Best places to stay in Belfast
For first-timers visiting Belfast, the Central District is a must-see for hotels. This area, centered around Donegall Square, showcases the heart of old Belfast with its grand architecture, including the stunning City Hall. It's a vibrant commercial area that captivates visitors. To the north, the Cathedral Quarter, home to an impressive church, serves as the city's hub for arts and culture. This area features a lively creative scene, complete with colorful murals and street art. If you prefer a peaceful yet eclectic atmosphere, head to the leafy Queen's Quarter in the south, centered around the grand university of the same name. With a youthful vibe, this area boasts old bookstores, vintage clothing boutiques, and trendy coffee shops. For nautical enthusiasts, the Titanic Quarter in the north is ideal. This area has been impressively revitalized in recent years and is home to Belfast's standout attraction, the Titanic Museum.
Where to stay near popular attractions in Belfast
Belfast is a compact and walkable city, so to be close to as many attractions as possible, consider staying in the Central District or Cathedral Quarter. You'll have stunning architecture like the City Hall, St. Anne's Cathedral, and the Grand Opera House at your doorstep, as well as the Victorian beauty of St. George's Market with its vast array of fresh produce and handcrafted items. To dive into the city's intriguing yet somber history, the Solidarity Wall and Crumlin Road Gaol are just a 20-minute walk or a short bus ride away.
Where to stay with your family in Belfast
The Titanic Quarter is an excellent choice for families visiting Belfast, offering enough sightseeing to fill several days. At the top of the list is the Titanic Experience, once voted the world's best tourist attraction. With nine interactive galleries featuring rides and reconstructions, it's a journey through history that will delight the entire family. All spaces at Titanic Belfast are fully accessible, as are the Titanic Experience galleries. For an up-close look at history, board the SS Nomadic, the world's last remaining White Star Line ship, now fully restored. The aptly named Titanic Hotel offers accommodations right in the midst of the action.
Where to stay as a solo traveler
The welcoming Queen's Quarter is a great option for solo travelers in Belfast, with hostels around the university providing opportunities to meet like-minded travelers and experience the city's nightlife. And don't worry, private rooms are available if you're not a fan of bunks! The nearby Botanic Gardens is a wonderful place to spend a few hours surrounded by greenery. If the weather turns rainy – not unusual here – visit the Queen's Film Theatre for a fantastic selection of indie movies. Alternatively, the nearby Ulster Museum hosts charming events like Wellbeing Wednesdays, featuring a Tai Chi session followed by a mindful exploration of part of the museum's collections.
Where to find cheap hotels in Belfast
For budget-friendly accommodations in Belfast, Hotel ETAP offers rooms for under $80 per night or even a triple room for around $105, maximizing your savings. This well-reviewed hotel is conveniently located just south of the city center and near the Great Victoria Street railway station. To be right in the heart of the action, consider Travelodge Belfast Central, situated just steps away from Donegall Square and the city's lively nightlife, including the locals' folk music favorite, the Garrick Bar. Accessible rooms are available, and all rooms feature a super-comfy king-size bed. For around $130 a night, travelers can enjoy the popular Ramada By Wyndham, which has a restaurant with an al fresco terrace for those rare sunny days. Depending on your travel dates, you might snag a room at the 4-star Radisson Blu Belfast, featuring Nordic-inspired décor in the heart of the Gasworks business district, for a similar price.
