Which is the best city to visit, Dublin or Belfast?
It’s a tough call, as each has its own charms and attractions. With intriguing historical sites, modern day attractions, and beautiful scenery, both Belfast and Dublin have plenty to offer visitors.
Both offer a unique blend of culture, history and entertainment that make them both popular tourist destinations.
I spent four months in Ireland and have plenty of details to share with you!
So, let’s compare these two cities side by side to see which one will be the perfect destination for your next trip, Dublin or Belfast!

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Dublin vs Belfast: City Overview
Overview of Dublin
Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is a vibrant city full of life and culture. With over 1.2 million residents, Dublin is also the largest city in the Republic of Ireland.
Some people wonder ‘is Dublin in Northern Ireland?‘ Nope!
Located on the east coast of Ireland, this metropolitan area has been a popular tourist destination for centuries. With one-of-a-kind attractions such as the Guinness Storehouse and the Book of Kells, Dublin attracts over 10 million visitors each year from all around the world.
The city of Dublin spans both sides of the River Liffey and is home to numerous cultural institutions such as galleries, theaters and museums (many of them free, which is a big plus!).
Dublin’s lively nightlife scene is one of the things the city is best known for. From traditional pubs where you can enjoy local music to trendy restaurants serving up delicious Irish cuisine – there’s something for everyone in Dublin!
Overview of Belfast
Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is a bustling city that offers visitors an unforgettable mix of culture, history and entertainment. You’ll find Belfast on the east coast of Northern Ireland, straddling the River Lagan.
Belfast is perhaps best known as the birthplace of the ill-fated RMS Titanic, and the Titanic Quarter is one of the city’s top attractions.
Visitors also enjoy Belfast’s vibrant nightlife scene and stunning coastal views. Its unique mix of attractions make Belfast the top tourist destination in Northern Ireland.
From modern day galleries and theaters to historical sites such as castles and cathedrals, there are many cultural institutions worth exploring in Belfast.
Not only that but you can also enjoy delicious local cuisine while taking part in traditional Irish music at one of its many pubs throughout the city.
Belfast vs Dublin: Top Things to Do
Best things to do in Dublin, Ireland
You’ll find many amazing things to do in Dublin to keep you busy during your visit. Many of the best things to do in Dublin are centrally located, so you can explore on your own. Or, save some wear and tear on your feet with a guided tour of Dublin’s highlights!
Want more info on the best way to spend a day in Dublin? Check out this post covering all my favorite Dublin attractions!
1. Visit the Guinness Storehouse: The Guinness Storehouse is a must-visit for first-time visitors to Dublin. The iconic building has been home to the Guinness family since 1759 and offers visitors an interactive experience with historical artifacts, brewery tours, and samples of the famous black stout.
2. Explore Trinity College and see the Book of Kells: Trinity College is home to Ireland’s oldest library and one of its biggest tourist attractions, the Book of Kells. The Book of Kells is an ancient manuscript that dates back to 800 AD and is a great example of Celtic art.
Honored as a UNESCO World Heritage ‘Memory of the World’, the Book of Kells is a must-see for any visitor to Dublin. The Old Library is stunning, with its two levels packed floor to ceiling with books. Here you can also admire Brian Boru’s Harp — it’s the oldest harp in Ireland!
3. Learn about Irish history at Dublin Castle: Dublin Castle is another great place to visit to learn about Irish history. The castle served as the residence of the British until 1922 when it was handed over to the new Free State government. Today visitors enjoy exploring this beautifully restored castle.
4. Take a stroll through Phoenix Park: Phoenix Park is the largest inner city park in Europe and home to a herd of wild Fallow Deer. It’s a great place to relax, take a walk or even cycle around the park. You can also visit the Dublin Zoo which is located in the park and has over 600 animals from all over the world.
5. Admire the architecture of St Patrick’s Cathedral: St Patrick’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic buildings in Dublin. The Gothic-style church was built in 1220 by Archbishop John Comyn and has been an important part of Dublin’s culture ever since. There’s also a lovely park adjacent to the cathedral which is a popular spot on a sunny day in Dublin.
6. Visit Kilmainham Gaol: Kilmainham Gaol is an old prison located just outside Dublin city center. The jail has a rich history and is the location of many important events in Irish history, such as the execution of rebel leaders during the 1916 Easter Rising. Today it’s open to visitors who can take a tour of the prison and learn more about its past.
7. Relax in St. Stephen’s Green: St. Stephen’s Green is a beautiful park right in the center of Dublin city. The park contains plenty of benches, gardens and a lake where you watch ducks and swans paddle across the pond. It’s especially beautiful in the spring, decorated with tulips and cherry blossoms!
8. Admire the art at the National Gallery of Ireland: The National Gallery of Ireland is a great place to go for art lovers. It features works from some of the most famous Irish and international artists such as Jack B Yeats, Paul Henry, and Scott. Best of all, entrance to the museum is free!
9. Walk across the Ha’Penny Bridge: The Ha’ Penny Bridge is a pedestrian bridge over the River Liffey that connects two sides of Dublin’s city center. It was built in 1816 and it’s still one of the most photographed sites in Dublin.
10. Learn about whiskey at the Irish Whiskey Museum: Interested in all things whiskey? The Irish Whiskey Museum is the perfect place for you! Here, you can learn the history of whiskey-making in Ireland and through interactive exhibits. And at the end of the tour, you get to enjoy a whiskey tasting!
Best things to do in Belfast, Northern Ireland
Wondering what to do in Belfast, Northern Ireland? You’ve got plenty of options to choose from on your holiday in Belfast, whether your interests lie in history, art, or nature.
Here are some of Belfast’s top attractions that you’ll want to explore!
1. Visit the Titanic Belfast: Located at the site of the former Harland & Wolff shipyard, Titanic Belfast is one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic attractions. This interactive Titanic museum takes you through the history and legacy of the famous RMS Titanic, from its conception to its sinking in 1912.
2. Explore St George’s Market: St George’s Market is one of Belfast’s oldest and most beloved attractions. This market has been operating since 1890 and showcases the city’s best local produce, crafts, antiques and more. (I love visiting markets when I’m traveling –it’s a great way to save money on meals!)
3. Wander around Belfast Castle: Belfast Castle is located in Cave Hill Country Park and overlooks Belfast Lough. It was first built in the 12th century for Sir Arthur Chichester and is now a popular tourist attraction. The castle grounds are especially lovely in the summer, with plenty of trees, gardens and trails to explore.
4. Explore Belfast City Hall: Belfast City Hall is a grand building located at the city center. Take a tour to learn about its history and admire its stunning architecture and decor, from its stunning frescoes to the vibrant stained-glass windows. Be sure to stop by the Titanic Memorial Garden, which commemorates the lives lost with the sinking of the Titanic.
5. Visit the Ulster Museum: The Ulster Museum provides an in-depth look at Northern Ireland’s history, from prehistoric times to modern day. It features over 8,000 artifacts, including religious objects, paintings, and archaeological finds. It’s a great place to learn more about the region’s rich past.
6. Explore the beauty of the Botanic Gardens: The Belfast Botanic Gardens is the perfect place to spend a sunny day. It features over 8,000 species of plants, trees and flowers from all over the world. There are also plenty of trails to explore and a lovely tearoom where you can get some refreshment after your walk.
7. Discover Belfast’s murals: Many of the walls in Belfast are adorned with colorful murals that tell stories about its history and culture. There are officially sanctioned murals, as well as those created by individual artists or organizations. Take a Belfast Murals tour via Black Taxi to learn more about the murals and the stories behind them.
8. Visit the Crumlin Road Gaol: Crumlin Road Gaol is one of Belfast’s most famous sites. This imposing prison was opened in 1845 and housed thousands of prisoners during its time. Take a tour to learn about the building’s history. Today it’s also a conference center and event venue with music performances (check out ‘Live at the Crum’).
9. See the Giant’s Causeway: Located on the northern coast of Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is a stunning natural wonder and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site of hexagonal basalt columns that have been created by volcanoes, this incredible landscape has inspired stories and myths for centuries.
(OK, the Giant’s Causeway is not actually *in* Belfast. But it’s only an hour away, so it’s an easy day trip when you’re visiting Belfast — or to see as part of a longer Ireland itinerary.)
10. Step aboard the SS Nomadic: The SS Nomadic is the last remaining White Star Line ship and a veteran of World War I. This historic vessel was built in 1911 to be used as a tender for RMS Titanic passengers and was outfitted with the same lavish decor as the Titanic herself. Today it functions as a maritime museum, and you can take a tour to learn more about its history and explore its decks.
Dublin or Belfast: Food and Culinary Highlights
Best things to eat in Dublin
While Dublin boasts its share of international favorites and gourmet cuisine, you’ll definitely want to save room for sampling dishes that are uniquely Irish.
Traditional Irish cuisine is hearty and comforting, perfect to fill you up for a day’s work (or a long day of sightseeing!).
Here are some of the best foods to try in Dublin:
1. Fish and Chips: Fish & Chips is certainly one of the most iconic dishes of Ireland and can be found in almost any restaurant in Dublin. Made with fresh cod soaked in a beer batter and served with crispy, golden chips, this classic comfort food is a must-have during your visit to Dublin.
Look for Dublin’s take-away fish and chips shops if you’re looking for a quick meal while you’re sightseeing.
2. Irish Stew: This traditional dish that dates back to the 19th century. It is made with flavorful lamb, potatoes, and vegetables stewed in a rich stock, and it’s sure to warm you up on those cold Irish days.
3. Guinness Stew: Guinness Stew is another hearty comfort food. This classic dish combines beef, carrots, onions, potatoes, celery and Guinness stout for a delicious and filling meal. This is one of my personal favorites, perfect to warm you up on a rainy day in Dublin.
4. Shepherd’s Pie: Shepherd’s Pie is made with minced beef or lamb, vegetables, mashed potatoes and melted cheese on top. This flavorful dish is the perfect choice for anyone looking to sample traditional Irish fare.
5. Boxty: Boxty, or potato pancakes, are a traditional dish made from potatoes, an Irish staple. These are made with mashed potatoes, flour and grated raw potatoes, fried until golden brown on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
An old Irish rhyme indicates the popularity of boxty in Ireland (yes, it’s a bit sexist): “Boxty on the griddle; boxty on the pan. If you can’t make boxty, you’ll never get a man!”
6. Soda Bread: Soda Bread is made with baking soda instead of yeast, creating a unique flavor. This hearty bread pairs well with soups or stews for an extra touch of flavor.
7. Dublin Coddle: Dublin Coddle is a traditional Irish dish made with pork sausage, bacon, potatoes and onions slow cooked in a flavorful stock until it’s tender and delicious. The ingredients are typically layered in a casserole dish before baking; hence the name “coddle”.
8. Bacon and Cabbage: Bacon and Cabbage is another traditional Irish dish made with boiled bacon and served with cabbage in a creamy sauce. This classic comfort food will fill you up and leave you feeling satisfied.
(Note that ‘bacon’ in Ireland isn’t what we think of as bacon in the United States. It’s more like ham. I was suprised at how many more pork products there are in Ireland than in the US!)
9. Bangers and Mash: Bangers and Mash is a classic British dish made with pork sausages, mashed potatoes, and onions fried in butter. This hearty dish is found in many pubs and restaurants around Dublin.
10. Black & White Pudding: Last but not least, Black & White pudding is a traditional Irish sausage made with oatmeal, suet, spices, and pork fat. Black pudding contains blood while white pudding does not, and both are served in slices with a variety of dishes. (I’m not a very adventurous eater, so black pudding is not on my personal menu!)
Best things to eat in Belfast
Belfast has its own unique, flavorful cuisine that is well worth exploring. From traditional Irish dishes to international favorites, there are plenty of delicious options in the city. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast or an exquisite dinner, here are some of the best things to eat in Belfast.
Here are some of the delicious foods you should sample while you’re in Belfast!
1. Ulster Fry: The Ulster Fry is a classic Full Irish Breakfast dish, made up of several savory ingredients. Traditionally, it consists of bacon rashers, sausage, black and white pudding, eggs, fried tomato, potato bread (or farl) and a slice of soda bread. The well-loved dish can be found in restaurants all throughout Belfast.
2. Champ: Champ is a mash of potatoes and scallions, or green onions. The dish is very simple and you will often find it served with bacon or sausage on the side.
3. Soda Bread: Soda bread is a staple of the Irish diet, and it’s easy to see why. Bread made with baking soda requires no yeast, so it’s a quick bread that tastes great when eaten fresh. It’s usually served with butter or jam and it’s an excellent side dish for many dishes.
4. Colcannon: This traditional Irish dish is made with mashed potatoes and cabbage or kale. It’s usually served with bacon, sausages or ham on the side. This hearty dish is perfect for a cold winter night!
5. Boxty: Boxty is an Irish potato pancake that tastes best when cooked in butter. The pancakes are often served with butter, cheese, or even bacon on the side. They’re a great brunch option when you’re in Belfast!
6. Seafood Chowder: Seafood chowder is an Irish classic and can be found in many restaurants around Belfast. It’s a creamy, thick soup made with fish, potatoes and other vegetables like onions and carrots. It’s best when topped with freshly chopped parsley and served with some warm crusty bread.
7. Stews: Stews are a popular meal throughout Ireland, and Belfast is no exception. Popular stews include beef and Guinness, lamb and vegetable, and chicken and vegetable. These hearty dishes are sure to fill you up!
8. Potato bread (farl): Potato bread, also known as farl, is a traditional Irish flatbread made with grated potato. It’s usually served with butter and is commonly eaten for breakfast alongside the Ulster Fry.
(Potato farls are flat and square, and don’t really look like bread. I had to Google ‘potato farls’ when I found some in the bakery section at my local grocery store!)
9. Irish Oatcakes: Irish Oatcakes are a type of biscuit that originated in Ireland. They’re usually served as an accompaniment to a hearty stew, but can also be eaten on their own as a snack. Served with butter and jam or cheese, oatcakes make for a delicious treat!
10. Belfast Bacon Roll: The Belfast Bacon Roll is an iconic dish of Belfast. It consists of sausage and bacon wrapped in a soft white roll. A perfect snack for any time of day, this delicious sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Belfast or Dublin: Nightlife
Nightlife in Dublin
Dublin is a vibrant city known for its lively nightlife.. From traditional Irish pubs to modern cocktail lounges and everything in between, the city offers plenty of options when it comes to enjoying a night out on the town.
Here are some highlights of what Dublin has to offer when the sun goes down!
1. Traditional Irish Pubs and Music: Dublin is full of pubs with live traditional music every night. You can catch everything from folk, to rock, to classic Irish tunes in any part of the city. The Temple Bar area may be one of Ireland’s tourist traps, but it’s one of the most iconic places in Dublin at night!
2. Nightclubs: From trendy bars to late-night clubs, there are plenty of places for a great night out! Popular Dublin nightclubs include Copper Face Jacks and the Button Factory.
3. Comedy Clubs: Dublin has a thriving comedy scene and there are several regular comedy nights in the city’s pubs, clubs, and theaters. Check out the Craic Den Comedy Club or the Laughter Lounge!
4. Street Performers: As the night rolls on you can find street performers out and about with their guitars, violins, and other instruments. Grafton Street is one of the top places to enjoy fantastic entertainment from talented buskers!
5. Open-Air Cinemas: Throughout the and summer months, you can find outdoor cinemas popping up all the city.
6. Theatre Shows: Dublin has a thriving theatre scene with plays, musicals, and other performances taking place in venues every night. Get a bit of culture at the Gaiety Theater, 3Olympia, or the Abbey Theater
7. Literary Pub Crawls: If you’re looking for something a bit different, why not take a literary pub crawl? Watch as actors bring the city’s stories and characters to life.
These are just a few of the many options for nightlife in Dublin. Whether you’re looking for live music, comedy, or theatre performances, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city!
Nightlife in Belfast
Belfast is a city with plenty of nightlife offerings for those looking to have a fun time to cap off their day of sightseeing.
From traditional Irish pubs and live music venues to trendy cocktail bars and dance clubs, Belfast has something for everyone. Here are some highlights of what Belfast has to offer for evening entertainment!
1. Traditional Irish pubs: There’s nothing quite like an evening spent in a traditional Irish pub in Belfast; the atmosphere is full of character and fun! Enjoy a pint (or two) of Guinness, listen to some live music, or indulge in some hearty pub grub.
Many pubs also offer quiz nights and karaoke, making for a great night out! The Duke of York, White’s Tavern and Kelly’s Cellars are some of Belfast’s favorite pubs.
2. Live music venues: From iconic theatres to small hidden gems, Belfast is full of live music venues offering entertainment in different genres. Whether you’re looking to see a rock band or traditional Irish folk musicians, there are plenty of options available in the city.
The Belfast Empire Music Hall offers a wide variety of acts from blues to rock to traditional Irish performances.
3. Trendy cocktail bars: If you’re looking for something a bit more sophisticated, Belfast has plenty of trendy and modern cocktail bars to choose from. Enjoy some innovative mixology creations or explore the craft beer scene.
4. Dance clubs: For those looking for a night of dancing and partying, Belfast has plenty of dance clubs to choose from. From energetic pop music to soothing ambient tunes, there’s sure to be something you’ll enjoy!
5. Theater performances: If you’re looking for something a little more cultured, why not check out one of the many theater shows taking place in Belfast? You’ll find plenty of excellent performances at the Grand Opera House and the Lyric Theater.
No matter what kind of nightlife experience you’re looking for, Belfast has plenty of options to suit your needs. So don’t forget to explore the city’s evening entertainment offerings!
Dublin vs Belfast: Festivals
Festivals in Dublin
There is always something going on in Dublin, especially in the summer months when the weather is nicer. Here are some of the can’t-miss events taking place in Dublin!
1. St Patrick’s Day: One of Dublin’s most iconic festivals, the annual St Patrick’s Day parade and celebrations attract thousands of visitors every year. Catch up with some traditional Irish music and dance or enjoy some lively street performances!
2. Dublin Fringe Festival: A celebration of contemporary theatre, music, art, comedy, and more, the Dublin Fringe Festival is a great way to explore the city’s creative and cultural side.
3. Dublin Horse Show: Watch some of Ireland’s best equestrian athletes compete at this annual horse show held in August each year.
4. Dublin Theatre Festival: Enjoy an array of performances from some of Ireland’s top theatre companies at this annual event.
5. Bord Bia Bloom: A five-day festival of food, flowers and family fun, this event occurs in late May or early June each year.
6. Dublin Writers Festival: Celebrate the written word with exciting events, discussions, and workshops exploring literature from around the world.
7. Longitude Music Festival: This popular music festival attracts more than 50,000 visitors every year and features some of the biggest international names in pop and rock.
8. Dublin City Soul Festival: Groove to soulful tunes from both international and local artists at this annual event held in July.
9. Taste of Dublin: Sample the best of Dublin’s vibrant food and drink scene at this popular four-day event held every June.
10. All-Ireland Fleadh: Enjoy some of Ireland’s finest traditional music performances at this prestigious festival held every year in August or September.
Festivals in Belfast
Belfast is no stranger to festivals, either—here are some of the top festivals and events to liven up your visit to Belfast!
1. Belfast International Arts Festival: This annual festival features a variety of performances from live music, theatre, comedy, and art exhibitions.
2. Belfast Film Festival: Enjoy some of the best independent films from around the world at this 10-day celebration of cinema held every April.
3. Féile an Phobail: This three-week long festival celebrates Irish culture with a variety of events from music and comedy, to walking tours and debates.
4. Belfast Mela: Enjoy the diverse culture of India at this annual event held each summer in Belfast City Centre.
5. North West 200: Watch some of the world’s best motorcycle racers compete in one of Europe’s biggest bike races every May or June.
6. Belfast Jazz & Blues Festival: Get your groove on at this annual music festival held each summer in the city’s stunning Botanic Gardens.
7. St. Patricks Day Parade: Celebrate Irelands patron saint with a vibrant parade including traditional music and dance performances, plus plenty of fun activities for all ages!
8. Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival: Immerse yourself in a diverse range of creative performances and events exploring music, theatre, visual arts, literature, and more.
9. Belfast Comedy Festival: Enjoy some of the best comedy acts from around the world at this annual event held each October in the heart of Belfast.
10. Titanic Maritime Festival: Celebrate the city’s maritime heritage with a variety of music, art, and historical events held each May at the Titanic Belfast.
Belfast vs Dublin: Public Transportation
Public Transportation in Dublin
Public transportation in Dublin is plentiful, with a variety of options available to accommodate a range of travelers.
The LUAS is Dublin’s tram system, which provides quick and convenient access to the city’s major attractions and hotspots. There are two lines – the red line running from Saggart to The Point and the green line running from Broombridge to Bride’s Glen.
You can also take advantage of Dublin’s extensive bus network, as well as a comprehensive rail network with routes to most major cities and towns in Ireland.
If you plan to use a lot of public transit while visiting Dublin, be sure to purchase a Leap Visitor Card. These cards come in 1 day, 3 day, and 7-day durations and give you unlimited travel on the city bus, LUAS, DART, and commuter rail.
Dublin is the hub of the train service in Ireland. I lived at the Johnstown Estate in Enfield, and it was really easy to take the train from Enfield to Dublin whenever I wanted to spend a day in Dublin exploring the city.
Public Transportation in Belfast
Belfast has an equally impressive range of public transportation options available for travelers.
The Glider system is a light rail system that runs from East to West Belfast, connecting the two sides of the city.
There is also an extensive network of buses, as well as train services linking Belfast to other major cities in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
If you’ll be using a lot of public transit during your trip to Belfast, you’ll want to pick up the Belfast Visitor Pass. These come in one, two, and three-day passes and offer unlimited transportation within the Belfast Visitor Pass Zone. Plus, it also gives you discounts on many popular Belfast attractions!
(And if your journey continues to Great Britain, the Belfast ferry connects travelers between Northport and Liverpool in England via Cairnryan and Holyhead in Wales.)
Final Thoughts..
Dublin and Belfast are two amazing cities with a lot of history to explore.
Both have beautiful architecture, incredible food and nightlife scenes, and plenty of attractions that will keep you entertained.
Still having a hard time deciding, Dublin vs Belfast? Why not put both Dublin and Belfast on your itinerary and experience the best of both worlds! It’s easy to take a Europe weekend getaway to Belfast if you’re based in Dublin.
Check out this article for more tips on the top attractions in Dublin!
You might also enjoy these posts about my favorite places in Ireland:
- Best Things to Do and See in Dublin
- The Johnstown Estate Review
- Best Things to Do in Kilkenny Ireland
- Is Dublin in Northern Ireland?
Happy travels!
Planning a visit to Ireland? Pin this for later to help you decide whether Belfast or Dublin to visit!
Lisa Garrett
Lisa Garrett is the founder of Waves and Cobblestones. She has taken 21 cruises ranging from a multi-generational Caribbean cruise to solo Alaska cruises to fabulous Mediterranean cruises.
She lived in Ireland for 4 months and has taken over a half-dozen multi-city vacations in Europe (primarily relying on train and public transit). Lisa helps people plan amazing vacations to Europe and popular cruise destinations.
Learn more about Lisa!
