestry.
- Stand face-to-face with a colossal Edmontosaurus skeleton – a must-see for dino fans, young and old.
- Uncover Northern Ireland’s gripping history through moving exhibits that bring the past to life.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the museum café for a cozy break – grab a coffee and enjoy the Botanic Gardens' stunning view right next door!
Suggested time to spend: 2-3 hours
Time to next stop: A 15-minute bus ride to Belfast Zoo.
Noon (12pm – 3pm)
Lunch: Dine at The Lion's Den Restaurant inside the zoo, which offers classic options like burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as some lighter bites and kid-friendly choices.
Attraction: Belfast Zoo
Belfast Zoo is a wild adventure for the whole family, home to over 1,000 animals from around the world, set against the stunning backdrop of Cave Hill.
Location: 1-2 hours outside the city center. Requires separate transport (taxi, Uber, or pre-booked tour).
Highlights:
- Witness rare species, such as Rothschild’s giraffes and Asian elephants, nurtured through the zoo’s global breeding programs for endangered wildlife.
- Explore over 120 species, from red pandas to Andean bears, all thriving in spacious enclosures set against the scenic backdrop of Cave Hill.
- Get hands-on with special experiences like feeding the giraffes or learning about animal care in the daily keeper talks.
Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes! The zoo covers a lot of ground, and exploring its hilly terrain will be much more enjoyable with sturdy footwear.
Suggested time to spend: 3-4 hours
Time to next stop: Back to the city center (approx. 1-2 hour drive).
Evening (4pm – 7pm)
Attraction: W5 Interactive Science Centre
Unleash your curiosity at this exciting science hub, brimming with hands-on activities for the young and old.
Nearest stops:
City Sightseeing Belfast: Titanic Belfast Stop #5
City Tours Belfast: Titanic Belfast Stop #5
Highlights:
- Engage with 250+ interactive exhibits featuring glowing circuits, robotic marvels, and spinning gyroscopes in a creative playground of science.
- Discover ever-changing exhibits and live demos, bringing physics, tech, and robotics to life in a colorful, immersive setting.
- Conquer the Climbit structure, a mesmerizing maze of ropes and platforms that combines art, engineering, and adventure into a thrilling climb.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the Discovery Areas tailored for younger kids, featuring water play, construction zones, and other sensory activities.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time to next stop: 15-20 minutes bus ride to The Dirty Onion.
Late Night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: The Dirty Onion is a lively Irish pub with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for families. Kids can enjoy classic dishes like fish and chips and chicken tenders from their dedicated menu.
Day 2
Morning (7am – 11am)
Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Morning Star Cafe near St. George's Market.
Attraction: Titanic Belfast
Step inside the heart of Titanic history at Titanic Belfast! This striking building tells the full story of the ship’s creation, its fateful voyage, and its lasting legacy, all with jaw-dropping exhibits.
Nearest stops:
City Sightseeing Belfast: Titanic Quarter Stop #3
City Tours Belfast: Titanic Quarter Stop #3
Highlights:
- The museum’s iconic ship-shaped design reflects Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage, making it a landmark as striking as the Titanic itself.
- Discover Titanic's story through high-tech, immersive exhibits, from the ship’s design to its tragic end.
- Walk through galleries packed with original artifacts, models, and reconstructions of the grand ship.
Pro tip: Visit the Slipways outside; it's where Titanic was built, and you can see the original foundations of this iconic ship!
Suggested time to spend: 2-3 hours
Time to next stop: A 15-minute bus ride to SS Nomadic.
Noon (12pm – 3pm)
Lunch: The Pantry at Titanic Belfast offers a range of options for brunch, lunch, or an early dinner, as well as a special kid's menu for the little ones in the family to enjoy.
Attraction: SS Nomadic
SS Nomadic is the last surviving White Star Line ship that carried passengers to the Titanic. Explore this beautifully restored vessel and step back into the golden age of ocean travel!
Nearest stops:
City Sightseeing Belfast: Titanic Belfast Stop #5
City Tours Belfast: Titanic Belfast Stop #5
Highlights:
- Take a guided tour to learn the hidden stories behind the ship, from its design to its role in Titanic’s history.
- Explore the ship's authentic interiors, including the crew's quarters, the engine room, and the grand saloon.
- Learn about the ship's role in transporting passengers to and from the Titanic, and its subsequent service in World War I.
Pro tip: Take a moment to check out the ship’s tiny dining room. It’s a fantastic photo spot and gives a glimpse into how first-class passengers dined during the Titanic era.
Suggested time to spend: 1-1.5 hours
Time to next stop: A 15-minute bus ride to Crumlin Road Gaol.
Evening (4pm – 7pm)
Attraction: Crumlin Road Gaol
Step into Belfast’s turbulent past at Crumlin Road Gaol. This iconic Victorian prison housed political prisoners and criminals for over 150 years.
Nearest stops:
City Sightseeing Belfast: Crumlin Road Gaol Stop #18
City Tours Belfast: Crumlin Road Gaol Stop #18
Highlights:
- Wander through the cells, exercise yards, and hidden tunnels of one of Northern Ireland’s most notorious jails.
- Learn about the famous political prisoners, including members of the IRA, who spent time here during the Troubles.
- Get spooked on the ghost tour, or take a night tour for an eerie and thrilling experience after dark.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to grab a souvenir from the gift shop – mugs and keychains make great, quirky reminders of your visit.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5-2 hours
Late Night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at The Spaniard, a popular restaurant near Queen's University Belfast, offering a relaxed atmosphere and a diverse menu.
Day 1
Morning (7am – 11am)
Breakfast:
Start your day at The National café, a cozy spot offering delicious breakfast options like smoked salmon bagels and freshly brewed coffee. It's a great place to fuel up before you visit Belfast Cathedral!
Attraction: Belfast Cathedral (St. Anne’s Cathedral)
This magnificent Neo-Romanesque cathedral which dates back to 1899, stands as a symbol of Belfast’s spiritual and architectural heritage, blending history, art, and faith.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing Belfast: Donegall Street Stop #19
- City Tours Belfast: Donegall Street Stop #19
Highlights:
- Marvel at the stunning mosaics depicting biblical scenes, made with over 150,000 tiles.
- Look up to see the soaring 40-meter stainless steel Spire of Hope, added in 2007, symbolizing optimism and a bright future for Belfast’s community.
- Admire the cathedral’s elaborate stained glass windows and stunning stone carvings.
Pro tip:
Visit during an organ recital to hear the cathedral’s historic pipe organ, which fills the space with breathtaking melodies. It’s a feast for the ears and soul!
Suggested time to spend: 1.5-2 hours
Time to next stop: 10-minute walk to The Grand Opera House.
Noon (12pm – 3pm)
Lunch:
Head to The Crown Liquor Saloon for lunch, a Belfast landmark known for its ornate Victorian interior. Grab a traditional Irish stew and a pint of Guinness – it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing meal.
Attraction: The Grand Opera House
Opened in 1895, this Victorian theater is a masterpiece of ornate design and rich cultural history. A hub for performing arts, it hosts everything from plays to operas to comedy shows.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing Belfast: Great Victoria Street Stop #7
- City Tours Belfast: Grand Opera House Stop #7
Highlights:
- Step inside to marvel at the stunningly restored Baroque-style interior, with gilded balconies and intricate plasterwork that transport you to another era.
- Join a guided tour to uncover hidden gems like the trapdoors and stage secrets used in productions, offering a unique peek behind the curtain.
- Time it right and catch a live performance for an unforgettable experience.
Pro tip: Check out the digital archive exhibit in the foyer showcasing the Opera House’s history, vintage posters, photographs, and fascinating stories from past performances.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: A 10-minute bus ride to Titanic Belfast.
Evening (4pm – 7pm)
Attraction: Titanic Belfast
Dive into the story of the world’s most famous ship at this award-winning museum, built where the Titanic itself was designed and launched.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing Belfast: Titanic Quarter Stop #3
- City Tours Belfast: Titanic Quarter Stop #3
Highlights:
- Explore nine interactive galleries that bring Titanic’s journey to life, from its design and construction to its fateful maiden voyage.
- Stand on the very slipways where Titanic and its sister ship, Olympic, first touched water. It’s a spine-tingling experience connecting you directly to history.
- The museum’s striking, ship-shaped architecture is a visual treat, mirroring the Titanic’s legacy.
Pro tip: Walk the Titanic Memorial Garden outside, a serene tribute to those who lost their lives.
Suggested time to spend: 2-3 hours
Time to next stop: 15-minute walk to the Merchant Hotel
Late night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: End your day at The Merchant Hotel’s Great Room Restaurant, just a short walk from the Titanic Quarter. This upscale spot offers classic Irish dishes with a modern twist in a stunning, elegant setting.
Day 2
Morning (7am – 11am)
Breakfast:
Start your second day at The Daily Grind café, a lively breakfast spot perfect for grabbing a fresh bagel or warm croissant paired with a delicious smoothie.
Attraction: Giant’s Ring
An ancient Neolithic henge monument, the Giant’s Ring is a 5,000-year-old site steeped in mystery and natural beauty just outside Belfast.
How to get there: Not directly accessible via hop-on hop-off buses, but easily reachable by car (20-minute drive). Opt for a guided day tour for a seamless experience!
Highlights:
- Explore one of Ireland’s oldest monuments, a massive earthwork with a central stone tomb thought to have been used for rituals and burials.
- Surrounded by rolling fields and woodlands, this site offers a peaceful escape, perfect for a quiet walk or a picnic with stunning views.
- Scholars still debate its purpose – was it a ceremonial site, a burial ground, or something else entirely? Discover its mystery for yourself.
Pro tip:
Look out for the nearby River Lagan towpath, a great spot for an extended scenic walk or cycle.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5-2 hours
Time to next stop: 30-minute drive to Dark Hedges (Game of Thrones filming location).
Noon (12pm – 3pm)
Lunch:
Stop for a bite at The Ballygally Castle Hotel on your way back. Situated in a historic castle, it offers both traditional Irish fare and an incredible view of Ballygally Bay.
Attraction: Dark Hedges
This stunning avenue of beech trees, famously featured in Game of Thrones, makes for a magical stop. It’s one of Northern Ireland’s most photographed spots!
How to get there: Not directly accessible via hop-on hop-off buses, but easily reachable by car (about 1.5-hour drive). Opt for a Game of Thrones guided day tour for a seamless experience!
Highlights:
- Walk down this iconic avenue of trees, made popular as the “Kingsroad” in the hit television show Game of Thrones.
- Over 90 beech trees planted in the 18th century create an ethereal canopy that changes with the seasons, making it magical year-round.
- The site is perfect for a relaxing walk, so take your time to enjoy the quiet, magical atmosphere.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget your camera – this is a photographer’s paradise, especially when mist adds to the eerie charm.
Suggested time to spend: 1-1.5 hours
Time to next stop: 30-minute drive to Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.
Evening (4pm – 7pm)
Attraction: Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
A thrilling suspension bridge that connects the mainland to a tiny island, Carrick-a-Rede offers stunning coastal views and an adrenaline-pumping experience.
How to get there: Not directly accessible via hop-on hop-off buses, but easily reachable by car (1-hour drive). Opt for a guided day tour for a seamless experience!
Highlights:
- Feel the excitement as you walk 30 meters above the waves on this historic rope bridge, originally built by salmon fishermen over 250 years ago.
- Take in panoramic vistas of the rugged coastline, turquoise waters, and even the distant shores of Scotland on a clear day.
- The surrounding area is a haven for seabirds, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Pro tip:
After your visit, enjoy a picnic with a view at the nearby Ballintoy Harbour, a serene spot featured in Game of Thrones!
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time to next stop: Return to Belfast for dinner.
Late night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Wrap up your solo adventure at The Muddlers Club near Titanic Belfast. This gastropub offers a modern and stylish atmosphere with a good selection of craft beers, cocktails, and dishes like gourmet burgers, fish and chips, and pasta.
Day 1
Morning (7am – 11am)
Breakfast: Begin your day at Oliver's, a beloved café near St. George’s Market, famous for its tasty breakfast offerings like Breakfast Hash and top-notch coffee.
Attraction: Ulster Museum
Founded in 1929, the Ulster Museum blends history, art, and science in one space, showcasing everything from dinosaur fossils to ancient artifacts, making it a must-see for history buffs.
Nearest stops:
City Sightseeing Belfast: Queen’s University Stop #10
City Tours Belfast: Queen’s University Stop #10
Highlights:
- Explore Northern Ireland's diverse art collection, including stunning paintings, sculptures, and contemporary pieces that showcase local talent.
- Immerse yourself in diverse exhibits, ranging from mummies of ancient Egypt to the impressive Game of Thrones tapestry.
- Marvel at the museum's incredible dinosaur collection, including a full-size replica of a roaring Edmontosaurus, plus fascinating fossil displays from the prehistoric era.
Pro tip: Take a walk through the adjacent Botanic Gardens before heading inside – it's the perfect way to soak in some fresh air and nature before diving into the museum's treasures!
Suggested time to spend: 2-3 hours
Time to next stop: A 20-minute walk to Belfast City Hall.
Noon (12pm – 3pm)
Lunch: Head to The Merchant Hotel’s Great Room Restaurant nearby. This elegant spot serves up locally sourced dishes with a chic, atmospheric vibe – perfect for a midday recharge.
Attraction: Belfast City Hall
A grand example of Baroque Revival architecture, City Hall is at the heart of Belfast. Explore its beautiful interiors and learn about the city’s political past and major historical milestones.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing Belfast: Belfast City Hall Stop #1
- City Tours Belfast: City Hall Stop #1
Highlights:
- Visit the opulent Great Hall and admire the magnificent marble and stained-glass features while learning about the city’s journey through history.
- Discover the City Hall's rich political history, where key events like the granting of Belfast's city status in 1888 unfolded.
- Check out a memorial outside City Hall that honors those lost in the Titanic disaster, marking Belfast's connection to the world’s most infamous shipwreck.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the breathtaking views of the city from the City Hall’s grounds, especially at sunset when the building's façade is beautifully illuminated.
Suggested time to spend: 1-1.5 hours
Time to next stop: A 10-minute bus ride to the Crumlin Road Gaol.
Evening (4pm – 7pm)
Attraction: Crumlin Road Gaol
Explore one of Belfast's most significant historical sites, a Victorian-era prison that operated for more than 150 years and held both political detainees and common criminals.
Nearest stops:
City Sightseeing Belfast: Crumlin Road Gaol Stop #18
City Tours Belfast: Crumlin Road Gaol Stop #18
Highlights:
- Explore the atmospheric prison complex, its historic cells, exercise areas, and underground passageways that tell stories of Northern Ireland's complex history.
- Experience the prison's darker side with spooky ghost tours, or opt for an atmospheric nighttime visit for an unforgettable experience.
- Discover the stories of notable inmates, including imprisoned IRA members, who were incarcerated here during the period known as the Troubles.
Pro tip: Visit the on-site gift shop to pick up distinctive prison-themed memorabilia, including mugs and keychains, for a unique memento of your visit.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5-2 hours
Late night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at The Spaniard, a popular restaurant near Queen's University Belfast, offering a relaxed atmosphere and a diverse menu.
Day 2
Morning (7am – 11am)
Breakfast: Head to St. George's Market, one of Belfast’s oldest attractions. Enjoy a traditional Irish breakfast or opt for a delicious pastry at one of the many stalls. It's a perfect start to the day!
Attraction: Peace Wall
The Peace Wall stands as a powerful reminder of the Northern Ireland conflict. Stretching for miles, it separates Protestant and Catholic neighborhoods and has become an iconic symbol of Belfast's troubled past.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing Belfast: Belfast Peace Wall Stop #15
- City Tours Belfast: Peace Wall - Sign The Famous Wall Stop #15
Highlights:
- Learn how the Peace Wall was erected in 1969 to reduce tensions during the Troubles, and its role in maintaining peace for many years.
- Walk alongside the wall and see vibrant murals – many carrying messages of hope, peace, and unity from both sides of the conflict.
- Leave your own mark on the wall, joining thousands of others who’ve signed it in solidarity and hope for a peaceful future.
Pro tip: Take a self-guided tour to explore the various murals and stories. If you can, hire a local guide to gain a deeper understanding of the history.
Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
Time to next stop: A 5-10 minute bus ride to the Titanic Belfast.
Noon (12pm – 3pm)
Lunch: The Pantry at Titanic Belfast is a popular lunch spot conveniently located within the Titanic Belfast building itself. It serves hearty soups, sandwiches, and salads, making it a great option for a quick bite before exploring Titanic Belfast.
Attraction: Titanic Belfast
Dive deep into the story of the Titanic at this striking museum. Explore its creation, tragic voyage, and lasting impact, all through interactive exhibits and awe-inspiring visuals.
Nearest stops:
City Sightseeing Belfast: Titanic Quarter Stop #3
City Tours Belfast: Titanic Quarter Stop #3
Highlights:
- Explore the collection of authentic artifacts, models, and interactive displays that reveal the Titanic’s history in stunning detail.
- Experience the Titanic’s journey from blueprint to disaster through cutting-edge, immersive exhibits that bring the ship’s tale to life.
- The iconic, ship-shaped design of the museum is as bold and unforgettable as the Titanic itself – an architectural tribute to the great ship.
Pro tip: Head to the garden for a peaceful moment to reflect. It’s a serene spot where you can pay respects to those lost on the Titanic.
Suggested time to spend: 2-3 hours
Time to next stop: A 15-minute bus ride to The Grand Opera House.
Evening (4pm – 7pm)
Attraction: The Grand Opera House
This magnificent Victorian venue, dating back to 1895, stands as a cultural landmark in Belfast, showcasing an array of performances from theatrical productions and operatic shows to stand-up comedy.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing Belfast: Great Victoria Street Stop #7
- City Tours Belfast: Grand Opera House Stop #7
Highlights:
- Immerse yourself in the Baroque architecture, featuring beautifully restored details from ornate gilded balconies to exquisite plasterwork, capturing Victorian-era elegance.
- Experience the theater through guided tours, revealing fascinating backstage secrets like trapdoors and technical areas that bring productions to life.
- Enhance your visit by attending one of the many live performances hosted in this historic venue.
Pro tip: Book tickets online in advance for the best seats and prices. The theater's bar opens an hour before showtime – perfect for a pre-show drink in historic surroundings.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: A 15-minute walk to Holohan's Pantry.
Late night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Stop by Holohan's Pantry for supper. It’s a cozy, family-owned spot in Belfast serving up hearty Irish comfort food like slow-cooked lamb shank, traditional stew, and mouthwatering seafood chowder.