Belfast: Budget-Friendly Things To Do

Embark on an adventure in Belfast that won’t break the bank! Dive into maritime history, stroll through lush gardens, and witness stunning murals – all for little to no cost. Discover a side of the city that’s both enriching and affordable.

Belfast’s Titanic Experience: Dive into Maritime History

Cost: There’s an entrance fee, but opting for the Discovery Tour is a budget-friendly choice.

Things to do: Explore the ship’s historic significance at Titanic Belfast. Interactive galleries, underwater exploration, and recreations offer insight into the iconic ship’s story.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Titanic Quarter, just a short walk away. Multiple bus lines, including route numbers 26, 26B, and 26C, service the area for convenient access.

Location/Address: Titanic Belfast, 1 Olympic Way, Queen’s Road, Titanic Quarter, Belfast BT3 9EP

Open Days/Hours: Usually open daily, but it’s best to check online for current hours (usually varies from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm/09:00 – 17:00)

Belfast Botanic Gardens: An Oasis of Natural Beauty

Cost: Free

Things to do: Wander amongst vibrant flower beds and exotic tree species in Belfast’s Botanic Gardens. Don’t miss the Palm House and the Tropical Ravine for an enchanting horticultural experience.

Local transportation: Botanic Train Station is just a short walk away, with bus routes 7a, 7b, and 29 providing convenient access to the gardens.

Location/Address: College Park Ave, Belfast BT7 1LP

Open Days/Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset (times vary throughout the year)

Explore the Belfast City Hall in Belfast

Cost: Free entry

Things to do: Discover the grandeur of Belfast City Hall. Join a guided tour, visit the captivating exhibitions or relax in the beautiful gardens. It’s a cultural encounter at no cost.

Local transportation: The nearest Metro station is Great Victoria Street station. Metro buses like routes 9A, 9B, and 9C serve the area around City Hall.

Location/Address: Belfast City Hall, Donegall Square, Belfast, BT1 5GS

Open Days/Hours: Open Monday to Saturday, 09:00 – 17:00 (9 AM – 5 PM)

Belfast Waterfront: Stroll and Discover

Cost: Free of charge

Things to do: Wander along the picturesque Belfast Waterfront. Take in stunning river views, visit public art installations, and explore the vibrant surroundings filled with cafes.

Local transportation: The nearest train stations are Central and Great Victoria Street. Metro lines available for nearby access include the 3A, 27, and 90.

Location/Address: Waterfront Hall, 2 Lanyon Pl, Belfast BT1 3WH

Open Days/Hours: Accessible daily, 24 hours (24h format)

Belfast’s Ulster Museum: A Journey Through History and Culture

Cost: Free

Things to do: The Ulster Museum offers a treasure trove of artifacts steeped in Irish history, art, and natural sciences. Enjoy exhibits ranging from ancient relics to modern masterpieces. It’s ideal for a day of learning and exploration.

Local transportation: Botanic Train Station is nearby. Metro bus lines such as 7A, 7B, and the 8A also provide convenient access to the museum.

Location/Address: Ulster Museum, Botanic Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5AB

Open Days/Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10:00 – 17:00 (10 AM – 5 PM); Closed on Mondays, except for Northern Ireland bank holidays.

Belfast Street Art: Discover the City’s Vibrant Murals

Cost: Free

Things to do: Embark on a mesmerizing journey through Belfast’s urban canvas. Explore colorful murals and graffiti that tell stories of the city’s history and culture. A must-do for art lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Local transportation: Donegall Square East and City Hall bus stops offer easy access. For a closer view, the metro operates nearby with stops including Castle Junction and Queen’s Square.

Location/Address: Various locations around Belfast city centre, notably the Cathedral Quarter

Open Days/Hours: Public art is available to view 24/7

Belfast’s Cave Hill: An Adventurer’s Delight

Cost: Free

Things to do: Embark on a hike up Cave Hill for breathtaking city views and discover the cave that inspired Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels. It’s also an ideal location for nature photography and observing Belfast from above.

Local transportation: The nearest train station is Yorkgate Station. Buses like the 1A, 1E, and 2A also provide routes to Antrim Road, which is near Cave Hill.

Location/Address: Cave Hill Country Park, Antrim Road, Belfast, BT15 5GR

Open Days/Hours: Accessible all year, dawn to dusk

Belfast: Discover the Charm of St. George’s Market

Cost: Free entry

Things to do: Browse through the vibrant stalls at St. George’s Market, one of Belfast’s oldest attractions. Find local crafts, fresh produce, and enjoy live music from local artists during your visit.

Local transportation: The nearest train station is Central Station, a short walk away. Metro services like the 5A, 6B, and 7A offer convenient access.

Location/Address: 12-20 East Bridge St, Belfast BT1 3NQ

Open Days/Hours: Friday 06:00 – 15:00 (6 AM – 3 PM), Saturday 09:00 – 15:00 (9 AM – 3 PM), Sunday 10:00 – 16:00 (10 AM – 4 PM)

Discover the Belfast Castle: A Historical Gem

Cost: Free admission

Things to do: Explore the grandeur of Belfast Castle, nestled on the slopes of Cave Hill. Wander through its well-kept gardens, enjoy the stunning city views, or delve into the castle’s history at the visitor exhibition.

Local transportation: The nearest bus station, Donegall Quay, offers several lines connecting to the city center. Taxis are also readily available for a more direct route.

Location/Address: Belfast Castle, Antrim Road, Belfast BT15 5GR

Open Days/Hours: Open daily, 09:00 – 17:00 (9 AM – 5 PM)

Belfast’s Peace Wall: A Symbol of History and Hope

Cost: Free

Things to do: Witness a poignant piece of Belfast’s history at the Peace Wall. Experience the murals telling stories of peace and conflict, and leave your message of hope on the wall.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Great Victoria Street. Local buses also stop nearby, facilitating access to the site.

Location/Address: Cupar Way, Belfast BT13 2RX

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, daylight hours recommended (approx. 8 AM – 6 PM / 08:00 – 18:00)

Belfast’s Ormeau Park: A Serene Escape in the Heart of the City

Cost: Free

Things to do: Ormeau Park offers a tranquil setting to gather your thoughts. Meander through tree-lined paths, admire the colorful flowerbeds, and enjoy the playgrounds if traveling with family. It’s an ideal place for jogging or a peaceful break.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stops are Ormeau Road and Ravenhill Road, serviced by several routes. There’s no metro in Belfast, but the extensive bus network makes it easy to reach the park.

Location/Address: Ormeau Park, Ormeau Road, Belfast, BT7 3GG

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, daylight hours

Belfast’s St. Anne’s Cathedral: A Serene Discovery

Cost: Free entry, donations welcome

Things to do: Experience the tranquility of St. Anne’s Cathedral. Admire its stunning architecture, explore the historical artifacts, and attend one of the frequent musical events or services.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Great Victoria Street. Bus lines like 61, 64 and 65 also stop nearby, making it easily accessible.

Location/Address: Donegall St, Belfast BT1 2HB, United Kingdom

Open Days/Hours: Open daily, 08:00 – 18:00 (8 AM – 6 PM)

Belfast’s Linen Hall Library: A Sanctuary of Knowledge

Cost: Free admission

Things to do: Delve into Northern Ireland’s rich literary heritage at the Linen Hall Library. Explore vast collections, attend enlightening lectures, or unwind with a book in this historic setting.

Local transportation: Donegall Square North Bus Stop is the nearest. Metro services like the 11, 13 and 14 lines frequently run nearby.

Location/Address: Linen Hall Library, 17 Donegall Square N, Belfast BT1 5GB

Open Days/Hours: Monday to Friday, 09:30 – 17:30 (9:30 AM – 5:30 PM), Saturday, 09:30 – 16:00 (9:30 AM – 4 PM)

Belfast: Discover the Charm on Cycle the Lagan Towpath

Cost: Free

Things to do: Embark on a journey along the tranquil Lagan Towpath. Absorb the picturesque landscapes by cycling or walking, and maybe spot local wildlife along the riverbank.

Local transportation: Access the towpath from Donegall Quay. Local buses serve nearby routes, and the Botanic Train Station is within walking distance.

Location/Address: Lagan Towpath, Belfast, BT1 3LP

Open Days/Hours: Always accessible

Belfast: Attend a Free Festival

Cost: No charge

Things to do: Join the lively atmosphere of Belfast’s free festivals. Experience culture, music, and art at events like the Belfast Film Festival or Culture Night Belfast, soaking in the vibrant local scene.

Local transportation: The Great Victoria Street station is nearby, with bus lines such as the 9A, 9B, and 10H linking you to the various venues throughout the city.

Location/Address: Various locations across Belfast

Open Days/Hours: Varies by festival; typically annual events

Belfast Murals: Dive into the City’s Living History

Cost: Exploring the murals is free.

Things to do: Embark on a walking tour to view the famous Belfast Murals and learn about Northern Ireland’s rich history. Great for cultural insight and photography enthusiasts looking to capture the essence of Belfast.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Great Victoria Street. Buses such as the 11, 12, and 13 stop near the mural locations, making them easily accessible.

Location/Address: Various locations around Belfast including Falls Road and Shankill Road

Open Days/Hours: Public murals can be viewed any day, any time.

Belfast: Discover Queen’s University’s Historic Campus

Cost: Entry is free

Things to do: Explore the impressive architecture of Queen’s University. Walk through its historic quadrangles, visit the charming Naughton Gallery, and relax in the beautifully landscaped Botanic Gardens adjacent to the university.

Local transportation: Botanic Train Station is nearby, with Translink running buses and trains that connect to the rest of Belfast.

Location/Address: Queen’s University Belfast, University Road, Belfast BT7 1NN

Open Days/Hours: Grounds are accessible throughout the year, buildings generally open from 07:00 – 22:00 (7 AM – 10 PM) on weekdays, with variable hours on weekends.

Stranmillis Embankment: Relaxing Picnic Spot by the River Lagan

Cost: Free

Things to do: Enjoy a laid-back picnic alongside the tranquil River Lagan. Bring a book, some snacks, and bask in the scenic riverside views. Ideal for a casual jog or a serene evening walk.

Local transportation: No metro in Belfast, but the nearest bus stops include Stranmillis Embankment and Sharman Road, serviced by routes like 8a, 8b, and 8c.

Location/Address: Stranmillis Embankment, Belfast, BT7 1GB

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, daylight hours recommended

Belfast: Enjoy a Free Walking Tour

Cost: Complimentary

Things to do: Discover Belfast’s rich history and vibrant culture on a free walking tour. Explore historic landmarks, marvel at street art, and uncover hidden gems as your guide shares intriguing stories.

Local transportation: Great Victoria Street and Belfast Central train stations are nearby. Metro buses such as the 1a, 2b, and 7a offer convenient access.

Location/Address: Meeting points vary; typically at Belfast City Hall.

Open Days/Hours: Tours often run daily; confirm schedule with tour providers.

Belfast: Marvel at the Sculptures in CS Lewis Square

Cost: Free

Things to do: Explore the inspiring sculptures that celebrate CS Lewis’ legacy in art. Delight in discovering characters from ‘The Chronicles of Narnia’ and enjoy the well-designed landscape. Ideal for a relaxing stroll and literary admiration.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stop is located on the Newtownards Road. Multiple bus routes frequent this stop, ensuring easy access to the square for everyone.

Location/Address: CS Lewis Square, Belfast, BT4 1FB

Open Days/Hours: Accessible 24/7, the perfect anytime escape.

Conclusion

Finding delightful experiences in Belfast that won’t break the bank is absolutely possible. Our top recommendations for free and cheap activities include strolling through Belfast Botanic Gardens and exploring the immersive Titanic Belfast’s Discovery Tour. These sites offer enriching experiences that capture the essence of the city’s heritage and natural beauty.

Travelers taking the journey to London by bus or London by train will find that these attractions are easily accessible and provide a memorable experience without the high cost.

Pro Tip: Maximize your visit to Belfast by combining free attractions like the Botanic Gardens with the affordable Titanic Discovery Tour. Utilize the well-connected local transportation for economical travel, ensuring a full day of exploration and discovery.