Belfast is Northern Ireland's gateway to Irish history and boasts an Ireland experience unlike any other. This vibrant city offers visitors much more than the dramatic, somewhat negative news we have heard in the past.  With just one visit to Belfast, visitors will be able to experience this dynamic, artistic city that radiates fine living, traditional festivities and old-world Irish charm.

In the heart of the city is the Belfast City Hall which was built in the early 20^th century. It sticks out as a landmark attraction and is seen from all areas of the city because it has a monumental green copper dome. Just to the north of Belfast City Hall is Saint Anne's Cathedral which was developed in the 19^th century and is an Anglican Church. Known for its past history of religious and political hostility, Belfast is now a safe and beautiful city to explore and visit.

Visitors who make the effort to visit Dublin and Belfast within one Ireland vacation will immediately notice the amazing difference between the two famous cities.  Dublin is more for nightlife and entertainment lovers, while Belfast is completely the opposite and remains a tranquil and quiet city.  Now that Belfast has left its trouble behind, the tourism industry welcomes more and more visitors to the city every year for exploration.  Belfast may not have all of the tourism extras and amenities that world travelers seek when traveling the globe, yet it does want to encourage visitors to experience the history and traditional Irish culture located there. 

The harbour in Belfast is a major import and export portal for consumer goods, gas, oil, industrial and agricultural goods. Those who love the beach will enjoy award-winning blue flag beaches such as Tyrella in County Down and Portrush West Strand, while whiskey aficionados can enjoy some of Ireland's finest Irish whiskey at the oldest distillery in County Antrim known as Bushmill's. Museum enthusiasts can enjoy colourful day tours of the Walled City of Derry and Armagh City. 

Places of interest include the Ulster Folk Transport Museums, the Titanic's Dock, Stormont, Pumphouse, as well as the W5 interactive Science Discovery Centre and the Belfast Zoo which are famous among traveling families.  Art lovers will enjoy attending the annual Belfast festival which Irish talent matches up to those of Dublin and Edinburgh, while shoppers will love a visit to one of Belfast's many shopping areas and plazas.  Even though Belfast has not been a top European hot spot to visit in the past, it now is becoming increasingly popular with tourists for its great history, landmark attractions and picturesque sights. A visit to Northern Ireland is not complete without a visit to the developing city of Belfast.