48 Hours in Belfast

There’s plenty to choose from in St George’s Market food and craft market, open Saturday and Sunday morning from 9am and 10am consecutively. With loads of food vendors to choose from, you can have anything from homemade scones from local bakeries to French-style crêpes. Feeling hungry? Try a belly busting Belfast bap from the Belfast Bap Co – a cooked breakfast stacked in a floury, soft bread roll.

Step outside and discover parts of Belfast on foot. No matter your interests, you will find a walking tour for you! Themes include political and historical, food and drink, nature and wildlife, and free self-guided tours.

Back in the city centre, there’s time to hit the shops before lunch. With two major shopping centres and plenty of small independent retailers, Belfast is a shopping haven. Queen’s Arcade is home to a variety of luxury Boutiques and local independent retailers. Find high street brands in CastleCourt or designer labels in Victoria Square.

Belfast has a world-famous maritime history. From award-winning exhibitions to historic docks, walk the Maritime Mile – developed by Maritime Belfast Trust – and uncover the stories of Belfast’s maritime past.

With restaurants, food markets and artisan producers tucked away in every corner of the city, Belfast is nothing short of a foodie haven. If you’re in the mood for tapas, Italian, sushi or something quick, you’ll find an eatery right for you.

Belfast city does not disappoint when it comes to a night out. From iconic pubs, bars and beer gardens, and nightclubs showcasing live music, to rooftop bars with cocktails and a view, there is a night out for everyone to enjoy with all the craic.

From a traditional Ulster fry to avocado on sourdough, see our top suggestions for breakfast and brunch in Belfast. If you want to try something new, why not book a bottomless brunch or tour exploring Belfast’s hidden brunch spots?

Spend the afternoon in Queen’s Quarter, the leafy surroundings of Queen’s University where you’ll find a host of restaurants, cafés and pubs. Stroll through the beautiful Botanic Gardens and visit the Victorian Palm House that dates back to 1828 and the contemporary Tropical Ravine. Next to the gardens is the Ulster Museum, Northern Ireland’s treasure trove of past and present where you can see everything from dinosaurs to a real Egyptian mummy!

Take a tour to experience all aspects of the Gaol from the tunnel linking the courthouse on the other side of the Crumlin Road to the hanging cell, Governor’s office, hospital and graveyard.

McConnell’s distillery is a working Distillery and Visitor Experience in the North of Belfast based in the Crumlin Road Gaol. Experience their new home at A-wing, Crumlin Road Gaol and immerse yourself in the passion behind their award-winning whiskies. Join to find out more about a brand born in Belfast in 1776, that is now being restored globally. You’ll learn about the distilling process and of course, taste some of McConnell’s award-winning Irish whiskies along the way.

Nothing beats a cosy Sunday lunch and whether you’re looking for a classic roast, traditional carvery or something different, Belfast and beyond has plenty of mouth-watering options.

Find the best traditional cosy pubs with warm, lively atmosphere in Belfast, complete with snugs, traditional music sessions and the perfect pint of Guinness.