Travel: How to spend 48 hours in Belfast

STAY

Make the most of your short break by basing yourself in the city centre, near Belfast’s main attractions.

The Merchant Hotel is located in the bustling Cathedral Quarter. It’s a decadent five-star hotel with facilities that include a luxury spa, a rooftop gymnasium with panoramic views across the city and an art deco-styled jazz bar.

And with 36 art deco inspired bedrooms, 21 Victorian bedrooms and a selection of Victorian luxury suites, you’ll have the perfect place to rest after exploring the city.

Rooms from £160.

EAT

The Merchant has a cracking two AA Rosette fine dining restaurant, The Great Room.

Enjoy a five-star dining experience while admiring the beautiful and perfectly preserved original Victorian architecture.

After something more laid-back? Try Molly’s Yard. It offers modern Irish cuisine in a converted Victorian stable.

DRINK

Nestled down the narrow cobbled alleyway of Commercial Court, The Duke of York is a must visit.

Join the craic with the crowds standing outside on the cobbles enjoying their pint, or head inside where you can listen to live music whilst sampling their extensive whiskey collection.

The Dirty Onion is located a short walk away and is also worth checking out.

SEE

Start your morning with a guided tour around the only Victorian-era jail left in Northern Ireland, Crumlin Road Gaol.

Keep your wits about you in the tunnel that leads underneath the jail as it’s said to be haunted.

Then it’s time to jump on board the Belfast City Sightseeing bus for a hop-on-hop-off adventure around the Northern Irish capital.

You’ll get the chance to check out the food and crafts on offer at St George’s Market, explore the shipyard, decks and history of the Titanic on an interactive journey at the Titanic Belfast visitor experience, and learn more about the city’s troubled past on the Falls and Shankill roads.