The FoF guide to Belfast & Northern Ireland
Belfast is a compact city with loads of great things to do, plus it's in easy reach of the rest of NI.
Here are our tips on how to get here and what to do...
Circusful, our HQ in Gordon St
How to get here...
By air
Flights from all major UK and European cities arrive at either of Belfast’s two airports. Belfast International is 19 miles from the city centre, and George Best Belfast City Airport three miles from the city centre.
By boat
Stena Line sails up to six times a day between Belfast and Cairnryan, and up to twice a day between Belfast and Liverpool. P&O sails up to nine times a day from Cairnryan to Larne, and twice a day from Troon to Larne from the end of March to end of September.
By bus
In the city, Translink Metro/Glider buses are very regular throughout the day. A single journey bus ticket starts at £2.20. Smartlink day tickets start at £3.70. For most up to date routes and fares, visit translink.co.uk.
By train
Lines run between Belfast and Dublin, Larne, Londonderry and points in between.
Contact Translink 028 90 66 66 30 or visit translink.co.uk for up-to-date timetables and fares
Things to see & do...
Discover Northern Ireland and Visit Belfast are excellent sources of information on what to do and see during your stay in Northern Ireland.
Here are some of our suggestions too...
Where to Stay...
Ramada
by Wyndham
Our Official Accommodation Partners!
Ramada by Wyndham Belfast is located in Cathedral Quarter Belfast - the most popular part of the city. Cathedral Quarter Belfast is home to some of the top bars and restaurants in Belfast, including the hotel's own SQ Bar & Grill restaurant.
The hotel offers 165 stylish bedrooms with walk in wet room with power shower, three bright meeting & events spaces, a relaxed and informal bar area, SQ Bar and Grill restaurant and free WiFi throughout.
Bullitt Hotel
Bullitt Hotel is a stylish and cleverly designed hotel with an urban atmosphere, offering top-quality accommodation in Belfast city centre. It has everything you need to eat, drink, work and play. Grab a bite to eat in Taylor & Clay, quench your thirst in the Courtyard bar or elevate your evening in Babel, their rooftop bar.
Premier Inn
Cathedral Quarter
Located in the bustling Cathedral Quarter, Premier Inn Waring Street is the ideal location for a visit to Belfast. The hotel is within easy walking distance of the major attractions in the City Centre and public transport. The Four Corners Bar and Restaurant serves contemporary classics in a relaxed atmosphere. Each stay is supported by a 'Good Night Guarantee' to ensure all guests have a great stay.
The Merchant Hotel
If you're looking for luxury during your stay then look no further!
The AA 5 Red Star Merchant Hotel in Belfast is situated in the heart of Belfast city centre’s historic Cathedral Quarter. The grandeur of the original Grade A listed building is complemented by an elegant art deco inspired wing with a multitude of exciting amenities.
Food & Drink
Common Market
Common Market combines a buzzing atmosphere, a great place to eat, drink and socialise, all in the heart of the city.
They have options for everyone with vendors catering for vegetarians and vegans, as well as a selection of gluten-free options. There are three fully-stocked bars with the best beer, wine, spirits and a fantastic range of cocktails.
Did we mention that they're dog friendly? Bring your pups along for some free treats and plenty of attention from the staff and customers!
Orto Pizza
An all-day Pizzabar with three locations in Belfast - including Belfast's Cathedral Quarter. Using wood-fired pizza ovens, Orto produce an all-day offering of focaccia and pizza, alongside a carefully curated specialty coffee and viennoiserie offering in the morning time.
Neighbourhood Café
Welcome to Neighbourhood Café, located on 33 Donegall Street. Their focus is on specialty coffee, a quality brunch offering and uniquely warm customer service in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
HJEM
HJEM coffee house, situated on the ground floor of Block BA at Ulster University (accessible via the Art Shop or Cathedral Gardens), offers a cozy retreat for anyone seeking a relaxing atmosphere.
Whether you're part of the University or simply passing by, feel free to drop by, grab a takeaway, or settle in for some work or a chat with friends.