The magnificent Belfast Cathedral, also often referred to as Saint Anne’s Cathedral, is a 20th century Romanesque Revival architecture built in 1899. It famously features “the Spire of Hope,” along with mosaics by the Martin sisters as well as breathtaking glass-stained windows full of symbolisms and hidden meanings. The cathedral often holds organ recitals, bringing together the local community in a space of serenity.

One of the main attractions is Titanic Belfast, where travelers can learn about the construction of the glamorous vessel built in this very city. The museum covers its bold conception, labor-intensive construction in the 1900s, an epic launch and eventually its maiden voyage. The museum also pays homage to thousands of workers that built the Titanic, in the very place where the museum is located today. The entire exhibition features rides, interactive displays and is completely self-guided.

Ireland is full of gaols to visit, and Belfast is no exempt. The Crumlin Road Gaol is a 19th-century prison that housed criminals, loyalist and Irish Republicans. Especially during “The Troubles” in 1970s, several members of the Irish Republican Army successfully escaped from this particular jail. The gaol was also the first to implement “silence and separation” system, which placed one prisoner in one cell. In addition, there’s an underground tunnel which links the courthouse on the other side of Crumlin Road to the hanging cell, graveyard, the hospital and the Governor’s office.

Ulster Museum encompasses vast collections of history, natural sciences, classical and applied art cultivated by Northern Ireland’s local culture. A major highlight of the museum dives into Ancient Egypt and a real mummy: Takabuti, whose coffin was opened in 1835 and revealed a noblewoman who was also a mistress. Buried in a cemetery in the west of Thebes in Greece, Takabuti was murdered after knife wounds were discovered on her body.

To enjoy the ultimate green oasis, no need to go too far. Since the Victorian era, botanic gardens have played an important role in Belfast’s cultural past. Right outside of the Ulster Museum is Botanic Gardens which was established in 1828, catering to the residents’ passion for botany. Inside the birdcage Palm House – created by English architect Charles Lanyon – is a beautiful curvilinear cast iron glasshouse. A few steps away is a tropical greenhouse full of luscious trees, orchids, plants and even leaves in the shape of hearts.

During the start of “The Troubles” (nationalist conflict in Northern Ireland that lasted from 1960s to 1998,) the Belfast Peace Walls were built by the British Army as an attempt to maintain peace while the city was boiling with intense unrest and riots between Irish Republicans (Nationalist Catholics) and British Loyalists (Unionist Protestants.) Over the years, the walls have become longer, wider and even more permanent. Today, it stretches over 32 kilometers (20 miles) with most of it existing in Belfast.

Right in the center of the city is the Belfast City Hall. Standing proudly since 1906, the building displays exquisite stained glass windows, and numerous artworks. Visitors can also wander through Titanic Memorial Garden which is attached to the governmental site. On certain occasions, the building is illuminated by colorful lights that adorn one of Belfast’s most recognizable edifices.