Belfast is Ireland’s second city, with plenty to see and explore.
Belfast is a growing metropolis ready for a post-pandemic world with its vibrant nightlife, rich sporting culture, breadth of history, and welcoming, witty, and warm population.
And so, a city with such depth is bound to possess a litany of landmarks unique to its bricks and mortars and familiar to both its people and visitors alike.
Here are the top ten most famous landmarks in Belfast, ranked!
10. Stormont (Parliament Buildings) – the home of power-sharing politics
Kicking off our list of the top ten most famous landmarks in Belfast is Stormont, home of Parliament Buildings and the sitting place of the Assembly where MLAs discuss and ultimately pass laws.
Once a bastion of the unionist stronghold that once governed the North, it is now the abode of power-sharing politics. Situated in the city’s far east, you can spot its distinctive pillars from most vantage points in the city.
Address: Ballymiscaw Rd, Stormont, Belfast BT4 3XX
9. Ulster Museum – Belfast’s vault to the past
Opening in 1929, the Ulster Museum is Belfast’s vault to the past with its vast collection of impression and important historical artefacts, ranging from the remains of dinosaurs to its golden treasure, the mummified body of the ancient Egyptian mummy, Takabuti.
The museum is now sporting the ‘We’re Good to Go’ industry-standard mark, meaning it is welcoming back visitors and one of Belfast’s most famous landmarks is now ready for your eager eyes to glance at history’s tales.
Address: Botanic Gardens, Belfast BT9 5AB
8. Botanic Gardens – Belfast’s Victorian past
The Botanic Gardens is the natural successor to the Ulster Museum on this list of the most famous landmarks in Belfast, as it neighbours the museum and makes the perfect next trip.
The Botanic Gardens is part of Belfast’s Victorian heritage, becoming a public park in 1985. It is one of Belfast’s most popular green spaces and is home to tropical plants, a rose garden, and many sculptures.
Address: College Park Ave, Botanic Ave, Belfast BT7 1LP
7. Queen’s University – the bastion of Belfast education
Queen’s University, Belfast, founded in 1845, is one of Ireland’s most prestigious universities and ranked 200 by the World University Rankings 2021.
Its impressive architecture is a constant in south Belfast life, and its beauty is best captured on a sunny summer’s day with the sun shining above.
Address: University Rd, Belfast BT7 1NN
6. St George’s Market – one of most famous landmarks in Belfast
Built between 1890 and 1896, St George’s Market is situated in Belfast’s city centre. Its attraction as one of the most famous landmarks in Belfast was bolstered by a 1997 £4.5 million refurbishment.
Open Friday to Sunday, it is a haven of fresh food produce and is required visiting if you are lucky enough to grace the streets of Belfast City Centre.
Address: St George’s Market, East Bridge St, Belfast BT1 3NQ
5. Ulster Hall – the pulse of Belfast live music
With live music soon to return to the concert venues of Belfast, we recommend you look out for the acts set to perform at the Ulster Hall.
Among its magnificent list of artists to perform here, perhaps most impressive is that Led Zeppelin debuted ‘Stairway to Heaven’ here.
Address: 34 Bedford St, Belfast BT2 7FF
4. Clonard Monastery – home of the Novena
The Clonard Monastery in the heart of the Clonard area of west Belfast and is one of the most famous Catholic Churches in all of Ireland.
Built in 1897 in French Gothic style, it is the host of the Clonard Novena, where thousands descend upon the Church daily for nine days in June.
Address: 1 Clonard Gardens, Belfast BT13 2RL
3. Harland & Wolff – the towering cranes of Belfast
Also known as the Samson and Goliath cranes, these towering yellow structures dominate the city skyline. They are undoubtedly one of the most famous landmarks in Belfast.
Situated in the Port of Belfast, they are the largest free-standing cranes in the world. Built between 1969 and 1974, they serve as constant guides to the city’s coastal lines.
Address: Queens Rd, Belfast BT3 9DT
2. Cavehill – for cliff-edge views of the city
Casting its eyes over the entire Belfast landscape from 368 m (1207 ft) high, the Cavehill mountain trail has become one of Belfast’s most popular attractions.
With Napoleon’s Nose domineering the cliff edge, take a trek to the summit. Here, cast an eye on any one of the most famous landmarks in Belfast.
Address: Newtownabbey BT36 7WH
1. Titanic Belfast – Belfast’s monument to its sunken past
Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, principal of the most famous landmarks in Belfast, brings back to the surface the famous unsinkable Titanic Ship that left her shores in 1912.
This world-leading visitor attraction is the focal point of Belfast’s maritime mile. Opening in 2016, it marks Belfast’s intent for the future.
Address: Titanic House, 6 Queens Rd, Belfast BT3 9DT
Find Your Dream Hotel in Ireland
On the hunt for the ultimate hotel for your Irish adventure? Explore a curated selection ranging from the charming heritage of boutique accommodations in Dublin's vibrant heart to the tranquil luxury of rural retreats and the captivating coastal vistas. Start your search below to find the perfect stay with our trusted hotel partner.
