As the gateway to Northern Ireland, Belfast has all the attributes that create a perfect rural retreat. With a literal meaning “the mouth of the river Feirste,” Belfast in North Ireland’s capital city and the second-largest city of Ireland next to Dublin. With the River Lagan surrounded by low hills as its backdrop, Belfast is surely your escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Belfast has two major airports, George Best Belfast City Airport which is two miles from the city center, and the much bigger Belfast International Airport. If you will be coming from a nearby European city, you can get in Belfast through trains, buses, boats, private or rented cars. The city is quite compact which makes it easy to tour its premises on foot or by car. There is an urban bus network that has regular routes in the important destinations, as well as Black Taxi tours that can be arranged via the hotel where you are staying in.
If you are traveling with the family, you will be delighted to know that Belfast has attractions suitable for all ages. Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park and Cave Hill Country Park are only some of many parks that offer family-friendly facilities. Belfast Castle is a must-see, a stunning piece of architecture that sits on the slopes of Cave Hill 400 feet above sea level. If there is a young member of the family, the Belfast Zoo, just close to the castle, has a good variety of animals children will surely enjoy.
Belfast is proud of its culture, tradition and heritage, the reason why its historic structures are one of its prominent attractions. When you visit the Ulster Museum, you will feel nostalgic to know Belfast’s relevant past, while the political murals are an absolute must. And being the birthplace of Titanic, you surely will never leave Belfast without experiencing the Titanic Boat Tour.
This side of North Ireland has been blessed by the miracles of nature. The Giant Causeway is a world-famous spot due to its dramatic cliff landscape enveloped by the mighty North Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy a nature trip through walking tours to the Mountain of Mourne or stage a thrilling water activity in the waters of Fermanagh. Because Belfast sits on North Ireland’s most gorgeous location, the beauty of this region cannot be described by mere words alone– you have to be in Belfast to witness and experience all its splendid natural scenery.
Belfast may have a compact size, but its network of attractions is overflowing that seeing them all is impossible to accomplish in a single day. There is no need to worry, though. Being a famous tourist destination, almost all corners of Belfast has family-friendly accommodations to serve as your home for the holidays. From affordable ones such as Tara Lodge, Malone Lodge, and Days Hotel, to 5-star and high-end ones like Hilton Hotel, Europa Hotel and Radisson Blu Hotel, your family will enjoy the home-like ambiance of the hotels of Belfast.