Belfast is the largest city in Northern Ireland, the country’s capital and its cultural, commercial and tourist centre. As might be expected, this means that it is packed with luxury hotels offering top of the range accommodation within easy reach of some of the most popular attractions. Choosing where to stay is a question of deciding which aspect of the city you wish to explore and whether you’re looking for a romantic destination, family accommodation or simply a taste of luxury.
Travelling to Belfast
Belfast sits on the east coast of the country, on the floodplain of the river Lagan, and it is served by two major international airports, George Best Belfast City Airport, which is based in the centre of the city itself, and Belfast International Airport, which lies 15 miles to the west. There are five star hotels within easy travelling distance of both airports, with the closest to George Best Belfast City Airport being just three miles away, whilst Belfast International Airport is only a 25-minute drive from luxury accommodation.
Luxury Shopping in Belfast
Staying in a five star hotel in the heart of Belfast means you are within easy walking distance of everything that this cosmopolitan city centre has to offer. The upmarket shopping of Victoria Square is just a short stroll away. As well as offering a host of high end retailers and luxury food outlets, it also provides the chance to take part in some top of the range sightseeing.
The stunning four-storey mall is also topped with an iconic dome. There are guided hour-long tours of the dome taking place throughout the day allowing you to take in fantastic views back across Belfast and, on a clear day, out across the surrounding rolling green landscape.
Those who want to combine luxury shopping with their luxury accommodation should head to Lisburn Road, where the proliferation of boutique shops, art galleries and top of the range jewellers has earned it the nickname the Diamond Mile.
For an equally stylish but slightly more down to earth taste of Belfast shopping, make your way to Bank Square, where the artisan Folktown Market is held. Browse among stalls offering freshly produced and locally made craft items, treat yourself to gourmet food or local farmers’ produce and enjoy the live music often being performed.
Historical Belfast
Belfast is a city rich in culture and history – down the centuries it has been variously a centre for the production of linen, rope and tobacco. Perhaps its most famous – albeit tragic - export came from the famous Harland and Wolff shipyard, where the iconic Titanic was built. The site of its construction is now known as the Titanic Quarter, and is home to Titanic Belfast, a visitor experience that tells the story of the ship via interactive exhibits spread over the six floors of a stunning, state-of-the-art building.
Staying in Belfast
Book a five star hotel in Belfast at any time of the year and you’re bound to find the warmest of welcomes as well as the chance to explore a rich offering of culture, commerce and history. Whether you stay in the heart of the city or a couple of miles outside, the combination of fresh sea air, cosmopolitan nightlife and rich history will prove unforgettable.
