Accommodation in Belfast
Whether you’re exploring Belfast on a budget, or you’re planning on staying in the lap of luxury, there’s somewhere to suit. For those on business, there are many places that offer good Wi-Fi, an easily accessible location and useful transport links.
Belfast has something for everyone: from hostels for the all-night party animals, to the all-in-one packages for businesspeople, and the indulgent boutiques for those searching for something a little bit special.
Budget
As Belfast has become its own cultural hub, more and more people flock to its busy streets. Thanks to a surge in the number of backpackers, budget travellers and fleeting visitors, there’s been a rise in the amount of cheaper places to stay.
If you’re looking for the authentic backpacker experience – complete with late night beers and free breakfast – look no further than Vagabonds Belfast on University Road. Offering both private rooms and dorms, as well as complementary Wi-Fi and optional bike here, this hostel is great value for money – and guarantees a good time. Other hostels include City Backpacker on Malone Avenue and Global Village, on University Street, both of which offer free breakfast, and the choice between rooms and dorms.
For those of you who are looking for budget accommodation but don’t fancy a hostel, the Travelodge Belfast Central Hotel is located on Brunswick Street, making it perfect for exploring the city.
Self-catering
Everyone knows that self-catering holidays can often be cheaper than going all or part-inclusive – without having to sacrifice on style or location. Belfast has a huge range of brilliant self-catering accommodation, ranging from apartments in the city centre, to listed buildings on the outskirts.
Brookhill Serviced Apartments offer both contemporary design and mod-con living, without the huge price tag. Situated just ten minutes from the centre of Belfast, these one or two bed apartments are perfect for families, businesspeople, or small groups. Free Wi-Fi, a separate living and working area, plus a fully functioning kitchen ensure that your holiday will be exactly what you make it.
A slightly more economic choice is Castlewood Apartments, and being situated just ten minutes from the centre of the city and close to the North Coast guarantees that you’ll get the most for your money, regardless of whether you’re spending time in the city, or exploring its surroundings.
Another great choice for self-catered holidaying is using home-swap sites like AirBnB – you’ll have access to a myriad of amazing, unique homes, and may even get your own personal tours of the city, if you play your cards right!
Mid-range
If you want something nicer than average, but without breaking the bank, Belfast has plenty of mid-range priced hotels.
The Europa Hotel is situated in the city centre, and offers both understated luxury with a brilliant range of hotels. Close by is the Malone Lodge Hotel. This contemporary hotel has great food and comfortable rooms, and is superbly located, near to Queen’s University and the Botanic Gardens.
Slightly more upmarket is the Tara Lodge Hotel. This four-star establishment is located in the centre of Belfast – but is surprisingly peaceful. The rooms are spacious and inviting, and the breakfasts are brilliant.
Luxury
If you’re planning an extravagant holiday, then Belfast has something for you. Live luxuriously for as long as you can, and let yourself be spoilt by the attractions on offer.
The Grade I listed Merchant Hotel Belfast is located in the historical Cathedral Quarter, and offers everything from opulent grandeur, to elegant rooms and necessary mod-cons. The five-star hotel has everything a guest could want, from air conditioning and Wi-Fi, to flat screen TVs and en-suite bathrooms. Everything is tailored to your requirements: from the type of pillow you want to sleep on, to the flowers adorning your room, to the specific drink you would like.
You can dine under a magnificent interior dome, under the watchful eye of academic statues, harking back to the buildings Italian heritage. If you really want to splurge, treat yourself to the world’s most expensive cocktail, at a jaw-dropping £750.
Other impressive hotels in Belfast include the Fitzwilliam, another five-star hotel that offers an intimate evening atmosphere, while being located in the centre of the city. Alternatively, the Hilton Belfast Hotel is located five minutes from the city centre by foot, on the banks of the Lagan River.