Still wondering what to do in Belfast? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Belfast and book your hotel today!
Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is a city bursting with energy, historical significance, and a dynamic contemporary culture. It is most famous as the birthplace of the ill-fated RMS Titanic, an industrial history that is celebrated in the spectacular, star-shaped Titanic Belfast museum. Beyond its shipyard past, the city centre is dominated by the beautiful classical architecture of the City Hall and is alive with world-class dining and shopping.
From the bustling historic Cathedral Quarter, known for its vibrant nightlife, to the elegant streets of the Queen’s Quarter, Belfast offers a welcoming blend of friendly pubs, excellent museums, and a story around every corner. It’s a city that has reinvented itself and now thrives as a creative and historical destination.
Belfast offers several distinct areas for your hotel stay, each providing a unique flavour of the city, from bohemian elegance to central convenience.
The Cathedral Quarter is arguably the best base for visitors who want to be near the city's most vibrant social life. This historic district features charming cobblestone streets, is home to St. Anne’s Cathedral, and boasts the highest concentration of Belfast's best pubs, bars, and restaurants, including the famous Duke of York. It is easily walkable and offers a great mix of boutique and high-end hotels.
The Central Belfast City area, close to City Hall and Great Victoria Street train station, is the most practical choice for those prioritising transport links and easy access to core attractions. Here you will find St. George’s Market and the main retail areas. Staying here puts the whole city within easy reach on foot.
For a quieter base with a youthful atmosphere, the Queen's Quarter, named after Queen's University Belfast, is a great option. Located south of the centre, it is home to the stunning Botanic Gardens and the Ulster Museum. This area often features more affordable accommodation, including guesthouses, and offers a relaxed vibe with plenty of cafes and student-friendly eateries.
For history buffs, the Titanic Quarter is perfect. While slightly further from the main city centre, it houses the Titanic Belfast museum, the SS Nomadic, and the historic HMS Caroline. Many hotels here offer a modern waterfront stay.
Belfast is served by two airports: George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD), which is close to the city centre and easily reached by bus or train, and Belfast International Airport (BFS), which is further out but connected by an express bus service. The city centre is highly walkable, and the Translink bus and train networks are excellent for wider travel.
To find the best value for your hotel in Belfast, you should aim to book outside of the peak summer months of July and August. Prices in the city centre can be high, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights due to the city's popular weekend social scene.
For significant savings, aim to book a room for a Sunday night in the city centre, as prices often drop considerably after the weekend crowds leave. A unique event to be mindful of is the annual Belfast City Marathon, which usually takes place in late April or early May. This draws a large number of participants and spectators, leading to a temporary spike in hotel rates across all central districts. By checking local event calendars and opting for mid-week stays, you can secure better value.