A Complete Guide to have the Best Weekend in Belfast Itinerary
Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, is a vibrant and exciting destination that offers plenty of things to see and do. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, Belfast has something for you.
On our weekend in Belfast itinerary, we’ll share some of the best things to do and see, including top attractions, delicious restaurants, and the best pubs (it is important) so that you can have a fantastic weekend in Belfast – just like we did.
We rate it so highly, and it may have knocked Liverpool off the top spot of our favourite UK weekend breaks. We are very interested to hear what you think!
A Long Weekend in Belfast Itinerary
We have created the perfect weekend in Belfast itinerary based on our exact trip. We enjoy seeing a lot on our travels, so if you do not, we recommend shortening the days and only doing the activities you’d enjoy based on your preferences.
It is full-on but a lot of FUN! So what to do in Belfast this weekend? Let’s find out!
Places to Eat for a Weekend in Belfast
Instead of suggesting where to go for dinner on each day of our itinerary, we have selected a few restaurants that we love, so you can choose what you fancy based on preference and budget!
Depending on when you spend your weekend in Belfast, some may require bookings, so check their website to ensure you are satisfied. 48 hours in Belfast is not enough time to eat in all the beautiful places!
- Dumpling Library (Asian/dinner)
- Nu Delhi (Indian restaurant)
- La Taquería (Mexican restaurant)
- Boojum (famous Belfast burrito shop, great for quick lunch)
- Orto (Italian/pizza)
- Mourne Seafood (lots of lovely food, lunch/dinner)
- Deanes at Queens (local produce, a bit more expensive)
- Ragin Ramen
Friday Evening
Belfast is a city with a lively atmosphere, so there are many options for how to spend a Friday night. Once you have settled in your accommodation, we recommend heading out for dinner and exploring the Cathedral Quater! You will soon learn what Belfast is all about.
This neighbourhood in the city centre is known for its lively bars, pubs, and restaurants. It’s a great place to go for a drink and to sample some of Belfast’s famous Guinness. We LOVED the Crown Liquor Saloon and thought it was one of the most beautiful pubs we had ever been to.
For more pubs, please read the Best Pubs in Belfast.
Saturday
Established Coffee for Brunch
Established Coffee was recommended to us by two different friends. We recommend you begin the first full weekend day in Belfast here.
We were lucky to find two seats at the large communal table. Although it was busy, the Coffee was excellent, and the service was friendly. This café is ideal for Coffee and breakfast, with a great atmosphere and delicious food.
They have a good selection for vegetarians, with creative twists on traditional breakfast dishes. Everything on the menu coming out of the kitchen looked appetizing and of high quality. Based on its popularity among locals, it is a highly recommended spot for breakfast or lunch.
We were impressed with the speed of our food arriving at the table and the cost (it was cheaper than other places we went on our 2 days in Belfast).
Titanic Quarter and the Titanic Museum
We recommend walking from the Cathedral Quater along the maritime mile towards the Tinatic Museum. On your way, you will see the Glass of Thrones exhibition and the SoundYard.
Arguably, the Titanic Belfast is a must-see destination for your weekend in Belfast. It is the world’s most extensive Titanic visitor experience and is very popular.
Located beside the Titanic Slipways, the Harland and Wolff Drawing Offices, and Hamilton Graving Dock, where the Titanic was designed, built and launched in 1911.
The story of the Titanic is told through an interactive and interpretive self-guided experience that takes visitors through nine galleries, showcasing the sights, sounds, smells, and stories of RMS Titanic, as well as the city and people who built her.
You can complete your Titanic experience by visiting the remaining White Star Line vessel and RMS Titanic’s original tender ship, the SS Nomadic.
Explore the decks and travel through over 100 years of authentic maritime and social history. It is an excellent attraction for 48 hours in Belfast.
Good to know: you can pop into the Titanic Hotel for a drink afterwards – it looks like the ship inside!
St George’s Market
St George’s Market is a popular destination because it offers a unique shopping experience with a wide variety of local produce, food, and crafts. You can experience the market’s unique offerings and lively atmosphere by visiting from Friday to Sunday, when live music performances are held, and the market is bustling with activity.
The market has a long history and was constructed between 1890 and 1896. is a great place to find traditional Irish goods and products. It is also a great way to experience the local culture and meet the friendly vendors who sell their wares at the market.
The market has received recognition for its excellence, being named the UK’s Best Large Indoor Market in 2019 by the NABMA Great British Market Awards.
Additionally, the market regularly hosts events and live performances, making it a lively and exciting place to visit. It is the perfect spot to grab an afternoon snack and a print to remember your trip. We bought a great one from the Crown Liquor Saloon.
Good to know: It is open at the following hours only – perfect for a weekend in Belfast!
- Friday 8 am – 2 pm
- Saturday 9 am – 3 pm
- Sunday – 10 am – 3 pm
Belfast City Hall Tour
Belfast City Hall offers a guided tour that takes approximately one hour and is a must for 48 hours in Belfast.
The tour allows visitors to see parts of the building that are not typically open to the public, including the Grand Staircase, Rotunda, and the central dome.
A friendly and experienced guide led us through the building, pointing out notable features such as the John Luke mural and the “Whispering Gallery.” We enjoyed learning more about Belfast and would recommend this for your 2 days in Belfast trip.
Good to know: the tour is one of the best free things to do in Belfast and is offered daily on a first-come, first-served basis.
These tours are conducted in English and are available at specific times: Monday to Friday at 11 am, 2 pm and 3 pm, and on Saturdays, Sundays, and bank holidays at 12 noon, 2 pm and 3 pm.
Depending on where you are up to on your weekend in Belfast itinerary – you could attend the 2 pm or 3 pm tour!
Watch the Sunset at the Observatory
Are you looking for a truly unique and luxurious experience in Belfast? Look no further than the Observatory in the historic Grand Central Hotel. This rooftop bar offers unparalleled views of the city and beyond, making it the tallest bar in all of Ireland.
Sip on expertly crafted cocktails and savour delicious food while taking in the breathtaking views. The atmosphere is truly spectacular, making it the perfect spot for a special occasion or a night out with friends. The dress code is smart attire!
The Observatory is open daily from 1 pm-late and Afternoon Tea is also available by reservation.
We went for a special occasion as you are looking at £16 per cocktail. However, the views were beautiful, and we made it extra special by going for sunset so that we could see the city from light to dark. It is worth it as a mini splurge and a treat!
Saturday Evening
After dinner, we recommend heading to the pubs for a pub crawl. Belfast has a great selection of pubs, and a pub crawl is a fun way to explore the city and sample different beers.
Alternatively, if you fancy any last-minute theatre, the Lyric and MAC theatres usually have cool local bits! Perfect for 48 hours in Belfast.
Sunday
For the last day of your weekend in Belfast, what to do will depend on what time you need to leave. You can complete the recommendations we suggest below on the Red Bus Tour, which has an excellent reputation for educating about the Troubles and the history of Northern Ireland.
You can hop on or hop off at your chosen destinations.
Alternatively, you can walk or Uber to some of the destinations depending on how much time (and energy) you have!
Brunch in the Flatiron Building
Start your day at The Pocket for brunch in the Flatiron building near the shopping centre and the Jaffe Memorial Fountain.
It is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed and inviting place to enjoy delicious, fresh food and great Coffee. The Pocket offers a high-quality dining experience in a chilled and casual atmosphere.
Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast or a quick lunch, you’ll find something that hits the spot. Plus, the Coffee is top-notch so that you can savour every sip.
Crumlin Road Gaol (Jail)
After brunch, we recommend experiencing the history and culture of Northern Ireland by visiting the Crumlin Road Gaol, the only remaining Victorian-era prison in the region. Opened in 1846, the prison held men, women, and children before it closed its doors in 1996.
We went on the “Self-Guided Crumlin Road Gaol Experience” that was launched in 2019. You can experience a unique self-guided tour with video, audio, and holograms throughout the site. You can also go on a guided tour if you prefer!
You will have the opportunity to explore different areas of the prison, including the Tunnel, Holding Cells, Gaol Circle, C-Wing, Condemned Cell, Hangman’s Cell, and the Graveyard.
This tour will give you a unique and memorable insight into the prisoners’ and staff’s daily lives and routines.
The tour is open from 10:30 am to 3:00 pm! We spent just over an hour on this experience.
Belfast Peace Wall
You can walk from the jail to Belfast’s most well-known peace walls. These are the one that separates the Falls (Irish Catholic) and Shankill Roads (British Protestant) in the western part of the city.
The wall runs for several kilometres and has metal gates at several junctions that were used as security checkpoints during the Troubles. Today, you will see the murals on both sides of the walls.
These walls were constructed in 1969 to reduce tensions between the Loyalist and Nationalist communities. Despite the ongoing discussion of removing the peace walls in Belfast, progress has been slow.
Walking tours or Black Taxi tours are recommended to view the peace walls.
Queen’s University, Botanical Gardens and the Ulster Museum
We have grouped these three Belfast attractions because, luckily, they are all next to each other. If you have not gone on the Red Bus Tour, at this stage, we recommend catching an Uber to the University from the Peace Walls – or you are looking at a 45-minute walk to this area of the city!
The Botanic Gardens in Belfast are a must-see for nature enthusiasts and are conveniently located near downtown and Queen’s University. Founded in 1828, the gardens feature a variety of plants and trees, including hornbeam-oak, and the Palm House and Tropical Ravine are particularly noteworthy.
The gardens are near the Ulster Museum, where you can step into the past and explore the world.
The museum is a treasure trove of varying exhibitions that are constantly changing and offers a wide range of subjects, from prehistoric dinosaurs to contemporary masterpieces from all over the globe.
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Ireland and the world with a diverse collection of art, history, and natural science exhibits that showcase the evolution of Ireland and humanity.
It’s the ideal place to spend a few hours and escape the unpredictable Belfast rain, precisely what we did. It is free too!
That’s the wrap on our weekend in Belfast itinerary. We hope you have enjoyed your trip to Belfast, Northern Ireland and have included some FAQs below in case you have any more questions about what you can do in the city!
Frequently Asked Questions for 48 hours in Belfast.
Where is Belfast?
Belfast is the capital and largest city of Northern Ireland, located on the east coast of the island of Ireland. It is part of the United Kingdom and situated in the province of Ulster.
Where should I stay in Belfast?
Belfast has a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are a few popular areas to consider when looking for a place to stay for 2 days in Belfast:
City Centre: The city centre is the heart of Belfast and offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels.
Cathedral Quarter: This area is located in the heart of the city centre and is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. This area offers an excellent selection of boutique hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs. We stayed here at the Bullit Hotel and recommended it for easy access and within walking distance of the main attractions.
Titanic Quarter: This area is located on the waterfront and is home to the Titanic Belfast visitor attraction. This area offers a mix of hotels, apartments and vacation rentals, many with views of the harbour and the Belfast Hills. You can stay in the famous Titanic Hotel here!
Queen’s Quarter: This area is located west of the city centre and is home to Queen’s University. This area offers a mix of student accommodation and vacation rentals, as well as budget-friendly hostels and B&Bs.
Ultimately, the best area to stay for 2 days in Belfast depends on your preferences and what you plan to do during your trip. It’s worth considering the proximity to the places you want to visit and the type of accommodation that will suit your needs.
When is the best time to go to Belfast?
The best time to visit Belfast depends on your preferences and what you want to do while you’re there.
Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit as the weather is mild and the city’s gardens and parks are in full bloom. Additionally, it is an excellent time to check out local festivals such as the Belfast International Arts Festival and the Belfast Film Festival.
Summer (June to August) is also a popular time to visit Belfast, as the weather is warm and sunny. There are plenty of outdoor events and festivals like the Belfast Mela or the Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival.
Autumn (September to November) is also an excellent time to visit as the weather is still mild, and the city’s trees turn a beautiful array of colours. Furthermore, it’s a great time to check out the local food and drink festival, the Belfast Food and Drink Festival.
Winter (December to February) can also be a great time to visit Belfast as the city is beautifully decorated for the holiday season, and events such as the Christmas Market and New Year’s Eve celebrations take place.
Overall, the best time to visit Belfast will depend on your interests and the specific events or activities you want to experience during your trip.
How can I get to Belfast?
There are several ways to get to Belfast, depending on your location and preferred mode of transportation.
By Air:
Belfast International Airport (BFS) and George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD) are the two airports that serve the city. They have flights from multiple destinations in the UK, Ireland and continental Europe.
You can take a bus, taxi or train from the airport to Belfast city centre. You can easily reach the city (10 minutes) from George Best Airport, so this would be our preference if you only have a weekend in Belfast. You can buy a return bus ticket from the airport bus stop for only £4. It is the easiest and cheapest option, in our opinion!
By Train:
Belfast has two main railway stations, Belfast Central and Belfast Great Victoria Street, with regular services to and from destinations across Northern Ireland and Ireland.
By Bus:
Belfast is well connected by bus to other cities and towns in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Translink is the primary bus operator and offers frequent services.
By Car:
Belfast is easily accessible by car via the M1 and M2 motorways. If you’re driving from Dublin, the drive takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
By Ferry:
You can also take a ferry from the UK to Belfast, with services operating from ports such as Cairnryan and Liverpool to Belfast.
Overall Thoughts on 2 days in Belfast
A weekend in Belfast is a great way to explore all this vibrant and exciting city offers. From its rich history and cultural heritage to its delicious food and drink scene, there is something for everyone in Belfast.
Whether you’re interested in visiting the city’s top attractions, such as the Titanic Belfast, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of its bustling streets, Belfast is a destination that should be on your list.
With a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, it’s easy to plan the perfect weekend in Belfast. So pack your bags and experience all this charming city has to offer!
Photo Credits: averagelives.com