Belfast on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun and Adventure
Belfast: A Family Adventure Awaits in the Heart of the United Kingdom!
19 July 2023
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
Belfast, in the United Kingdom, is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip. The city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and adventure for all ages. Enjoy exploring iconic landmarks like the Titanic Belfast museum, stroll through beautiful parks, and immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere of this charming city.
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- Check into the Titanic Hotel, designed to emulate the iconic ship herself it's like sleeping on a slice of history!
- Embark on a thrilling Titanic-themed adventure at the Titanic Belfast museum, where you'll learn about the ill-fated voyage through interactive exhibits.
- Take a leisurely stroll through the Titanic Quarter, admiring the modern architecture and imagining the hustle and bustle of the shipyard.
- Have a delicious seafood feast at Mourne Seafood Bar, serving up fresh catches from Northern Irish waters.
- End the day with a ghostly walking tour, learning about Belfast's haunted history and supernatural stories. Ghostbusters, anyone?
- Join a guided tour to explore filming locations of the famous Game of Thrones series, from Castle Ward (Winterfell) to the Dark Hedges (Kingsroad).
- Stop for a hearty lunch at The Cuan in Strangford, where the cast often dined during filming.
- Visit the stunning Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its peculiar hexagonal basalt columns.
- Try some delicious Irish stew at The Barking Dog, a cozy restaurant that will warm both your heart and your stomach.
- Catch a live traditional Irish music session at The Crown Liquor Saloon, a Victorian gem with ornate tiles and gas lamps.
- Begin by wandering through the enchanting Botanic Gardens, bursting with flora and fauna.
- Marvel at the magnificent Belfast City Hall, a grand Edwardian building standing tall in the heart of the city.
- Discover the past at the Ulster Museum, housing an extensive range of art, history, and natural science exhibitions.
- Stop for a traditional Irish pub lunch at McHugh's, a lively spot serving up classics like fish and chips and hearty stews.
- Take a black cab tour of the murals on the Peace Walls, and let the locals share stories of Belfast's troubled past.
- Start your day with a visit to the Old Bushmills Distillery, the oldest licensed distillery in the world, for a taste of their smooth Irish whiskey.
- Make your way to the stunning Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, daringly suspended 100 feet above crashing waves.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch on the picturesque grounds of Castle Ward, where you can also explore the beautiful gardens and historic estate.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth with a stop at Aunt Sandra's Candy Factory, where handmade treats will transport you to sugary heaven.
- Indulge in a gourmet dinner at Ox, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative dishes featuring local, seasonal ingredients.
- Hit the shops on lively Donegall Place, where you’ll find a mix of high street brands and unique boutiques.
- Visit the quirky St. George's Market, Belfast's oldest market, for an eclectic range of crafts, food, and live music.
- Take a breather at the Cathedral Quarter, with its trendy bars, charming cafes, street art, and live performances.
- Enjoy a late lunch at Hadskis, a buzzing restaurant set in a former warehouse and known for its small plates bursting with flavor.
- Wrap up your trip with a leisurely stroll along the scenic River Lagan, taking in the serenity and natural beauty of Belfast's waterfront.
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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.