Belfast Overview

Finally able to breathe after years of conflict, Belfast is coming into its own as a burgeoning metropolis. Its various shopping centers sell everything from strawberries to luxury watchwear. The city's people are kind and friendly, even though you don't have to go far to find someone who not only remembers “the Troubles,” but can also recall a time when a policeman frisked you before you entered the city center. But far from having resentment and a “hush-hush” attitude, the people of Belfast enagage with their history; black cab tours of West Belfast, the area of hottest conflict, have become a popular tourist attraction. Think of Belfast as Dublin's badass older brother who plays in a band: he's cool, gritty, and gets tons of groupies. Head to Belfast to become one yourself.

Practical Information

Tourist Offices: Belfast Welcome Centre is one of the only tourism offices (and by far the biggest) in Belfast and is also the only place to go for luggage storage ( $ £3 for up to ...more

Orientation

What's with all the Donegalls? Okay, get this: Donegall Square surrounds the city hall, Donegall Road runs from the west, crossing through town at Shaftesbury Square and becoming Donegall Pass, and finally ...more

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