Situated on the banks of the River Lagan in Northern Ireland, this capital city is the second-largest city on the island of Ireland, after Dublin. A major port, Belfast is steeped in history, from The Troubles to the construction of Titanic. Theater halls, museums, cathedrals and nearby natural sites make Belfast a continually up-and- coming city.
GETTING THERE & AROUND
Belfast’s main airport, Belfast International Airport, serves airlines connecting with other European countries. The island of Ireland is drivable; however, fly into Dublin International Airport and take the Dublin Express bus to Dublin Connolly train station. From there, board a two- to three- hour train to Belfast. Although Belfast relies heavily on cars, the city is also connected by Translink Metro buses and taxis, particularly in the city center. The Glider bus service is also an option, linking East Belfast, the Titanic Quarter, city center and West Belfast.
LODGING
The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast
Sleek and polished, this hotel lies steps from the Grand Opera House theater and Great Victoria Street railway station. Expect plush rooms, an upscale restaurant, lounge bar and more. The hotel also features a two-bedroom penthouse suite with a bar, kitchen and private butler.
1-3 Great Victoria St., Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, tel 44 28 9044 2080 fitzwilliamhotelbelfast.com
Grand Central Hotel Belfast
Opt for city or mountain views from your room or suite in this hotel located within a restored Victorian building. The hotel boasts a refined restaurant, airy café and buzzing bar. Enjoy easy access to St. George’s Market and Grand Opera House.
9-15 Bedford St., Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, tel 44 28 9023 1066 grandcentralhotelbelfast.com
The Merchant Hotel
Located within a former bank, this Art Deco- and Victorian-style hotel offers elegant rooms and suites with period décor. The Merchant Hotel also features a rooftop gym, spa, high-end restaurant, and night club and jazz bar, and sits in proximity to St. Anne’s Cathedral.
16 Skipper St., Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, tel 44 28 9023 4888 themerchanthotel.com
DINING
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
Diners are spoiled with Victorian architecture within this grand space in The Merchant Hotel. Available for breakfast, afternoon tea, lunch and dinner, highlights include spiced halibut, Thornhill duck breast and Irish beef filet.
16 Skipper St., Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, tel 44 28 9023 4888 themerchanthotel.com
JAMES ST
Indulge in chargrilled and aged steaks at this brick-walled restaurant. Pair your steak dish with a handcrafted cocktail or a wine from its extensive list.
19 James St. S., Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, tel 44 28 9560 0700 jamesst.co.uk
OX Belfast
Dine on modern British fare for lunch or dinner with views overlooking the river. All dishes are created around the best available seasonal produce, with ingredients sourced from local suppliers. Menus change seasonally.
1 Oxford St., Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, tel 44 28 9031 4121 oxbelfast.com
ATTRACTIONS
Black Taxi Tours Belfast
Learn about The Troubles and the city’s complicated history with an immersive tour via a black taxi. Driven by an expert guide, this tour takes you past notable murals and part of the peace wall.
67 Squires Hill Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, tel 44 28 9064 2264 belfasttours.com
Giant’s Causeway
Located about an hour north of the city, the famous UNESCO World Heritage site comprises thousands of interlocking basalt columns. While on the Causeway Coast, if time permits, head to Dunluce Castle, 10 minutes west, to walk a 13th-century ruin on the cliffs.
44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, tel 44 28 2073 1855 nationaltrust.org.uk
Titanic Belfast
In the city where the notorious ship was constructed, explore this award-winning museum, complete with nine interactive galleries telling the story of the ship from construction to sinking.
1 Olympic Way, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, tel 44 28 9076 6386 titanicbelfast.com
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