Looking for a Belfast travel guide that goes beyond the usual list of attractions? You’ve come to the right place. Belfast isn’t a city that reveals itself all at once; it’s layered and best explored slowly. In this guide, I’ll share personal highlights from my time in Northern Ireland’s capital, including where to eat, where to stay, and what not to miss. However, remember that Belfast is more than just its famous landmarks. From the immersive storytelling of Titanic Belfast to the buzz of St. George’s Market and the striking murals along Shankill Road, Belfast offers a travel experience that’s equal parts gritty and graceful—one that stays with you long after you’ve left.
Be sure to read more from my series of articles on my visit to Northern Ireland.
Why Belfast Should Be on Your Travel Radar
Bigger European destinations often overshadow Northern Ireland’s capital, but spend a few days in Belfast and uncover a city packed with character, history, hospitality, and great food. What struck me most was how the past and present blend seamlessly here, from cobbled alleyways and centuries-old pubs to buzzing new restaurants and world-class museums. The best part? The people. Belfast locals take pride in their city and are eager to share it with you.
I arrived in Dublin at 4 am and took the comfortable Aircoach to Belfast. The cost is reasonable. At the time of writing, a one-way ticket cost €17.00.
The ride takes less than two hours and provides the first glimpses of the stunning Irish countryside. It passes golden fall colours, then tranquil green farmland and some coastal scenes before entering the city.
How to spend 2 Perfect Days in Belfast: Food, History, Culture and Hidden Gems
Day 1: A Walking Feast Through Belfast’s Soul
I kicked off my visit to Belfast with a Taste & Tour Sunday Belfast Brunch Tour. This three-hour, five-stop experience provided a solid foundation in the culture and history of the area, as well as an introduction to Belfast’s food and drink scene. The tour begins near the Jaffa Fountain on Victoria Street, a historic meeting point dating back to the 19th century. It’s located in front of Victoria Square, a four-level shopping mall featuring luxury brands, stores, and restaurants. From there, we wandered deep into the cobblestoned streets of Cathedral Quarter.

Jaffa Fountain is a famous landmark in Victoria Square, Belfast, Northern Ireland, and Bittles Bar, a flatiron-shaped pub. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Meet John Bittles, known as the most notorious barman
While waiting at Jaffa Fountain for the tour, I took advantage of dropping into Bittles Bar, a flatiron-shaped pub known for its Titanic Irish Whiskey and literary portraits. As luck would have it, the owner, John Bittles, was behind the bar and more than happy to share stories about his famous bar.

Meet John Bittles, owner of the famous Bittles Pub in Belfast, Ireland. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Belfast Food Tour
Belfast’s Best Bites: A Food Tour Through the Cathedral Quarter
Belfast’s award-winning Taste & Tour Sunday Brunch Tour delivered in every way. The grazing-style experience, featuring unique stops, showcased different facets of the local food scene, from quirky cafés to creative cocktails. Note: No two brunch tours are the same. Stops are not announced until the tour begins.
During my tour, I met a group of about 18 food enthusiasts, all but three of whom were locals or from the nearby countryside. One of the benefits of taking a local food tour is meeting the locals in the area. One man I met lived just a 50-minute drive from Belfast on a hobby farm in Armagh. He had a Bramley apple orchard. He explained the significance of the Bramley apple and traced its origins to its introduction to the area in 1809. He also proudly told me about his homemade cider and the fruits and vegetables he and his wife grow lovingly.
Stop 1: The Pocket Café
Tucked behind the legendary Bittles Bar in the newly refurbished Flat Iron Building, The Pocket is a tiny but mighty café with a considerable reputation. Voted Belfast’s Best Coffee Shop 2023, this is the spot for your flat white fix. The vibe is laid-back and local, with serious attention to detail in both coffee and brunch bites.

Line to get into popular The Pocket, Belfast, Ireland. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

(L) Brunch treats from The Pocket and (R) the Juice Jar is famous for its PB & Açai bowl. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Stop 2: The Juice Jar
For something fresh and colourful, The Juice Jar served up a vibrant PB & Açai bowl—the kind of Instagram-worthy breakfast that tastes as good as it looks. It was a refreshing change of pace in the tour and showed how diverse Belfast’s food scene has become.
Stop 3: The National
We stepped into The National for a relaxed brunch bite and a Mimosa. This venue is a comprehensive culinary complex featuring a cocktail bar, nightclub, café, and a spacious outdoor beer garden. Breakfast, brunch, and lunch are served daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., making it an ideal spot to recharge mid-tour.

(L) The National Belfast Cafe is housed in the former National Bank Victorian Building. (R) The Living Barrels art display is at The National Cafe above their large outdoor patio. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Inside The National Belfast Cafe. Photo: Nordvik-Carr©
Stop 4: The Deer’s Head
The Deer’s Head proudly calls itself Belfast’s finest gastropub, with The Urban Scullery led by former MasterChef finalist Jonny Stevenson. Set inside a restored Victorian space, the pub has an on-site brewery, Bell’s Brewery.
Bell’s Brewery
The brewery, dating to 1778, is one of Belfast’s first-known commercial breweries. In the 1800s, Belfast was Ireland’s largest exporting port and second only to London in the British Isles, thanks to booming industries such as linen, ropework, shipbuilding, distilling, and brewing.
While Guinness concentrated its efforts in Dublin during the Industrial Revolution, nearly all the breweries in Belfast faded into history. Today, The Deer’s Head revives that story with an authentic menu and house-brewed pints in a warmly atmospheric space lined with heritage décor. This is a non-negotiable stop if you’re a craft beer lover or history buff.

The Deer’s Head in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Food and drink at The Deer’s Head in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Bell’s Brewery dates back to the 18th century and is inside the Deer’s Head Pub. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Stop 5: Bert’s Jazz Bar (Cocktail Stop)
To cap off the tour in style, we headed to Bert’s Jazz Bar inside The Merchant Hotel, a classy, speakeasy-style venue that brings a bit of New Orleans to Belfast. Whether you’re coming for a cocktail, brunch, dinner, or just the live jazz (every night of the week), Bert’s delivers sophistication without pretension. I came back for dinner later that evening and can confidently say the live jazz is on par with what I’ve heard in the heart of Louisiana.
Pro Tip: The Sunday Brunch Tour books up fast. It’s a fantastic way to orient yourself in the city while discovering local gems that may not be on every tourist’s radar.

Bert’s Jazz Bar inside The Merchant Hotel
Explore the Cathedral Quarter on Foot
After brunch, I wandered the cobblestone alleys of Cathedral Quarter, once a warehouse district. Lined with vibrant murals, artisan shops, interesting pubs and plenty of Instagrammable spots perfect for exploration.

One of the most Instagrammable spots in Belfast is located at Commercial Court in the Cathedral Quarter. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Recommended as some of the best pubs in Belfast to pop into:
- The Dirty Onion – outdoor beer garden with live music.
- The Spaniard – a tiny eccentric rum bar, packed with character.
- White’s Tavern is one of Belfast’s oldest taverns. It was established in 1630.
- Kelly’s Cellars – Built in 1720, it has classic Irish charm and traditional live music.
There appear to be numerous claims regarding the oldest tavern or building in Belfast. The Dirty Onion Pub claims to date to 1680, making it the oldest building, but McHugh’s claims it is and dates to 1710-1720. White’s, established in 1630, also claims it, while Kelly’s Cellars says it is the oldest traditional tavern. Let me know what you discover if you visit.

The Dirty Onion Pub in Belfast, Northern Ireland, claims to date back to 1680, making it the oldest building. The McHugh Pub also claims the same, but their building dates to 1710-1720.
Explore Belfast’s Historic Markets: Why St. George’s Market Is a Must-Visit
Historic St. George’s Market is among the best in Ireland and the UK. This award-winning market is a must-see. It is only open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, so plan accordingly. Note that each market day offers something different.
Established in 1604 as an open-air Friday market, St. George’s is now the last surviving covered Victorian market in Belfast and one of the oldest in Ireland. The current building dates back to the 1890s and was impressively restored approximately 100 years later, preserving its striking architecture and original red brick charm.
Inside, you’ll find over 100 eclectic traders offering everything from:
- Fresh fruit, vegetables and seafood.
- Artisan cheeses, baked goods and the beloved Belfast Bap.
- Handmade crafts, pottery, and original art
- Vintage clothing, antiques, and collectibles
- And of course, mouth-watering street food from crepes to curries
The atmosphere sets this market apart, combining old-world charm with modern local flair. There’s usually live music playing, and the smells of fresh-baked bread and international dishes fill the air.
On a market walking tour, you can learn fascinating stories about the historic space. During World War II, the market was even used as a morgue, a chilling detail that adds a layer of depth to its already storied past. You’ll also hear about the passionate people who fought to save the building from demolition during the redevelopment years, ensuring that future generations could still shop, eat, and gather in this incredible place.
Pro tip: Arrive early on a Saturday to beat the crowds and chat with the stallholders. Many are happy to share their story and craft or offer a little tasting sample if you show genuine interest.
Discover the best food tour in Northern Ireland – A Taste of Northern Ireland: Where to Eat, Sip, and Savour Along the Causeway Coast.

Tempting food available from historic St. George’s Market in Belfast, Ireland. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

A tempting array of cannolis at historic St. George’s Market in Belfast, Ireland. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Explore the Queen’s Quarter
Belfast’s Queen’s Quarter, centred around Queen’s University, blends academia, arts, and leisure. I strolled through the Botanic Gardens, admiring the Palm House and rare Tropical Ravine, both excellent examples of Victorian greenhouse architecture.
Ulster Museum
Just next door is the Ulster Museum, the largest in Northern Ireland. I spent hours here exploring the fascinating history of the people and events of Ireland from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age, Medieval and post-Medieval periods. I also learned about the geology of the area, especially Northern Ireland’s famous Giant’s Causeway.
- Ireland’s prehistoric periods (Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age)
- Geology, including the Giant’s Causeway (learning about this before heading to the famous landmark is recommended)
- Irish art, the Spanish Armada 1588, and an excellent exhibit on The Troubles and Beyond
- Life and Death in Ancient Egypt and the unwrapped mummified remains of Takabuti (the first known mummy with hair)
Remember to stop and ask questions of the knowledgeable and friendly staff. I learned firsthand about one family’s personal experience during the Troubles.
On the day I visited, the rain was teeming down as the museum closed. One of the staff members noticed I was having difficulty hiring a cab and offered me a ride to the hotel. This speaks volumes about the helpfulness of the Irish people.

The most important Bronze Age gold jewellery discovered in Ireland. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

The Mummy – Takabuti, the mummified body of a young woman from Thebes, ancient Egypt, is at the Ulster Museum in Belfast. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr© If I offended anyone by posting this photo, I apologize.

(l) Dragons from the Game of Thrones, (R) Layered granite rock from the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Learning about the geology of the land formation of Northern Ireland, and in particular the rock formation of the Antrim coast and the Giant’s Causeway. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Day 2: Discovering Belfast, the Titanic Experience and a Touch of the Paranormal
On my second day, I climbed aboard the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, which offers a perfect overview of the city’s layout, history and culture. It is, by far, the best way to see a city upon arrival. Luckily, the rain held off, and I was able to secure a seat on the top level of the double-decker for panoramic views.
I always start by taking in the complete tour loop before deciding where to explore more. The entire route takes one hour and 30 minutes, and we travelled through many areas.

Guided tours are available of Belfast City Hall. The main Hop-on-Hop-Off Bus picks up on the right side of this building. There is a statue of Queen Victoria in front of City Hall. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Stops that stood out:
- The Titanic Quarter and Maritime Mile are for maritime and shipbuilding history.
- The Cathedral Quarter is the historic trading area, with cobblestone streets and stunning architecture.
- The Peace Wall, Shankill Road, for the Murals depicting the Troubles. ‘The Troubles’ refers to the civil war in Ireland from 1968 to 1998 in Northern Ireland. Be sure to sign the Peace Wall if you visit.
- The Queen’s Quarter is home to the Botanical Gardens and Ulster Museum.
The Peace Wall: Dividing Line Turned Global Message Board
One of the most powerful and emotionally complex stops on the tour is the Peace Wall, which serves as a poignant reminder of Belfast’s divided past. These towering structures—some stretching up to 8 metres high—were originally erected in 1969 to separate Unionist and Nationalist communities and reduce violence. Many remain in place today, particularly between the Shankill Road and Falls Road.
What’s striking isn’t just their physical presence, but what they represent. Despite the Good Friday Agreement of 1998, which officially ended the period known as The Troubles, the Peace Walls are still viewed by many as necessary.
Over the years, the Peace Wall has transformed into a canvas of expression. Covered in thousands of handwritten messages, quotes, and prayers, it tells the story of a city trying to reconcile with its past. Global visitors—from politicians and peacekeepers to everyday travellers—have left their mark here.
And I did, too. Standing there, marker in hand, I added my name and a short message alongside those from across the world. It was a simple gesture, but one that felt deeply personal and symbolic.
Pro Tip: Consider taking the famous Black Cab Tour with Billy if he’s not booked up. He’s the best guide ever and will provide a deeper understanding of the area’s history.

Famous Belfast murals depict the political history of The Troubles. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Famous murals in Belfast, Northern Ireland, depict its political history during the Troubles. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Lunch at the Titanic Hotel Belfast
Before touring the Titanic Experience, I had lunch at the adjacent Titanic Hotel, inside the historic Harland & Wolff Drawing Office 2, where the blueprints for the Titanic were originally laid out. Sitting in Drawing Office 2, surrounded by original wood panelling, cast ironwork, and light pouring in from the massive windows, made the story feel even more real, almost as if the ghost of innovation still lingered. Today, it serves up traditional fare with nautical flair.

Inside the famous Titanic Hotel in the Titanic Drawing Room, Belfast, Northern Ireland. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Inside the famous Titanic Hotel and a view of the building of the Titanic at the Belfast shipyards. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Maritime History at Titanic Belfast: A Must-See Experience
The Titanic Experience
One of the most moving and meticulously designed museums I’ve ever visited, Titanic Belfast is far more than just a tribute to a doomed ship; it’s a window into the soul of a city that built the most famous ocean liner in the world.
Since opening in 2012, Titanic Belfast has welcomed over 8 million visitors from more than 145 countries. In 2016, it was voted the World’s Leading Tourist Attraction at the World Travel Awards, beating out the Taj Mahal, the Great Wall of China, and Machu Picchu.
Following a recent £4.5 million refresh, the galleries now feature new perspectives on the sinking’s aftermath, the ship’s rediscovery, and how the story continues to evolve in popular culture and memory.
If you’re planning a trip, book your tickets well in advance. On the day I visited, every time slot was sold out, a testament to the world-renowned attraction’s immense popularity.

The Titanic Museum in Belfast, Ireland. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
The Story Unfolds Where the Titanic Was Born
The moment you enter the gleaming, angular building, shaped like four ship bows, it’s clear this isn’t a typical museum. Located on the exact slipways where the RMS Titanic was designed, built, and launched, Titanic Belfast is an immersive, self-guided experience that charts the rise of Belfast from a quiet settlement to one of the great industrial powerhouses of the early 20th century.
The sensory experience features the sounds of riveting and hammering, the smells of oil and metal, and life-sized visuals that bring the shipyard’s enormity to life. There’s even a Shipyard Ride, which takes you through a simulated section of the building process in a suspended cart.
The ten interactive galleries guide you through:
- The boomtown era of Belfast
- Life in the Harland & Wolff shipyard
- The design and construction of the Titanic
- Recreated cabins, furnishings, and dining rooms
- Harrowing personal stories from passengers and crew
- The sinking and global aftermath
- The modern-day discovery of the wreck
How Did the Titanic Sink?
The Titanic set sail from the Harland & Wolff shipyard for her journey to Southampton shortly after 8 pm on April 2, 1912. After six days of preparation at the White Star dock, its passengers excitedly boarded and settled in for the maiden voyage. The ship left on April 10 at noon, crossing the North Atlantic Ocean.
On April 14 at 1:40 pm, the Captain reported passing icebergs and a large quantity of field ice. At 11 pm, the ship stopped, surrounded by ice. After resuming speed, at 11:40 pm the Titanic struck an iceberg and sank at 2:20 am on April 15, 400 miles off the coast of Newfoundland. The reaction around the world was shock.
The sinking of the Titanic was one of the worst maritime disasters in history, resulting in the loss of many lives. A total of 1,512 lives were lost, including almost half of the 124 children under the age of 15; 713 were saved. Of the 12 dogs on board, three were saved. Belfast mourned the loss of these lives and the ship.
On a personal note, my dad’s aunt from Norway was a passenger on the Titanic, travelling with her two young daughters to New York to meet her husband. The three survived.

The impressive display at the Titanic Experience in Belfast, Northern Ireland, gives the impression of the ship floating in the icy depths of the ocean. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

The remarkable display at the Titanic Experience in Belfast, Northern Ireland, shows ghosts of passengers. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Wall of Steel
The Grand Atrium is dominated by a wall covered in sheets of anodized steel, a material commonly used in shipyards, with its rusted finish evoking images of the Titanic as she is now, 2½ miles (4,000 meters) below sea level.
The steel panels used here are only one-third of the size used in Titanic’s construction, and on the ship, they would have measured 2.5 cm thick.

The impressive display at the Titanic Experience in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
More Than a Ship: Belfast’s Industrial Legacy
What surprised me most was how much I learned about Belfast’s broader industrial achievements. In its heyday, the city was not only the world’s largest shipbuilding centre but also the heart of the linen industry, famously known as “Linenopolis.” Belfast also played a key role in ropeworks, tobacco, engineering, and the production of goods we often take for granted today.
Fun facts I learned:
- Belfast was once the linen capital of the world
- The Harland & Wolff shipyard was the largest on earth
- Innovations like air-conditioning and elevators were pioneered in Belfast
In short, if you do one thing in Belfast, make it this. Titanic Belfast is more than a museum—it’s a powerful, emotional, and beautifully crafted journey that honours the lives lost, celebrates the workers who built her and tells the broader story of a city built on bold ideas.
Finish With a Chilling Visit to Crumlin Road Gaol
I wrapped up my Belfast experience with something completely different—a Paranormal Tour of Crumlin Road Gaol, a Victorian prison where 17 men were executed over 150 years. It’s not for the faint-hearted and it definitely took me out of my comfort zone.
Visitors descend into the basement of D-Wing for a terrifying immersive experience known as the Jail of Horror. With a mix of historical insight and theatrical frights, it was a dramatic end to a magical two days in Belfast.

The frightening Crumlin Road Paranormal Tour at the haunted Crumlin Road Goal in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Where to Eat in Belfast: My Top Picks
Here’s where to grab a memorable meal or snack around the city:
- Ox Belfast – Michelin-starred seasonal tasting menus
- Mourne Seafood Bar – locally sourced seafood dishes, award-winning chowder
- The Pocket – great spot for coffee, brunch and sweet treats. A local’s favourite.
- Harland & Wolff Drawing Office 2 – inside the Titanic Hotel, this historic location serves an all-day menu.

All day menu offered at Drawing Office Two located inside the Titanic Hotel. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
A Sophisticated Night Out: Dinner and Live Jazz at Bert’s
After a full day exploring Belfast’s history and cultural landmarks, I wrapped up the evening at one of the city’s most atmospheric dining spots, Bert’s Jazz Bar at The Merchant Hotel. Tucked away in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter, Bert’s is a stylish throwback to 1930s Paris, offering a unique blend of fine French-inspired cuisine and live jazz every night of the week.
The dinner? Superb. From the expertly prepared mains to the decadent desserts, every bite was flawless—and beautifully paired with a wine list that’s clearly curated with care. But it’s the music that truly elevates the experience.
The live jazz performance I caught that night was so good that it instantly transported me. Having spent time in New Orleans, I don’t say this lightly: the jazz at Bert’s is on par with the best I’ve heard anywhere, including the Crescent City itself.
Dining in a place where the ambiance, food, and music come together so effortlessly is a rare treat. If you want to enjoy a refined evening out in Belfast, book a table here in advance, especially on weekends—it’s popular for good reason.

Live Jazz at Bert’s in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Food and drink at Bert’s in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Belfast Travel Guide: Know Before You Go – Plan Your Visit
From walking tours and Victorian markets to Titanic tales and haunted gaols, Belfast leaves a lasting impression. It’s compact, cultural, and full of surprises. Whether you’re here for a weekend or longer, there’s more than enough to fill your itinerary.
- Book your Titanic Experience ticket in advance – time slots often sell out.
- Plan your market visit carefully – St. George’s Market is only open Friday to Sunday.
- Bring walking shoes – Belfast is best explored on foot.
- Northern Ireland uses British Pounds Sterling, not the Euro.
How to Get to Belfast, Ireland
There are numerous direct flights from North America to Belfast or Dublin. Check routes, length of travel time, and full costs, including ground transportation, to find the best option for you.
I flew into the Dublin Airport at 4 a.m. and hopped aboard the Aircoach bus to Belfast. The ride is comfortable, efficient, and lasts less than two hours. As the sun rose, golden autumn hues gave way to emerald farmland and coastal glimpses, offering a beautiful welcome to the island.
This was my best option, as I come from Vancouver, BC, Canada. In October, I travelled using Air Canada to Toronto and then flew directly to Dublin on Aer Lingus. During peak season, there are flights direct to Dublin on other airlines.
Take a ferry from Liverpool or Cairnryan.
Where to Stay in Belfast
Malmaison Belfast Hotel
I stayed at the historic Malmaison Belfast, which is situated in the perfect location for exploring. It is within easy reach of all the iconic attractions in Belfast’s key neighbourhoods, including the Cathedral Quarter and Titanic Quarter.
My room was very quiet and comfortable, with all the amenities I needed. The rate included a full breakfast with a great selection of options. The hotel is family and pet-friendly.
Tip: One morning, the hotel was full and breakfast was a bit of a wait, so be sure to build in some extra time. The following two mornings, there was no wait at all, and the service was fast and friendly.
Malmaison is a brand of reasonably priced luxury boutique hotels with locations throughout the UK.

View of the Malmaison Belfast Hotel. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

My well-appointed room in the Malmaison Belfast. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Chez Mal Bar & Grill
The Chez Mal Bar & Grill offers British fusion dining with Asian and European influences, particularly highlighting prime grass-fed British beef. All the grilled dishes are finished over blazing binchotan coals on a traditional Japanese Kasai Konro grill. This high-heat method imparts a signature smoky oak flavour. Known for burning hot and clean, this method offers a sustainable way to achieve an authentic BBQ taste.
For breakfast, along with the continental selection, there is a choice of one of the cooked breakfast options made fresh to order. Pictured below is a traditional Irish breakfast: the Mal Full Cooked Breakfast with Cumberland sausage, sweet-cured bacon, black pudding, mushrooms, grilled tomato, potato croquettes, beans and a choice of eggs.
For dinner, I tried the Jerusalem artichoke, chestnut soup, grass-fed flat iron steak served with roasted onion, frites and Bernaise sauce and of course, the sticky toffee pudding with toffee sauce and milk ice cream.

Chez Mal is where modern British brasserie vibes meet a subtle French twist. (L) Flat iron steak, (R) Traditional Irish breakfast. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

The dining room inside the Malmaison Belfast. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Subscribe to Life’s Incredible Journey for more unforgettable travel guides, cultural experiences, and hidden gems—delivered straight to your inbox.
👉 Join the adventure here
We take pride in writing informative articles that offer interesting tips. Please leave any comments, questions or suggestions below.
Search for accommodation anywhere by using Booking.Com, book a sightseeing tour using Viator or a flight with Expedia. Any commissions earned will help keep this website running.
Travel Writer Wendy Nordvik-Carr participated in a press trip hosted by Discover Northern Ireland, which did not review or approve of this article before it was published.
About the Author:
Wendy Nordvik-Carr is a highly regarded travel writer who produces quality, well-researched articles with stunning photography and video.
She seeks out authentic experiences showcasing the people, culture and history that make each destination unique. Her focus is on solo, couple and multigenerational travel through cruising, air and road trip adventures.
Wendy is the editor & writer for LifesIncredibleJourney.com, an award-winning travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.
She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National Governance Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW, IFWTWA and NATJA.

Your guide beautifully brings Belfast to life, from the buzzing food scene in the Cathedral Quarter and soul-stirring murals to the moving Titanic story and Peace Wall. Hope to explore it all soon!
I’m going to Ireland in September! I only have a couple of hours in Belfast though. Any place we HAVE to go with such a small amount of time?
the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, which offers a perfect overview of the city’s layout, history and culture. It is, by far, the best way to see a city upon arrival.
The entire route takes one hour and 30 minutes,
This is a complete guide! This is amazing and beneficial for travelers.
You have shared your travel experience in such an in depth way. You have expertise in the field.