Discover Belfast: A 4-Day Budget Adventure

Discover Belfast's charm without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

A trip to Belfast on a limited budget will allow for a journey through the history of the United Kingdom. Explore the Titanic Museum, the city's many murals, and take a scenic drive up to the Giant's Causeway. Accommodation can be found in budget-friendly hostels or short-term rentals, and a variety of affordable dining options offer traditional Irish cuisine.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Getting Acquainted with Belfast

  • Check-in at the Titanic Hotel, a budget-friendly accommodation with great maritime decor
  • Visit the Titanic Belfast, a museum that tells the story of the RMS Titanic
  • Explore the vibrant streets of Queen's Quarter and grab lunch at Maggie Mays, a local favorite for hearty Irish fare
  • Visit the Botanic Gardens, an oasis in the middle of the city where you can admire exotic plants and the Palm House
  • End the day with a pint of Guinness at the Duke of York, one of the oldest pubs in Belfast
Day 2

Adventures in Northern Ireland

  • Take a day trip to the Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site of hexagonal basalt columns that looks like it was made by giants
  • Enjoy a scenic drive along the Antrim Coast and stop at picturesque villages like Cushendall and Cushendun
  • Visit the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, a suspension bridge that connects a small island to the mainland and offers stunning views of the coastline
  • Have lunch at The Fullerton Arms, a traditional pub that serves local seafood and live music on weekends
  • Return to Belfast in the evening and dine at Home, a cozy restaurant that serves refined comfort food with a modern twist
Day 3

A Cultural Immersion

  • Visit the Ulster Museum, a museum that showcases the art, history, and nature of Northern Ireland
  • Take a walking tour of the murals and peace walls that reflect the Troubles, a period of political conflict in Northern Ireland
  • Stop by St. George's Market, a Victorian-era marketplace that sells fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and street food
  • Visit the Crumlin Road Gaol, a former prison that has been converted into a museum that tells the stories of the inmates and the political prisoners
  • Take a break at Established Coffee, a hipster coffee shop that serves gourmet brews and pastries
Day 4

Literary and Musical Heroes

  • Visit the Seamus Heaney HomePlace, a museum that celebrates the life and work of the Irish poet and Nobel laureate
  • Take a tour of the Grand Opera House, a Victorian-era theater that hosts performances of opera, ballet, and theater
  • Visit the Oh Yeah Music Centre, a museum that celebrates the musical heritage of Belfast and the careers of its famous musicians like Van Morrison and Snow Patrol
  • Have lunch at Bunsen, a burger joint that serves juicy, no-frills burgers with hand-cut fries
  • Explore the Cathedral Quarter, a trendy neighborhood that is filled with bars, restaurants, and street art. End the day with a pint at the Crown Liquor Saloon, a Victorian-era pub that is known for its ornate tiles and stained-glass windows.

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

A Romantic Long Weekend in Belfast, UK

Belfast offers a perfect blend of the old and the new for a romantic trip. With its cobbled streets and Victorian architecture, the city oozes charm, and the modern Titanic Quarter is a lively place to explore. From taking a stroll along the River Lagan to indulging in the famous Irish cuisine, Belfast has everything you need to have a memorable experience with your special someone.

Discover Belfast's Budget-Friendly Best Bits

Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, is a great destination even if you are on a limited budget. The city offers plenty of free or low-cost activities such as exploring the street art on a walking tour, visiting the Ulster Museum or wandering around the leafy Botanic Gardens. Additionally, affordable accommodations and traditional Irish pubs with live music make it easy to enjoy the city's culture without breaking the bank.

Discover Belfast's Best in 2 Fun-Packed Days

Visiting Belfast, you can discover the rich history of the city with a political mural tour or a visit to the Titanic Museum. Take a stroll through St. George's Market on the weekend and try some local cuisine while enjoying the festive atmosphere. The city's vibrant pub scene offers traditional Irish music and a wide selection of craft beers.

Discover Belfast: A 4-Day Budget Adventure

A trip to Belfast on a limited budget will allow for a journey through the history of the United Kingdom. Explore the Titanic Museum, the city's many murals, and take a scenic drive up to the Giant's Causeway. Accommodation can be found in budget-friendly hostels or short-term rentals, and a variety of affordable dining options offer traditional Irish cuisine.