Welcome to the enchanting city of Belfast, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create a truly unforgettable travel experience. In this article, we will take you on an exciting five-day journey through Belfast’s most iconic sights, hidden gems, and local favorites. From the moment you set foot in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital, you’ll be captivated by its rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm-hearted locals.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking a memorable getaway, our carefully curated itinerary offers something for every traveler. So, pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to discover the best that Belfast has to offer in just five incredible days.
With the help of the Belfast rental experts over at rentola.co.uk, here is the IDEAL five-day itinerary that covers both the must-see attractions and hidden gems of Belfast.
Day 1: Get To Know The City
On your first day in the city, take a walking tour to get to know the city’s history and culture, ticking off some well known items from your Belfast bucketlist. We recommend starting with the Belfast City Hall, a magnificent building that serves as the headquarters of the Belfast City Council. The City Hall offers free guided tours that provide a fascinating insight into the city’s history and politics.
Afterward, make your way to the Cathedral Quarter, a vibrant area filled with bars, restaurants, and shops. It’s home to some of Belfast’s best-known landmarks, including St. Anne’s Cathedral and the MAC (Metropolitan Arts Centre). You can spend the afternoon wandering around the narrow streets and admiring the street art that decorates the area.
After you’ve freshened up, in the evening head to the famous Crown Liquor Saloon, a Victorian-era pub that has been serving drinks since 1826. The pub is a Belfast institution, and it is the perfect place to enjoy a pint of Guinness and soak up the city’s atmosphere.
Day 2: Take A Day Trip
On your second day, take a day trip from Belfast to the Giant’s Causeway, one of the most famous natural wonders in the world. The Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and consists of around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that were created by a volcanic eruption over 60 million years ago.
You can take a bus tour that will take you along the scenic Causeway Coastal Route, which has been named one of the world’s most spectacular drives. Along the way, you will see other notable sights such as the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and the Bushmills Distillery, the oldest licensed distillery in the world.
Read: 5 road trips worldwide that will take your breath away
Day 3: Discover Belfast’s Troubled Past
On your third day, take a tour that focuses on Belfast’s past. This is an essential part of the city’s history, and it is something that visitors should not miss. The tour will take you to the murals that cover the city’s walls, including the famous “Peace Wall” that separates the Catholic and Protestant neighbourhoods.
You will also visit the Falls Road and Shankill Road, the two most famous political neighbourhoods in Belfast. They were at the heart of the conflict, and they are still very much divided today. You will have the opportunity to hear stories from locals who lived through the troubles and gain a deeper understanding of the conflict’s complexities.
In the evening, head to the Crumlin Road Gaol, a former prison that has been transformed into a museum. The prison played a significant role in Belfast’s history, and it is home to some of the city’s most fascinating stories.
Day 4: Explore Belfast’s Art Scene
On your fourth day, explore Belfast’s art scene. The city is home to several excellent art galleries and museums, including the Ulster Museum, which has a vast collection of art and historical artefacts. Close by, the Palm House in the city’s Botanical Gardens is one of the world’s oldest examples of a curvilinear cast-iron glasshouse, and is well worth a look.
You can also visit the Golden Thread Gallery, a contemporary art gallery that showcases local and international artists. The gallery is located in the Cathedral Quarter and is free to enter.
In the evening, head to the Lyric Theatre, one of Belfast’s most famous cultural institutions. The theatre hosts a variety of productions, including drama, comedy, and music. You can check their website to see what’s on during your visit.
Day 5: Get Stuck In To Belfast’s Thriving Restaurant Culture
If you’re looking to spend a day discovering Belfast’s food and drink scene, there’s plenty to see and taste. Start your day off with a traditional Ulster Fry at a local cafe, complete with bacon, eggs, sausage, black pudding, and potato bread.
Then head to St. George’s Market, a historic indoor market filled with food vendors offering everything from fresh seafood to artisanal cheese. Grab a coffee from a local roaster and sample some local treats like wheat bread or Tayto crisps.
For lunch, try some traditional Irish stew or fish and chips at a local pub, paired with a pint of Guinness or a local craft beer. In the afternoon, visit one of Belfast’s many whiskey distilleries or take a brewery tour to learn more about the city’s brewing history.
End your day with dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant, where you can enjoy modern Irish cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. One cannot discuss Belfast’s culinary scene without mentioning OX.
This Michelin-starred restaurant, located near the banks of the River Lagan, is a testament to the creativity and innovation that has come to define the city’s food culture. Led by Chef Stephen Toman and Alain Kerloc’h, OX prides itself on its seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients and artful presentation. The minimalist décor allows the food to take centre stage, and the tasting menu is a must-try for any discerning food lover.
Another shining star in Belfast’s culinary landscape is Deanes EIPIC, another Michelin-starred restaurant. Under the guidance of Chef Alex Greene – who you might recognise from a triumphant performance on Series 14 of BBC’s Great British Menu – Deanes EIPIC offers a sophisticated dining experience that combines modern techniques with the finest local produce. The tasting menu changes seasonally, ensuring that guests are always treated to the freshest flavours and most inventive dishes. With a focus on sustainability and a commitment to supporting local suppliers, Deanes EIPIC exemplifies the best of Belfast’s farm-to-table ethos.
If you’re craving some international food, Belfast has plenty to offer as well. Coppi, a contemporary Italian restaurant, is known for its delicious pasta dishes and inventive small plates. With a sleek, industrial-chic décor and an extensive wine list, Coppi is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a lively night out with friends.
For those seeking something with a bit of verve and tenacity, Yugo is a popular choice. This fusion restaurant combines the flavours of East Asia with modern techniques, resulting in a unique and exciting dining experience. The menu features a mix of small plates, noodle dishes, and sushi, all served in a stylish, minimalist setting.
Whichever venue you choose (or, why not all of them over the course of your five day trip to Belfast, there’s no doubt you’ll fall in love with the city’s restaurant scene!