Arriving in Belfast, we immediately felt the city’s vibrant energy, a mix of rich history and modern culture. Our first stop was the Titanic Quarter, home to the stunning Titanic Belfast Museum. Walking through its interactive exhibits, we were transported back to the early 1900s, learning about the ship’s construction and tragic voyage.
Standing by the slipways where the Titanic was built gave us a real sense of the city’s shipbuilding legacy.
Next, we explored the Belfast City Hall in Donegall Square, where we were struck by its grandeur—the magnificent domes, intricate stonework, and towering columns made it a true architectural gem. Stepping inside, the stained-glass windows and marble halls reflected the city’s rich history and civic pride.
Just outside, we paused at the Cenotaph, a solemn memorial honoring those who lost their lives in war. The contrast between the building’s elegance and the quiet remembrance of the monument made our visit both awe-inspiring and deeply moving.
Walking into Belfast Cathedral, also known as St. Anne’s Cathedral, we were captivated by its stunning Romanesque architecture and peaceful ambiance. Above us, the Spire of Hope reached toward the sky, a modern addition symbolizing Belfast’s resilience and bright future.
The Albert Memorial Clock Tower, with its striking Gothic design and slight tilt, stood proudly in the heart of Belfast, a historic landmark that felt like the city’s own leaning tower.
From there, we wandered through St. George’s Market, where we sampled delicious local food — the best Irish stew we’d ever had.
The Assembly Buildings in Belfast, with their impressive Gothic Revival architecture and towering spire, stood as a striking reminder of the city’s rich political and religious heritage.
The Jaffe Memorial Fountain, with its elegant cast-iron design and vibrant colors, stood as a beautiful tribute to Belfast’s Jewish heritage, adding a touch of history and charm to the bustling city center.
The Belfast Jameson Whiskey Sculpture in the courtyard of the Bullitt Hotel on Church Lane caught our eye—a bold, modern tribute to Ireland’s whiskey heritage, perfectly blending art, culture, and a touch of urban cool.
To dive deeper into the city’s past, we took a private Black Cab Tour, which brought us through the Falls and Shankill neighborhoods. The murals on the Peace Walls told powerful stories of Belfast’s troubled history and resilience.
Standing before the mural of Bobby Sands on Falls Road, we were struck by its powerful imagery and the deep sense of history it represents, a tribute to his legacy and the turbulent past of Belfast.
The Workman Avenue Gates stood as a stark reminder of Belfast’s divided past, once separating communities during the Troubles. Seeing them today, partially open, symbolized the city’s progress toward healing and unity while acknowledging its history.
Hearing firsthand accounts from our driver was eye-opening, giving us a deeper understanding of the city’s past and how far it has come.
For a breath of fresh air, we walked up to Cave Hill, where the views over Belfast were breathtaking. Inspired by this, we also visited the lively Cathedral Quarter, where we visited a traditional pub, Kelly’s Cellars on Bank Street which felt like traveling back in time, with its low ceilings, stone walls, and the warm hum of lively conversation.
Sipping a perfectly poured Guinness while listening to traditional Irish music, we felt the true heart and soul of Belfast’s pub culture.Belfast surprised us with its mix of history, culture, and energy. From fascinating museums to buzzing nightlife, it was a city that left a lasting impression, and we couldn’t wait to explore more.
