Tourist Information Belfast

Whether it's your first time in Belfast or you're a returning visitor, the guide below will help you make the most of your trip, from transport links and NI-wide tours to iconic attractions and a bite-sized bit of local history.

Have a brilliant time, and if you capture any great moments along the way, feel free to share them with us on the City Tours Belfast Facebook page.

Arriving By Plane

George Best Belfast City Airport

Named after East Belfast’s legendary footballer George Best, Belfast City Airport is conveniently located just 3km east of the city centre, just off the A2 Sydenham Bypass.

By Bus:

The Airport Express 600 runs every 20 minutes during peak times (Monday to Saturday), with a reduced service on Sundays. Tickets cost £2.50 for a single or £3.80 return.

By Taxi:

Approved airport taxis charge around £10 for the short 10-minute journey into the city centre.

By Train:

Less frequent trains operate from the nearby Sydenham halt, connecting you to central Belfast or heading the opposite way toward Holywood and Bangor.

Belfast International Airport

Located approximately 29km north of Belfast city centre, Belfast International Airport is easily accessible via the M2 motorway.

By Bus:

The Airport Express 300 runs to the Europa Bus Station every 15 minutes during peak times (Monday to Friday), with a reduced service on Saturdays and Sundays, and hourly overnight. The journey takes 30–40 minutes and costs £7.50 for a single or £10.50 return.

By Taxi:

A taxi into the city centre takes around 30 minutes and costs approximately £28. A full list of sample fares is displayed in the airport’s exit hall.

By Train:

Please note there is no direct train connection to Belfast International Airport.

Arriving By Boat

Ferry Terminals

Belfast’s ferry terminals are located just 5–10 minutes north of the city centre by car, depending on traffic.

Isle of Man:

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company operates sailings between April and September, with a 3-hour crossing to Douglas Quay.

Scotland & Liverpool:

Stena Line offers Superfast ferry services to Cairnryan (2 hours 15 minutes) and to Liverpool, with both overnight and daytime crossings available (approximately 8 hours).

Arriving Across Border

Crossing the Border:

Northern Ireland shares a 360km border with the Republic of Ireland, stretching from Carlingford Lough to Lough Foyle. Border crossings are seamless with no passport checks.

Non-EU drivers should carry an International Driving Permit. Drive on the left on both sides of the border, and note speed limits are in kph in the Republic and mph in Northern Ireland.

Parking in Belfast:

There are around 1,300 on-street parking spaces in Belfast city centre. Meters charge £1.20 per hour (free Sundays and after 6pm) and accept coin, mobile, or card payments. Time limits range from 1–3 hours.

Private car parks vary in price, and Castle Court Car Park is closest to the first stop on our Belfast Hop on Hop off Tour.

Currency:

Northern Ireland uses Pound Sterling (£). NI-issued notes are legal tender across the UK, although some businesses in Great Britain may not recognise them—so it's best to exchange before travelling onward.

Safety:

Belfast is a safe city for tourists. If needed, call 999 or approach one of the many police officers patrolling the city on foot.

Smoking & Alcohol:

Smoking is banned in enclosed public spaces, including bars, restaurants, and certain vehicles. The legal drinking age in Northern Ireland is 18.

Telephone Dialling Codes:

From UK mobiles/landlines: dial 028 before any 8-digit Northern Irish number.
From abroad: use +44 (0)28
From the Republic of Ireland: prefix with 048

WiFi & Internet:

Free WiFi is available on most Translink bus and rail services, as well as in hotels, cafes, bars, and restaurants throughout the city.

Entertainment in Belfast

Cinemas:

The Odeon a world class chain of modern multiscreen cinemas showing the latest Hollywood blockbusters in state-of-the-art surroundings. The Victoria Square branch, which is perfectly placed for city centre film lovers looking to escape into a world of film.

The Queen’s Film Theatre, or QFT, is Northern Ireland’s leading arthouse cinema. Since 1968, it has been the cultural home of independent, classic, Irish, and international films. With two stylish screens and a fully licensed café bar, it's a must-visit for film fans looking for something a little different.

Holywood Bowl & SSE Arena: The Holywood Bowl at the SSE Arena is a massive entertainment hub featuring ten-pin bowling, pool tables, video games, a lively bar, and fast food options. From family fun to competitive nights out, it delivers across the board. Don’t miss Glow-Bowling (Wed–Sat), where UV lighting and music turn the lanes into a party. The Belfast Giant's, Northern Ireland’s elite ice hockey team, debuted at the Odyssey (now SSE Arena) in 2000 and quickly gained a loyal following.

With Canadian talent leading the charge, the team brings fast-paced, family-friendly action to the ice.

The Giants play from September to April and are known for their community-first, non-sectarian ethos—perfect for a thrilling night out.