Your Ultimate Guide to Visiting Belfast in Northern Ireland for the First Time

Last Updated on the 3rd of December, 2025

If street art is your thing, Belfast is your city.

In addition to vibrant murals that reflect a changing narrative for the city, you can also find an impressive collection of murals depicting the city’s political divisions.

Over the years, these emotionally charged paintings, which illustrate the city’s tumultuous history, have become popular tourist attractions.

As fascinating as they might be, visitors must remember that most of these murals are linked to Belfast’s sectarian divide. They honour legacies of struggle & courage, so they demand respect. 

See, for three decades, all people knew of Belfast were the Troubles.

Images of mass protests, deadly clashes, hunger strikes and politically motivated bombings were broadcast to the international media.

More than 3,500 people were killed during the Troubles, with tens of thousands more injured. 

Before that, Belfast saw the rise and fall of the Industrial Revolution, the launch and sinking of the Titanic, the divisions of Ireland, followed by the global depression and the Nazti bombing in the 40s.

As we wandered around the cheery, modern-day Belfast, it was hard to believe that the bright and bustling pedestrian centre had been a subdued, traffic-free security zone not long ago.

Belfast has undergone an enormous transformation since the end of The Troubles, from a no-go zone to a lively and welcoming city perfect for a city break.

Read More: Belfast One Day Itinerary: A Detailed Guide For Your Next Getaway to Northern Ireland

Belfast Customs House

Your Ultimate Guide to Visiting Belfast in Northern Ireland for the First Time

Belfast is a very interesting city, with a solemn and lively centre, a handfull of great museums to visit and plenty of green spaces.

Theres also the Titanic experience, and an area of great historical interest: that of the 2 districts The Falls, predominantly Catholic, and Shankill, Unionist-Protestant, both characterized by large murals and divided by the Peace Lines.

If you are planning to vist Belfast, here a few things to know to make your trip more enjoyable.

Titanic Quarter



Useful Info for Visiting Belfast for the First Time

Northern Ireland is not Ireland | Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom along with England, Scotland and Wales. The rest of the island is the Republic of Ireland (not ‘Southern Ireland’), and an independent country.

  • Location | Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland, located on the banks of the River Lagan on Northern Ireland’s eastern coast, which is a part of the United Kingdom. It is the second-largest city on the Island of Ireland and the 12th-largest city in the United Kingdom.

Belfast’s original settlement was founded on the marshy Ford where the River Lagan and the River Farset cross. Today, this is where Belfast’s High Street meets Victoria Street.

  • Population | Belfast is home to more than 643,000 people.
  • Language | They speak English but with a very distinctive accent. They also speak quickly, so don’t be afraid to ask them to repeat themselves.
  • Currency used in Northern Ireland | As part of the United Kingdom, Northern Ireland’s currency is the pound sterling (£). Usually, individual currency notes are available from all the major banks and Post Offices operating in Northern Ireland.
  • Banks and Bureau de Change | Most banks are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
  • Internet and WiFi | Internet and WiFi access is widely available throughout the city, including in the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre.
  • Phone Calls | The international dialling code for Northern Ireland is 00 44 28. The local code for Belfast is 90.

Read More: A Short Guide On How To Visit Belfast Castle in Northern Ireland

Walking along the River Lagan in Belfast city

Is Belfast Safe to Visit

One of the primary questions regarding Belfast is always about safety.

Northern Ireland and Belfast are synonymous with the Troubles. Thankfully, things have improved since 1998’s Good Friday Agreement, and nowadays Belfast is a thriving, multicultural and most importantly, safe city to visit.

However, when visiting a divided city like Belfast, common sense must be applied.

It’s always a good idea to research the politics of the country you’re visiting

Even if you don’t know and understand every nuance of the political system of the country you’re visiting, reading up on the basics will help you come across as more well-informed, and that will ultimately make others more likely to listen to what you have to say.

Knowing the local politics can also help keep you safe. You never know what information, however innocently interpreted, might trigger people the wrong way.

Titanic Museum in Belfast
  • Avoid talking politics | If you don’t discuss Ireland’s politics or religion in public, then you have little chance of offending anyone. It’s fine to strike up a conversation about the Troubles and unrest, but remember that many locals you meet will have lost loved ones in the fighting. The impact on families and communities continues to be felt today. 
  • Use common sense | Don’t be careless just because you’re in a different country and on vacation. Just because something is okay to do where you live does not mean it is okay elsewhere. Be aware of your surroundings and remember that Please, Thank You, Hello and Goodbye, go a long way
  • Leave your jersey at home | Wearing clothes that could be construed as a political statement is a big no. Don’t wear a jersey of the Scottish soccer teams, Celtics or Rangers, or a garment with Britain’s Union Jack symbol.

Read More: Everything You Need To Know About Walking The Maritime Trail In Belfast City

 Lagan Pedestrian and Cycle Bridge

Educate Yourself About The History of Belfast

Learning about the convoluted and complex history of Belfast and Northern Ireland is one of the best things you can do before the trip.

This way, you won’t be that surprised to find out that parts of the city are still separated by large walls which were erected back in the 1970s when Belfast was experiencing the brutal civil war between Catholics and Protestants known as the Troubles. 

Naturally, the history of Northern Ireland is incredibly complex.

In simple terms, the Troubles were an extremely violent period of conflict between the Unionist communities (who wanted to remain in the United Kingdom) and the Republican communities (who wanted to reunite with the Republic of Ireland)

What started The Troubles | The unrest was sparked by ongoing discrimination against the Catholic-nationalist minority by the Protestant-unionist government and local authorities.

This discrimination fueled a civil rights movement demanding equality, which was met with resistance and violence, ultimately escalating into a larger conflict involving paramilitary groups on both sides. 

Some of the books you could read about the topic:

Read More: Belfast Bucket List: The 10 Best Things to See and Do in The City

Armoured cars on the Shankill Road during darker days (Image: PA Images)

Getting to and around Belfast

Belfast is an easy city to reach from multiple locations around the world.

From the UK, you can either fly or take the ferry. Ferries to Belfast depart from Liverpool, Cairnryan (Scotland) and the Isle of Man. 

Belfast is served by two airports that are well connected to the city centre by public transport.

One is Belfast City Airport (officially called George Best Belfast City Airport) and the other is Belfast International Airport.

International Airport is located 18 miles (29km) northwest of Belfast City and is the most popular airport to fly into when visiting Belfast. 

  • A taxi takes around 30-40 minutes. The taxi rank can be found outside the terminal, beside the Airport Bus stop.
  • The Airport Express Bus 300 takes around 40-50 minutes. The bus stop is right outside the terminal, and tickets cost 8 pounds. You can view the full Airport Express 300 Timetable here

Although you can easily walk around the city, the distance to some of the outlying tourist attractions is considerable.

Thankfully, the city has a reliable and extensive bus network operated by Translink that can pretty much get you anywhere you like. Given that most of the buses are equipped with ‘tap’ technology, there is no need to fumble around for loose change when you get on board. 

One of the best ways of seeing Belfast’s attractions and getting to grips with its political history is to go on a Black Taxi Tour, as they are hugely informative.

Another great way to get around Belfast is to use the hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus, which makes 20 stops around the city, including the Botanic Gardens and Belfast City Hall.

Read More: Your Guide to Visiting Belfast’s Most Popular Tourist Attractions – Titanic Belfast

Belfast’s public transportation system includes double-decker buses

When is the best time to visit Belfast?

Belfast has an oceanic climate, meaning it’s rare to have prolonged periods of hot weather, and so is extremely cold weather.

You are sure to encounter a few days of rain no matter the season, so be sure to bring along a rainproof jacket and umbrella.

Although many people choose to visit during the summer months, when the city tends to be the most crowded, for their first trip to Belfast, the other seasons can be an even better choice, depending on your interests.

  • Spring | is an amazing time of the year as the Magnolia trees burst into life. The Botanical Gardens are also in full bloom, and there are few crowds.
  • Summer | It’s when Belfast is jam-packed with festivals and events. While the peak season arrives with higher costs, it’s nice to explore the city when the weather is nice.
  • Winter | In December city is transformed by festive lights and Christmas markets. It’s when cosy chalets take over the area in front of Belfast City Hall for the Belfast Christmas Market. 

Read More: Titanic Hotel Belfast Review – A Splendid Link To The City’s Rich Maritime Heritage

The vibrant Cathedral Quartal in Belfast

Where to Stay in Belfast

If you’re planning a visit to the city and are wondering about the best places to stay in Belfast, there are a few neighbourhoods worth considering.

If you’re coming to Belfast for the first time and want to focus on sightseeing, the food and drinks scene, and Belfast’s exceptional cultural attractions, Central Belfast and the Cathedral Quarter are the best neighbourhoods in the city.

While there are plenty of small neighbourhoods around Belfast worth staying in, I wanted to focus on what I think are the best areas to stay in Belfast as a visitor.

  • Cathedral Quarter | The Cathedral Quarter is home to the city’s art scene, and many of Belfast’s most famous street murals are found here. In addition to breathtaking architecture and plenty of open-air gigs and food, and music festivals, you’ll also find a few historic pubs.
  • Queens Quarter | Like many university neighbourhoods, Queens Quarter is more affordable than the surrounding areas and has a young and hip vibe. Here you’ll find many vintage shops, eclectic cafés and second-hand bookstores as well as two of the most popular attractions in Belfast: the Ulster Museum and the Botanic Gardens.
  • Central Belfast | Central Belfast is lively, vibrant and full of options to entertain newcomers and locals alike, and it’s where nightlife, culture, food and drink happen.

At the heart of it is the majestic City Hall building, which hosts a variety of events at the Belfast Christmas Market. In addition to many hotels, it’s also a fantastic place to stay in the city if you plan on taking day trips to the surrounding towns and cities, as the train and bus stations are within walking distance.

Read More: The UK Travel Guide: The Most Enchanting Villages in the Cotswolds You Should Visit

Titanic Hotel in Belfast is a wonderful place to stay

Arriving in Belfast from Dublin

Since the opening of the long-awaited new motorway, travel time between the two biggest cities on the island is now reduced to 90 minutes, and it is very common for visitors flying into Dublin to schedule a few days in Northern Ireland, too.

There are multiple bus options from Dublin, including a direct service from Dublin Airport. You can check the Aircoach website for the schedule.

Don’t worry about your passport; there are no formalities when crossing the border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

These days, a tourist could cross over this border without even realising it.

In fact, the only signs to look out for are different vehicle registration plates, red post boxes, and road signs stating that the speed limit is measured in miles and that to pay for your dinner, you will require pounds sterling.

Read More: 8 Best Things To See and Do in South Wales For A Dreamy Vacation

Belfast City Hall

Great day trips from Belfast

Belfast is ideally positioned for visiting some of the best tourist attractions and must-see hidden gems, with some of them just a 60-minute drive away.

It would be easier to have your own car, but there are also plenty of organised tours that can transport you around.

  • The Giant’s Causeway | one of the most popular day trips from Belfast, is a geological wonder and Northern Ireland’s only Unesco World Heritage Site that’s known for 40,000 massive black basalt columns sticking out of the sea. It’s located just 96 km from the city and can be easily reached via
  • Carrick-A-Rede Bridge | Originally built in 1755 by fishermen, the suspension bridge that hangs 98 feet above a rock cliff is one of the more famous landmarks and top tourist attractions in Northern Ireland. It links the mainland to the tiny Carrick Island and spans 20 metres.
  • Dark Hedges | No trip to Northern Ireland would be complete without visiting the Dark Hedges. The wonderful avenue lined with beech trees that form a tunnel down Bregagh Road is located 78 km from the city and shouldn’t take longer than an hour to reach. 

Read More: Why North Wales is the Perfect Destination for a Unique Summer Trip: A Must-Read Guide

The beautiful avenue of beech trees

10 Interesting Facts About Belfast That You Probably Didn’t Know

The Good Friday Agreement was signed in Belfast – signed on the 10th of April 1998. The remarkable document ended three decades of violence.

Albert Memorial Clock is leaning – the tilt is triggered by the fact that a 2,000-tonne clock tower was constructed on reclaimed land.

The city was once referred to as “Linenopolis” During the 19th century, Belfast was the largest linen producer in the world and played a key role in the Industrial Revolution.

Belfast was bombed by the Nazis in World War II Belfast suffered four air attacks by the German Air Force, the Luftwaffe.

The Samson and Goliath cranes hold a world record – the bright yellow cranes that dominate the city’s skyline are the biggest free-standing cranes in the world.

The Society of United Irishmen was founded in Belfast – the United Irishmen pioneered parliamentary reform and equal rights for all Irishmen, particularly Catholics.

Belfast was once bigger than Dublin – by 1891, Belfast was a bigger city than Dublin and was Ireland’s largest city around the beginning of the 20th century.

Read More: 11 Beautiful Hidden Gems in Edinburgh, Scotland Even Locals Don’t Know

Metropolitan Arts Centre in Belfast

Money Saving Tips For Visiting Belfast

The Belfast Visitor Pass | offers unlimited travel on all Ulsterbus, NIRailways, Metro and services within the Belfast Visitor Pass Zone for 1, 2 or 3 days. The Pass also offers discounts to 10+ tourist attractions, tours, shopping, food and drink.

  • Belfast Visitor Pass Fares – Adult: 1 day: £6.50, 2 days: £12 and 3 days: £15.50

Buy a Belfast Visitor Pass

Book a Sunday Day Tracker ticket | If you wish to explore further afield, Northern Ireland Railways allows travellers unlimited rail travel on a Sunday with the Sunday Day Tracker. They currently cost £9.00 for an adult ticket and £4.50 for a child, and you can travel for as much as you like all day Sunday.

Go on a Belfast Free Walking Tour | Let a well-informed guide take you on a trip through the city’s main sights. It’s a great way to gain insights into the city’s history and culture. The tour operates daily, leaving at 11 am and 2.30 pm.

  • Location: 5 Donegall Square N, Belfast BT1 5GB, UK

Visit Stormont Estate, best known as the home of the Northern Ireland Assembly, the devolved legislature for Northern Ireland. Stormont is a great place to watch committee hearings, attend debates, or simply tour the Parliament Buildings. 

  • Location: Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 3SH, UK

Read More: St. Conan’s Kirk: A Captivating Architectural Marvel on the Shore of Loch Awe

The life-size diving female figure known as Titanica

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Now, over to you!

Have you been to Belfast? Let us know in the comments!

Please let us know if you plan to visit Belfast and have any travel-related questions.

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67 thoughts on “Your Ultimate Guide to Visiting Belfast in Northern Ireland for the First Time

  1. This is a great post for those wishing to visit Belfast for the first time. Being from Northern Ireland and having lived in Belfast for many years, you are correct in saying that it’s best to avoid politics and jerseys. However, it is an amazing city with lots to see and do and the people are great craic.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you kindly 🙂 I visit Belfast a few times a year and always find something new and exciting to see.  It is a bold, beautiful, and soulful city worth visiting at least once in your lifetime. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

      1. This post brings back memories. We had the pleasure of visiting Belfast last year and love it so much. The Titanic Museum was very educational, city hall, the pubs, the opera house and all the great architecture, simply wonderful.

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    1. I am glad to hear they had a wonderful time visiting Belfast. It is one of the best places to visit in Ireland, and for a good reason, as they have a great bar/restaurant scene, fantastic attractions (Titanic, Ulster and Crumlin Road Gaol), some lovely parks, and the people and hospitality are spot on. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. I hope you had a wonderful time visiting your friends in Belfast. Between fascinating museums, remarkable architecture, and spectacular hidden gems, Belfast has more amazing things to do than you can shake a stick at. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

  2. The Dark Hedges just popped up on my screen-saver a few days ago! I’d never heard of or seen them before, but they look beautiful. Great article, Aiva, with great advice, especially the part about watching what you wear. While packing for our trip to the Caucasus, I decided to leave behind anything with English words emblazoned on them, such as certain T-shirts, even ones with perfectly innocent words on them. Given the political climate, I didn’t want to automatically be ID’d as American. All that to buoy your point that clothes can make a statement, for better or worse.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. The Dark Hedges in Northern Ireland is one of the most magical places you can visit due to their unique and otherworldly appearance, particularly their twisted, intertwined beech trees that form a natural tunnel. We were lucky to see them once more before the beech trees were destroyed by several winter storms. Reports indicated that 13 trees have been lost since November 2023 – it is believed the trees are reaching the end of their natural lifespan. I think it’s very wise to consider what you will wear, especially concerning the local culture, whenever you set out to explore the world. I try to avoid graphic tees with college or sports team logos, too, as I don’t want to advertise that I’m not a local. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. You would very much enjoy exploring Belfast, as it is a city that wears its heart on its sleeve, from world-changing shipyards and a complex political past to colourful street corners and some of the warmest locals you’ll ever meet. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. I really hope you get to visit the island of Ireland as it offers a blend of stunning natural landscapes, rich history and culture, friendly locals, and a lively atmosphere. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

  3. An excellent primer on this city Aiva. We have only just glanced off the edges as we went too and from the Giant’s Causeway. Maybe next spring, we’ll take a look. Happy Monday. Allan

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, there are a few experiences in Belfast that are simply too good to miss. I find that the city is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbours, Dublin, Edinburgh, and London and tends to fly under the radar. But here’s the thing: that’s exactly what makes it special. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you kindly, Francisco 🙂 Belfast is a vibrant city worth visiting. It is a city that isn’t trying to impress anyone. It just does. It’s raw, real and highly underrated. If you’re visiting for the first time, you’re in for a treat. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. I am glad you enjoyed the post, Diana. Northern Ireland’s history is very interesting, marked by a complex interplay of Gaelic, English, and Scottish influences, culminating in the unique entity it is today. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. I am glad to hear you had a wonderful time in Belfast, and thanks so much for the book suggestion. I had to look it up, and it goes straight on my reading list, as well as being added to the blog post. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. I think I should add this info to the blog post, too, as rioting often happens in North Belfast following the 12th of July parades. Even this year,  protests have escalated into clashes with police in several towns in Northern Ireland, marking a new wave of unrest to hit the United Kingdom. We once travelled to Belfast around Orange Day parades, oblivious to what was happening in the city. We had a chance to see massive bonfires constructed of wooden pallets – I could not believe the impressive height some of them reached. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. You would love Belfast, its most iconic sights from murals and museums to castles and cathedrals and the surrounding attractions.

      You are right, Linda, it is a very good idea to steer away from political conversations when travelling abroad, especially in the current political climate. It is also a good idea to research the politics of the country you’re visiting.

      Even if you don’t know and understand every nuance of the political system of the country you’re visiting, reading up on the basics will help you come across as more well-informed, and that will ultimately make others more likely to listen to what you have to say.

      Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

  4. Great article and excellent advice Aiva, for visiting Belfast. My husband was there years ago on business, but couldn’t see any of the city due to the potential for violence; so he’d love to return, and I would love to visit as well. It’s good to know it’s a much safer city now, and there is some peace among the residents. The avenue with the tree tunnel looks particularly inviting.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I am sorry to hear that your husband couldn’t see any of the city due to the potential for violence. Therefore, I hope you get to revisit Belfast city. Whether you’re into history, great food, live music or hidden gems away from the usual tourist trail, Belfast has a way of captivating you with something special at every turn. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. I am glad to hear you had a wonderful time in Belfast. Yes, I agree that Giant’s Causeway and Portrush are a must-see places, as well as the Titanic. I revisited the Titanic Museum a few months ago, following a multi-million pound refurbishment and was delighted to see many new artefacts. My favourite moment was finally seeing the world-famous violin belonging to the ship’s hero musician, Wallace Hartley. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you kindly 🙂 I am glad to hear you enjoyed your time in Belfast city. It’s a place I often return to over and over again –  its rich history and beautiful landscape make it enjoyable to visit. Safety for travellers is not an issue either; every tourist I met travelling in the North was at ease. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. I agree with you on that one, Maggie. While Belfast wasn’t entirely off-limits to tourists in the 1970s, it certainly was a period of significant unrest and violence known as the Troubles, which made it a less appealing destination for many. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you kindly, Corna 🙂 When people think of Belfast, they often visualise its troubled past, the Titanic and the well-known natural phenomenon Giant’s Causeway, but there’s so much more to it. It is also a fascinating city overflowing with charm and beauty. It also possesses vitality and spirit and is infused with more than just a wee bit of Irish charm. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

  5. Aiva this is fantastic guide to Belfast! I visited Belfast many years ago, but it was such a whirlwind tour that I feel like I missed the entire city. I would really love to go back and see this incredible city with your guide in hand 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you kindly. I am glad you enjoyed it. Belfast is a great city to visit. You can do a Black Taxi tour to learn about recent history and visit the Titanic Museum. You can also make Belfast your base for a day trip to the Giant’s Causeway if you like. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. I hope you get to visit Belfast one day, as it makes for a fantastic destination. The city is compact, walkable and packed with friendly locals. It also delivers history, great food and music all within easy reach for a weekend escape. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Belast is a wonderful city to visit. Not only is it the perfect base in which to explore some of the most incredible attractions, but Belfast also has great transport connections to other Irish cities, allowing you to expand your adventure further afield.  Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. I hope you get to visit Belfast one day. You can spend some of your time in Belfast strolling through the picturesque Botanical Gardens, exploring the stunning interiors, spectacular stained glass windows and superb art collection of the Belfast City Hall, or simply hit the beautiful cobblestone streets of Cathedral Quarter. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you kindly for your wonderful comment, dear Rebecca. Belfast is a worthwhile destination to visit. It offers a blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and modern attractions. The city boasts a captivating maritime heritage, particularly in the Titanic Quarter. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. I hope you get to visit Belfast, Hannah. I find it interesting to visit all the parts of the United Kingdom as they are geographically distinct entities with different political and cultural identities. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  6. It’s wonderful that Belfast is coming into its own as a tourist destination! I came of age in the 1990s and remember the strife of the Troubles and the Good Friday Agreement. I was able to visit Belfast briefly several years ago when spending time in Dublin. I did the Black Taxi Tour and it was amazing! The taxi driver was full of knowledge. We learned about the struggles of the Troubles, visited the peace wall, and took the time to view lots of murals, including one dedicated to Bobby Sands. It was all so fascinating! I would like to return one day.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. It sounds like you had a wonderful time visiting Belfast and learning about its history. I find that the Black Taxi Tour of Belfast experience is the ultimate introduction to the city, offering a personalised and immersive journey as you get to visit historic locations, hear untold stories, and see the city from a perspective most visitors miss. I first visited Belfast 25 years ago, and have been back numerous times, slowly falling for the city and its quirkiness.  Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. You are welcome. I hope you get to visit Belfast one day to explore historical landmarks, enjoy delicious food and drink, and experience the city’s unique atmosphere. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  7. When I lived in Dublin, I always found it a bit difficult to visit Belfast, which I found gloomy and unwelcoming. I went back a couple of years ago and noticed significant progress, but the Troubles still leave their mark on the city. The Titanic Museum is well worth a visit.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. When I first visited Belfast 25 years ago, I had mixed feelings about the city. But after dozens of visits, Belfast slowly grew on me. I think it’s because its unique atmosphere, culture, and character are not immediately apparent but become more appreciated over time through repeated exposure and engagement, revealing hidden stories, opportunities, and moments of peace within its everyday chaos. Of course, one of the reasons why I started falling for the city was the personal experience, as over time, I built a personal history within the city, associating specific locations with memories and emotions, fostering an even deeper connection. I agree with you about the Titanic Museum – it really is quite phenomenal and not like your regular museum. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

      1. True, the museum is a mixed bag of historical artefacts and attractions, but even though we know how the story ends, the museum tour is designed to build up the emotion until the fateful moment.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. That’s so true. Following a £4.5m upgrade to the iconic Titanic attraction, I can say that our recent visit left us awed, especially the last room with the illuminated, rotating, 7.6-meter-long model of the ship.

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