The Ultimate Belfast Staycation Guide

Looking for some quality time with your other half? Book a romantic break in the heart of the city. Unwind in total luxury in Hastings Grand Central Hotel, with its elegant suites and breathtaking views from ceiling-to-floor windows. Or cocoon yourselves in an oasis of comfort in the five-star Fitzwilliam Hotel with an AA Rosette restaurant and ultra-chic bar. Ten Square boutique hotel offers City Hall and head for a drink nearby in underground bar Margot.

All the hotels are just a short stroll from the Cathedral Quarter where you’ll find trendy cafés, galleries and restaurants nestled among the cobbled streets. Browse contemporary photography exhibitions at Belfast Exposed, reserve a table at Coppi, 44 Hill Street or Josper’s restaurants and toast with a drink at The National. The next day, make some memories on a Belfast City Bike Tour, then stroll the Maritime Mile.

If you’re looking for a getaway that won’t break the bank, you’re in luck. We’ve rounded up top hotel offers that include budget overnight stays and discounted luxury packages. View staycation accommodation offers >>

Belfast is packed with budget-friendly things to do, too. The Ulster Museum is free to visit and home to a rich collection of art, history and natural science exhibitions. Stroll through the nearby Botanic Gardens or visit the Titanic Memorial Garden in the grounds of Belfast City Hall, both of which offer free entry. Or learn something you didn’t know about the city’s history on Belfast Free Walking Tour, an independent, free tour that departs Belfast City Hall at 11am and 2.30pm daily. Eat in Ryan’s Bar & Restaurant where you’ll get two courses for £13, or grab a budget-friendly pizza and pint in the Parlour Bar.

If you’ve been missing quality time with friends, plan the perfect city break in Belfast together! Check into the stylish Malmaison Hotel or Hilton Belfast for comfy overnight stays close to the city centre, then it’s time for some much-needed retail therapy. Victoria Square, CastleCourt and independent stores offer an incredible experience you just don’t get shopping online at home. Visit the Dome in Victoria Square for 360-views of the city, then sip on delicious cocktails in Angel & Two Bibles, Belfast’s hidden speakeasy cocktail bar.

Looking for a little luxury? Stay at the five-star Merchant Hotel and book a treatment in The Spa, which has a hydrotherapy area, rock sauna and aroma steam room. Venture out of the city to the Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort or discover a haven of tranquility at Killeavy Castle Estate, a restored 19th Century castle with deluxe suites and a spa overlooking its 350 acres of grounds – the ultimate girly retreat. If you don’t want to venture too far out from the city centre, head to The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat on the Antrim Road, with live entertainment, relaxation treatments, and great food.

Belfast promises an unforgettable family break, with loads to do in the city and surrounding area for kids of all ages. Book a family room at Crowne Plaza Hotel, located on the edge of Lagan Valley Regional Park, just 10 minutes from Belfast city centre. The hotel has a children’s playroom and swimming pool with designated kids’ swim times, as well as a Jacuzzi, sauna and fitness suite for adults. Hire bikes and explore the nearby park, and eat in the on-site restaurant and bar.

Got a touring caravan? Stop at Dundonald Caravan Park near Dundonald International Ice Bowl with a host of family fun activities under one roof. Or hire a motorhome from Bunks Campers and explore the Causeway Coast, Strangford Lough or further afield.

In Belfast, kids will love Prison Island, a 25-cell experience inspired by Crystal Maze. Visit Belfast Zoo or drive to Bangor for Pickie Funpark.

Seeking some history and culture? Learn something you didn’t know about Belfast on a walking tour, such as Belfast Hidden Tours and Coiste Irish Political Tours. Step back in time on a tour of Clifton Street Cemetery hosted by Clifton House – the grave dates back to 1797 and is packed with tales of bodysnatching and thousands of souls who lie in unmarked graves.

Visit the James Connolly Visitor Centre for an insightful exhibition about James Connolly, a man of formidable ideas and remarkable vision; explore the Victorian-era Crumlin Road Gaol. Stay somewhere unique like George Best’s family home in east Belfast.

Now is a great time for an outdoor adventure in Belfast. Book a glamping pod at Let’s Go Hydro, where you’ll have cable wakeboarding and open water swimming on your doorstep. Ramble to the top of Cave Hill or Divis Mountain for spectacular views from a height, or try Ireland’s longest zip-line and first alpine coaster at Colin Glen Forest Park.

If you’re keen to explore further, book a rental car and drive the Causeway Coastal route, taking in the Dark Hedges and Giant’s Causeway or check out our Game of Thrones film locations driving route. Or drive to The Jungle for zorbing, high ropes and much more.

Belfast is a compact city, so even if you only have one day, there’s still plenty for you to see and do. Hop on a Belfast City Sightseeing Tour to see all the major visitor attractions including Crumlin Road Gaol and Titanic Belfast. Or spend the whole day hitting the shops – read our Belfast shopping guide for top shopping centres, hidden gems and independent stores. Feel like getting away from it all? Read our round-up of amazing outdoor spaces and explore the parkland, beaches and woodlands found within and beyond the city.