If you’re visiting Belfast, here are some of the biggest mistakes tourists make that we want to help you avoid.
Belfast is a thriving city. The capital of the north, the home of Titanic and George Best, an underrated spot for nightlife – it has a lot going for it.
When tourists visit, there are certain mistakes they always make. So, from the point of view of a local, let us help you avoid these mistakes.
10. Bringing euros – you’d be surprised
Something we talk about further down this list is that a lot of the time, tourists visit Belfast on a day trip from the south.
But you’d be surprised how many of these people expect to pay with euros in Belfast. Be sure to pack some sterling or just use your card when visiting Belfast!
9. Expecting the worst – it’s not how it once was
Sometimes, tourists will arrive in Belfast expecting a warzone. They might anticipate feeling on edge or unsafe.
Belfast in 2023 isn’t the place it once was. People are generally friendly, welcoming, and the city is very safe in general. With that being said, be sure to explore the dark but important history of the city while you’re here.
8. Talking politics – just avoid it
While Belfast isn’t the city it once was during The Troubles, politics, divides, flags, Britishness, Irishness – it’s all still a touchy subject to some, so it’s best to just avoid it where possible.
With that being said, most people in Belfast in this day and age are open and progressive, but it’s still best to keep the subject at bay.
7. Visiting around 12 July – something to be aware of
This isn’t a mistake tourists make, just something many are unaware of or unprepared for when they visit around this time of year.
Marching season in Belfast, and wider Northern Ireland, runs between late May and mid-July. In certain areas of east, south, and even west Belfast, Orangemen march in the lead-up to 12 July to commemorate the Battle of the Boyne.
Tourists are often caught out by road closures as well as pubs, restaurants, and many other businesses being closed over 11 and 12 July.
6. Getting taxis everywhere – walk or take the bus
We will be the first to admit that transport in Belfast is not great. However, the city centre itself is extremely walkable, so don’t spend unnecessary cash by taxiing around.
Plus, with the Glider taking you from west to east through the city centre and multiple metros taking you in every direction of the city, it’s worth hopping on the bus to avoid wasting your money.
5. Not talking to the locals – we’re a friendly bunch
People from Belfast are notorious for being some of the friendliest folks. By talking to the locals, you’ll get a great insight into the city and, most likely, a free history lesson, too.
This is also a great way to find out a local’s guide to the city – insider tips, hidden gems, where to avoid, and more.
4. Only hitting the tourist spots – there is so much more to see and do
Titanic Museum, the Peace Walls, the City Hall, yes, they’re all great attractions in Belfast that highlight the history of the city.
However, one of the biggest mistakes tourists make when visiting Belfast is ONLY going to see these things.
Check out the lesser-known attractions in Belfast, like Banana Block in East Belfast, Ireland’s longest zipline at Colin Glen Forest Park, or a local play or show at the Lyric Theatre, to name a few.
3. Not enough time – spend more than a day in Belfast
A lot of the time, tourists visiting Belfast will set aside just one day to see the city. They’ll maybe even just do a day trip from Dublin and not spend the night.
Take a few days to explore Belfast and the surrounding area! Yes, you can see most of Belfast’s tourist attractions in just one day.
However, what you really want is the spare time to just meander around the city a little aimlessly. You nearly always discover your favourite spots off the beaten track this way!
2. Not venturing out of the city centre – explore the rest of the city
One of the biggest mistakes tourists make when visiting Belfast is only visiting the city centre. We recommend heading to South Belfast for the parks and excellent cafes.
East Belfast is up-and-coming as one of the best areas in the city, with an abundance of micro-breweries, markets, and more popping up more and more.
Make sure to explore the areas outside of the city centre; you’ll be pleasantly surprised!
1. The bars – don’t go off the tourist manuals
Belfast is full of great pubs and bars. The tourist manuals will probably point you in the direction of the likes of The Crown and The Duke of York.
These are great for a pint or two. However, if it’s DJ nights and cool vibes you’re after, check out the Ulster Sports Club. For trad music, friendly vibes, and a casual atmosphere – the Sunflower Bar.
Some other great bars in the city that you might not find in the big tourist guides are The Spaniard, Voodoo, and Maddens, to name a few.
