The must-see sights

Instead of ignoring the troubles of times gone by, embrace them and find out more on your Belfast break. The city is filled with colourful murals depicting scenes from darker times that form a tourist trail though the streets. You can find free downloadable maps online to guide you through the murals, or book a political tour, run by ex political-prisoners, who can tell you first-hand what they mean and what life was like in Belfast at the height of the conflict.

Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK by Bea y Fredi

You may or may not know that the Titanic was built in the docks of Belfast, and visitors can trace the footsteps of the doomed ship at the newly opened Titanic Belfast experience. The exhibition combines full-scale reconstructions, interactive features and special effects that bring the story to life and has been drawing in the crowds since it opened. Tickets cost £13.50 for adults and £6.75 for children aged 5 – 16 years, with under 5s going free.

A great way to see the city is via a Belfast Black Taxi tour. The tour will take you through the murals, into the University and Titanic Quarters, around the shipyard and back for a bowl of Irish stew and a pint of Guinness.

Titanic Museum, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK by Titanic Belfast

The best bars

Belfast is a student city, with several universities dotted in and around the town, so whatever night of the week you may be there you’re sure to find a lively pub. If you’re after a Belfast landmark, pop in for a pint at the Crown Liquor Saloon. As one of the city’s oldest bars, it has a rich interior that has remained unchanged for over 100 years. The pub is filled with original features such as ornately painted glass and a granite topped bar, as well as cosy snugs perfect for winter evening drinks.

Stop off for a drink at The Botanic Inn, or ‘The Bot’ as it is known to locals, and you just don’t know what you’ll find. The pub is split into 3 parts. There is a main bar area is popular for lunch time pub grub, the front bar is a peaceful spot for a quiet beer and the top bar the place to go if you want to party the night away.

If you’re after something a bit more decadent, get your gladrags on and indulge in cocktails at the fabulously fashionable Apartment Bar, which boasts views over city hall to keep you entertained as you sip. Choose from classic cocktails such as Cosmopolitan , or give one of their house specialities a try.

Albert Clock, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK by Bea y Fredi

The coolest venues

The Irish have music in their souls, and whilst in Belfast you should try to check out a local band. Auntie Annie’s is a favourite and hosts everything from acoustic sessions, to full band gigs and even DJ club nights.

The Limelight has two live music venues, plus a public bar where you will frequently find home artists, indie club nights and big name British and international bands that are touring the country. The Belfast Empire is another local favourite, with live music, comedy and themed club nights.

If you’re after something a bit more traditional, head for Maddens Bar, where you’re sure to find a trad sesh. Known as one of Belfast’s top trad music bars, there is live music every night of the week and the atmosphere is buzzing. Grab a Guinness, sit back and enjoy.

Belfast Castle, Northern Ireland, UK by Andrew Hurley

Where to shop

If it’s a shopping weekend you’re after, Belfast will not disappoint. The city centre, around City Hall, is packed full of high-street favourites. Also centrally located is Victoria Square, Belfast’s newest shopping haven, with over 50 stores combining to make this a one-stop shop for your shopping trip.

For bargain hunters, the Junction One International Outlet Shopping centre is sure to delight. It is situated about 20 minutes out from the centre of Belfast, but is more than worth the trip if you’re serious about your shopping.

For something a bit different, hit the ‘Style Mile’ at Lisburn Road, where you will find independent boutiques and designer stores. Vintage lovers should take note of Raspberry Beret, a fabulous vintage boutique located in the chic Belmont Road area.

Where to stay

Sleepy Cedars

Friendly and ever-so slightly quirky, Sleepy Cedars offers a comfortable and quiet base not far from the city centre. The welcoming hosts have thought of everything, providing a library for guests who are after a bedtime read, as well as a piano that those who are musically inclined are welcome to have a tinkle on.

This restored Victorian property is bright and charming, with a bit of a shabby chic feel to the décor in the spacious rooms. There’s a bus stop at the end of the road, offering easy access into the city for days or evenings out, and your hosts will send you off with a full stomach after a sensational breakfast which includes freshly baked Irish soda bread. Rooms start at a wallet-friendly £29 for a single and £45 for a double.

Evelyn’s B&B

For an intimate experience, Evelyn’s B&B is nestled away in the leafy south suburbs of the city. This beautiful Victorian B&B has just two guest rooms, each decorated in a stylish fashion, which combines period charm and modern elegance.

The B&B is located close to The Botanic Gardens and the Ulster Museum, so you can start your sightseeing right on your doorstep. There are some lovely bars and restaurants also nearby, making this an ideal base for a Belfast break. Rooms are priced at £50 per night.

Anita Doherty is the Editor for Enjoybedandbreakfast.com (www.enjoybedandbreakfast.com) a travel website for accommodation with personality in the UK. The website offers a growing selection of quaint B&Bs, charming inns, small boutique hotels and guest houses. You can find her on twitter @enjoybnb when she’s not travelling the world!

The post A City Guide to Belfast | Northern Ireland, UK appeared first on Europe Explored.

The village offers some fascinating 17th and 18th century churches, some of which contain ancient mural paintings and wood carvings. The churches in Arbanasi typically have strong, high walls, small windows and very strong oak doors studded with iron nails.

One of the earliest churches in Arbanasi is the ‘Nativity Church’ or the ‘Cathedral of Nativity’. Extensive studies have found that the church was built in three separate stages which presents some interesting structural characteristics. The main body of the church is divided into male and female sections and the whole building is decorated with murals. The Nativity Church is one of the oldest and best preserved churches not just in Arbanasi but across the whole of Bulgaria.

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