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More and more women are traveling to Belfast solo, and I was one of them! I had only planned on visiting Belfast for one day, but I loved it so much I stayed for three! Belfast itself is pretty small, so if you don’t have a lot of time, you could do Belfast in one day. But preferably, you want to have a little more time. This is how to spend 3 days in Belfast solo!
This post will give you information on what to do, where to stay, and the restaurants you must check out in Belfast. Enjoy exclusive travel tips written by a solo traveler for a solo traveler!
How To Spend 3 Days In Belfast Solo
Your Trip to Belfast – Getting Here
There are a few different ways to get to Belfast City Centre.
If you are coming direct from the United States, you will likely fly into Belfast International Airport. Below is the list of how to reach Belfast City Centre from various starting points:
- Belfast International Airport to Belfast City Centre by bus or taxi is approximately 30-minutes traffic, depending. Take the Airport Express 300, which runs every 15 to 20 minutes on weekdays and weekends. You will find the bus stop is located opposite the terminal exits. The timetable Cost of the ticket is £8 (single) £11.50 (return).
- Belfast City Airport to Belfast City Centre is very convenient via public transportation. Take Airport Express 600 Service from the airport to the city center. The journey only takes about 10 minutes. Buses run every 30 minutes. Here is the timetable.
- Belfast Main Train Station to Belfast City Centre is reachable by foot in only about 10 minutes. If you are not traveling with many bags, I suggest walking.
Once you have arrived, it is time to plan how to spend 3 days in Belfast! And if you are still unsure should travel to Belfast alone, I have listed some reasons below why you should highly consider it!
Reasons Why It’s Great To Visit Belfast Solo
Belfast ranks high 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! Many day tours available 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. Is Belfast safe for solo travelers? As a solo female traveling myself, safety 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 lovers, here some fun facts about Belfast!
Free Google Map of Belfast
Waterproof Travel Gear
Belfast Day 1 Itinerary Overview
- 9 am – 9:45 am Breakfast at Pottinger’s Belfast
- 10 am -2 pm Titanic Museum & Lunch
- 2:15 pm – 2:30 pm check out the Glass of Thornes art installation
- 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm Crumlin Road Gaol Prison Tour
- 5:30 pm Cathedral Quarter Explore & Dinner
Day 1 in Belfast
Breakfast at Pottinger’s Belfast
If you want to go out for breakfast on your 1st day in Belfast, Pottinger’s Belfast is just the place! They serve up delicious french toast with real maple syrup and make a great cappuccino.
Located in the heart of Belfast, this breakfast spot is a good place to fuel up and start your day! Wear comfortable shoes and check the weather for other accessories you may need to keep warm and dry. There will be a fair amount of walking today!
Self-Guided Tour of the Titanic Museum
Titanic Queen’s Road, The Titanic Quarter 1, Olympic Way, Belfast BT3 9EP
Opening Times – Daily 10 AM to 5 PM
One day one of your 3 days in Belfast itinerary let’s start at the Titanic! For me, it was a truly memorable day! Typically I am not a museum person, but this a part of history I had to check out.
This impressive museum opened its doors in 2012 at 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.
Probably the coolest interactive museum I have ever been to! You will experience the first-hand sights, sounds, and smells of what it was like to be part of the Titanic story.
Plan to spend at least 3 – 4 hours here including eating lunch at the onsite restaurant!
>> GET TICKETS TO TITANIC MUSEUM
Visit the Iron Throne- Glass of Thrones
Victoria Road, Belfast BT3 9DU
Opening Times 24 hours daily
After your visit to the famous Titanic museum, you should go get a look at the Glass of Thrones!
The Glass of Thrones is a mesmerizing public art installation located within a 10-minute walk from the Titanic!
Inspired by the hit HBO series Game of Thrones, this installation features over 90 stained glass panels that depict the scenes from the show.
Each window was handcrafted by local artists, who used a variety of techniques like sandblasting and painting to bring this installation to life!
The windows tell the tale of the series and its characters in a unique way, while also paying homage to Belfast’s industrial past.
Although the installation isn’t linked to Game of Thrones filming locations, it is a cool thing for any GOT fan to check out!
Take a Tour of Crumlin Road Gaol
After your tour of the Titanic and Glass of Thrones grab a taxi with B Cabs they have an app for both Andriod and iPhone. I suggest you download it before arriving. The journey from The Titantic and Crumlin Road is about a 10-15 min ride for about £5.
Crumlin Road Gaol is a top attraction and a stop on the Hop On Hop Off bus tour.
The Crumlin Road Gaol (also known as Belfast Prison) is a former prison located on Crumlin Road in Belfast, NI.
It was built between 1843 and 1845 by Sir Charles Lanyon and his brother W.H. Lynn to replace an earlier gaol on the site which had become overcrowded.
The goal was closed in 1996 and has since been transformed into a museum and tourist attraction.
They offer a variety of tours such as daily guided, historic evening, paranormal, and ghost walk. I did a daytime tour and it was spooky enough for me.
I can’t quite explain it, but you feel a sense of dread still lingering in those halls. Before the tour ends you get to visit the executioner room. This is where all the hanging took place, fantastic, right?
The tour of this historic site should take you about 2 hours to complete.
>> GET TICKETS TO CRUMLIN ROAD GAOL
Explore the Cathedral Quarter
After your prison tour, it will be getting close to dinner time! A great place with lively pubs and good food is the Catherdal Quarter! The walk from the prison to the Cathedral Quarter is 15 minutes.
The Cathedral Quarter in Belfast is a historic and vibrant area located in the heart of the city. It’s home to many of the city’s iconic landmarks, including St. Anne’s Cathedral and its two spires that dominate the skyline.
My FAVORITE pub for some drinks and food is The Dirty Onion. If you are wanting something more upscale you should check out Six By Nico.
The Cathedral area of Belfast is safe for solo females traveling! I spent all my time in the evenings here alone. Just always be aware of your surroundings as you would be in your home city.
Belfast Day 2 Itinerary Overview
- 10 AM – 11 AM Political Taxi Tour
- 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Belfast Castle Or Belfast Zoo
- Lunch
- 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm Botanical Gardens or Belfast City Market
- 5:30 PM Dinner at White’s Tavern, the oldest pub in the city
Day 2 in Belfast
Political Taxi Tour of Belfast Peace Wall
To kick off your 2nd solo day in Belfast take a tour of the Peace Walls in Northern Ireland. The Hop-on Hop-Off bus ticket also has a stop to view these murals but taking by taking this private one-hour tour is better.
One of the great features of this tour is the flexible booking time. This tour starts on the hour each hour. You can choose a little later time than I suggest if that works better for you. The pickup of this tour is at Jury’s Inn in central Belfast.
The Peace Walls have been around since the 1970s. They are a representation of what is referred to as The Troubles of Northern Ireland.
These peace walls are quite literally a physical barrier used to separate neighborhoods between the Catholics and Protestants.
On this tour, you will visit murals from both sides of the conflict and learn interesting facts about Belfast. Get exclusive tips on what to see and do in Belfast from a local!
>> BOOK THE POLITICAL TAXI TOUR
Take A Solo Tour of Belfast Castle
Belfast Castle Antrim Road, Belfast BT15 5GR
Opening Times 9 am to 6 pm Daily
After the Peacewall Tour, plan to go check out Belfast Castle! The fastest and most direct route to the castle from The Jury Inn is by taking a Taxi. It is only 15 mins away, without traffic.
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 to tour the inside and grounds. Also, you will find the on-site cafe great for coffee and other refreshments.
Visit The Belfast Zoo
Alternatively, you could opt out of the castle and opt in for the Belfast zoo. If you are a zoo lover, 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 link has all the information on the opening times, costs, and directions.
Belfast Zoo is one of the #1 tourist attractions in Northern Ireland.
Annually about 300,000 people visit. The zoo is 55-acre (22 ha) and contains more than 1,200 animals and 140 species.
Check Out The Belfast Food Market
The United Kingdom’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 if you are solo in Belfast.
If you are visiting on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, have a look below at what you can expect from the Belfast City Market!
The Variety Market On FRIDAY
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 crafts, 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
The market is packed with local artists and vendors if your visit falls on a Sunday. 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.
Tour The 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 University 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.
Belfast Day 3 Itinerary Overview
Full Day Giant’s Causeway & Game of Thrones Tour! This 9.5-hour tour takes you all over Northern Ireland’s most incredible spot! Full tour details are below! The tour ends around dinner time, check out the list of my most recommended restaurants further on down.
Day 3 In Belfast
Giant’s Causeway Coast & Game of Thrones Tour
Giants Causeway & Game of Thrones Tour
For your 3rd and final day solo in Belfast, take a tour of Giants Causeway!
From Belfast, you can experience all Northern Ireland has to offer. The coastal route to Giant’s Causeway is one of a kind! And unless you are renting a car on your own, you will need to book a tour.
There are SEVERAL companies to choose from when booking this tour. My advice is to research precisely what you are looking for and get tickets ahead of time. You can book this tour even if you are unfamiliar with the HBO show Game of Thrones.
The tour will take you to all the significant film locations while explaining the history of the land. The guide will unveil detailed information on the filmed scenes and props for photography. It was fantastic!
The stops on this tour include:
Crossing of Carrick-A-Rede-Rope Bridge
You can cross the Carrick a rede rope bridge if you are brave enough! It is a suspended bridge across a 30-meter deep and 20-meter-wide chasm. If you are not visiting with a tour, book in advance.
Visit Unesco World Heritage Site Giant’s Causeway
On this guided tour, you explore the 40,000 interlocking hexagonal stone columns at Giant’s Causeway. Along the way, the tour operator will fill you in on the history of the stones and the surrounding area.
Take Photos at the Dark Hedges
One of the highlights of this tour was visiting the famous Dark Hedges in Ballymoney. The Stuart family planted a long landscape of mystical-looking trees in the eighteenth century.
This tour is Game of Thrones-themed, and props are made available if you want to participate.
I would highly recommend this tour as a way to spend one of your 3 days in Belfast. As a solo traveler, this is a great way to make friends.
Dress Warm in Belfast
What Else to Do Solo in Northern Ireland
One of the best parts about traveling solo is being in charge of your itinerary. There are many things to do in Belfast to keep you busy! These are some great tours to join if you are looking to make some friends on your trip!
Key sites and tours to consider in Belfast
Visit Albert 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 place for sailors and prostitutes.
Now it’s a lovely square to visit and a perfect spot for those Instagram-worthy photos.
Where to Spend 3 Nights Solo in Belfast
When traveling solo, I 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!
Ten Square Hotel
I stayed at the Ten Square Hotel located in the center of Belfast! Very stylish, clean, and modern rooms. The hotel has free Wi-Fi and a nice restaurant/bar on the first floor.
>> Check Prices
Bullitt Hotel
When I return to Belfast, I will stay 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.
>> Check Prices
Malmaison Hotel
Malmaison Hotel is a centrally located hotel that offers a modern and contemporary style and high classic comfort. Modern bars and restaurants serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
>> Check Prices
The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast
The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast might be the fancier hotel I’ve seen. Champagne wishes and caviar dreams can be fulfilled while staying at this luxurious hotel. Don’t forget to book afternoon tea for a true British Experience.
>> Check Prices
Titanic Hotel Belfast
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.
>> Check Prices
The Merchant Hotel
The Merchant 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.
>> CHECK PRICES
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! You know what I mean if you have ever traveled with someone. Making decisions on where to get a meal can sometimes be difficult. When you are on your own, the choice is all yours!!
Breakfast & Lunch
Town Sq – University District
Town Square is the solution to breakfast and lunch while visiting Belfast. This place offers quality and creativity in its menu.
French Village -University District
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.
Harlem Cafe -City Center
This place has a lively and fresh interior, offering breakfast and weekend brunch! Located centrally near a live music venue, Ulster Hall.
Dinner & Drinks
Ox City Center
Ox served up one of the best meals on my trip. A Michelin-starred restaurant in downtown Belfast, they have a prefix for lunch and dinner and an Irish Drink Menu.
Ginger Bistro
Ginger Bistro is located in the city center. This bistro has been awarded as one of the finest restaurants in Belfast! They have an ala carte, prefix, and vegetarian menu.
The Dirty Onion – Cathedral Quarter
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. The Cathedral Quarter is one of Belfast’s more lively and trendy areas.
The end of your 3-day Belfast trip
When the journey through the history of Northern Ireland ends, keep that party going and perhaps take a trip to Dublin!
Travel solo down south and enjoy the live music of Irish folk songs and the home of the Guinness.
FAQ’s
I have visited Belfast solo a number of times. While there are areas of Belfast you don’t want to walk around alone at night, there are many safe neighborhoods for solo females.
Just like you would do in your own city or town, look up the safety reports and stay in the central tourist areas. I would highly recommend solo travel in Belfast.
There is no bad time to visit Belfast, but the month of September or October is my favorite time. The weather can be somewhat unpredictable, so when you visit pack for all seasons!
The busiest time to visit Belfast is July and August. Early June is also a great time to visit Belfast!
Solo female travel to Ireland is very popular! If you join walking tours or tours of small groups you will often find women traveling alone.
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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!)