Budget-Friendly Belfast: A 5-Day Adventure

Discover the rich history and culture of Belfast without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Explore the vibrant city of Belfast on a budget-friendly trip. Visit historical landmarks like the Titanic Belfast museum and the Belfast Castle. Savor local cuisine at the St. George's Market and immerse yourself in the city's rich culture at the Ulster Museum.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival in Belfast

  • Stay at the Avenue Guesthouse, a cozy budget-friendly hotel with a central location
  • Stroll around Queen's University Belfast and its stunning botanical gardens
  • Visit the Ulster Museum and learn about the history and culture of Northern Ireland
  • Have a pint of Guinness at the Crown Liquor Saloon, a Victorian-style pub filled with character
  • End the day with fish and chips at John Long's, a no-frills chip shop with a loyal local following
Day 2

Exploring the City

  • Take a free walking tour to discover Belfast's iconic murals and graffiti art
  • Have brunch at Established Coffee, a hipster coffee shop with delicious avocado toast and artisanal baked goods
  • Visit St. George's Market, a bustling indoor market with over 150 stalls selling everything from local food to handmade crafts
  • Check out the Titanic Belfast museum, dedicated to the famous ill-fated ocean liner that was built in Belfast
  • For dinner, head to Made in Belfast, a trendy restaurant that showcases the best of Northern Irish cuisine
Day 3

Day Trip to Giant's Causeway

  • Book a guided bus tour to the Giant's Causeway, one of Northern Ireland's most popular attractions
  • Walk along the basalt columns and marvel at the natural wonder of this UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Visit the nearby Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, a thrilling suspension bridge that offers stunning views of the coast
  • Stop for lunch at Bushmills Inn, a picturesque hotel and restaurant that serves classic Irish dishes with a modern twist
  • Enjoy a whiskey tasting at the Bushmills Distillery, one of the oldest licensed distilleries in the world
Day 4

Outdoor Activities

  • Hike to the top of Cave Hill, a hill that overlooks Belfast and offers panoramic views of the city and the countryside
  • Go kayaking or paddleboarding on the River Lagan, which runs through Belfast
  • Visit the Botanic Gardens and enjoy a picnic on the lawn
  • Tour the Crumlin Road Gaol, a former prison that has been turned into a museum and visitor attraction
  • For dinner, try the vegan food at The Honest Vegan, a quirky restaurant that serves plant-based burgers, pizzas, and desserts
Day 5

Departure

  • Have a leisurely breakfast at Avoca, a stylish cafe and clothing store in the city center
  • Visit the Ulster Folk Museum, an open-air museum that depicts life in rural Ulster in the 19th and early 20th centuries
  • Take a last stroll around Belfast's lively streets and enjoy the bustling atmosphere
  • Grab lunch at Maggie Mays, a popular diner that serves hearty Irish breakfasts, sandwiches, and salads
  • Head back to the hotel to collect your belongings and say goodbye to Belfast.

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.

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