How to Visit the Titanic Belfast
Read our guide on the Titanic Belfast Museum in Northern Ireland. We'll walk you through everything you need to know to visit the Titanic Belfast, including opening hours, how to get tickets, how to get there, and what to see.
Belfast is known for its turbulent past, traditional Irish pubs, lively atmosphere, and Titanic Belfast Experience.
The modern museum that retells the story of the Titanic is one of the top attractions in Belfast.
The museum was built on the former Harland & Wolff shipyard site where the RMS Titanic was built, making the experience as authentic as possible.
You're in for a treat if you decide to incorporate this museum into your Ireland itinerary.
Titanic Belfast is undoubtedly the best museum in Northern Ireland, most likely even on the whole island.
One of the best parts is that the museum is accessible to all ages and abilities.
All things considered, Titanic Belfast is a must-do when visiting the capital city of Northern Ireland.
In this guide, you'll find out everything you need to know to prepare for a visit to the Titanic Belfast.
History and Facts
RMS Titanic was a British passenger ship that Harland & Wolff Ltd built in Belfast.
The ship was laid down in March 1909, launched in 1911, and completed in April 1912.
The port and date of registry was Liverpool, 25. March 1912.
The Titanic was 269 meters long and 28 meters wide, had a draft of 10.5 meters, and an original gross tonnage of 46,329.
The Titanic was the second of three Olympic-class ocean liners operated by White Star Line and the largest ship at the time.
The ship was a pinnacle of engineering and comfort in its time.
While the ship carried many affluent families, the majority of passengers were immigrants seeking a new life in the United States.
The ship struck an iceberg in the North Atlantic Ocean on 15th April 1912 on her maiden voyage from Southhampton, England, to New York, United States.
More than 1500 died of the estimated 2224 passengers and crew aboard, making it one of the deadliest ship sinkings in history.
The disaster attracted major public attention, resulting in major changes in maritime safety regulations.
The ship also played a prominent role in modern popular culture, with James Cameron's Titanic being one of the highest-grossing films in history.
Today, Titanic is arguably the most famous ocean liner ever built.
What to See and Do
Titanic Belfast is a large museum, so it's not surprising that there's so much to see.
You can easily spend the whole morning or afternoon here without getting bored.
Even though Titanic Belfast is large, the museum is well laid out, and you won't feel overwhelmed.
Compared to places such as MET or the Louvre, the overall experience is much friendlier for first-time visitors.
As the museum focuses on Titanic and the city of Belfast, you can just follow the natural progression of the rooms.
Titanic Belfast is wheelchair friendly.
If you want to bring the kids, consider renting the headphones to make the visit more enjoyable for them.
Titanic Belfast Museum
Before we entered the museum, we took quite some time to enjoy the stunning architecture of the museum building.
The shape of the building resembles ship prows and reflects Belfast's rich ship-making history.
Taking a leisurely stroll along the Maritime Mile is also worth it, though you can save it for later.
The museum was opened in 2012, so you can expect a modern interior and a fantastic visitor experience.
The constant influx of new information was probably our favorite part of this whole experience.
Even if you're not an avid museum-goer, Titanic Belfast delivers an entertaining experience.
Here is a quick walkthrough of our favorite interactive galleries the museum has to offer (there are a few more that you should explore as well).
Boomtown Belfast
The Titanic Belfast exhibition starts with Belfast's industrial development at the beginning of the 20th century and the first Titanic construction plans.
This was one of our favorite parts of the museum as it serves as a fantastic introduction to Belfast, the Titanic, and the ship-making industry.
By the way, make sure to check the map of Belfast's docks as they have transformed throughout the years.
The change was truly dramatic.
The Shipyard Ride
One of the most popular attractions within the museum is the 5-minute Titanic Dark Ride up and around a replica of Titanic's rudder.
You will hop on a suspended cart and enjoy the audio and video experience with special effects and animations that will show you the ship's history in a different way.
I admit I found this experience a bit underwhelming, as it seemed aimed at younger visitors.
The Launch
Titanic was launched on 31st May 1912, and more than 100.000 people watched this major event.
If you've wondered what those tall metal poles at the back of the museum are, you will find out that this is the Titanic Slipway.
You can enjoy the views of the docks from this room through a large glass window.
The Fit-Out
The Titanic had three classes of cabins, and you will learn everything about the fitting-out of the ship in this section.
One of the most surprising facts we learned was that even the third-class cabins looked relatively comfortable.
The Maiden Voyage
As Liverpool was home to White Star Line offices, the Titanic (and Olympic) was registered there.
The route connected Southampton, Cherbourg, Queenstown, and eventually, a voyage across the North Atlantic Ocean to New York.
Queenstown, today known as Cobh, was the Titanic's port of call. The last stop was New York City, a destination Titanic never reached.
The Sinking
This part explains the disaster that occurred between April 14th and 15th, 1912. The sound of Morse code SOS messages in the background makes this experience truly immersive. If you have time, listen to the moving accounts of the survivors.
The Aftermath
This is another interesting section that focuses on the aftermath of the Titanic disaster.
You might be a bit tired already, and this room won't make it easier for you as it's packed with information.
The events of the ship's sinking and its consequences are very well documented, making this another favorite section of the museum.
Myths and Legends
As with any tragic event, the story doesn't end there.
The tragic events inspired many books, plays, poems, films, and more throughout the years.
Here, you will learn that Titanic's popular culture is not just James Cameron's movie Titanic and Celine Dion's song My Heart Will Go On.
Titanic Beneath
Titanic's shipwreck lies about 3700 meters below the North Atlantic's surface.
This final gallery will allow you to learn about shipwreck discovery by Dr Robert Ballard and the following expeditions.
You will also see what Titanic looks like now.
The Discovery Tour
While you can certainly explore Titanic Belfast on your own, taking a guided tour is a memorable experience.
The 60-minute Discovery Tour explains Titanic's history from when the ship was built until its final hours.
If you're unsure where to start, this tour is a great introduction to Titanic's story.
The meeting point is The Discovery Point, Titanic Belfast Atrium.
Don't forget that you need to book the Discovery Tour in advance. A headset is included.
SS Nomadic
SS Nomadic was RMS Titanic's tender ship that has been beautifully restored.
The main purpose of SS Nomadic was to ferry first and second-class passengers to the Titanic from Cherbourg, though it remained in service until 1968.
Consequently, it was the White Star Line's last remaining vessel.
Today, you can walk the decks and learn about its history on a self-guided tour.
The SS Nomadic is included in the price of the Titanic Museum ticket.
You will find SS Nomadic just in front of the Titanic's Belfast main entrance.
Maritime Mile
Once you're done with the museum, make your way through the Titanic Quarter on Maritime Mile.
The Titanic Quarter is one of Europe's largest waterfront regeneration projects that attracts visitors from all over the world.
As you will see, Titanic was not the only ship built in Belfast.
If you want to discover Belfast's rich maritime past, thoroughly inspect Maritime Mile.
The walk along Maritime Mile includes Titanic Belfast, Titanic Slipways, SS Nomadic, HMS Caroline, Titanic Dock and Pumphouse, The Titanica, Belfast Buoys, Big Fish, and more.
Opening Hours
Titanic Belfast Museum has seasonal opening hours. Keep in mind that the SS Nomadic has separate opening hours.
Always check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times before you go.
The good news is that Titanic Belfast is open nearly every day of the year.
Titanic Belfast
Titanic Belfast is usually open from 9 AM to 7 PM in June and August.
In April - May and September - October, Titanic Belfast is open from 9 AM to 6 PM.
The museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM between November and March.
The last admission is 1 hour and 40 minutes before closing time.
SS Nomadic
SS Nomadic is open in line with Titanic Belfast but has reduced hours.
The last admission is 30 minutes before closing time.
SS Nomadic is open from 9 AM to 6:30 PM in June and August.
Entrance Fee
The entry fee to Titanic Belfast is £24.95. This is a standard admission that includes Titanic and SS Nomadic Experience.
The admission is not cheap, but we believe it is worth every penny, even for those visiting Ireland on a budget.
Tickets
You can buy tickets directly through the official website, or if you prefer GetYourGuide, here's the Titanic Belfast Experience Ticket.
How Much Time Do I Need
So, how long should you spend at Titanic Belfast?
We believe you will need at least two to three hours for the Titanic Belfast Experience.
The general rule of thumb is that the more time you spend in the museum, the more you will appreciate the Titanic Belfast Experience.
This is something you should take into consideration when planning a trip to this museum.
Some visitors can easily spend about 4-5 hours (or even more) here without getting bored.
If you're an avid museum-goer, don't forget to take a break to be able to absorb all the information this museum offers.
If you're pressed for time, about 90 minutes should probably be okay to get a general sense of Titanic's history.
Remember that the last admission is almost two hours before closing, indicating approximately how much time you need.
If you plan to visit SS Nomadic, add another 30 to 60 minutes to your trip.
When to Go
You can visit the Titanic Belfast Museum all year round. That's one of the things we love about museums.
You can keep your itinerary flexible and instead focus on the best time to visit Ireland, as this is a far more important decision.
Another important thing to consider is that visiting Titanic Belfast on a rainy day is also great.
In fact, this is perhaps the best thing to do in Belfast on a rainy day.
As the opening times are often quietest, we arrived at 9 AM.
The museum was still relatively quiet, but a large, organized group was already waiting for the opening.
This made the first section quite crowded. Luckily, the initial crowd spread out afterward.
Remember that weekends are always a busy time for the Titanic Belfast museum.
Try to plan your visit for a weekday if you want to avoid the crowds.
Don't forget that if you want to stay longer in the museum, you will end up in one of the busiest times either way.
What to Pack
Be prepared that the museum is fairly large, probably larger than you expect, and you will most likely spend at least two hours there.
If you wear uncomfortable shoes, your visit could be exhausting. Regular runners should be more than fine.
Other than that, wear what you like and feel most comfortable in.
Taking photographs is allowed in all areas, so you should bring your favorite travel camera.
Check out this guide if you're unsure what to pack for Ireland.
How to Get There
The Titanic Belfast Museum is located in Belfast's Titanic Quarter.
This area is a relatively short walk from the city center, where most hotels and pubs will be found.
Therefore, the easiest way to get to Titanic Belfast is on foot.
Alternatively, you can reach the museum by bike, car, taxi, train, bus, or guided tour.
On Foot
The museum is approximately a 30-minute walk from the city center, depending on where you're staying.
Belfast is a walkable city, so you don't need to use the public transport to get there.
If you're pressed for time, you can take a taxi, but we don't believe it's worth it.
Car
Titanic Belfast Museum is about a 90-minute drive from Derry and a two-hour drive from Dublin.
Belfast International Airport is around a 30-minute drive from the museum.
We drove around the whole island on our first Ireland road trip. In our opinion, driving is the best way to see everything this stunning island has to offer.
Just be prepared that driving in large Irish cities can be time-consuming due to constant traffic.
Here, you will find useful tips on driving in Ireland and renting a car in Ireland.
Travel Resources
When renting a car, we use Rentalcars.com.
Parking
Underground paid car parking is available at the Titanic Belfast.
Considering the ideal location, parking was relatively affordable, though we would prefer it to be included in the ticket price for visitors.
The parking has 500+ parking spaces and is open 24/7. You can pay at the payment machines or the exit barriers.
There are charging points for electric cars.
We arrived by car, and Titanic Belfast was the first place we visited in the city. Using the parking was easy and convenient.
Bus
If you're staying in Belfast, you can take the Glider that connects the East and West Belfast with the city center and stops at Titanic Quarter.
Reaching Titanic Belfast by bus from Derry or Dublin is also possible.
In this case, check Translink's website to plan your journey.
Hop-on Hop-Off Bus
One of the most popular ways to get around Belfast among tourists is the hop-on, hop-off buses.
Here, you can book a popular Hop-on Hop-off Bus Belfast Sightseeing Tour in advance.
Train
You can also get to Titanic Belfast by train operated by Translink.
The nearest train station for Titanic Belfast is Titanic Quarter Station.
The museum is about a 15-minute walk from here. Follow the signage and use the footbridge to cross the highway.
You can take a train from Derry to Belfast. The ride takes over 2 hours and 15 minutes.
The journey from Dublin City (Connolly Rail Station) takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes.
Remember to change trains at Belfast's Lanyon Place Train Station in both instances.
Tours
Alternatively, you can take a guided tour that includes Titanic Belfast.
Here, you can reserve a top-rated Northern Ireland Tour from Dublin.
Where to Stay
You have several options if you're looking for a comfy place to stay near Titanic Belfast.
You can stay right next to the museum. The nearby hotel is beautiful, though fairly expensive.
Most travelers will decide to stay in the city center, which is about a 20-40 minute walk from here.
The Belfast City Center and Cathedral Quarter are one of the most popular neighborhoods to stay in Belfast. You will find hotels for every budget within this area.
You can also stay outside Belfast in one of the charming bed and breakfasts and get to the museum by car.
Our last tip is that budget hotels are a bit more expensive but offer better value than the hostels.
Here is our list of the best hotels near the Titanic Belfast Museum.
Budget | Ibis Hotel - This hotel offers affordable accommodation in Belfast's city center for every budget traveler. Rooms are clean and modern, and everything is within walking range. You can reach the museum in less than 30 minutes from here.
Mid-range | Titanic Hotel Belfast - For a fitting place to stay, consider choosing this mid-range hotel housed in a historic building. Boasting an art-deco theme, beautiful rooms with amazing views, and a great restaurant, this property is just a stone's throw from the museum.
Luxury | The Merchant Hotel - This luxury 5-star hotel is less than a 20-minute walk from the Titanic Belfast, so you can easily get to the museum on foot. Boasting luxurious rooms, a spa, a rooftop gym, fine dining, and an amazing location, this is one of the best hotels in the city.
Staying Safe
Belfast Titanic is a generally very safe place to visit. While the Belfast Titanic is as safe as a visit to a museum can be.
With that said, you still need to stay vigilant while there, as pickpockets often target European museums.
The museum gets crowded at certain times and sections.
Keep your valuables safe, and never leave your phone or wallet in the back pocket of your jeans.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
Is Titanic Belfast Museum Worth Visiting?
If you're in Belfast, the Titanic Museum is definitely worth seeing. In fact, this is the best museum Northern Ireland has to offer.
The museum is a must-do for anyone who loves history; we believe even families with kids will find it enjoyable.
On our travels, we've seen a fair share of incredible museums scattered around the globe.
To name a few, MET in New York, Inhotim in Brazil, and Yad Vashem in Israel were among the most interesting ones we had a chance to visit.
After touring the Titanic Belfast, we're not afraid to add it to our list of the most unique and amazing museums we've visited so far.
The best part is that the museum was opened on the docks where the Titanic was originally built.
The Titanic's Quarter location and nearby attractions connected to Titanic and Belfast's maritime history really add to the overall experience.
Simply put, Titanic Belfast is one of the best museums in the world for those interested in history and human ingenuity.
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.
