Fun Things to Do in Belfast with Kids: A 3-Day Belfast Family Itinerary

Belfast is a fantastic destination for a family vacation, blending a rich, fascinating history with modern, interactive attractions. From its famous maritime past to its vibrant arts scene, there are so many wonderful things to do in Belfast with kids. A family trip here can be both educational and incredibly fun. Plus, it’s a very walkable city for most of your sightseeing.

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This guide will provide a sample itinerary, with tips on transportation, accommodation, and opportunities for you to book your own amazing trip. For families planning their first trip across the pond, our UK first timers guide is a great resource.

First of all, you may be wondering, is Belfast a good city break with a family? The answer is absolutely yes! The city’s compact size and diverse range of activities make it a perfect option for a short yet memorable family holiday.

Getting Around Belfast

One of the great things about Belfast’s city center is that most attractions are easily accessible by walking.

However, to navigate between different quarters of the city, especially with tired little ones, you’ll be happy to know that public transportation is very family friendly.

Translink operates the city’s bus and Glider systems, and they offer a Belfast Visitor Pass which is an excellent value for unlimited travel. You can also ride an open top hop-on, hop-off bus around the city!

For your day trip outside the city, you will need a car. You can check out our comprehensive Guide to driving in the UK for tips and things to know before you rent a car.

A 3-Day Belfast Family Itinerary

This itinerary is designed to keep everyone engaged, with a healthy dose of learning and plenty of fun to tire out the little ones!

Day 1: Titanic History & Interactive Discovery

Morning: Titanic Belfast and SS Nomadic

Start your trip at the city’s most famous attraction. The Titanic Belfast museum is highly interactive, with immersive exhibits and a unique ride that tells the story of the ship’s construction and voyage.

To save time, we highly recommend purchasing your Titanic Belfast tickets in advance.

Afterwards, you can explore the SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Line vessel.

For lunch, grab a bite at The Pantry located inside the Titanic Belfast or walk over to the nearby Odyssey Pavilion for a variety of quick, family-friendly options.

Afternoon: W5 Interactive Discovery Centre

This hands-on science museum is a short walk from the Titanic Museum.

With over 250 exhibits, including a dedicated area for younger kids, it’s a perfect place for children to learn through play.

Day 2: Culture, Gardens & Giant Statues

Morning: Ulster Museum & Botanic Gardens

Head to the Ulster Museum, which offers free admission and is located in the beautiful Botanic Gardens.

Kids will love the dinosaur skeleton, ancient Egyptian artifacts, and engaging natural history exhibits.

When the kids need to run off some energy, the Botanic Gardens offer plenty of green space to do so.

For lunch, you can either eat at the museum’s café or explore the nearby Stranmillis or Lisburn Road for a variety of cafes and restaurants.

Afternoon: CS Lewis Square

Make your way to this public square in East Belfast, a tribute to the city’s famous author.

Kids will love finding the bronze sculptures of beloved characters from The Chronicles of Narnia. It’s a great spot for photos.

Note on Belfast Zoo: While Belfast has a zoo, we recommend you research their ethical practices to determine whether they align with your family’s values before visiting.

Day 3: A Day Trip to a Real Castle

Morning: Carrickfergus Castle

Take a day trip just a short drive from the city to Carrickfergus Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Ireland.

This is a great activity for a family with kids who are looking to do some exploring and love history.

Kids can run around the grounds, see cannons, and climb the spiral staircases of a real-life fortress.

You’ll need to rent a car for this day trip; you can find great deals on rental cars through Trip.com.

💡 Pro tip: If you’d like to let someone else handle driving on the left, try a day tour from Viator that includes the castle and Giant’s Causeway!

For lunch, the town of Carrickfergus has plenty of pubs and cafes for a classic Irish lunch before heading back to Belfast.

Afternoon: Return to Belfast

Enjoy the scenic drive back to the city. If time allows, you can stop at another nearby point of interest or relax back at your hotel.

If your family is up for a longer adventure, an epic Causeway Coast road trip is also a great option. Otherwise, you can stop at the Giant’s Causeway to explore for a couple hours.

Where to Stay in Belfast with Kids

Belfast offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget, from family-friendly hotels with pools to serviced apartments. Choosing a centrally located place makes all the difference when traveling with kids.

For more tips on what to bring, be sure to check our Family UK packing list and our guide on UK rain gear essentials.

Budget-Friendly Options

Maldron Hotel Belfast City: This hotel is known for its excellent central location and comfortable, affordable family rooms. It’s a fantastic base for exploring the city on foot. Check prices and availability.

Hampton by Hilton Belfast City Centre: Another centrally located choice, this hotel often offers family rooms with sofa beds and includes a complimentary breakfast, which can be a huge help for a busy family. Confirm availability for your stay.

Mid-Range Options

Crowne Plaza Belfast: Located outside the city center, this hotel is a popular choice for families due to its spacious rooms and indoor swimming pool. It offers a quieter stay away from the hustle and bustle, with easy access to the city by public transit. Find deals for your dates.

Hilton Belfast: This waterfront hotel is conveniently located right next to the Waterfront Hall. The hotel offers comfortable family rooms, and some even include two double beds, accommodating up to four people. Because of its location on the River Lagan, it provides lovely views and easy access to the city center and the Titanic Quarter. Explore rates for your vacation.

Aparthotels for Families

Aparthotels (or serviced apartments) are often the best choice for families looking for more space and the ability to cook their own meals. This is a great way to save money and manage picky eaters.

Cordia Serviced Apartments: Located outside the immediate city center, these apartments are very popular with families. They offer two-bedroom units with full kitchen facilities, a washer/dryer, and a dedicated family welcome, providing a true home-away-from-home feel. Check availability for your stay.

Queens Quarter Apartments: Situated in the vibrant Queens Quarter, these modern apartments are ideal for families wanting to be close to the Botanic Gardens and Queen’s University. They feature fully equipped kitchens and are highly rated for their convenient location. Find your family’s apartment.

Luxury Options

For families looking for a high-end experience that still offers the space and convenience of an apartment, these options are perfect. They blend five-star service with the luxury of a private residence.

Wilton House: These are stunning, fully equipped serviced residences in a beautifully restored Georgian townhouse. The central location is superb, putting you within walking distance of City Hall and the Grand Opera House. Ultimately, the stunning design and attention to detail make for an unparalleled luxury stay. Secure your luxury apartment.

Regency House: This property is an elegant boutique aparthotel offering rooms and suites with five-star, personalized service. It is conveniently located in the historic Queens Quarter. Many of the suites are large and include a kitchen and washer/dryer, providing a luxurious yet practical base for a family vacation. Book your family suite.

Wrapping it up

In conclusion, Belfast offers a perfect mix of educational, interactive, and outdoor activities to create an incredible family holiday. We trust this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip.

If you found this guide helpful, please share it with other families planning their next adventure!

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