As diverse as the city itself, so diverse are its sights. Belfast is steeped in more history than almost any other city in the north of Ireland. Numerous museums and monuments remind us of stormy times that divided an entire nation. Just as buildings, paintings and sculptures remind us of peace and tolerance. Especially in recent years, Belfast has established itself as an exciting and interesting travel destination. We have summarised here what makes the city special and which sights should not be missing on a holiday.
Belfast Titanic Experience
In March 2012, the monument to what was once the largest and probably most famous passenger ship in the world opened in Belfast. Even from the outside, the building is worth seeing, because with its shiny aluminum exterior façade, it is strongly reminiscent of the fateful iceberg that sank the Titantic in 1912. The Titanic originated in Belfast. In memory of the construction project and the dramatic event, visitors can travel through that time on a total of six floors. Exhibits, replicas and artifacts are waiting here.
St. George’s Market
It is probably the oldest attraction in Belfast: St. George’s Market is popular with both travellers and locals. While the Victorian building still looks a bit inconspicuous from the outside, there is a lot of hustle and bustle inside. Fresh fruit, Irish delicacies, delicious street food and typical Irish music await. While the artists provide the right atmosphere, around 250 market stalls entice with their offers. A visit to this market is a must on a holiday in Belfast.
The Crown Liquor Saloon
It is probably the most famous and oldest pub in Northern Ireland: The Crown Liquor Saloon. The first owner had the entire pub decorated with gas lamps, Corinthian columns and wood panelling by artists from Italy . The seating areas are guarded by imposing griffins and lions. In addition, there are fabrics made of brocade with lilies and feather patterns. Overall: it is probably one of the most beautiful pubs in the world, which should definitely be visited for a Guinness when visiting Belfast. Of course, the appropriate atmospheric music is also regularly available here.
Crumlin Road Goal
The Crumlin Road Goal is also one of the most popular sights in Belfast and should not be missing from the list when visiting. Insurgents, criminals, fighters for freedom and feminists. They have all been locked up in prison in the north of Ireland. During this time, even children were behind bars here. Innocent people also often died here by the gallows, although some of them were demonstrably innocent. Even today, their souls are said to haunt the old walls. During the day, visitors can visit the house on their own, and in the evening there are special horror tours in search of the restless poltergeists.
Belfast City Hall
Thanks to the reigning Queen Victoria, Belfast was recognised as a city in 1888. It was not until 20 years later that the plans for a town hall were implemented, which today separates the industrial area from the business district. With its gigantic dome and green towers, City Hall is an impressive building. Sculptures and marble adorn the interiors and halls. The gardens around the building land in summer with the large gardens to linger in. Belfast City Hall is equipped with modern lighting technology. On special occasions, the building shines in a breathtaking backdrop of light.
Ulster Museum and Grand Opera House
The Ulster Museum could be described as a mixture of art, history and naturopathy. Today, it is one of the most visited sights in the city. One million objects are waiting for visitors here. From the mummy to exciting art collections to dinosaur replicas. So you certainly won’t get bored in this museum.
On Great Victoria Street, right in the middle of the city centre, is the Irish Grand Opera House. The building dates back to 1895 and brought an oriental flair to the city at the time. In the following years, the house was renovated several times. It now offers the perfect backdrop for opera, dance, theatre, musicals and comedy.
St. Anne’s Cathedral and Botanic Gardens
Where an old church once stood until the end of the 19th century, St. Anne’s Cathedral now stands. This was built from 1899 and it took a whole 80 years until the imposing work was completed. Visitors can visit the fair here or simply admire the magnificent interior. Impressive paintings and artifacts are also at home here. As a sign of hope, the high church tower is illuminated every night, which is a nice photo opportunity for holidaymakers.
Another must-see stop for holidaymakers in the Northern Irish city is the botanical garden. Here you will find relaxation and peace. The garden is located right next to the University of Belfast and offers a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of the city on over 100,000 square metres. Tropical greenhouses, roses, orchids, a palm house and sculptures await you here. The piece of green in the green city is particularly suitable for a cosy picnic.
Das Belfast Castle
The magnificent Belfast Castle at the bottom of Cave Hill is the last castle in Belfast. It was built in the heart of the city in the 12th century, but a building made of wood and stones replaced it 400 years later. The reason for this was a fire, which prompted the planners to have the castle rebuilt on the outskirts of the city. The castle can be visited after a short drive out of the city center. Not only a magnificent view of Belfast, but also historic interiors and a cozy park invite you to linger. Afterwards you can visit Cave Hill.
