Last Updated on June 29, 2023 by AIFS Abroad
The capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast, has become a must-see city for people around the world.
Whether you’re there for a weekend or an extended period of time, here are some of the best things to see and do in and around Belfast:
1. Explore Giant’s Causeway
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Giant’s Causeway (above) should be on everyone’s bucket list.
While standing atop the hills that gently arc this spectacular natural wonder, your jaw will drop at the 40,000 basalt columns below.
These miraculous hexagonal-shaped pillars date back to a volcanic age almost 60 million years ago. However, Irish mythology tells a different origin story that features the giant, Finn McCool. While here, make sure you get a headset from the Visitor’s Center to guide you through this charming myth as you walk along the Causeway.
2. Visit Game of Thrones Filming Locations
Just as Lord of the Rings fans flock to New Zealand, Northern Ireland is a destination for Game of Thrones fanatics.
The series was filmed in over 20 locations around Northern Ireland, but one must-see filming location is the Dark Hedges. About an hour from Belfast, this magical natural phenomenon doubled as the Kingsroad in the show.
Guided Game of Thrones tours are often leaving from Belfast, so be sure to get a ticket on a tour that stops at the Hedges.
3. Cross Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
First erected by salmon fishermen in 1755, the tiny rope bridge is not for the faint of heart. It teeters 100ft above sea level and brings tourists across from County Antrim mainland to Carrick-a-Rede Island.
The precarious journey is the only thing standing between you and awe-inspiring views across the Atlantic to Rathlin Island and, on a clear day, Scotland.
The journey is an unforgettable one – just don’t look down!
4. Tour Titanic Belfast
Since 2012, Titanic Belfast has been a monument to Belfast’s maritime heritage. It’s also one of the World’s Leading Visitor Attractions.
Here, you’ll pass through nine galleries that tell the story of RMS Titanic, from her conception in Belfast through her construction, launch, and tragic end.
These galleries are all interactive, utilizing technology that has been used in other famous attractions like Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion and Universal Studios’ Hogwarts Express.
5. Take a Black Taxi Tour
To get a feel for Belfast’s history, the most authentic way is via Belfast’s famous Black Taxi Tours.
Each tour is tailored towards what tourists prefer to see, but one of the most popular options is the Political & Mural Tour. This tour guides you through Belfast’s troubled past, to its present identity as a world-famous tourist destination through a local lens.
The murals are still up in Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods, and you’ll have the opportunity to get out and take photos along the way.
Want to visit each of these attractions… and more? We can help! Learn More about our study abroad program in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
