Three Days in Belfast, Northern Ireland – More Than Just Murals and Guinness

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge viewpoint

If you have read any of my other Ireland posts, you already know that I have a soft spot for the island. Northern Ireland is very much part of that. It may be politically part of the United Kingdom, but in terms of history, culture and natural beauty it easily rivals the Republic of Ireland. A visit to Belfast, the capital, is absolutely worth it, full of stories, charm and more murals than you can count. Even though it is technically another country and Brexit made that sound far more complicated than it actually is, getting there is surprisingly easy. You can simply take the train from Dublin and in about two and a half hours you will find yourself in Belfast. No border drama, no passport checks, just a smooth ride through green countryside and the occasional sheep cameo out the window. Our own train ride turned out to be quite an experience. The day before, Robbie Williams had a concert in Dublin, and we happened to share our four-seater with a lively couple from Northern Ireland who were still very much celebrating both the show and, judging by their stories, the city’s pub scene. Somewhere between laughs and the discovery that alcohol is actually sold on the train, we ended up having a great chat. They shared their favourite spots in Belfast and some local tips for exploring Northern Ireland – all in all, a pretty entertaining way to kick off the trip. In this post I will share what we got up to during our three days in Belfast, from the must-sees to the small moments in between, and hopefully it will inspire you to plan your own trip to Northern Ireland.

Day 1 – First Impressions, Lost Bookings and Lucky Discoveries

If you are arriving in Belfast by train, your journey will most likely start at Lanyon Place Station. From there, the best place to stay is somewhere central so you can easily get around on foot. Alternatively, I can highly recommend the south of Belfast around Queen’s University. It is a lively area full of pubs, restaurants and coffee shops, with a laid-back student vibe thanks to the university and the nearby Botanic Gardens.

Originally, we had booked an apartment in the city centre through Booking, but shortly after we arrived in Belfast the host cancelled our reservation via WhatsApp, and he did so after the official check in time. We went to the address anyway, and after a long discussion he eventually offered us a different place and even tried to charge extra for it. We are still waiting for the refund. What began as pure frustration actually turned into a blessing in disguise, because the neighbourhood in the south is peaceful, full of character and packed with places to eat and drink. Our Uber driver, who took us to the new place, told us that just two days earlier he had driven another group who had gone through the exact same situation. He was incredibly kind, took a longer route just to show us around and shared great local tips on where to eat, drink and explore. It takes around thirty minutes to walk into the city centre, or you can simply take an Uber if your feet have had enough.

For your first day, take it slow and explore the neighbourhood. Start with a visit to Queen’s University, an impressive building that looks like something straight out of a Harry Potter movie, then stroll through the Botanic Gardens right next door. Afterwards, reward yourself with a drink or two in one of the local pubs. I can highly recommend Ryan’s Bar and Restaurant, The Botanic Inn, Maggie May’s Belfast Café or The Post House. The vibe is relaxed, the food is great and the cocktails at Ryan’s, especially the strawberry one, are dangerously good.

Ryan’s bar & restaurant

Day 2 – Castles, Cliffs and a Bit of Game of Thrones Magic

On your second day, I recommend leaving the city behind and heading out to see Northern Ireland’s spectacular coastline. The easiest way to do this is by booking a day tour, and we went with GetYourGuide and joined the From Belfast: Giant’s Causeway Guided Day Tour. It lasts around nine hours depending on traffic and costs only fifty euros for two persons, which is a real bargain considering how much you get to see.

The tour starts at nine in the morning from the square in front of City Hall and takes you on a route packed with highlights. First up is Carrickfergus Castle, followed by a scenic drive along the Antrim Coast, which on a sunny day looks like something straight out of a movie. You’ll stop at the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge viewpoint, wander through the famous Dark Hedges, known to Game of Thrones fans as the Kingsroad, and pass the filming location for the Wall before visiting Dunluce Castle, which played the part of the Greyjoy stronghold on the Iron Islands. And of course, the grand finale of the day is the Giant’s Causeway, one of those places that truly lives up to the hype.

Dark Hedges, known as the Kingsroad in Game of Thrones

We really enjoyed the tour. It is a long day, especially towards the end, but it is absolutely worth it. The mix of history, nature and these truly impressive coastal landscapes makes it one of the best trips you can take from Belfast. If you enjoy dramatic scenery, fresh sea air and a bit of Irish mythology, this tour is a must. You also get a touch of Game of Thrones atmosphere without having to book a separate Game of Thrones tour. Along the way you even see the filming location of the Wall from the series. You cannot get out there, but the driver slows down so you can take a good look. I would happily do the tour again.

Giant’s Causeway

Day 3 – Markets, Murals and a Titanic Tale

For your last day, take some time to really get to know Belfast itself. Start in the city centre, wander through the shops at CastleCourt Shopping Centre and soak up the local atmosphere before heading over to Belfast City Hall, one of the city’s most beautiful landmarks. From there, make your way to St George’s Market, one of the oldest and most charming markets in town. It is a great place to grab a snack, listen to live music or just watch locals go about their day, just make sure to check the opening hours before you go. If you still have time, the Belfast Cathedral is worth a quick visit too.

Belfast city hall view

One absolute must is the Titanic Belfast Museum. You can get your tickets on site or through GetYourGuide for around forty euros per person, and trust me, it is money well spent. The exhibition is modern and interactive, and it really pulls you into the story of the Titanic and its deep connection to the city. Even if you are not usually a museum person, this one is hard not to enjoy.

On your way there or back, take a stroll along Belfast Harbour. Stop by the Big Fish sculpture for a fun photo, and if you keep walking, you will find a small viewpoint with some great spots for pictures across the waterfront. It is the perfect way to wrap up your trip and take in one last look at the city. If you are heading back to Dublin, you can catch the train in the evening or stay one more night and take it the next morning. Personally, I would not have minded an extra day or two.

Belfast harbour view

Belfast is, of course, part of the United Kingdom, and you will notice the change in atmosphere the moment you step off the train from Dublin. The accent, the vibe, even the pace of life feels a little different. Still, the city and Northern Ireland as a whole are absolutely worth a visit. The landscapes are breathtaking, the people are warm and welcoming, and the mix of history, humour and resilience makes it a fascinating place to explore. In my opinion, Northern Ireland is still one of the most underrated parts of the island, but once you have been, you will understand why it deserves far more attention. Belfast and its surroundings easily invite you to stay longer than just three days, and if I could have, I would have happily added a few more. It is the kind of place that grows on you slowly, quietly and then all at once.