Belfast at a glance
Belfast has pulled off a remarkable transformation in recent years. The city's skyline is constantly being shaped by redevelopment to create a polished city centre that is ever changing. Known for its shipbuilding industry, the city’s shipyards have evolved into popular tourist destinations with the historic Titanic quarter and Victorian Square shopping centre setting the tone for new and improved attractions.
Blossoming during the industrial age, Belfast claimed one of the largest shipbuilding industries in the world during the 19th century. In the 1920’s Belfast became the capital of Northern Ireland and survived the turbulent unrest of the Troubles to emerge as a tested city, keen to reinvent itself anew.
Today, Belfast has increasingly become a sought out destination, perfect for a UK weekend short break. With a lovely collection of Victorian and Edwardian architecture, an impressive museum dedicated to the famous Titanic and a dynamic waterfront infused with shopping, modern art, live music and a great bar scene, there’s never been a more exciting time to visit this vibrant, cosmopolitan city.
Perfect if you’re looking for:
- Art and culture
- Fine dining
- Weekend short break
Getting around
The Translink Metro service provides bus service in and around Belfast. There are also a number of rail stations within the city.
Dining in Belfast
There is a high bar set in Belfast in terms of dining, there are many award-winning eateries in the lovely city of Belfast. Fine dining aficionados must do some research and prebook these highly recommended restaurants to avoid disappointment. There’s also a ton of authentic and local food on offer and one great way to sample these are at the St George’s food market for high grade local fare and other culinary delights.
Must-try local dishes:
- Champ – Cooked potatoes mashed with milk, butter and spring onions, an amazing side dish!
- Fifteens – Sticky cakes crafted with 15 digestive biscuits, marshmallows and glace cherries, glued together with condensed milk and then rolled in coconut.
- Ulster fry – Bacon, egg, sausage, tomato, vegetable rolls and soda or potato bread.
Shopping in Belfast
The two shopping hotspots, the Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt are great destinations to get your shopping in! Victoria Square Shopping Centre hosts a huge variety of brands for fashion, beauty, accessories and homewares. CastleCourt is the ultimate centre for favourite high street brands under one roof, and you can enjoy late night shopping every Thursday until 9pm.
Get your tailor-made city break itinerary
Osprey Holidays can create a fabulous short break to Belfast designed completely around your needs. We can arrange whatever you need, including:
- All travel and transfers on days of your choice
- Accommodation from our handpicked range of Belfast hotels, to suit your budget and requirements
Our award-winning team can provide expert advice and recommendations, from general questions to tiny details. Contact us now for your tailor-made itinerary.
- Important information
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Population 1,775,000 Languages English Currency Pounds Sterling Visa Information No visa required for EU citizens - Average temperatures
(monthly highs °C)
- Interesting facts
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The Ulster Museum is well worth a visit. Afterwards you can pop next door to the Botanic Gardens with its iconic glasshouse.
- Featured accommodation
- Distance from airports
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Belfast International 29 km
- Railway stations
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Belfast Central