Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland with 280,000 inhabitants. Since the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, there has been major redevelopment in the city including Victoria Square, the Titanic Quarter and Laganside as well as the new Odyssey complex and the landmark Waterfront Hall.

The city itself is relatively car dependant by European standards but much of the lively city centre has now been pedestrianised. Be sure to seek out the ornately decorated Crown Liquor Saloon in Great Victoria Street, which is the only bar owned by the National Trust.

The city is served by two airports: Belfast International Airport is 21km north-west of the city while George Best Belfast City Airport by the city centre offers connections mainly with Great Britain. The busy port offers regular car ferries to Scotland and Liverpool.

Queen's University of Belfast is the main university in Belfast. The University of Ulster also maintains a campus in the city, which concentrates on fine art and design.