3 Days In Belfast Solo Travel
More and more women are traveling in Belfast solo, and fortunately, I was one of them! Belfast itself is pretty small, so if you don’t have a lot of time, you could just do Belfast in one day. But preferably, you wan to have 3 days in Belfast!
Belfast ranks high up on my list for solo travelers for many reasons.
#1. Belfast is reasonably priced. For a solo traveler, you do need to be budget-conscious. Northern Ireland is on the pound, so the exchange isn’t always the best, but in general, it’s less expensive than other UK cities.
#2. So much to do! There are many day tours available that will take you from Belfast, further north! If you are traveling as a solo female, making connections throughout your travels enriches the whole journey experience. Joining a day tour is the easiest way to have a chat and make new friends on the way. You will have several choices from Belfast.
#3. Safety, it’s safe. For a solo female traveling, this is the most critical factor in booking a trip. If you don’t feel comfortable walking around alone, then what’s the point? I felt protected and welcomed in Belfast.
For all you fact lover’s, here some fun facts about Belfast!
More Reasons To See Belfast Solo
I fell in love on the first day, on my 3 days in Belfast trip. Just like most European cities, Belfast is very walkable and easy to navigate. I took the train up from Dublin and walked from the station right into the center of the town. My main objective for visiting the north was to go on a Game of Thrones tour, which was a highlight for sure. More on tour later.
7 Best Sightseeing Spots in Belfast
#1. Titanic Museum
For a truly memorable day, visit the Titanic museum! This impressive museum opened its doors in 2012 on the Harland & Wolff shipyard.
The Titanic Museum sits in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter in the same spot where the RMS Titanic was built. Relive the stories of the Titanic, that hit an iceberg and sank during her maiden voyage in 1912.
Inside the museum, you can enjoy the visuals of presentations via video and sound. Outside you can visit the yard where the ship was constructed. Plan to spend at least 3 – 4 hours here if you are interested in learning all that you can.
#2. Belfast Prison
Crumlin Goal Road Prison is another top attraction and a stop on the bus tour. The prison closed as a prison in 1996, but open to the public. They offer a variety of tours such as daily guided, historic evening, paranormal, and ghost walk. If you have the time, it’s worth a visit.
#3. Belfast Food Market
The UK’s largest indoor food market is a great place to hit, especially for lunch. It’s located in the center of Belfast and is a great place to check out when traveling solo.
The Variety Market
Dating back to the year 1604, Fridays are called The Variety Market. Stroll around the 200 market stalls and shop for fruit, vegetables, antiques, books, clothes, and crafts.
Saturday City Food and Craft Market
If you visit on Saturday you can experience a variety of local and specialty foods. Saturdays is also a host to many vendors of handmade craft, plants, flowers, and local photography. This market is a place where you can relax and enjoy some music and food.
Craft & Antique Market For Sunday
If your visit falls on a Sunday, the market is packed with local artists and vendors. Often you can enjoy live music and local foods, and chocolates.
There is something for everyone at this wonderful food market. Be sure to squeeze in some time in your 3 days in Belfast. Have a look at the website for opening times.
#4. Belfast Castle
The Belfast Castle dates back to the 12th Century. Built originally by the Normans. The Castle itself is perched up on the hill of Cavehill Country Park overlooking Belfast.
This impressive castle is open to tourists for touring the inside and grounds. Also, you will find the on-site cafe great for coffee and other refreshments. The easiest way to reach the castle is by using the Hop-on, Hop-Off tour bus.
#5. Memorial Clock
Albert Memorial Clock stands in near the docks in Queen’s square and looks like a mini Big Ben. The memorial was constructed between 1865 and 1869, and in history was a meeting a place for sailors and prostitutes. Now it’s a lovely square to visit and a perfect spot for those Instagram worthy photos.
#6. The Belfast Zoo
If you are a zoo lover, then the Belfast Zoo is a lovely place to spend an afternoon. The Zoo is located a bit far away from the center of town, but easy to reach by local bus. The website linked has all the information on the opening times, costs, and directions.
Belfast Zoo is one of the #1 tourist attraction in Northern Ireland. Annually about 300,000 people visit. The zoo is 55-acre (22 ha) which contains more than 1,200 animals and 140 species.
#7. Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens of Belfast are located on the opposite side of the city from the Zoo. It is located very close to Queen’s Univerisity and by the Botanic train station. A lovely area of town to check out while in Belfast.
Established in the year 1828, the Botanic Gardens were created for the public interested in horticulture and botany. The park originated with exotic tree species and various plant collections. Even today, these can be seen all around the park.
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Where to Stay for 3 Days in Belfast
My opinion when traveling solo is to spend a little extra on the hotel. It can enhance your experience when you are on your own. It’s true; I am a sucker for a boutique hotel. I value quality for the money, so I recommend only the best!
Best Boutique Hotels Belfast
- Ten Square Hotel I stayed at this lovely hotel that is located in the very center of Belfast! Very stylish, clean, and modern rooms. The hotel has free wifi, and a nice restaurant/bar located on the first floor.
- Bullitt Hotel When I return to Belfast, I am staying at the hip and trendy Bullitt hotel. They have three room choices, something for every budget. Dinky Room, Comfy Room, and Roomy Room. Have a look at the website for more details.
- Malmaison Hotel This centrally located hotel offers a modern and contemporary style, and high classic comfort. Modern bar and restaurant serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Ultimate Luxury Hotels Belfast
If you are going to see Belfast solo and really treat yourself, these high-end hotels are the perfect match.
- The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast Champagne wishes and caviar dreams can be fulfilled while staying at this luxurious hotel. Don’t forget to book in for afternoon tea for true British Experience.
- Titanic Hotel Belfast If you are obsessed with the Titanic, you will be enchanted by this high-end hotel! Decorated in theme, this hotel is located on-site with the famous museum.
- The Merchant Hotel This hotel is the crown jewel in Belfast. It’s a historic palace-like building, transformed into a world-class hotel making it the most desirable place to stay. No other hotel can compete with the rooftop pool and views.
Eat Like A Queen For 3 Days in Belfast
One of the best things about being in Belfast solo is that you don’t have to compromise! If you have ever traveled with someone you know just what I mean. Having someone be part of the decision on where to get a meal can be difficult in some cases. When you are on your own, the choice is all yours!!
Outstanding Options for Breakfast & Lunch
- Town Sq is the solution to breakfast and lunch while visiting Belfast. This place offers quality and creativity in its menu.
- French Village is a cute and comfy spot to enjoy a nice breakfast or lunch. Located a bit south of the city center in the University area.
Top Places for Dinner & Drinks in Belfast Solo
- Harlem Cafe This place has a lively and fresh interior, offering breakfast and weekend brunch! Located centrally near a live music venue, Ulster Hall.
- Made In Belfast is a great choice for dinner! I ate there a few times, enjoying the fish dishes. Creative cocktails and indulgent desserts! Located in the center of the city.
- Ox – one of the best meals I’ve had was at Ox, a Michelin starred restaurant in downtown Belfast. They have a prefix for lunch and dinner, as well as an Irish Drink Menu.
- Ginger Bistro located in the city center. This bistro has been awarded as one of the finest restaurants in Belfast! They have al carte, prefix and vegetarian menu.
- The Dirty Onion When you are in the mood for a casual, end of the tour day, great food…go to the Dirty Onion. This place is great for drinks and fancy bar food fare. Indoor/outdoor seating, live music, and fantastic beer selections.
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Made in Belfast Fish and Chips -
Dinner at Made in Belfast
Game of Thrones Tour
It’s so important to have 3 days in Belfast so that you can have time for some day tours!
If you are a fan of Game of Thrones and come on, who isn’t??? You must get yourself signed up for the Game of Thrones tour! There are SEVERAL companies to choose from when booking this tour. My advice is to research out precisely what you are looking for and get tickets ahead of time. I used this tour for my journey through significant film locations and the history of the land. The guide will unveil detailed information on the scenes filmed, as well as props for photography.
The tour also brings you to the famous Carrick-A-Rede-Rope Bridge and Giant’s Causeway. During your tour, a lunch stop is planned, which will be at your expense. The tour was one of my favorite memories of all my travels. It is such a captivating experience, that I recommend you take the tour regardless of whether you are a fan of the show or not.
I had the pleasure to stay in a little village a couple of times. It is located around the north from Belfast, and about 20 mins by car. There is a train service, but if you plan on doing more of Northern Ireland, I would suggest getting a car. A visit to Carrickfergus wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the castle! For information and opening times, please visit the website Here.
Solo Female Day Trip to Bushmills
Now that you know how to see Belfast solo let me tell you about Bushmills! The Northern Ireland landscape is entirely breathtaking and truly magical! If you appreciate whiskey, Bushmills distillery is a must drop by location! The Bushmills Inn has all the charm and character you could ever ask for. Located right in the center of the town, and they have an excellent restaurant on-site. Be sure to visit the distillery for details, click here.
From Belfast, Bushmills is only 1 hour away by car. A reasonable day trip to fit into your journey for 3 days in Belfast.
For More Best Places To Travel Solo Female
When it comes to traveling in Europe, there is no shortage of places to visit. One of my favorite places in the world, and one of the best cities to travel alone, is Copenhagen.
Copenhagen might just be one of the easiest places to navigate as a solo female. The transit is fantastic, and the English language is widely spoken.
After your 3 days in Belfast, why not check out another city! I suggest that city be Copenhagen. Check out my post here for Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Chris says
Great blog! I’ve done a few of the Belfast spots and they’re great. North Coast and Game of Thrones will be next!
clairebromm says
Wow I would kill to go on a game of thrones tour! Looks like so much fun!!
Kelsey says
I did a solo trip to Ireland and LOVED it! Would absolutely love to go back and see Northern Ireland, though, as your photos look amazing. That one of you holding the sword looks EPIC haha.
Christine LiveLoveRunTravel says
I would love to come check out Northern Ireland sometime! It looks beautiful, and I think it would be a fun place for a road trip!
Roxanne Weijer says
Belfast is high on my list! When I’m back in Europe I definitely want to go. Thank you for these recommendations, the Belfast castle looks absolutely stunning (huge castle fan here!)