Northern Ireland Holidays Guide
Europe
Many visitors combine a short stays in Belfast and Londonderry with tours to the enchanting coast and countryside. Northern Ireland attracts families, genealogists, backpackers interested in exploring the cities, anglers, walkers and sailors. The weather is best in summer, and all communities hold parades from April to August, the most significant of which is the key Orange celebration of 12th July. Some specifically come for marches and others avoid them; even if you're completely disinterested it's well worth checking your itinerary against big events, lest you get stuck driving behind one!
Map of Northern Ireland Europe
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland Holidays Planner
Belfast is the main gateway to Northern Ireland. Although the area's turbulent past was a long-standing reason for visitors to avoid the area, it's now possible to take tours to see sights related to the Troubles, including murals, the Falls Road and Shankill Road. But, should you want to avoid the heavy stuff and just have a party, the Belfast is a university town with an excellent nightlife – you can combine a historical visit with drinking by visiting the ornate, Victorian-era Crown Bar. Derry is also excellent for pubs and clubs, and its main attraction is its famous city walls. In the countryside, the Mountains of Mourne are arguably the most beautiful area of Northern Ireland, while the fantastic Giant's Causeway is another highlight
Belfast-Stormant Estate – Parliamnet
Places to Visit
You can do as the locals do and holiday in Portrush, a pretty seaside village with a traditional funfair. Bangor is a busier seaside town, with cosy pubs and excellent views across the Irish Sea to Britain. Legend has it that Lough Neagh, in the middle of Northern Ireland was formed when Irish giant Finn McCool picked up an enormous chunk of rock and threw it at a thieving Scottish giant. The rock became the Isle of Man and Lough Neagh became a centre for birdwatching, angling, sailing and just soaking up the peace.
Travel Facts
Antrim-Dunluce Castle
Northern Ireland Accommodation Guide
Giant's Causeway
Northern Ireland Holiday Tips