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Belfast
Belfast, the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland and an integral part of the United Kingdom, beckons with its rich history, captivating sights, and warm hospitality. The Port of Belfast, a historic maritime hub established in 1613, has evolved into Northern Ireland's premier port, seamlessly blending rich heritage with modern infrastructure. Handling over 25 million tonnes of cargo annually, it is a vital artery for trade and commerce.
Beyond its commercial prowess, the port is a gateway to Belfast's key tourist attractions, including the iconic Titanic Belfast museum, celebrating the city's shipbuilding legacy, and the vibrant Cathedral Quarter, known for its arts and culture. The nearby Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, further enhances its appeal. With state-of-the-art facilities and strategic positioning, the Port of Belfast is integral to the region's economic vitality and a compelling destination for visitors.
Docking Locations: For large cruise ships, the primary docking point is Stormont Dock, situated three miles north of the city centre in Belfast Harbour. Smaller vessels may find their way to Pollock Dock, closer to town. If shuttle services are not provided, you can access City Hall, conveniently located beside the visitor information centre, by walking or taking bus 94 from the main road. Cruise schedules can be found here.
Money and Tipping: When it comes to currency, Northern Ireland employs the British Pound (GBP), and local banks issue their own notes at a 1:1 rate. While English Sterling notes are often mixed with local ones, it is advisable to request change in English notes for easier exchange outside of Northern Ireland. Banks typically exchange currency without charging a commission. In restaurants, a small tip of around 10-15% is appreciated.​​​
Local Transportation: While buses are readily available, many attractions within the city centre can be conveniently reached on foot. City Sightseeing offers Hop-On, Hop-Off (HOHO) bus tours from City Hall, providing a comprehensive way to explore the city. More information can be found here.​
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For a captivating day trip away from the bustling city, consider visiting Giant's Causeway, renowned for its extraordinary hexagonal rock formations. It is approximately 50 miles north of Belfast, and you can easily reach it within an hour by bus. The visitor's centre provides a shuttle service that takes you downhill to the shore, where you can embark on a memorable walk along the cliffs and explore the area. A helpful visitor guide is available here.
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Within Belfast itself, notable attractions include the option to partake in a Mural Tour (inquire at the visitor's center for more details), a visit to the impressive Belfast Castle (accessible via any bus 1, ranging from 1A to 1G, from the city center), and the renowned Titanic Belfast Exhibit, a popular tourist destination located near the port. While the Titanic Belfast Exhibit is visible from the cruise terminal, it is advisable to arrange transportation as it is a bit far to reach on foot. Further information is available here.
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​Indulge in a delightful shopping experience at Donegal Place and its surrounding pedestrian malls. If you venture north along Royal Ave, you'll find the Castle Court Centre Mall, while the Victoria Square Mall lies to the east, offering a public viewing area at its apex. St. George's Market on May Street is a fantastic farmer's market, while Smithfield Market, situated behind the Castle Court shopping centre, features an array of independent shops.
For a unique drinking experience, be sure to visit the Crown Liquor Saloon, heralded as the most beautiful pub in Northern Ireland. It sits across from the Europa Hotel, known for being the most bombed hotel in the world.
While exploring the city, many cafes and restaurants offer complimentary Wi-Fi services for their customers, allowing you to stay connected throughout your visit.
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Watch our Adventure!
We visit the TITANIC EXPERIENCE in Belfast on AMBASSADOR Ambience
Day 7 of our Ambassador Ambience cruise and we visited Belfast. We had previously visited the city on our second ever cruise on Marella Explorer. We had pre-booked tickets for the Titanic Experience directly and had to make our own way following the Titanic Trail in the city.
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