What to do in Northern Ireland

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Northern Ireland

Top places to visit

1. Titanic Belfast

The Titanic Belfast is a large complex, with the appearance of a gleaming iceberg rising above the skyline near the River Lagan. It tells the story of the RMS Titanic, which sank on its maiden voyage from Southampton to New York in 1912. Learn the true story of the ship that inspired a 1997 Oscar-winning movie.

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Titanic Belfast which includes modern architecture and signage

2. Giant's Causeway

The beautiful natural rock formation that is Giant’s Causeway attracts visitors from all over the world for its wonderful views, abundant wildlife and intriguing natural history.

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Giant\'s Causeway showing general coastal views, a monument and heritage elements

3. Derry City Walls

The Derry City Walls are among the best examples in Europe of a fortified commune. Derry was one of the last cities in Europe to build a protective wall, which is well preserved today. Walk the walls and encounter churches, cannons and shops along the way.

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Derry City Walls showing street scenes and a city

4. Grand Opera House

Delight your senses with your choice of performances at the Grand Opera House in the heart of Belfast. The building was constructed in an Oriental style at the end of the 19th century. Select from musicals, dramas, operas, dance shows and comedies for an entertaining evening in the Northern Ireland capital.

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Grand Opera House featuring interior views, theatre scenes and heritage architecture

5. Dunluce Castle

Almost hanging off the edge of a cliff overlooking the Irish Sea, ancient Dunluce Castle was built as a symbol of power. Its precarious position at the edge of the cliff saw parts of the castle collapse into the sea in 1639, and the building was subsequently abandoned. Attracting walkers, history fanatics and photographers, the atmospheric ruins make for a wonderful sight and offer great photo opportunities.

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Dunluce Castle which includes château or palace, a ruin and rugged coastline

6. The Dark Hedges

The Stuart family, who wished to impress visitors to their home in the nearby Gracehill House, planted the beech trees here some 200 years ago. It is quite apparent from a visit here just how successful they were, as the Dark Hedges still astound visitors today.

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As if the undulating Irish countryside wasn’t magical enough, close to the town of Ballymoney you can treat yourself to a magical and mysterious moment with a visit to the Dark Hedges. This breathtaking avenue of gnarled beech trees lines the Bregagh Road close to the village of Armoy in County Antrim.

7. Belfast Castle

History lovers mustn’t miss out on a visit to Belfast Castle, the much-loved structure that can be seen throughout Belfast and which offers wonderful views over the city and surrounding area. Explore the castle’s spacious grounds, hike up Cave Hill or have a bite to eat in the castle’s cellar.

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Belfast Castle which includes a fountain, heritage architecture and château or palace

Discover the most popular places to visit in Northern Ireland

Titanic Belfast

4.5/5(30 reviews)

Arrive at the historic birthplace of the British passenger ship that sank in 1912 and learn about its tragic voyage.

Giant's Causeway

4.5/5(11 reviews)

Created millions of years ago by volcanic activity, this dramatic rock formation is one of Northern Ireland’s top attractions.

Queen's University of Belfast

3.5/5(6 reviews)

Explore the campus of Queen's University of Belfast during your trip to Belfast. Discover the acclaimed theatre scene in this walkable area or seek out the local tours.

Derry City Walls

4.5/5(11 reviews)

Walk beside the fortified ramparts from the 1600s that have survived several sieges and offer panoramic views of the Maiden City.

SSE Arena

4/5(13 reviews)

Catch an event at SSE Arena during your trip to Belfast. Discover the fascinating museums in this walkable area or seek out the local tours.

Grand Opera House

4.5/5(4 reviews)

Attend a mesmerizing spectacle in Belfast’s creative hub, which has been at the forefront of performing arts for over a century.

Dunluce Castle

3.5/5(7 reviews)

Don’t forget to bring your camera when you visit this striking medieval Irish castle that clings to a headland above the wild Irish Sea.

The Dark Hedges

4/5(6 reviews)

As if the undulating Irish countryside wasn’t magical enough, close to the town of Ballymoney you can treat yourself to a magical and mysterious moment with a visit to the Dark Hedges. This breathtaking avenue of gnarled beech trees lines the Bregagh Road close to the village of Armoy in County Antrim.

Belfast Castle

4.5/5(7 reviews)

One of Belfast’s most popular attractions, this beautiful and historic sandstone building gives great views over the city below.

Explore areas of Northern Ireland

Belfast City Hall showing heritage elements, heritage architecture and a castle

Belfast City Centre

Cosy bars a university vibe and top sights from Crown Liquor Saloon to Ulster Hall – discover Belfast City Centre, a destination also famous for its shopping.

St. George\'s Market featuring markets, food and shopping

Belfast Central District

4.5/5(68 area reviews)

The fantastic nightlife and popular shops are just a few highlights of Belfast Central District. Make a stop by Ulster Hall or Belfast Christmas Market while you're exploring the area.

Metropolitan Arts Centre showing modern architecture and a city

Cathedral Quarter

5/5(1 area review)

Cathedral Quarter is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to MAC Theatre and Belfast Customs House while you're in town.

Titanic Quarter

4/5(6 area reviews)

Titanic Quarter is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Titanic Belfast and SS Nomadic.

Queens Quarter

4.5/5(24 area reviews)

Queens Quarter is a destination visitors seek out for its ample dining options, fascinating museums and picturesque gardens. You might also want to check out attractions like Belfast Botanic Gardens or Ulster Museum while you're exploring the neighbourhood.