Belfast City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Discover Belfast’s heritage and vibrant culture aboard an open-top hop-on hop-off bus with live guides and flexible 1- or 2-day tickets.
Explore Belfast’s rich history and vibrant culture aboard the Belfast City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour. Operating daily from Donegall Square West, this open-top double-decker tour offers live guides and multilingual audio commentary, covering key landmarks like Titanic Belfast, Stormont Parliament Buildings, the Peace Walls, and Queen’s University. With flexible 1- or 2-day tickets, travelers can hop on and off at 19 stops, enjoying panoramic city views and insightful stories about Belfast’s past and present.
A brief summary to Belfast City Sightseeing
- Donegall Square W, Belfast, BT2 7BA, GB
- +442890321321
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Purchase a 2-day ticket to fully explore all stops and attractions at a relaxed pace.
- Bring a camera for panoramic views from the open-top deck, especially near Titanic Belfast and the Peace Walls.
- Check the weather forecast; covered buses operate in winter for added comfort.
- Use the multilingual audio guides available in five languages for a richer experience.
- Combine your city tour with a full-day Giant’s Causeway excursion departing from the same central location.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
The Belfast City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off bus departs every 20 to 30 minutes from Donegall Square West between 10:00 and 16:00. Tickets are valid for 1 or 2 days and allow unlimited travel on the route. Adult tickets cost approximately £12.50. The service is wheelchair accessible and operates year-round except on select holidays.
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Public Transport
Belfast city center is well served by local buses connecting to Donegall Square West. Bus routes from Belfast Central Station and other city areas typically take 10-20 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£3. Walking from the station to the departure point takes about 15 minutes on flat terrain.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby in central Belfast, walking to Donegall Square West is straightforward, with well-paved sidewalks and pedestrian crossings. Depending on your location, walking times range from 10 to 30 minutes. The area is safe and accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Belfast City Sightseeing location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Belfast City Sightseeing
Immersive Exploration of Belfast’s Iconic Sights
The Belfast City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour provides a comprehensive and flexible way to discover the city’s most significant landmarks and neighborhoods. Departing from Donegall Square West beside Belfast City Hall, the open-top double-decker buses run daily between 10:00 and 16:00, with frequencies of 20 to 30 minutes depending on the season. The full circuit takes approximately 90 minutes, allowing visitors to tailor their experience by hopping off at any of the 19 stops to explore attractions such as Titanic Belfast, the Titanic Quarter, Crumlin Road Gaol, and the political murals of Falls and Shankill Roads.Historical Context and Cultural Insights
The tour is enriched by live guides who provide engaging commentary filled with historical facts, local anecdotes, and humor. Key themes include Belfast’s industrial heritage, the Titanic’s legacy, and the complex history of the Troubles, highlighted by stops at the Peace Walls and political murals. Multilingual audio guides are also available, enabling visitors from around the world to appreciate the city’s stories in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish. The tour offers a unique blend of education and entertainment, making it suitable for first-time visitors and those wishing to deepen their understanding of Belfast’s cultural fabric.Convenience and Accessibility for All Travelers
Tickets are valid for either one or two days, providing unlimited travel on the route, which enhances convenience for visitors wishing to explore at their own pace. The buses are wheelchair accessible, and during winter months, fully covered buses are available to ensure comfort in colder weather. The tour’s central starting point and multiple stops throughout the city make it easy to integrate with other sightseeing plans or day trips, such as the Giant’s Causeway excursion.Complementary Tours and Experiences
Belfast City Sightseeing also offers combined tours that include visits to the Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones filming locations, as well as historical castles and scenic coastal drives. These full-day excursions depart from the same central location and provide an immersive experience into Northern Ireland’s natural beauty and cinematic heritage. Additionally, the tour office offers information and booking assistance for these extended trips, making it a convenient hub for visitors.Engaging Atmosphere and Local Interaction
The tour’s live guides and friendly drivers contribute to a lively and personable atmosphere onboard, often sharing local stories and engaging directly with passengers. This interaction adds a human touch to the sightseeing experience, making the city’s history feel immediate and relatable. The opportunity to hop off at various stops also encourages exploration of Belfast’s diverse neighborhoods, markets, and cultural sites.Practical Details and Visitor Amenities
The tour operates every day except on select public holidays, with the first bus departing at 10:00 and the last at 16:00. Tickets can be purchased online or at the tour office, with family discounts and concession pricing available. Facilities such as restrooms, food and drink options, and visitor centers are accessible at many stops along the route. The tour’s central location in Belfast city center ensures strong mobile reception and easy access to other transport options, enhancing the overall visitor experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mary Ann McCracken statue
0.0 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
0.0 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
0.1 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
0.1 km
Discover the heart of Belfast with a free walking tour that unveils the city's history, culture, and hidden gems through the eyes of local guides.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
0.1 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
0.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich mythology of Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, through guided tours and immersive experiences.
Belfast City Hall Tours
0.1 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Frederick Temple Memorial
0.1 km
A striking bronze tribute to Lord Dufferin, reflecting Belfast’s imperial heritage and the legacy of a renowned British diplomat.
The Back Of Boots
0.1 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Treasure Trails
0.1 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Castle Buildings
0.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
2-6 Waring St
0.5 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Numbers' Wall
0.6 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Alec the Goose
0.6 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Albert Memorial Clock
0.6 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hop On Hop Off Belfast Bus
0.0 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant history and culture at your own pace with an open-top hop-on hop-off bus tour featuring live guides and panoramic city views.
Donegall Square W
0.0 km
Historic heart of Belfast featuring City Hall, iconic architecture, the Titanic Memorial, and stories of commerce and heritage.
Visit Belfast
0.1 km
Your essential first stop in Belfast city centre for expert travel advice, tickets, maps, and local insights opposite City Hall.
City Hall Garden of Remembrance
0.1 km
A tranquil memorial garden honouring those who gave their lives for Irish freedom, nestled in Belfast's historic city centre.
The Linen Hall
0.1 km
Belfast's independent cultural sanctuary housing rare collections, world-class exhibitions, and mythology-inspired café.
Memorial to World War I and II soldiers
0.1 km
A solemn Portland stone cenotaph in Belfast’s Donegall Square honoring the heroic sacrifices of World War I and II soldiers.
Front of Belfast City Hall
0.1 km
Experience Belfast’s iconic Baroque Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic heart at the stunning Front of City Hall.
Walking Tours Belfast
0.1 km
Expert-led walking tours of Belfast's history, culture, and urban landscape by Blue Badge qualified local guides.
Belfast City Hall
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s majestic City Hall, a Baroque Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic heart with rich history and stunning architecture.
Philly Pump / The Allotment
0.1 km
Innovative vegan and vegetarian bistro in Belfast offering fresh, locally sourced plant-based dishes in a welcoming, sustainable setting.
Belfastology Walking Tours
0.1 km
Discover Belfast through the passionate eyes of locals who know every corner, story, and hidden gem.
Queen's Café Bar
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill offerings at Queen's Café Bar, the ultimate dining and nightlife destination in Belfast.
The Titanic Memorial Garden
0.2 km
A serene and symbolic garden beside Belfast City Hall honoring all who lost their lives on the RMS Titanic with a striking memorial and evocative plantings.
Queen's Arcade
0.2 km
Belfast’s only Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets luxury boutiques and timeless elegance in the heart of the city.
Royal Ulster Rifles Regimental Museum
0.2 km
Explore the rich military history of Northern Ireland at the Royal Ulster Rifles Regimental Museum, a captivating tribute to bravery and sacrifice.
Essential places to dine
Yügo
0.1 km
Discover Yügo’s vibrant pan-Asian small plates in Belfast’s stylish industrial setting, perfect for sharing bold, creative flavors.
Home Restaurant
0.1 km
A modern European dining spot in Belfast offering fresh, local flavors with vegan and gluten-free options in a cozy, lively atmosphere.
Stix and Stones City Centre
0.1 km
Interactive steakhouse where you cook premium beef on heated stones at your table in vibrant Belfast.
The Rusty Saddle
0.1 km
Experience the best grilled dishes at The Rusty Saddle in Belfast - where flavor meets atmosphere in a delightful dining experience.
Parisien
0.1 km
Chic French brasserie in Belfast with elegant interiors, classic cuisine, and a terrace overlooking City Hall.
EDO Restaurant
0.1 km
Discover the best of modern European tapas at EDO Restaurant in Belfast - where flavor meets creativity.
Deanes EIPIC
0.1 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s city centre, blending innovation, local ingredients, and elegant atmosphere.
Coco
0.2 km
A quirky, stylish bistro in Belfast’s Linen Quarter serving creative dishes with attentive service in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Lantern Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience the best of British and modern European cuisine at The Lantern Restaurant in Belfast—where flavors meet tradition.
JAMES ST
0.2 km
Experience Belfast’s finest chargrilled steaks and warm hospitality in a stylish yet relaxed setting at James St.
Howard Street
0.2 km
Elegant modern European dining in Belfast’s vibrant city center, blending Irish tradition with contemporary flair.
Actons restaurant
0.2 km
Belfast's premier gluten-free dining destination with exceptional Irish cuisine and dedicated celiac protocols.
The Chubby Cherub
0.2 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy Mediterranean charm combine at The Chubby Cherub, a beloved Belfast restaurant for every occasion.
Flame
0.2 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and Asian fusion dishes in a stylish, welcoming Belfast city center setting with curated cocktails and elegant ambiance.
Jumon
0.2 km
Vibrant South Asian vegetarian cuisine with bold flavours and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Belfast.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Norn Irish Gift Shop
0.1 km
Explore the heart of Irish culture at Norn Irish Gift Shop in Belfast, where unique souvenirs and artisan crafts await every traveler.
Carrolls Irish Gifts Belfast - Donegall Place
0.1 km
Discover authentic Irish culture and unique souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a vibrant shop in Belfast’s bustling Donegall Place.
Little Heart
0.1 km
Discover heartfelt wire art and whimsical keepsakes in Belfast's sole Victorian arcade—a boutique gem blending heritage charm with personal creativity.
Montblanc Boutique Belfast
0.2 km
German luxury craftsmanship in Belfast's Victorian arcade—where timeless elegance meets artisanal mastery.
Mooch Belfast - Arthur Street
0.2 km
Discover Belfast's creative heart at Mooch: unique local crafts, handmade treasures, and artisan gifts that bring Northern Ireland home with you.
The Holy Shop
0.3 km
Belfast's cherished repository of rosaries, christening gifts, and spiritual treasures beside the city's mother church on historic Chapel Lane.
White Stuff Belfast
0.3 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for all ages at White Stuff Belfast, where quality meets conscious design in the city centre.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
0.3 km
Discover authentic Irish treasures at Carrolls Irish Gifts in Belfast's bustling Castle Place—a shopper's haven for Claddagh rings, Aran knits, Guinness gear, and gourmet hampers evoking the Emerald Isle's timeless charm.
FatFace
0.3 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
Replay Store Belfast
0.4 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
Great Northern Mall
0.4 km
Belfast's essential retail passage where shopping meets urban culture and community connection.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
0.4 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
Petty Kingdom Vintage Clothing & Records
0.4 km
Discover curated vintage fashion and classic records in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at Petty Kingdom.
AllSaints
0.4 km
Discover edgy, contemporary fashion and premium leather goods at AllSaints Belfast in Victoria Square, a stylish destination for modern wardrobe essentials.
Forsight Belfast
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage fashion while supporting vital services for the visually impaired at ForSight Belfast’s charity shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Broken shaker Belfast
0.1 km
A vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktail bar in Belfast’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively late-night energy.
Margot
0.2 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
The Perch Rooftop Bar
0.2 km
Discover The Perch Rooftop Bar in Belfast: a vibrant cocktail bar with stunning views, premium drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
The Garrick
0.3 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
Nancy Mulligans Bar & Kitchen
0.3 km
A lively Belfast gastropub blending traditional Irish hospitality with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports viewing.
Pug Uglys
0.3 km
Belfast's go-to pub for gastropub grub, live gigs, comedy laughs, and sports cheers in a quirky, buzzing venue.
Maddens
0.4 km
Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
Monico Bars
0.4 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
Henry's
0.4 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Jailhouse
0.4 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Limelight Lounge
0.5 km
Discover the excitement of live music and vibrant nightlife at Limelight Lounge, Belfast's premier bar for entertainment and good vibes.
Bittles Bar
0.5 km
Discover Belfast’s iconic flatiron-shaped pub, Bittles Bar, where rich Irish culture, history, and a curated whiskey selection blend in a cozy, historic setting.
The National
0.5 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
Filthy McNastys
0.6 km
Filthy McNastys: The Heart of Belfast's Nightlife with Live Music, Great Drinks, and Unforgettable Experiences Awaiting You.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Voodoo
0.2 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Thompsons Garage
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Cabaret Supper Club
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Ollie's Belfast
0.6 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Club Lux
0.7 km
Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
Craics Ninety
0.7 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Shoe Factory
0.8 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Kremlin
0.8 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
The Art Department
0.8 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Anthology Ni
0.8 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Boombox Belfast
0.8 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Alibi
0.9 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
1.0 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
1.9 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
14.4 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Newtownards nightlife at Saturday Night Nightclub, where music, dancing, and social energy come alive.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly