I will be on a Business trip leaving on the 10th and returning on the 17th of May. I arrive on the 11th and have a free day and also have a free day on the 16th. Can anyone suggest things to do? The 11th I want to tour Belfast and the 16th I would like to see some Irish countryside. Getting up early and venturing out is not a problem. It's my first time to Ireland so I want to enjoy it. Thanks!
Posted by
Edmonton, AB, Canada
668 posts
You do not say how you will be travelling. For Belfast I would suggest the hop on hop off bus. Make sure you get off at Stormont. You may not get into the building, but the grounds are extensive and intereting. See the City Hall, and round the corner, the Europa Hotel, reputed to be the most frequently bombed hotel in the world! I suspect Iraq might have some to challenge that now! There is a mall, I do not remember iys name, but it has a glass geodesic dome which gives a good view over the city.
Beyond Belfast, go north along the coast to the Giant's Causeway, Dunluce Castle and Carrick-o-Rede Bridge.
Others may have other suggestions, but these are mine. Enjoy your trip, we did, but be prepared fo the weather.
Posted by
Adelaide, SA, Australia
977 posts
I totally agree with Ian's suggestions. One extra thing, if you have time, try to take a Black Taxi Tour of the Falls Road and Shankhill.
Posted by
Niagara Wine Country, Canada
808 posts
I'm with Iain. That's how I like to spend short BFS layovers. Go to the Market if you are there on a Saturday. Belfast is one of my top favourites!
Posted by
Bremen, Alabama, USA
52 posts
Iain has covered everything.
Posted by
Alexandria, Virginia, USA
504 posts
I haven't been their yet (going in Sept), but one thing on our list is the Botanic Garden which has a Palm House that dates to 1840. This may be a specialized interest, as my wife is a horticulturist, but if you like plants, too...
--Dav
Posted by
Sheboygan, Wisc., USA
934 posts
Ive used hop on hop off and like them.However in Belfast the bast way is to take a taxi tour.We had our B&B hostess arrange with a company she delt with.They picked us up at the B&B and we had a great 90 minute tour.We stopped often and the driver explained things to us.Id highly suggest it.
Posted by
London
3 posts
http://www.belfastattractions.co.uk is a brillant tour company that will bring you to the Shankill and Falls road.l hope this helps it helped us.George
Posted by
Monein, Pyrenees, France
425 posts
Check out what is on at the Opera House and the Waterfront Hall -- there may be a concert that appeals. Opposite the Europa Hotel (and the Opera House) is "the Crown". Great place for a pint of Guinness. They used to have a web-cam in there so you could phone the family and let them take a look at you boozing!!