Walkable cities: Belfast

With plenty of low-cost flights to Belfast, it’s an easy weekend hop for city wandering. Start at the Renaissance style City Hall with a tour of the building, then head outside to the Titanic Memorial Garden where you’ll find the names of those lost with the famous ship.

On a cheerier note, make your way to the lively St George’s Market for a taste of the local foods. Stroll into the Cathedral Quarter, with cobbled streets and vast warehouses transformed into a vibrant hub of bars and restaurants. Check out arts centre the MAC or treat yourself to afternoon tea at the luxurious Merchant Hotel, which lays claim to the biggest chandelier in Ireland.

Some of the city’s more macabre attractions include the historic Crumlin Road Gaol (a working prison until 1996) and Titanic Belfast. This museum on the slipways where the ship was built is packed with interactive experiences and historic facts about the ill-fated vessel.

Take a stroll through the Botanic Gardens and if you’re still hungry for more history, check out the Ulster Museum. Among the exhibitions is ‘Troubles and Beyond’ detailing Northern Ireland’s historic conflict.

If you’re a fan of hit TV comedy Derry Girls, set in nearby Derry but with much of the filming in Belfast, you can also take a tour that covers the locations used (Derry Guided Tours). Led by local Gleann, this historical walking tour will fascinate even those not familiar with the show.

For dinner, try Ginger Bistro on Great Victoria Street in the centre. Get past the glass atrium to discover sumptuous hidden rooms. You’ll find a laid-back ambience and top-notch food at this acclaimed local gem.

Step count: 11,500

Getting there: Fly to Belfast with a range of airlines. There are two international airports. Belfast City Airport is less than 10 minutes from the centre whilst Belfast International is 40 minutes away. There’s also an overnight ferry from Liverpool.

Find hotels in Belfast here.