General Information
Is Belfast safe to visit?
Belfast is one of the safest cities in Europe, and Northern Ireland has the second lowest crime rate in Europe.
However, it is always wise to be sensible and follow general safety tips such as leaving money and valuables in a safe place and locking valuables out of sight.
Whilst a safe and welcoming city for visitors, like any major urban area, it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings, but overall, Belfast offers a friendly atmosphere, low crime levels in tourist areas, and a strong sense of community. The city has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades and is now known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re exploring historic landmarks, enjoying the local food scene, or attending events, visitors consistently find Belfast to be a safe and enjoyable destination.
Will I be able to use Euro in Northern Ireland?
Northern Ireland uses the pound sterling (£), the same currency in circulation in England, Scotland and Wales, whereas the Republic of Ireland uses the Euro (€). Euros are not legal tender in Northern Ireland.
Mastercard / Visa credit and debit cards, including contactless payments, are in general use.
Cards such as Revolut and Monzo provide the best exchange rates and fee-free withdrawals anywhere in the world (though set up charges may apply).
Many banking apps have facilities to set up a travel account allowing money to be transferred between accounts. If using a travel account always pay in the local currency.
Some large stores may accept Euro currency, but they are under no obligation to do so, will often offer less favourable exchange rates and provide change in pounds.
Will my southern reg car be safe in Belfast?
If you’re travelling from the Republic of Ireland for the first time, to attend the Fleadh in Belfast, you’re very welcome. We want to reassure you that cars with southern Irish registrations are a common sight in the city and throughout Northern Ireland.
Belfast is a vibrant and welcoming place, especially during major events, and visitors from the South are warmly received. Southern-registered vehicles generally do not attract any special attention, and the vast majority of visits are safe and enjoyable.
As with any city, we recommend following standard precautions: park in well-lit, secure areas and avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle. But rest assured, it’s perfectly normal — and safe — to drive and park a southern-registered car in Belfast.
Further information about official car parking locations, park and rides, city centre car parks will be made available in the next few months.
We look forward to welcoming you to our city. The craic will be mighty.
Do I need extra car insurance if I bring my vehicle to Northern Ireland?
You should always carry a valid driver’s licence and proof of vehicle insurance when you drive. Additional insurance is generally not required if travelling from The Republic of Ireland but please check with your insurer.
Remember that speed and distance traffic information is in miles per hour rather than kilometres once you cross the border. Please adjust your speed accordingly.
Further information can be found here: Driving in Northern Ireland – Discover Northern Ireland
Is Belfast a good place for shopping?
Belfast offers a range of excellent shopping experiences, blending modern retail with local culture. For those seeking high-end fashion and designer labels, Victoria Square is a must-visit. This sleek, glass-domed shopping centre houses a variety of luxury retailers, alongside casual shops, restaurants, and a stunning view of the city from its rooftop.
For those who love high street shopping, CastleCourt and Belfast’s shopping district are home to popular UK and international retailers. Plus, the growing Cathedral Quarter is a vibrant area with trendy shops, galleries, and cafes, perfect for browsing and relaxing.
For a more eclectic and independent vibe, head to Donegall Place, where you’ll find a mix of both well-known and local stores. Queens Arcade, located nearby, is a charming historic space filled with luxury and high-end shopping experiences as well as specialty goods.
If you’re a fan of local crafts and artisanal goods, St. George’s Market is perfect. This covered Victorian market is open on weekends and offers everything from fresh produce to handmade jewellery, local art, and vintage items. It’s a fantastic place to pick up a souvenir that reflects Belfast’s artistic spirit. Similarly, a trip to our neighbourhoods is recommended to experience The North Block Bazaar and East Block Bazaar on the first and last Sundays respectively of each month
Overall, whether you’re after luxury, local crafts, or high-street brands, Belfast’s shopping scene offers something for every taste.
Many shops in Belfast City Centre open Monday – Saturday 9am – 6pm, with late night opening to 9pm on Thursdays. Victoria Square is also open to 9pm on Fridays. Currently Sunday trading is 1- 6pm, though smaller shops can open earlier.
The award-winning St George’s Market is open Friday (8am – 2pm), Saturday (9am – 3pm) and Sunday (10am – 3pm).
Is it necessary to tip in restaurants?
There are no hard and fast rules for tipping in Northern Ireland. If you are happy with the service, a 10% tip is suggested, particularly in a restaurant or café with table service. A tip is not necessary if a service charge has been added to the bill by the establishment
Religious Services
Roman Catholic
St. Patrick’s Church
199 Donegall St, Belfast
(028) 9032 4597
https://www.stpatricksbelfast.org/times/
St. Mary’s Church Belfast
Chapel Lane, Belfast
(028) 9032 0482
http://www.stmarysbelfast.org/mass-times/
St. Peter’s Cathedral
St. Peters Square
Falls Road, Belfast
(028) 9032 7573
https://www.stpetersbelfast.ie/mass-times
Saint Malachy’s Church
Alfred Street, Belfast
(028) 9032 1713
https://saintmalachysparish.com/services.html
Church of Ireland/Anglican
Belfast Cathedral
Donegall Street
https://www.belfastcathedral.org/worship-at-belfast-cathedral
St. Georges Parish Church
High St, Belfast
(028) 9023 1275
https://stgeorgesbelfast.com/worship
Presbyterian
Rosemary Street First Presbyterian Church (Non-Subscribing)
Rosemary St, Belfast
https://www.firstchurchbelfast.org.uk/
Baptist
Great Victoria Street Baptist Church
66a Great Victoria St, Belfast
https://gtvicbaptist.com/calendar/
Methodist
Donegall Road Methodist Church Complex
381 Donegall Road, Belfast
https://www.belfastsouth.org/
Emergency Services
Emergency services, if needed, can be contacted by dialling 999 (you will be asked to state which emergency service is required), or non-emergencies can be reported to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) by calling 101.
If you are visiting Belfast from the Republic of Ireland, or further afield, and require medical treatment please refer to below for further information:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/health-services-visitors-northern-ireland
Volunteering opportunities
Volunteer Now are managing volunteering opportunities for the Fleadh in Belfast. If interested, you can complete an Expression of Interest form now:
Volunteers will receive training including event specific training and safeguarding.
There will be further communication with volunteers in the run-up to and during the event.
Area Telephone Codes
To call The North / Northern Ireland from the Republic of Ireland dial 048 + area code (without 0) + local number. To call the Republic of Ireland from Northern Ireland, dial 00353 + area code (without 0) + local number.
Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs)
Irish citizens do not need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
Legal residents of Ireland, from a nationality that does not usually need a visa to visit the UK (e.g. European and US nationals), do not need an ETA when travelling within the Common Travel Area (CTA), if they can show proof of legal residency. Full guidance can be found at Click Here
Should you require an ETA the process is quick and simple. The easiest way to apply for an ETA is through the ‘UK ETA app’, which can be downloaded from the Google Play or Apple App Store.
Should you need an ETA you can also apply using this link.
Get an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) to visit the UK: Overview – GOV.UK
Northern-Ireland-ETA-factsheet-9-April-2025.pdf
