A Black Taxi Tour in Belfast is not your average ride; it’s an immersive journey into the city’s fascinating and often challenging history.
These special taxis are driven by locals who have personally experienced the Troubles. They offer a unique perspective by sharing their stories as they take you to the vivid murals and important landmarks that define Belfast.
From the moving stories of the Peace Wall to the captivating murals of the Shankill and Falls Roads, let’s discover the tours that provide a special insight into the heart of this extraordinary city!
1. Belfast Political Mural Tours
Media credit: bibirispiu
Website: https://belfast.tours/political-mural-tour-belfast/
Address: 42 Brompton Park, Belfast BT14 7LD, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442895582072
Belfast Political Mural Tours provide a fascinating insight into the city’s history through the iconic murals in the Falls and Shankill neighborhoods. Visitors gain firsthand perspectives on life during the Troubles and the stories behind the murals.
The tours offer a unique understanding of Belfast’s political and social dynamics. Visitors can get out of the taxi at various points to take photos and learn more about the murals and the surrounding areas.
Pro tip:
Be sure to bring a camera to capture the murals’ vibrant colors and intricate details. Write your message on the Belfast Peace Wall, a significant landmark that notable figures like the Dalai Lama and President Clinton have signed.
2. Belfast Historical Tours
Media credit: bibirispiu
Website: https://blacktaxitours.com/
Belfast Historical Tours focuses on key moments such as the Troubles and the peace process. The personal experiences of the guides, who lived through the Troubles, offer firsthand accounts of the city’s transformation.
The tours visit significant locations like the Peace Wall and political murals. One of the highlights is the opportunity to hear the stories and perspectives of people from both sides of the community, providing a balanced understanding of the city’s past.
Pro tip:
When booking a Belfast Historical Tour, consider choosing a private tour. This will give you a more personalized experience and the flexibility to tailor the itinerary to your interests.
3. Belfast Troubles Tour
Media credit: jacquelinenoyes
Website: https://www.getyourguide.com/belfast-l442/belfast-25-hour-alternative-walking-tour-t176673/
The Belfast Troubles Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the history and impact of the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Led by politically neutral conflict historians, it visits seven locations in the city center where major events occurred between 1971 and 1976.
The guides provide an unbiased perspective on the conflict, sharing factual information and personal experiences to bring history to life. The tour offers a profound and thought-provoking experience, regardless of visitors’ prior knowledge of the Troubles.
Pro tip:
Visit the Linen Hall Library, which houses a massive collection of posters and resources related to the Troubles, covering the peace talks, ceasefires, and negotiations that led to the Good Friday Agreement.
4. Belfast Titanic Shipyard Tour
Media credit: titanictheexhibition
Address: Belfast BT3 9EP, United Kingdom
The Titanic Shipyard Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the construction and legacy of the RMS Titanic. Visitors can engage with artifacts from the Titanic, including a life jacket and items belonging to passengers.
Additionally, the tour offers a ride through a replica of the shipyard, enabling guests to visualize the scale of the construction process. The tour also includes visiting the nearby SS Nomadic, the remaining White Star Line ship.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the chance to walk along the slipways where the Titanic was launched and visit the Titanic Memorial Garden, where you can reflect on the lives lost and appreciate the site’s significance.
5. Belfast Giant’s Causeway Day Tour
Media credit: siggawilliams
Website: http://www.giantcausewaytour.com/
Address: 29 Donegall Rd., Belfast BT12 5JJ, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890915613
Operating hours: 8:30 AM–5 PM
The Giant’s Causeway Day Tour from Belfast offers a captivating journey showcasing Northern Ireland’s iconic natural wonders. Small group sizes allow participants to enjoy a personalized experience and access locations larger coaches cannot reach.
The tour includes stops at notable locations like the Bushmills Whiskey Distillery and the famous Dark Hedges. Visitors can visit the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, which offers stunning coastline views and a thrilling walk across the bridge.
Pro tip:
Wear comfortable walking shoes while exploring uneven terrain at the Giant’s Causeway. Bring a fully charged camera or smartphone to capture the stunning views and unique rock formations.
6. Game of Thrones Locations Tour
Media credit: tinabeeson
Website: https://gameofthronestours.com/
Address: Suite 180, 21 Botanic Ave, Belfast BT7 1JJ, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442895680023
Operating hours: 9 AM–5 PM
The Game of Thrones Locations Tour provides an immersive experience for fans. Participants can visit iconic locations like the Dark Hedges and Ballintoy Harbour, gaining insights from knowledgeable guides with firsthand experience in the series.
The tour showcases lesser-known locations, offering the opportunity to see how Northern Irish scenery was transformed into the fictional world of Westeros—interactive elements, such as wearing costumes and visiting the Game of Thrones Studio Tour.
Pro tip:
Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour often involves walking through rugged terrain and various filming locations. Additionally, consider booking your tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot and ensure a smooth experience.
7. Belfast Peace Wall Tour
Media credit: alice_lee76
Website: http://www.peacewall-archive.net/
Address: 15 Cupar Way, Belfast BT13 2RX, United Kingdom
Contact details: +447592173372
Operating hours: 7 AM–7 PM
The Belfast Peace Wall Tour explores the city’s turbulent past and ongoing reconciliation efforts by visiting the peace walls that once divided nationalist and unionist communities during the Troubles.
The tour has a personal touch provided by taxi drivers who share first-hand accounts of the conflict and the ongoing challenges. Visitors also see iconic political murals representing the ideologies and struggles that shaped Belfast’s history.
Pro tip:
Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera to capture the stunning murals and the unique atmosphere of the tour. Ask your driver questions, and learn about the personal stories that shaped Belfast’s history and path to peace.
8. Belfast City Hall Tours
Media credit: love_belfast
Website: https://www.belfastcity.gov.uk/tours
Address: City Hall, Belfast BT1 5GS, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890270456
Belfast City Hall provides insight into the stunning Baroque Revival building. Led by knowledgeable guides, the hour-long tours cover the history and notable features of Belfast City Hall, including the Council Chamber and the Rotunda.
Highlights of the tour include viewing civic regalia, historical portraits, and the John Luke mural, as well as the chance to sit in the council chamber and see artifacts such as the royal thrones used by King George V and Queen Mary in 1921.
Pro tip:
Arrive early to secure your spot on the tour, as tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure also to visit the gift shop beside the Grand Staircase and refresh at The Bobbin Coffee Shop in the east wing.
9. Belfast Hidden Tours
Media credit: belfasthiddentours
Website: http://www.belfasthiddentours.com/
Address: Hill St, Belfast BT15 2HU, United Kingdom
Contact details: +447971895746
Operating hours: 8 AM–10 PM
Belfast Hidden Tours offers an immersive experience. Participants can explore the city’s hidden gems while learning about its rich history and vibrant culture. The tours provide an in-depth understanding of Belfast’s heritage and contemporary life.
The focus is on storytelling, with guides sharing narratives that weave together the city’s past and present. Incorporating local cuisine and drink enhances the tours, providing guests with a taste of Belfast’s culinary scene while exploring its history.
Pro tip:
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Ask your guide about the stories behind the street art you encounter, as they often provide fascinating insights into the city’s artistic expressions and social commentary.
10. Belfast Food Tour, Drinks Tours & Private Tours
Media credit: thearomacompany
Website: http://www.tasteandtour.co.uk/
Address: Unit 337, Moat House, 54 Bloomfield Avenue, Belfast BT5 5AD, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890457723
Operating hours:9 AM–5 PM
Taste & Tour in Belfast provides award-winning food and drink tours, including their signature 4-hour Belfast Food Tour. With passionate local guides and a commitment to uncovering hidden gems, guests can expect an immersive culinary experience.
The tours offer a range of experiences, from gin tastings to 5-stop brunch tours. Taste & Tour also offers private and bespoke experiences tailored to guests’ interests, promising an unforgettable journey through Belfast’s vibrant food culture.
Pro tip:
Start your tour early to make the most of the day and have plenty of time to explore the city’s food scene. Visit the historic St. George’s Market, where you can sample artisanal products, meet local producers, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.