There’s so much on offer in this great city. Here are my recommendations for food, drinks, sightseeing and activities. Hope you enjoy them as much as I did!
1. The Points Belfast
Named after the infamous area of New York known for gangs of Irish immigrants – this warm and inviting bar is the place to be! Live, Irish traditional music every night of the week means the atmosphere’s always fantastic. With friendly staff, a great menu and range of whisky, ales and cocktails, there’s something for everyone here. You’ll find it on the Dublin Road – just a short walk from the city centre.
Website: www.pointsbelfast.com/
2. Belfast MicnBike
This guided cycle tour takes you around the Cathedral Quarter and Titanic area – hire a bike or bring your own and come along to learn more about the history of Belfast. No need to be an expert – just reasonably fit and confident on a bike. They provide safety gear and a radio receiver and headset to keep you well informed along the route. A fantastic way to learn more about the city – hop on and peddle away!
Website: www.belfastmictours.com//a>
3. Kelly’s Cellars
Fancy a great pint of Guinness and a bowl of stew? Kelly’s is a must. It’s Belfast’s oldest traditional Irish pub, built in 1720. It’s handy location right in the city centre is an added bonus. If you’re looking for traditional music, good craic and a relaxed atmosphere, put this to the top of your list. It has a great mix of locals and tourists with music sessions on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights.
Website: www.kellyscellars.com
4. Belfast Hills Walk
Wrap up warm, get the walking boots on and take to the hills. From Divis and Black Mountain, if you’re lucky enough to get a clear day – the views are spectacular. You can see many of the Belfast landmarks from here, including Samson and Goliath, Titanic building, the peace line and Stormont buildings. There’s a handy app available to guide you – giving info on routes, where to walk, as well as historical background.
Website: www.belfasthills.org/visiting/divis
5. Cast and Crew
Located in the famous Titanic Quarter – this restaurant is definitely worth a visit. Open from 08.30 during the week and 09.00 on weekends – you can fuel up with breakfast as you make plans for your trips and sightseeing. Reasonably priced and with a fabulous Ulster Fry – the friendly staff and comfortable surroundings tick all the boxes. A tasty all day menu is available too. Pop in and say hello!
Website: www.castandcrewbelfast.co.uk
6. Titanic Visitor Centre
Recently voted the number one tourist attraction in the WORLD – there’s so much on offer. Set in an imposing building, this attraction tells the story and gives background to the ill-fated Titanic. The interactive experience allows you to explore and get a real feel for this world famous ship and what happened when it sank in April 1912. There’s a souvenir shop where you can pick up some exclusive memorabilia as a keepsake of your time here.
Website: www.titanicbelfast.com
7. The Friend at Hand
Love whisky? Then this is the place for you. Not just an off licence but a mini-museum with over 500 whiskeys on display – showcasing the history of distilling in Belfast.
You’ll find it in Hill Street in the bustling Cathedral Quarter – an unusual shop, packed full of antiques and artefacts and established in memory of owner Willie Jack’s long time friend – Bruce Kirk.
‘Friend at Hand’ will produce their own brand of whisky – definitely worth a visit and have a dram of the best in Irish whiskey!
8. Segway NI
When you’ve had enough of eating and drinking – Segway NI is a fantastic way to pass a few hours against the stunning Titanic backdrop.
This really is fun – no need to have experience, as full training will be given. You can whizz around the Titanic Studios (famous for Game of Thrones), Harland &Wolff, the Odyssey Pavilion and the Titanic Slipways to name but a few! Suitable from age 10 and up, one for all the family.
Website: www.segwayni.com
9. Culturlann
You’ll find Culturlann in The Gaeltacht Quarter on the Falls Road – an Irish language, arts and cultural hub.
Just a short journey from the city centre, you’ll find an art gallery, bookshop, restaurant and concert hall. You’ll get a warm welcome and get a great feel for Irish culture. Make sure to check out their website as they host a wide range of fantastic concerts and events.
Website: www.culturlann.ie
10. East Side Visitor Centre
If you’re interested in the Chronicles of Narnia and the work of C.S Lewis then the East Side Visitor Centre is for you. C.S Lewis was born in Belfast on November 29, 1898 and this Centre reflects his work and background. It’s free entry and close by is C.S Lewis Square – a public space where you’ll find seven sculptures based on the characters from The Lion, the Witch and the wardrobe.
Website: www.eastsidepartnership.com
We can be contacted by email at info@citysightseeingbelfast.com or through our tour office on +44 (0)28 90 321321. We look forward to seeing you soon!
