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Bucket list experience:

Large graffiti mural on side of a row of terrace houses

Take a tour of Belfast’s fascinating street art, and learn about the country’s troubled history

Last updated: 03 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Nicola Brady

Though Belfast may be associated with the political graffiti of the Peace Wall (which commemorates the Troubles), the contemporary street art in the city centre is a more vibrant display of modern-day creativity.

There’s barely an inch of bare wall space left in the Cathedral Quarter, where publicly daubed artworks span from tiny, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it pieces to huge, beautiful murals. Indeed, the city has become something of a hub for international street artists, who come to leave their mark on any available surface.

Pieces change constantly, with murals painted over and new pieces popping up in different locations, so taking an artist-led tour is the best way to tick off all the best current works. They’ll lead you to the most impressive spots and tell you the story (and scandalous gossip) behind the art.

Recommended itineraries by our writers that include this experience

Price from: £15
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 8+
When: All year around
Duration: 1 hour

Getting there & doing it

The tours leave from outside the Duke of York in the middle of the Cathedral Quarter (which means you’re in a great spot for lunch when the tour is finished).

When to do it

Tours run most Sundays, all year round. See the website for a calendar of dates.

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

 Belfast Political Murals Street Art and Peace Wall Small Group Walking Tour

Belfast Political Murals Street Art and Peace Wall Small Group Walking Tour

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On this 2.5 hour Walk we will discover some of the Modern Street Art, by International Street Artists, Belfast is now becoming known for. As...

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Belfast Murals Taxi Tour

Belfast Murals Taxi Tour

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Tour Highlights: • Visit areas of historical significance. • Famous murals on Falls Road & Shankill Road • Memorial Gardens • Drive throug...

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Belfast's Political Mural Taxi Tour

Belfast's Political Mural Taxi Tour

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At Belfast.tours we pride ourselves in providing our customers with a professional,informative and thought provoking tour.All our guides hav...

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Black Taxi Mural "Tour Like A Local"

Black Taxi Mural "Tour Like A Local"

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This is a Tour in Belfast From a Local's perspective. Familiarize yourself with Belfast through the eyes of a passionate local in an Iconic ...

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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

The Merchant Hotel

Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[0.1 miles]

A nod to traditional luxury, this lavish city-centre hotel is one of Belfast’s favourite hangouts.

Official star rating:

Malmaison Belfast

Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[0.3 miles]

Sultry, chic and quietly opulent, this boutique hotel is the perfect base for a romantic getaway.

Official star rating:

Bullitt Hotel

Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[0.3 miles]

An artsy, lively hotel in the heart of the city, where vibrant style meets excellent value.

Official star rating:

Grand Central Hotel

Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[0.8 miles]

A smart, modern design hotel with exceptional views of the city, in a great central location.

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Belfast

Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)

Northern Ireland’s capital makes for a surprisingly arty city break, with convivial and cosy pubs, elegant architecture and cutting-edge cuisine.

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Overview >

Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Crumlin Road Gaol

Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[1.3 miles]

Belfast’s imposing former prison offers a haunting peek into the city’s tumultuous history, from famous inmates to infamous riots.   

Best for ages: 13+ | £12

Titanic Belfast

Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[1.3 miles]

Standing where the Titanic was built, this moving, interactive exhibition tells the story of the giant cruiser’s construction and sinking.

Best for ages: 4+ | £20

Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..

Duke of York Pub
Experience

Duke of York Pub

Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[0 miles]

One of the oldest pubs in Belfast, the Duke of York is a traditional boozer found down a cobbled alleyway, with well-worn seats, antique memorabilia and an old printing press in the corner. On sunny days, people take their drinks out to the flower-lined courtyard.

Best for ages: 18+ | Free

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External view of the cathedral during the daytime
Experience

Belfast Cathedral

Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[0.1 miles]

This Romanesque cathedral is one of the city’s finest architectural feats – take a tour to admire the stained glass, and the 40-foot glass spire, named the ‘Spire of Hope’.

Best for ages: 18+ | £5

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Side view of the city hall during the day
Experience

Belfast City Hall

Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[0.6 miles]

Take a free tour of Belfast’s baroque City Hall, dating back to 1906, with impressive interiors to match the elegant, Edwardian frontage.

Best for ages: 18+ | Free

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St George’s Market

Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[0.7 miles]

This historic Victorian market is filled with local crafts, the best Belfast produce and a jostling gaggle of local food-lovers.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free