Explore Belfast by walking. This will give you a chance to discover interesting alleyways that might lead to an out-of-the-way shop or a welcoming neighborhood pub. If you want to explore further, Belfast has an excellent public transportation system, but for first-time tourists, it is better to explore the city on foot. You can start by visiting the Cathedral Quarter, Belfast's historic district. Queen's Quarter, the more bustling, modern part of the city, is also navigable on foot.
Belfast comes alive in the evening. Upscale nighttime venues like Apartment provide high-end cocktails and amazing views of the skyline. In addition, there is a host of nightclubs and live music venues, both large and small, throughout the city. However, it is the smaller neighborhood pubs that are often the most memorable. Older pubs, some with histories of 200 years or more, have warm, welcoming atmospheres and equally warm clientele.
Belfast has several important cultural landmarks, including Saint George's Market, the City Hall building, and the political murals along The Falls Road. The rich history is also visible in the architecture and the museums found throughout the city. Belfast has a fledgling tourism industry compared to neighboring Dublin. It has a raw, undiscovered quality that makes it attractive for those travelers who want to get away from standard tourist activities and mix with local residents.
