I’m a walking fiend. I aim for 10,000 steps daily, and travel is the perfect excuse to rack up those miles. Forget stuffy bus tours. I’d much rather explore a city on foot. So, when I was in Belfast recently, I ditched the wheels and laced up my shoes.
I spent hours wandering, soaking in the atmosphere, and stumbling upon hidden gems.
Let me tell you, Belfast is a city that truly comes alive when you explore it on foot. From the vibrant murals to the historic architecture, every corner has a story to tell.
But with so many options, choosing the right walking tour can be overwhelming. That’s why I’ve done the legwork for you. Read on to discover my top picks for unforgettable walking tours in Belfast, and get ready to fall in love with this incredible city.
1. Belfast Free Walking Tour
Media credit: belfastfreetour
Website: https://www.belfastfreewalkingtour.com/
Address: 5 Donegall Square N, Belfast BT1 5GB, United Kingdom
Contact details: +447393585531
If you’re looking for a fantastic way to soak up the vibes of Northern Ireland’s capital, check out the Belfast Free Walking Tour. The tours run daily at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. and start right before the iconic Belfast City Hall.
And here’s the best part—it’s completely free! They work on tips, so your guides appreciate your generosity. You’ll visit the vibrant Cathedral Quarter, filled with eye-catching street art, and you can’t miss the Albert Clock.
Wandering along the Lagan River is a treat, too, especially when you pass the famous Big Fish sculpture. And, of course, you’ll bask in the beauty of Belfast City Hall itself!
Pro tip:
Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket or umbrella. The weather can be unpredictable, but that’s just part of the charm of exploring this vibrant city!
2. My Troubled Past Tour
Media credit: belfastladtours
Website: http://www.belfastlad.com/
Address: 1 Brown Square, Belfast BT13 2BW, United Kingdom
Contact details: +447825631550
My Troubled Past Tour is not your typical tour. It is a chance to experience the city’s history through the eyes of someone who lived it. Francis Higgins, who leads the Tour, has an incredible story.
He survived a bomb attack and witnessed the violence of ‘The Troubles’ firsthand, including the heartbreaking loss of two family members. He also recounts how he watched his great-uncle sketch the line of the Peace Walls on his mom’s coffee table.
On the tour, you get to visit landmark spots like the Peace Wall and murals that tell stories from both sides of the conflict. These places have so much to teach us about resilience and understanding.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the chance to leave your mark on the Peace Wall! Bring a marker and write a message or thought—it’s a powerful way to connect with Belfast’s history and hope for peace.
3. A History of Terror Walking Tour
Media credit: dctoursbelfast
Website: https://www.deadcentretours.com/
Address: Donegall Square N, Belfast BT1 5GS, United Kingdom
Contact details: +447716949460
A History of Terror Tour runs daily at 10:30 a.m. and starts at Belfast City Hall. It’s like stepping into a time capsule that takes you to the heart of the city’s turbulent past, focusing on the Troubles eras.
Over 2 hours and 15 minutes, you’ll encounter iconic sites like St. Anne’s Cathedral and the Custom House. And it gets even more poignant with memorials, like the Troubles Memorial, that hit home.
You’ll also walk along the River Lagan—a nice spot to soak in the scenery and catch a glimpse of those famous yellow cranes of Harland & Wolff, a huge part of Belfast’s shipbuilding history.
Pro tip:
Pay attention when you reach the Salmon of Knowledge statue. It’s not just a beautiful piece of art but also steeped in local legend! This is a fun spot to snap a photo and reflect on the stories shared throughout your walk.
4. Belfast Walking Food Tour
Media credit: tasteandtour
Website: http://www.tasteandtour.co.uk/
Address: Unit 337, Moat House, 54 Bloomfield Avenue, Belfast BT5 5AD, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890457723
Belfast Walking Food Tour is an amazing journey that explores the city’s heart and soul. Over four hours, you don’t just eat—you connect with passionate locals who share their delicious food and the stories behind it.
You kick things off at St George’s Market. There, you meet local producers and trust me, sampling those artisanal delights is a treat for your taste buds.
As you wander the streets, you’ll check out iconic spots, like charming traditional bars and specialty shops that showcase Belfast’s unique flair. The diversity of flavors is impressive: fresh seafood is served alongside hearty local dishes.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on stopping by Friend at Hand, an Irish whisky shop next to one of Belfast’s most photographed streets, Commercial Court. This charming spot offers a fantastic selection of whiskies and features a small museum upstairs.
5. Falls/Shankill Tours
Media credit: life_can_be_a_trip
Website: https://www.deadcentretours.com/
Address: Donegall Square N, Belfast BT1 5GS, United Kingdom
Contact details: +447716949460
At the joint Falls/Shankill Tour, local former prisoners share stories about their journeys, reflections, and lives over the past few decades.
It’s like stepping into their shoes and understanding their perspectives as they guide you through the republican areas of West Belfast. And just when you think it can’t get any better, you reach the famous gates of the Peace Wall.
The tour takes a remarkable turn there. You meet former loyalist activists who share their narratives. You’ll also see stunning murals at the International Wall, the heartfelt Bobby Sands mural, and the beautiful Clonard Monastery.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the opportunity to reflect on the significance of the Peace Wall. It symbolizes hope for peace and understanding between two communities that have experienced so much.
6. Belfast Hidden Tours
Media credit: belfasthiddentours
Website: http://www.belfasthiddentours.com/
Address: Hill St, Belfast BT15 2HU, United Kingdom
Contact details: +447971895746
Belfast Hidden Tours aims to personally engage visitors in the city’s art, history, politics, and culture. One of their standout experiences is the Belfast Beyond Walls tour, designed to help visitors unravel the city’s complex history.
While on the tour, you might be sipping a smooth whiskey or trying something delicious from local vendors. You’ll wander through historic alleys and vibrant neighborhoods and check out some incredible murals.
The itinerary usually includes gems like the Cathedral Quarter and the Peace Walls. This tour is perfect for everyone, such as locals wanting to rediscover their city or visitors eager to soak up its unique vibe.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on trying one of those Whiskey Donuts from “Oh Donuts” during your tour! They’re a sweet treat that perfectly complements your exploration and are a delightful way to indulge in Belfast’s culinary scene.
7. Falls Road Mural Tours
Media credit: magicianmarkjames
Website: https://bobbysandsmural.com/
Address: 49 Falls Rd, Belfast SY22 5HS, United Kingdom
The Falls Road Mural Tours is guided by former political prisoners who share their stories from the British/Irish conflict. The tour kicks off at Divis Tower down on Falls Road, and from there, you get to stroll along one of the main arteries of West Belfast.
You’ll visit places like the International Wall, plastered with murals that express the political feelings of the time, and the Republican Memorial Gardens, where you can sense the weight of history.
As you make your way along the iconic Falls Road, you’ll see the Bobby Sands mural commemorating the famous hunger striker, and you eventually end up at Milltown Cemetery, where you’ll find Sands resting alongside his fellow hunger strikers.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss stopping by the Felons Club after the tour. It offers a complimentary glass of Guinness to unwind after your walk and a great spot to soak in the local atmosphere and reflect on everything you’ve learned.
8. Belfast Pub Crawl
Media credit: belfastcrawl
Website: http://www.belfastcrawl.com/
Address: Custom House Square, Belfast BT1 3EY, United Kingdom
Contact details: +447712603764
The Belfast Pub Crawl invites you to explore this amazing city’s nightlife by visiting one beloved pub after another. Each stop offers a chance to soak up the vibrant atmosphere, enjoy live music, and swap stories with fellow pub-goers.
Trust me, it’s about 3.5 hours of pure fun, and you even get two free drinks to kick off your night! Whether you’re celebrating or just looking to have a great night out, this tour is perfect for anyone wanting to connect with Belfast’s rich pub culture.
The itinerary starts at the iconic Albert Clock. From there, you’ll walk through charming cobbled streets and discover hidden alleyways. You’ll visit a mix of historic and modern pubs where you can enjoy traditional Irish music with a more contemporary vibe.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on Kelly’s Cellars, one of the oldest pubs in Belfast. It’s cozy and steeped in history, making it the perfect spot to soak up that authentic Irish pub atmosphere while enjoying a pint!
9. Political Murals Street Art & Peace Gate by Belfastology
Media credit: belfastologywalkingtours
Website: https://www.belfastology.com/
Address: 9 Donegall Square N, Belfast BT1 5GB, United Kingdom
Contact details: +447552309575
The Political Murals, Street Art & Peace Gate walking tour lasts 2.5 hours. During it, you’ll wander through the vibrant streets of Belfast, checking out incredible modern street art created by local and international artists.
One highlight is the iconic Peace Wall, symbolizing division and hope. Each mural is like a chapter in a story, telling a poignant tale about the Troubles and their efforts to reconcile them.
The best part? You’ll be part of a community experience. A ” re-imaging ” project showcases art the locals genuinely want to share. It’s all about bringing people together through stories in the streets.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the chance to snap a photo at the “You Are Now Entering Free Derry” mural. It’s a stunning piece of art and a powerful reminder of the city’s history and resilience. Plus, it’s a great spot for a memorable Instagram moment!
10. Pack Up Your Troubles
Media credit: belfastwalkingtours
Website: https://www.belfastfreewalkingtour.com/
Address: 5 Donegall Square N, Belfast BT1 5GB, United Kingdom
Contact details: +447393585531
The Pack Up Your Troubles walking tour takes you through one of the darkest eras in the city’s history: the Troubles. This period, which started in August 1969, changed everything for over thirty years and claimed more than 3,700 lives.
On this tour, iconic spots like Falls Road and Shankill Road are at the heart of the conflict. The political murals you’ll see are incredible, telling stories of struggle, resilience, and hope.
As you pass through the security gates, you can’t help but reflect on how far the city has come. Whether you’re a history nerd, passionate about social justice, or just curious about Belfast’s identity, this tour connects you with the human side of these events.
Pro tip:
One unique spot you shouldn’t miss is the community memorial gardens scattered throughout West Belfast. These beautiful gardens serve as poignant reminders of those lost during The Troubles.