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Belfast City Breaks

UK
Belfast accommodation
City map

Irene Clunie, Short Break Specialist

"I can assure you that if you’re into culture, eating out, sporting weekends or just some good old fun, then make Belfast your next city break. Belfast is easily accessible from the rest of the UK, but it usually gets missed. I found the best way to see the city was the Hop On Hop Off Bus which stops at the famous sights. I recommend finishing the day off in a classic Irish bar for a Guinness (or two) with the locals."

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
Population 1,775,000
Languages English
Currency Pounds Sterling
Visa Information No visa required for EU citizens
Average temperatures

(monthly highs °C)

Interesting facts

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
Belfast International 29 km
Railway stations
Belfast Central

Things to do in Belfast

  • Titanic Experience: Visit the world’s largest state-of-the-art visitor experience situated in the heart of the city next to the iconic ship’s birthplace.
  • Belfast City Hall: Learn about Belfast’s past and present on a free tour of this Victorian gem.
  • Giant's Causeway: Just over an hour’s drive, this UNESCO natural heritage site is breathtaking!
  • Ulster Folk Museum and Transport Museum: Celebrating the rural, cultural and industrial heritage of Ulster.

Tours and Excursions

Titanic Belfast

As the world’s largest Titanic exhibition, the Titanic Visitor Experience documents everything about the ship, from her construction in Belfast to her fateful voyage and legacy. Learn about the history of the city, browse interactive displays, watch audiovisual presentations and experience the Shipyard Ride. Your ticket includes entrance to the Ocean Exploration Centre and SS Nomadic, the original tender ship to the Titanic.

Game of Thrones & Giant's Causeway

Travel the scenic Causeway Coastal Route and visit key Northern Irish filming locations from the award-winning television series, including Ballycastle, Cushenden and Dark Hedges road. Admire the stunning scenery surrounding Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and finish the day with a visit to the iconic and spectacular Giant’s Causeway.

Sightseeing Cruise

Discover Belfast’s nautical heritage as you cruise along the River Lagan and through the Titanic Quarter. Pass the drawing offices of Harland and Wolff, Belfast’s famous ship builders, and the magnificent Custom’s House. Glide through the Titanic slipways, and learn about Belfast’s crucial naval role during the world wars as you pass by the HMS Caroline.

We would be happy to arrange an excursion for you. To discuss options with a member of our knowledgeable team or to book, please contact us on 0131 243 8098.