Where to Stay in Belfast
Are you searching for a hotel in Belfast? Find the perfect area and hotel with this comprehensive guide to the best places to stay in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Belfast is the ultimate base for exploring the best Northern Ireland has to offer.
There are plenty of things to do in Belfast for all visitors and even more amazing places to see outside the city.
If you're planning your Ireland itinerary, we believe Belfast will have a firm spot on it.
Belfast is the largest city of Northern Ireland, so it's no surprise there are tons of hostels, budget accommodations, apartments, chains, boutiques, and luxury hotels for all budgets and preferences.
To make this guide easy to read, we've put together this list of hotels from the most budget-friendly to the most luxurious options.
So, without further ado, here you will find tips on the best places to stay while visiting Belfast.
Our Favorite Hotels in Belfast
If you don't have that much time for reading, here you will find a quick summary of the best hotels in Belfast in each category.
These are our favorite hotels in Belfast.
Best for Backpackers - Vagabonds
Best for Families - Crowne Plaza
Best for Couples - Titanic Hotel Belfast
Best for Business - Hilton Belfast
Budget Hotel - Hampton By Hilton Belfast City Centre
Mid-range Hotel - Titanic Hotel Belfast
Boutique Hotel - The Harrison
Luxury Hotel - The Merchant
Airport Hotel - Maldron Hotel Belfast International Airport
If you want to know more, keep on reading. We've compiled a list of the best hotels in Belfast for all budgets and preferences.
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Belfast
If you're planning a trip to the capital of Northern Ireland, you are probably wondering where the best areas to stay in Belfast are.
When it comes to the best neighborhoods to stay in Belfast, there is one important thing to know.
Belfast is a compact, walkable city, so booking a hotel with a central location makes sense.
The most popular areas for tourists to stay in Belfast are the City Center, the Linen Quarter, the Cathedral Quarter, the Queen's Quarter, and the Titanic Quarter.
There are a few more areas, such as the Gaeltacht Quarter, but they tend to be a bit further from the city center.
City Center
The most obvious choice is to base in Belfast's City Center, which features Belfast City Hall, Victoria Square, and St. George's Market.
This is one of the most popular places to stay in Belfast, no matter your budget and preferences.
There are dozens of restaurants, pubs, cafes, stores, shopping malls, etc., so everything you need is within your reach.
Some of the most popular hotels in the area are ibis Belfast City Centre with affordable rooms, the mid-range Leonardo Hotel, and the luxury Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast.
If this is your first trip to Belfast and you are still undecided about which neighborhood suits your preferences, the City Center is always the safest bet.
Cathedral Quarter
If you still haven't found a hotel of your liking in the City Center, Cathedral Quarter should be the next neighborhood to explore.
This historic neighborhood is packed with cobblestoned streets, impressive architecture, captivating street art, lively pubs, great restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Among the top attractions are St. Anne's Cathedral, Metropolitan Arts Centre (MAC), vibrant cultural life, and the striking contrast between some of the oldest streets in Belfast and modern establishments.
Cathedral Quarter is home to some great accommodations, such as the Bullitt Hotel or Ramada Belfast.
The Crown Jewel is the opulent The Merchant, one of the most beautiful hotels in Belfast.
The Cathedral Quarter is north of the City Center, only a short distance from there.
Linen Quarter
Located south of the City Center, the Linen Quarter is another great place to stay in Belfast.
It was once nicknamed Linenipolis, as this neighborhood was a capital city of linen production in the 19th century.
The linen business put Belfast on the world map, making it a dominant city in the region.
Today, this neighborhood offers an eclectic mix of former warehouses, modern offices, government buildings, lively bars, cultural venues, exquisite restaurants, and the Grand Opera House.
As the neighborhood is right next to the City Center, you will find several great hotels in Linen Quarter as well.
Dominating the Linen Quarter is the 5-star luxury Grand Central Hotel, though there are a few budget-friendly accommodations such as ETAP Hotel Belfast, Holiday Inn Belfast, or Travelodge Belfast.
Queen's Quarter
Named after the Queen's University, Queen's Quarter is one of the liveliest Belfast districts.
Besides the university, this quarter is home to the Ulster Museum, Botanics Garden, Empire Music Hall, cafes, cocktail and live music bars, and excellent restaurants.
Queen's Quarter is also home to some of the best Belfast hostels, so it's a popular choice among backpackers and budget-oriented travelers.
Some of the best hostels in Queen's Quarter are the Vagabonds Hostel and the Belfast International Youth Hostel.
If you like the location but want to stay in something more elegant, the Harrison Hotel may check all your boxes.
Queen's Quarter is located south of the City Hall, and you can easily reach the city center on foot from there.
Titanic Quarter
While the Titanic Quarter doesn't have the appeal and services of the city center, you will be much closer to the Belfast Titanic.
Another reason we believe you should consider staying in this area instead of the city center is the access to the industrial section of the waterfront and Belfast's rich maritime history.
Currently, your only choice is practically the Titanic Hotel Belfast.
As the hotel has a limited number of rooms, you need to book your room in advance to avoid disappointment. Titanic Quarter is a 20-30 minute walk from the City Hall.
Best Hostels
If you're visiting Ireland on a budget, you should consider staying in one of Belfast's hostels.
Hostels usually offer excellent value for money and are great places to make new friends.
Our travel tip is to always choose a hostel with a shared kitchen to fix yourself a healthy meal and save money on food.
Another pro tip is to include good earplugs and a padlock on your hostel packing list. Finding a good hostel is not always easy, but not impossible.
The majority of Belfast's hostels can be found in the Queen's Quarter, which is not surprising due to the fact that there's a large university and train station.
So here are the best hostels in Belfast.
Vagabonds Hostel | This is arguably the most popular hostel in Belfast among international visitors.
The hostel is located in Queen's Quarter, about 650 meters from Great Victoria Street Station and 1.3 kilometers from City Hall.
You can select between a bed in a dormitory (both female and mixed) and private rooms. Each bed in the dormitory has its own plug and a locker.
On top of that, expect a nice shared kitchen, spacious lounge, and clean showers. A complimentary breakfast is included.
If you're looking for affordable accommodation within walking distance from the city center, Vagabonds is a great choice.
Belfast International Youth Hostel | Belfast International Youth Hostel is, together with the Vagabonds, one of the two best hostels in Belfast.
It's also located in Queen's Quarter, which means you can easily walk to the City Hall in less than 15 minutes.
The property offers both private and dormitory rooms with lockers, shared lounge areas, an on-site cafe, and laundry facilities.
One of the main advantages of this hostel is that it has on-site parking available.
This is not a standard feature when it comes to city hostels, and it may come in handy for those road-tripping in Ireland.
All things considered, Belfast International Youth Hoste offers basic accommodation, a great location, and cheap rates.
Lagan Backpackers | If you're looking to stay somewhere cheap in Belfast, Lagan Backpackers is okay for a night or two.
The hostel is located in a quiet area near the university and the Botanic Gardens.
As the City Hall is 1.5 kilometers north of here, you can easily reach the city center on foot.
While Vagabonds and Belfast International Youth Hostel have better reviews and offer value for money, Lagan is usually cheaper.
The hostel offers dormitories with bunk beds and shared bathroom facilities, as well as private rooms. This hostel also offers free parking.
Best Budget Hotels
Belfast has a fair share of budget accommodation, but you need to take the word budget with a grain of salt.
While Belfast is less expensive than Dublin, it's still not a cheap destination.
As we usually travel with Lucie together, we prefer en suite rooms in budget hotels over shared/private rooms in hostels.
After years of traveling, we learned that there's nothing better than a good night of sleep.
ibis Belfast City Centre | Without any doubt, ibis Belfast City Centre is one of the best affordable hotels in the city center.
When traveling around Europe, ibis hotels usually offer clean rooms, good service, and convenience. This hotel in Belfast is no exception.
Its central location is perfect for those who want to explore Belfast on foot.
The rooms are compact but functional, very tidy, and with clean bathroom facilities. The breakfast has a fine selection and offers good value.
There is affordable parking just across the street.
ETAP Hotel Belfast | Another affordable option in central Belfast is the ETAP Hotel, which is basically a budget ibis.
This is a great basic hotel for those traveling on a shoestring but prefer to avoid hostels.
The hotel has a central location, so you can walk to Great Victoria Street station in less than five minutes and City Hall in less than 10 minutes.
As you would expect from hotels in this category, the rooms are small and basic but clean. The buffet breakfast is basic but satisfactory for the price.
ETAP Hotel Belfast is a solid choice if you're looking for a short stay and a cheap room.
Hampton By Hilton Belfast City Centre | Hampton By Hilton is one of the best 3-star hotels in Belfast's city center.
It's located right next to the Great Victoria Street station and about a 10-minute walk from the City Hall. Expect modern facilities, complimentary breakfast, and attentive staff.
The rooms are spacious compared to other budget hotels on our list and offer modern amenities and a homey feel. Discounted parking is available at the parking facility adjacent to the hotel.
To conclude, this is a great, comfortable, modern hotel with everything you will need and offers a great overall stay for an adequate price.
Travelodge Belfast | Situated only a 5-minute walk from the City Hall and Great Victoria Street station, Travelodge Belfast is a good place for a one-night stay.
Thanks to affordable rates, it is a popular choice among budget travelers looking for accommodation in the city center.
The main advantage of this hotel is its fantastic location and clean rooms. Many attractions, restaurants, pubs, and shops are within walking distance, which is always super convenient.
Overall, this is a basic, inexpensive place to sleep, perfect for short stays.
Best Mid-range Hotels
One of the main reasons we stay in mid-range hotels is that they offer an excellent ratio of price, convenience, and comfort.
In fact, mid-range hotels often offer the best value for your money, but the rule of thumb is to book early to find those deals.
Belfast has several great mid-range hotels to suit all tastes and budgets.
Holiday Inn Belfast | Situated near Great Victoria Street and only 800 meters from City Hall, Holiday Inn Belfast is one of the most popular 4-star hotels in the city.
Apart from the prime location, you can expect modern air-conditioned rooms, comfy beds with pocket-sprung mattresses, 24-hour room service, and a modern fitness center.
One of the main features of this hotel is the open lobby concept that combines all-day dining, full bar service, and 24/7 Starbucks coffee.
The mouthwatering buffet breakfast has a great variety, and the hotel restaurant offers a wide range of dishes to suit all tastes.
If you are unsure what mid-range hotel to choose, Holiday Inn Belfast won't disappoint.
Leonardo Hotel Belfast | Situated only a 3-minute walk from the City Hall, Leonardo is one of Belfast's most popular centrally located hotels.
It was our hotel of choice while traveling in Ireland as it was at the time cheaper than other properties in the same category.
The rooms were well-appointed and relatively spacious, though a bit outdated. The hearty breakfast has plenty of choices that will set you up nicely for the day's adventures.
The only slight convenience is that the hotel has no parking facilities, but you can park your vehicle at Value Car Parks beside the hotel.
If the price is right, this is a lovely place to stay.
The Harrison | If you prefer stylish boutique hotels over the comfort of chain hotels, you should consider staying at The Harrison Chambers of Distinction Belfast.
There are several reasons why this hotel should be on your list of the most beautiful hotels in Belfast.
Firstly, it's the eclectic mix of antique and modern. There is no other hotel in Belfast like the Harrison.
Secondly, all rooms are unique and individually decorated, each telling a story linked to Belfast's history.
Lastly, the Queen's Quarter, known for its art galleries, museums, and theatres, adds to the overall atmosphere. You can walk to the City Hall in less than 20-30 minutes from here.
To conclude, this hotel is one of the most popular choices for travelers seeking a more personalized experience while in Belfast.
Crowne Plaza | If you're looking for a family-friendly hotel outside Belfast's busy center, check out the Crowne Plaza.
Thanks to its location, Crowne Plaza is a great place for a family break or a romantic gateway.
This hotel is set in a lush parkland in the Lagan Valley Regional Park, about a 15-minute drive from the central Belfast area.
Cozy rooms are spacious with modern amenities (selected rooms have king-size beds), and you can also book one of the luxurious suites.
The health club features a 20-meter pool with a sauna and steam room, ideal for relaxing after a long day's sightseeing.
The on-site restaurant offers great food, so you may not need to leave the hotel.
Simply put, this place offers a great getaway from big city life while within driving distance from the city center.
Titanic Hotel Belfast | Without any doubt, Titanic Hotel Belfast is one of the most beautiful hotels in Belfast.
The original building of Harland and Wolff was turned into a fabulous hotel with history oozing from every corner.
The modernly renovated hotel retains its original grandeur but offers modern standards and excellent service.
The City Hall is about two kilometers from the hotel, so you can easily reach the city center on foot.
Titanic Hotel Belfast has no parking facilities, but you can easily leave your car at the Titanic Belfast underground garages, which are only a short walk from here.
Best Luxury Hotels
Look no further if you're looking for unparalleled 5-star service, gorgeous rooms, a central location, and fine dining experiences.
Despite its relatively small size, Belfast has several great luxury hotels catering to your needs.
Here we have listed our recommendations on the best luxury hotels in Belfast city center.
Grand Central Hotel Belfast | Situated in the Linen Quarter, this 5-star hotel is the tallest building in the city.
The main draw of Grand Central Hotel is the stylish and spacious rooms with comfortable beds, amazing views, and impeccable service.
If you have time, make sure to go to the Observatory Bar on the 23rd floor. The views from the top of the building are spectacular.
The City Hall and Great Victoria Street Station are less than a 5-minute walk from here. The hotel offers a Valet parking service if you're arriving by car.
The Merchant | The Merchant is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in Belfast.
It's located in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter, so you can be sure everything is close.
One of the main reasons why this property feels so magical is that the hotel is housed in an old heritage Grade A building that gives it its unique atmosphere.
The former headquarters of Ulster Bank was transformed into a 5-star luxury hotel while retaining its Italianate style and ornate interiors.
The stylish rooms with original artwork are absolutely gorgeous, as well as the marble bathrooms.
The Great Restaurant Room with a domed ceiling serves delicious food with excellent presentation.
After a day of walking around the city, you will truly appreciate a rooftop hot tub and luxurious spa.
You can use discounted GO Car Park rates or the Valet service if needed.
Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast | Fitzwilliam Hotel is another excellent choice when it comes to luxury hotels in Belfast.
It's located on Great Victoria Street, just beside the Grand Opera House. This boutique hotel has beautifully decorated rooms, fantastic food, and concierge service.
Boasting high-speed WiFi, Egyptian linens, designer toiletries, and comfortable beds, the rooms in Fitzwilliam have everything a modern-day traveler needs while on the road.
The hotel offers on-site parking for an additional cost.
Best Airport Hotels
For those arriving by plane, note that Belfast has two airports.
As the name suggests, George Belfast City Airport is located within the city, precisely in the Titanic Quarter.
This smallish airport is used for shorter flights within the U.K. and some European destinations (British Airways, Aer Lingus, easyJet).
Due to its small size and central location, the airport has no on-site hotel.
Most international travelers land at Belfast International Airport.
This airport is located approximately 30 kilometers from the city center. It has an ideal location for visitors who have early or late flights.
If you've already been to Belfast, you may rather stay here instead of the city center to avoid traffic on your way to the airport.
Maldron Hotel Belfast International Airport | Situated directly at Belfast International Airport, this 3-star hotel has cozy rooms with modern decor.
If you're arriving by car (M2/A57), the hotel offers complimentary parking for all guests.
Another reason why staying at Maldron Hotel is so convenient is the on-site restaurant.
If you wonder what to do with your bags before check-in or after checkout, you can use the on-site luggage storage.
Ballyrobin Hotel | This hotel is located less than two kilometers east of the international airport.
It's a lovely boutique hotel with an excellent location, modern facilities, a rustic atmosphere, and an on-site restaurant.
They provide a shuttle bus service, or you will need a car to get there. Free parking is available at the property.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
