Belfast on a Budget: 2 Days of Adventure

Explore Belfast without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Belfast, the bustling capital of Northern Ireland, is a great destination for budget travelers. With its rich history and lively nightlife, there's always something to do or see. From the Titanic Experience to St. George's Market, you can explore Belfast's culture without breaking the bank.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Belfast

  • Stay at: Ibis Belfast City Centre – budget-friendly hotel in the heart of the city
  • Start the day with a full Irish breakfast at Maggie Mays
  • Take a black taxi tour of the city, exploring the political murals and learning about Belfast’s history
  • Visit the Titanic Museum, a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the infamous ship
  • Stop for lunch at St. George’s Market, a bustling food market offering everything from seafood to street food
  • Take a stroll through the botanical gardens before dinner at The Dirty Onion, a rustic gastropub with live music
Day 2

Coastal Adventures

  • Start the day with a quick breakfast at Clements Coffee in Victoria Square
  • Take a bus to the small coastal town of Bangor, just a 20-minute ride from central station
  • Walk along the picturesque marina before taking a boat ride to the nearby island of Copeland
  • Explore the abandoned buildings on the island, as well as the lighthouse and wildlife reserve
  • Head back to Bangor for seafood lunch at The Boat House restaurant overlooking the harbor
  • Return to Belfast in the evening for a traditional pub dinner at The Spaniard, known for their whiskey selection and cozy atmosphere.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Belfast, United Kingdom by plane is to fly into Belfast International Airport or George Best Belfast City Airport. Both airports offer both local and international flights, including major airlines such as British Airways and Ryanair.

Car

Driving to Belfast from most parts of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland is relatively simple, as both countries are connected by a well-maintained motorway network. In addition, several car rental agencies can be found at major airports and cities throughout the region.

Train

While there is no direct train from outside Northern Ireland to Belfast, it is possible to take a train to Dublin and then transfer to a train to Belfast from there. The Dublin-Belfast route is served by Irish Rail Corporation, with trains departing from Dublin Heuston Station.

Boat

Taking a ferry to Belfast is possible from several ports in Great Britain, such as Liverpool and Cairnryan. The two main ferry companies operating these routes are Stena Line and P&O Ferries.

Bus

There are several intercity bus companies that operate routes to Belfast, such as Bus Éireann and Ulsterbus. One of the more popular options is the Belfast Express, which runs from Dublin to Belfast and vice versa every day.

More travel plans