From intimate cafes to Michelin starred restaurants, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to eating out. The excellent St Georges Market allows you to sample the best of local produce, while the Belfast Whiskey Tour provides an introduction and a taste of a selection of Irish whiskeys.
Families too will enjoy Belfast. If you stay in the North of the city you have easy proximity to Belfast Zoo and Belfast Castle or climb high into Cavehill Country Park to enjoy panoramic views over the city. W5 is an interactive science attraction, providing over 250 hands-on exhibits to encourage budding scientists, both old and young. The city is full of first class and great value hotels. Check out our list of the best hotels in Belfast. When travelling by train, a hotel near Belfast Victoria train station can be one of the best options.
What’s the best area to experience the city for the first time, tourists, what’s the best district for shopping & nightlife, or where to stay when travelling by train? Read on below to find out more best neighbourhoods to stay in Belfast Northern Ireland..
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What is the Best Area to Stay in Belfast?
Best for First Time (Sightseeing): Central (Belfast City Hall area, Cathedral Quarter, Titanic Quarter)
If you’ve never previously been to Belfast, opt to stay in the centre, where attractions, restaurants and events are on your doorstep. In the Cathedral Quarter you will experience a bustling arts and culture scene with restaurants, galleries and concerts, including free street entertainment. In The Titanic Quarter you will be close to the spectacular Titanic Belfast, named the World’s Leading Tourist Attraction in 2016.
1. The heart of the City near Belfast City Hall
Staying at the heart of the city near Belfast City Hall makes exploring the city easy, with countless attractions within walking distance.
As well as plenty of restaurants and cafes to enjoy, you will find yourself near St George’s Market. Built in the 1890s, this historic market sells the best of fresh local produce and local crafts. Among its many accolades, it was named the UK’s Best Large Indoor Market in the 2019 NABMA Great British Market Awards.
- Best Hotels: The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast • The Flint
- Best Cheap / Affordable Hotels: easyHotel Belfast • Travelodge Belfast
2. Cathedral Quarter
If you want to be in the middle of the arts and cultural hub, with the chance to enjoy a vast array of restaurants and cafes on picturesque streets, the Cathedral Quarter will be ideal for you.
From organ recitals in the Romanesque St Anne’s Cathedral to theatre and comedy shows at the MAC and the Black Box to alfresco concerts in Custom House Square, there’s something to suit every taste.
- Best Hotels: The Merchant Hotel • Bullitt Hotel
- Best Cheap / Affordable Hotels: ibis Belfast City Centre • Ramada by Wyndham Belfast
3. Titanic Quarter
The Titanic Quarter allows you to delve deep into Belfast’s unique maritime history while enjoying all the amenities of this ambitious waterfront development.
The most famous attraction is the Titanic Belfast, the world’s largest Titanic experience housed on the site where this tragic ship was constructed. Guided boat tours can be taken allowing you to discover more of the fascinating history of this quarter.
- Best Hotels: Titanic Hotel Belfast • Ryan and Benjis Room (Guesthouse)
- Best Apartments: CK Serviced Apartments • Titanic Quarter
