Travel tips · Belfast · United Kingdom
Belfast travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Photo: Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0
Quick answer
Belfast people are known for their warmth, directness and dry humour, and strangers will often stop to help with directions. The city has two main community traditions, broadly British/unionist and Irish/nationalist, and the peace process since the 1998 Good Friday Agreement has transformed daily life; visitors are welcome everywhere, but sensitivity around politics, flags and religion is wise.
Key facts
- Language
- English and Irish
- Currency
- GBP
- Plugs
- Type G sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Tap water
- Tap water is safe to drink.
- Emergency
- 999 or 112
Things to know
- Avoid bringing up politics, religion or the Troubles unless a local raises it; listen rather than offer opinions.
- Be thoughtful about wearing football shirts or colours that can be read as political symbols.
- In pubs, order at the bar, and expect to take your turn buying a round if you join a group.
- Say thanks to the bus driver as you get off; it is a local habit.
- Ask before photographing people at parades or memorial sites.
- Book Titanic Belfast ahead: Entry is by timed ticket and summer and weekend slots fill up; book online in advance.
- City Hall, the Ulster Museum, the Botanic Gardens, the Linen Hall Library and the murals on foot all cost nothing.
Tipping
About 10% is usual in restaurants with table service, unless a service charge is already on the bill. Tipping is not expected at the bar, though rounding up for good service is appreciated.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| What about ye? | How are you? / Hello |
| Wee | Small (used for almost everything) |
| Craic | Fun, news or a good time |
| Bout ye | Short form of 'What about you?' |
| Dead on | Great / fine / a decent person |
What to wear
Casual dress is fine almost everywhere; bring a waterproof jacket and layers year-round, as the weather changes quickly.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type G sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Drinking water
- Tap water is safe to drink.
- Emergency number
- 999 or 112
- Phone and internet
- Mobile coverage is good; near the border, phones can switch to Irish networks, so check your roaming settings.
- Time zone
- Europe/London
Belfast is generally welcoming for visitors, with typical city precautions against bag theft in busy areas. Around 11–12 July, parades and bonfires affect some neighbourhoods and roads; check local news and keep a respectful distance from bonfire sites.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check United Kingdom's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in Belfast?
About 10% is usual in restaurants with table service, unless a service charge is already on the bill. Tipping is not expected at the bar, though rounding up for good service is appreciated.
+Can you drink the tap water in Belfast?
Tap water is safe to drink.
+What plugs are used in Belfast?
Type G sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
+What language is spoken in Belfast?
English and Irish.