Car Hire in Belfast

About Belfast

Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland. It is the largest city in Northern Ireland and one of the four countries that make up the United Kingdom. Belfast is a port city and has a population of over 343,000 people. Belfast's economy is dominated by the service sector, with tourism making an important contribution to the economy. Belfast is also home to two universities, Queen's University Belfast and Ulster University. The city has a rich history and was known as an important industrial centre during the Industrial Revolution. Today, Belfast is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with much to offer visitors. From its rich history to its vibrant present, Belfast is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you come for the culture, the food or the stunning scenery, Belfast is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Basic info and car hire in Belfast

• Location: United Kingdom (North Ireland)
• Population: 343,000 (2019)
• Official language: English
• Currency: Pounds Sterling (GBP)
• Weather: The weather in Belfast is notoriously unpredictable. One minute it can be sunny and warm, the next cold and wet. That makes packing for a trip to Belfast a bit of a challenge! Overall, however, the weather in Belfast is milder than in many other parts of the UK. The summer months (June to August) are usually the best time to visit Belfast, as the weather is most likely to be warm and sunny during this time. However, even in summer, you should pack a few layers just in case the weather changes.
• Internet coverage: Hotels, bars, restaurants and cafes offer Wi-Fi.
• Road conditions: The roads in Belfast are generally in good condition. However, there are some areas where potholes or other damage can be seen. In general, the roads are well maintained and provide a good driving experience.
• Car hire in Belfast: Hiring a car at Belfast City Airport or Belfast International Airport with Orbit Car Hire gives you plenty of freedom to get around Belfast and North Ireland. With a wide range of vehicles to choose from, you can be sure to find the one that suits your needs and gives you the most benefit on your trip.

Driving in Belfast

Belfast is a vibrant and welcoming city. The city centre is small and manageable, making it a great place to drive around. Belfast is a busy city and pedestrians can sometimes walk carelessly into the street. Take extra care when driving in pedestrian areas or near schools and hospitals. Watch out for cyclists. Many cyclists in Belfast often ride on the road rather than on dedicated cycle lanes. Again, be careful when riding near cyclists and give them plenty of space when overtaking. Be prepared for traffic jams. Traffic can become congested at peak times, especially during the morning and evening rush hours. Plan your journey and allow extra time for delays. Finding a parking space in Belfast can be difficult and many areas have strict parking regulations. Read the signs carefully before parking your car. Familiarise yourself with the one-way street system. The one-way street system in Belfast can be confusing for visitors. So it's worth taking a few minutes to get your bearings before you set off. If you follow these simple tips, you are sure to enjoy driving in Belfast.

• Age limits: The age limit is between 21 and 25, depending on the car rental agency. Many agencies will either charge a young driver fee if you are under this age or not allow you to rent the car at all.
• International Driving Permit: Yes, if your driver's license is not identifiable as Driving License, for example, if it is written in a non-Latin alphabet (e.g. Arabic, Chinese, Cyrillic, Japanese).
• Additional papers: Identification (passport), a valid driver's license, and valid proof of insurance. (It is advisable to take out insurance with the car rental company in case your policy does not cover you when driving in the United Kingdom).
• Additional requirements: Warning triangles, spare wheels and a hands-free kit with hearing aids are required if you are talking on the phone while driving.
• Children in the car: All vehicle occupants must wear a seat belt. Children under twelve years of age or over 5 feet tall may ride in the front passenger seat.
• Driving side of the road: Left.
• Lights: Headlights must be on at all times (day and night).
• General speed limits: 80 mph / 130 km/h on motorways, 49 mph / 80 km/h on main roads outside built-up areas and 31 mph/50 km/h inside built-up areas.
• Parking suggestions: Almost all car parks are metered, with the average price per hour being around GBP 1.90/ € 2.20.

Popular day trips from Belfast

Belfast is a city full of culture, history and things to do. It is also an ideal base from which to explore the rest of Northern Ireland and the Emerald Isle.

Londonderry
The town of Londonderry is steeped in history and was discovered by the Romans in the 1st century AD. It later became an important market town in the Middle Ages and was one of the largest towns in Lancashire. Today, the town is a popular tourist destination and home to many historical sites such as Lancaster Castle, Lancaster Priory and Inglewood House. There are also several museums in the town that document its rich history. If you are interested in British heritage, then a visit to Londonderry is a must. The drive from Belfast to Londonderry takes about one and a half hours.

Giant's Causeway
Standing on the edge of the Giant's Causeway, it is easy to understand why this natural wonder has attracted visitors for centuries. The Causeway is made of some 40,000 interlocking basalt columns created by an ancient volcanic eruption. These columns have weathered over time to create the unique step-like appearance you see today. The Causeway is a great place to explore and there are many walking trails you can follow. You can also take a boat trip to nearby Staffa Island where you can see the basalt columns up close. If you are in Belfast, a visit to the Giant's Causeway is a must. It is one of the country's most popular tourist attractions and the only UNESCO World Heritage Site. This natural wonder is truly unique and a great place to spend a day exploring. The drive from Belfast to Giant's Causeway takes about an hour. 

Dunluce Castle
Dunluce Castle is a mediaeval castle ruin situated on the edge of a basalt cliff in County Antrim. It is one of the most picturesque castles in Ireland and one of the top tourist attractions in Northern Ireland. The castle is situated on a basalt rock overlooking the sea. The first recorded mention of Dunluce Castle is in a document from 1214, but the castle was likely built earlier. Fans of the HBO hit series Game of Thrones may know Dunluce Castle in County Antrim as the filming location for House Greyjoy in the series. The drive from Belfast to Dunluce Castle takes about an hour. 

The Dark Hedges
The Dark Hedges has also been used as a filming location for Game of Thrones. Just like Dunluce Castle, it is located in County Antrim. In recent years it has become a popular tourist destination with visitors coming from all over the world to see the iconic trees. It is best known for the eerie, atmospheric trees that line the avenue and were planted by the Stuart family in the 18th century. If you want to experience the natural beauty of Northern Ireland, The Dark Hedges is worth a visit. Just make sure you go on a sunny day - the atmosphere is much less ominous in daylight! The drive from Belfast to the Dark Hedges takes about an hour. 

The Gobbins Cliff Path
The Gobbins Cliff Path is a unique and exciting coastal walk in Northern Ireland. The path winds along the dramatic coastline of Islandmagee and offers breathtaking views of the Irish Sea. With its cliffs, wooden bridges and spectacular caves, Gobbins is not for the faint-hearted! But it's definitely worth the effort - this hike is truly unique. If you are looking for an adventure, Gobbins is the place for you. The drive from Belfast to the Gobbins Cliff Path takes about 40 minutes. 

What to see in Belfast

In Belfast, you will find fascinating walks, bus tours, cultural discoveries, science exhibitions and literary inspiration. Not to mention excellent shopping, beautiful sights and world-class entertainment.

The Titanic Quarter
The Titanic Quarter is a large-scale regeneration project in Belfast. The name of the area comes from its location on the site of the former Harland and Wolff shipyard, where the RMS Titanic was built. To date, over £500 million has been invested in the development of the Titanic Quarter, making it one of the largest regeneration projects in Northern Ireland. Over 2,000 new homes have been built as part of the regeneration project, along with new office space, retail outlets, restaurants, bars and cafes. The area has also seen the development of a new museum dedicated to the RMS Titanic, which is the largest of its kind in the world. The Titanic Quarter has become a thriving new neighbourhood in Belfast, and is now home to over 10,000 people. The regeneration project is still ongoing, with plans to further develop the area in the years to come.

The SS Nomadic
The SS Nomadic is a former ocean liner that now serves as a museum ship in Belfast. She was built in 1911 by Harland and Wolff for the White Star Line. Today she is a popular tourist attraction in Belfast SS Nomadic is best known for the part she played in the Titanic story when she carried first and second class passengers from Cherbourg to Titanic, but that was only the beginning of her extraordinary journey which spanned over 100 years. The Nomadic saw service in both world wars. In 1914 she carried troops to France for the first time and in 1917 she took American troops to Queenstown, Ireland. In 1918 she brought troops home from Gallipoli. Between the wars, Nomadic was used as a ferry for passengers and cargo on the Southampton-Cherbourg route.

Belfast Castle
Belfast Castle is located in the city of Belfast. It is located on a hill overlooking the city. It was the seat of the Earls of Donegall from the 13th century. In the sixteenth century, it became the Earls of Donegall. The castle has been badly damaged and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Most recently during the Irish Civil War when it was shelled by republican troops. Today the castle is open to the public and has been since 1888, as a museum and events venue.

The Botanic Gardens
The Botanic Gardens are a popular institution in Belfast and one of the main tourist attractions in Northern Ireland. Located in the heart of the city, they are a welcome oasis of tranquillity and beauty where a wide variety of plants can be seen. The gardens were first opened to the public in 1828, making them one of the oldest public parks in Ireland. Originally they were only four hectares in size, but have since been extended to 28 hectares. Today the park is home to over 12,000 different plants as well as a variety of sculptures and other attractions. One of the highlights of a visit to the Botanic Gardens is the Tropical Ravine House. This greenhouse was built in 1889 and houses a variety of exotic plants, including palms, ferns and bananas. It also houses a range of reptiles and amphibians, making it a popular destination for children. Whether you want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life or simply spend some time in nature, the Belfast Botanic Gardens are worth a visit.

Where to eat, drink, and party in Belfast

Eating and drinking out is one of the great pleasures in life and it is also one of the joys of travel. There is nothing better than a new city, new restaurants and new culinary experiences. For a city the size of Belfast, the choice of restaurants is surprisingly wide. Belfast has everything from fine restaurants, brasseries and bistros to gastro pubs, cafes, coffee shops and some of the best fish and crisps around. Dig in!

Jospers Steakhouse & The Linen Bar
Jospers Steakhouse & The Linen Bar is located at the back door of Belfast's historic City Hall. This Belfast restaurant serves only the finest dishes, including Northern Irish prime-aged beef, fresh fish and seafood, hand-picked produce and delicious starters. The secret to the tasty steaks is the Josper grill. A type of Spanish charcoal oven considered by chefs worldwide to be the best way to prepare super-tender steaks while retaining all the wonderful flavours.

Coco
In the heart of Belfast city centre is Coco with great food, great wine and fantastic service. Coco offers only the best food: locally sourced, cooked to perfection and the kind of food that will embrace you and keep you coming back for more. The glitter ball sparkles in the background, setting the ambience in the funky restaurant bar where the music gets louder and louder and the unique atmosphere allows you to relax after your meal and complete the Coco restaurant experience.

AMPM
AMPM serves casual French, Irish and European dishes in the most beautiful, bohemian setting. AMPM offers irresistible food and friendly service. The combination of Bohemian elegance, sumptuous cuisine and friendly service make AMPM Restaurant one of the best places to eat in the city.

2 Royal Avenue
The café at 2 Royal Avenue serves a range of delights, including Fairtrade hot drinks and delicious sweet treats prepared by local bakers. With plenty of space and comfortable seating, it's the perfect place to meet up with others or just take a break from your busy day. 2 Royal Avenue is a cultural venue that has something for everyone. From live music to keep you entertained to sound baths and yoga to balance your body and mind. With its family-friendly atmosphere, this oasis in Belfast city centre is worth a visit any day of the week. Experience the city through a specially curated programme of art exhibitions, local food and craft markets.

Revolución de Cuba
Revolución de Cuba offers the ultimate Cuban food, cocktails and fiesta experience. Look forward to stunning handcrafted cocktails, dishes full of exotic flavours and a tropical party atmosphere like you have never experienced before. Revolución de Cuba also offers live music, authentic tapas and more rum than you can shake a maraca at. The food comes alive with Cuban energy, Latin American passion and more than a hint of Havana.

The Deer's Head
The Deer's Head is Belfast's first brewpub with a fully operational in-house brewery, Bell's Brewery, which can be seen in this newly refurbished saloon bar. Walk through this iconic building steeped in history and tradition and discover the evidence of history painted on the walls. The bar hosts live music every week from the best local talent. Upstairs is the Deer's Head Music Hall is a 200-capacity venue that hosts everything from local blues artists to popular touring bands from the UK, Ireland and elsewhere. Sports fans can watch all major sporting events live on several large screens in the bar.