For years, the sound of Christmas carols and the smell of mulled wine have filled the air of Belfast during the festive season. My family and I have made it a tradition to immerse ourselves in the city’s unique blend of Christmas cheer.
From exploring the vibrant Christmas markets to indulging in hearty pub meals, we’ve experienced the magic of Belfast firsthand.
Want to know the best spots to experience this magic yourself? Keep reading as I share my top picks for a truly unforgettable Christmas in Belfast.
How do you celebrate Christmas in Belfast?
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Christmas in Belfast features unique traditions, festive markets, and a strong community spirit. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, with enchanting Christmas markets and traditional culinary delights.
One of the highlights of Christmas in Belfast is the Belfast Christmas Market, which takes place on the grounds of City Hall from November 16 to December 22. Over 100 local and international traders participate in the market.
In addition to the markets, Belfast is known for its beautiful Christmas decorations that light up the city. Popular spots for viewing decorations include the Cathedral Quarter and St. George’s Market, where visitors can enjoy live music and local crafts.
Belfast’s culinary scene also plays a significant role in Christmas celebrations. On Christmas Day, families enjoy traditional dishes like roast turkey. Local specialties like smoked salmon and spiced veal are popular during the festive season.
How to Get Around During Christmas in Belfast
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1. Metro Buses
Metro buses are a lifesaver, especially on weekends, when they offer late-night services. You can catch a bus from places like Donegall Square, which is super convenient because it’s just a short walk from all the action.
These buses usually run until around 1:30 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, so you can enjoy yourself, explore the lights, and take your time without worrying about how to get back.
2. Train
If you’re looking for a beautiful way to get around, you should think about hopping on one of those Translink trains. They connect Belfast to charming towns and cities, giving you the perfect excuse to go beyond the city center.
For instance, I love catching a train from Great Victoria Street station. If you go that route, you can easily go to places like Bangor or Derry~Londonderry.
3. Glider Service
You know what’s a super fun way to get around Belfast? The Glider service! This nifty rapid transit system whisks you all over the city. I love hopping on the Glider because it connects you to all the hotspots, like the Titanic Quarter.
What’s cool is that the Glider runs all the time, so you never have to wait long, and you can easily catch it at various stops around the city center. Just watch for those bright green vehicles—they’re hard to miss!
What to Do During Christmas in Belfast
1. Embark on a magical Christmas experience at Titanic Belfast.
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Address: 1 Olympic Way, Belfast BT3 9EP, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890766386
Visiting Titanic Belfast during Christmas feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The moment we arrived, we were greeted by these cheerful Elf guides who led us through this beautifully decorated Enchanted Forest.
One highlight was the Magical Wishing Tree. We took a moment to make our wishes for the season. The detailed decorations made everything feel extra festive, and it was heartwarming to see families enjoying the experience together.
Then, we moved on to the Old Curiosity Shop. We stepped into the Elves’ Workshop, and let me tell you—creativity was in the air! We got to dive into some arts and crafts, plus we even wrote our letters to Santa at this bustling little post office.
2. Join Santa and his trusty elf-bot Bud-E at W5’s Elf Academy.
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Address: The Odyssey, 2 Queens Quay, Belfast BT3 9QQ, United Kingdom
The Elf Academy was buzzing with energy! You wouldn’t believe how much joy there was in the air as we teamed up with Santa and Bud-E for all these interactive activities.
Once we finished our Elf Academy challenges, we dove into the With Every Christmas Card exhibit. It was something else! Imagine giant holiday cards coming to life with these enchanting scenes.
We wandered down Gingerbread Lane, saw a snowman skating, and even peeked into Santa’s workshop! It felt like we were in a Christmas storybook; everything was immersive and magical.
3. Attend the Christmas Eve Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
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Address: 199 Donegall St, Belfast BT1 2FL, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890324597
Stepping into St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Christmas Eve is like entering a warm embrace. The place is stunning, with its soaring Gothic arches and intricate stained-glass windows. Their timeless quality takes your breath away.
The service itself is a beautiful mix of tradition and celebration. Uplifting melodies and heartfelt readings fill the space, capturing Christmas’s spirit. But it’s more than just the religious side of things; it’s also an opportunity to reconnect with family and friends.
After mass, we often hang out outside, soaking up the moment, sharing smiles, and exchanging holiday wishes with everyone around us. The crisp winter air almost makes you feel the laughter and festive cheer.
4. Wander the snowy streets of the Ulster Folk Museum.
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Address: Cultra, Holywood BT18 0EU, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890428428
Let me tell you about this amazing Christmas trip we took to the Ulster Folk Museum. The whole place was beautifully decorated, with authentic buildings dressed in homemade wreaths and festive decorations.
As we wandered through the cobbled streets, we caught the mouthwatering smell of cinnamon toast wafting over from somewhere nearby. I loved how the grandeur of the Rectory stood side by side with the simpler Tea Lane houses.
One of the highlights for us was meeting these incredibly talented craft demonstrators. They showcased traditional skills like willow weaving and blacksmithing. While chatting about their crafts, we even tasted some delicious conventional Christmas cake.
5. Hop on the Jungle Express at Jungle NI.
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Address: 60 Desertmartin Rd, Moneymore, Magherafelt BT45 7RB, United Kingdom
Phone: +442886748881
When we arrived at Jungle NI’s Christmas Wonderland, it felt like stepping into a holiday dream. The moment we walked in, we were greeted by cheerful elves who instantly made us feel at home.
We hopped onto the Jungle Express, which took us on this incredible journey through an illuminated forest. And let me tell you, Buddy the Elf was our guide! He was so charming, singing away and sharing stories that enchanted the ride.
When we finally reached Santa’s Workshop, the excitement was real! It was such a thrill to meet Santa. The elves led us through activities like old-school board games and screening classic Christmas movies.
Where to Stay During Christmas in Belfast
1. The Merchant Hotel
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Address: 16 Skipper St, Belfast BT1 2DZ, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890234888
Pricing: €€€
Staying at The Merchant Hotel during Christmas felt like stepping right into a holiday fairy tale. I loved how it combines that stunning Victorian charm with this sleek Art Deco vibe.
Our room was perfect—so elegantly done with plush furnishings that you wanted to sink right in. After a day of wandering around, we pampered in one of the five private treatment rooms and the hydrotherapy area.
2. Europa Hotel
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Address: Great Victoria St, Belfast BT2 7AP, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890271066
Pricing: €€€
Europa Hotel is right in the heart of the city, which was perfect because we could easily stroll down to the Christmas markets at City Hall. Who wouldn’t want to dive into all those holiday festivities?
What made our stay unforgettable were the unique festive experiences the hotel offered. They hosted glamorous Christmas party nights with live entertainment, and we even attended their New Year’s Eve Gala Ball.
3. Titanic Hotel Belfast
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Address: The Titanic Quarter, 8 Queens Rd, Belfast BT3 9DT, United Kingdom
Phone: +442895082000
Pricing: €€€
The Titanic Hotel Belfast is right in the heart of the Titanic Quarter, and boy, dt beautifully mmixesmodern luxury with the area’s rich maritime heritage. As soon as I walked through the doors, I was captivated by the Art Deco-inspired decor.
We stayed in one of the 119 luxurious rooms, thoughtfully designed with nautical touches you can’t help but appreciate. One of my favorite things was the dining experience at The Wolff Grill, where we indulged in a hearty breakfast.
4. The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast
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Address: 1-3 Great Victoria St, Belfast BT2 7BQ, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890442080
Pricing: €€€
The Fitzwilliam Hotel has a chic, contemporary design. It sets the tone for such a stylish getaway. And the location? Perfect! It is right next to the Grand Opera House, so exploring the festive attractions around Belfast was a breeze.
It felt like a little slice of heaven when we got to our room. I must mention those Egyptian cotton linens and the fancy toiletries in the bathroom. They were such nice touches that added a dash of luxury to our stay!
5. Malmaison Belfast
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Address: 34-38 Victoria St, Belfast BT1 3GH, United Kingdom
Phone: +442896001405
Pricing: €€€
Malmaison Belfast felt like stepping into a chic little hideaway right in the middle of all the action.FI was taken in by the hotel’s unique vibe when we arrived. It’s inas beautifully restored Victorian warehouse that’s just bursting with character.
The location is spot on—just a quick walk away from must-see spots like City Hall and the Cathedral Quarter. It made our Christmas adventures super easy and fun! We stayed at this plush king-size bed with luxurious linens that felt like sleeping on a cloud.
Where to Eat During Christmas in Belfast
1. Fratelli
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Address: 60 Great Victoria St, Belfast BT2 7BB, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890310862
Pricing: €€
Fratelli has a lovely mix of rustic and modern—it has those charming exposed brick walls decked out with festive decorations and twinkling fairy lights. The menu is like a mega celebration of Italian food—everything from classic pizzas to hearty pasta dishes.
But what caught our eye were their festive specials. We couldn’t resist trying the traditional turkey with all the trimmings! They also had this rich lasagna with creamy béchamel that was just heavenly.
2. Roam
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Address: 6a Callender St, Belfast BT1 5BN, United Kingdom
Phone: +447917957162
Pricing: €€
Roam has a tustic charm mixed with modern touches. It features wooden tables, soft lighting, and quirky wall artwork. It was the perfect spot to kick back and relax after wandering around the Christmas markets.
Roam proudly celebrates local ingredients. We were feeling adventurous, so we decided to share a few dishes. We started with their famous roasted beetroot salad, but honestly, the meal’s highlight was the slow-cooked beef short rib.
3. Bistro Este
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Address: 221 Upper Newtownards Rd, Belfast BT4 3JD, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890656976
Pricing: €€
Bistro Este in Belfast was a delightful culinary experience that captures the heart of contemporary dining. The place has a charming Mediterranean flair, with exposed brick walls and wooden beams—it feels stylish and inviting.
I also found myself admiring the decor—these colorful artworks on the walls and whimsical table settings seemed to be there just to brighten up our night. When it came time to order, I recommend the seafood linguine.
4. Holohan’s Pantry
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Address: 43 University Rd, Belfast BT7 1ND, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890291103
Pricing: €€
Holohan’s Pantry radiates that cozy vibe that perfectly captures Irish hospitality. Nestled in the Queen’s Quarter, this spot is Belfast’s only boxty house, and let me tell you, they take their traditional Irish food to a whole new level.
The decor, with rustic wooden beams and soft lighting, makes you feel at home. It’s a celebration of local ingredients and authentic Irish recipes. I couldn’t help but get excited about trying the boxty, a traditional Irish potato pancake.
5. Home Restaurant
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Address: 22 Wellington Pl, Belfast BT1 6GE, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890234946
Pricing: €€
Home Restaurant felt like stepping into a cozy little hideaway that wrapped us up in this warm, festive vibe. The atmosphere was just right—a perfect mix of modern chic and rustic charm with those exposed brick walls and wooden touches.
The menu had us buzzing with excitement! It was like a love letter to local produce and comfort food, thanks to Head Chef Chris Rees and his awesome team. We decided to go for their famous Sunday roast, which they offer all week during the holidays.
Where to Shop During Christmas in Belfast
1. Belfast Christmas Market
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Address: Belfast BT1 5GS, United Kingdom
Shopping at the Belfast Christmas Market is truly something special. You’ll be standing right in front of the stunning City Hall, and all around you are over 100 stalls packed full of unique gifts, handcrafted goodies, and foods from every corner of the globe.
Each stall had its personality, showcasing everything from amazing artisanal crafts to incredible international dishes. Families were there with kids laughing as they met Santa and took merry spins on the vintage carousel.
2. Victoria Square
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Address: 1 Victoria Square, Belfast BT1 4QG, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890322277
Walking inside Victoria Square, we were greeted by this stunning glass dome overhead. The natural light pouring in created this bright, airy vibe, and the holiday decorations added a cheerful touch that just screamed festive spirit.
With over 70 high-end retailers, we instantly recognized big names like Hugo Boss and Ted Baker, not to mention the only Apple Store in Ireland. One of my highlights was the panoramic viewing gallery at the top of the dome.
3. CastleCourt
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Address: Royal Ave, Belfast BT1 1DD, United Kingdom
Phone: +442890234591
CastleCourt transforms and comes alive with that festive spirit. Right in the heart of Belfast, it’s a one-stop shop for everything you might need. Honestly, I was amazed by the sheer number of stores—over 8m!
You’ve got your familiar high-street brands alongside some rool independent shops that you won’t find anywhere else. And there’s this Shop Mobility service, with wheelchairs and scooters available, which is such a thoughtful touch.
4. Queen’s Arcade
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Address: Queen’s Arcade, Belfast BT1 5FE, United Kingdom
Built in 1880, Queen’s Arcade has been beautifully restored, mixing that historic charm with modern flair. As we strolled through, it felt like we’d entered another era, thanks to the stunning glass roof and all the intricate details around us.
What I love about Queen’s Arcade is the mix of luxury boutiques and quirky independent shops. And get this—it’s the only place in Ireland where you can find Rolex and OMEGA boutiques!
5. Royal Hillsborough Christmas Market
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Address: Park St, Hillsborough BT26 6AL, United Kingdom
Royal Hillsborough Christmas Market is like stepping right into a festive fairy tale! Picture this: you’re wandering through this historic place, Hillsborough Fort, and everywhere you look, there’s just this vibrant buzz of Christmas magic.
The stalls lined up with unique goodies from independent and artisan producers. Santa made special appearances, and his little elves led interactive craft activities. The kids loved it, too.