10 Best Bars In Belfast, Northern Ireland

Hope you know, that Belfast is not a big city but it has a lot to offer its visitors. Did you know that you can find everything from traditional Irish bars to classic cocktail bars?

A big advantage is that most bars are very close to each other, so you can easily walk from one to another. And what about the atmosphere? I will always say great.

As the capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast is a top destination for travelers. There are endless things to do, and a pub visit is a must!

As a visitor to the city, I enjoyed the night life a lot. Here are my picks for the best bars and pubs to check out when you’re visiting Belfast

10 Best Bars in Belfast For a Fun Night Out

The Points

If it’s culture you’re after, The Points offers a traditional Irish experience and is one of the best bars in Belfast. Located on Dublin Road, this is one of Belfast’s newest pubs.

It offers live traditional music seven nights a week from bands across the country. With a beer garden out front, it’s the perfect place to enjoy whiskey or ale, a selection of drinks that the bar prides itself on.

A very lively place to visit any day of the week. Find this Belfast pub on the map, here.

Filthy McNastys 

Standing just across the street from The Points, Filthy McNasty’s has a lot things to offer. Enjoy a drink at Filthy Chic, a casual cocktail and wine bar. If you want to dance, head upstairs to the Gypsy Lounge nightclub.

The Secret Garden is the perfect place to enjoy a drink any time of the year, you’ll stay warm with blankets and heaters in the outdoor area. The bar hosts a weekly open mic night and offers cocktail-making classes on request.

This quirky bar has something for everyone. Filthy’s is very popular with students and is within walking distance of the Queen’s Quarter. One of the best bars for students in Belfast. Find this pub on the map, here.

Lavery’s

It’s a great place to enjoy a drink with friends. Lavery’s is a large pub with four bars and an outdoor terrace. On weekends, the upstairs turns into a popular club. It is close to both the Queen’s Quarter and Belfast City Centre. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. You can play pool and watch live sports events every week.

It is a perfect place to hang out with friends. If you’re eating, try the chicken wings – they’re a must! One of Belfast’s best bars for pool lovers is Lavery’s. You can find the bar on the map here.

Kelly’s Cellars

In the heart of the city, lies a hidden gem: Belfast’s oldest traditional pub, built in 1720. Its low ceilings, whitewashed walls and uneven concrete ground add to its charm.

You can sip a pint of its famous Guinness by the open fire while listening to live Irish traditional music. This is a warm, welcoming, and truly Irish pub.

During the summer, their garden sessions are a hit, backed by live music, bands, and dancing outside in the sun. You can find directions to the pub here.

Crown Liquor Saloon

Belfast’s most famous bar, its cozy snug, and brightly colored tiled interior attracts visitors from all over the world. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are among the latest guests to enjoy some great pub grub and a pint of Guinness at The Crown.

This historic pub, opposite the well-known Europa Hotel, is a must-see when visiting Belfast. Find this highly-rated bar on the map here.

The Harp Bar

Located in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, this is a bar that all ages can enjoy. Don’t let the outside fool you, this lively bar has plenty of seating and can be a very busy place with live music playing daily.

There are plenty of friendly staff which means you never have to wait long for a drink, always important especially at busy times. This trendy bar is full of energy, and is a must-see when in Belfast. Click here for directions.

The Duke of York

Located along the cobbled streets of the Cathedral Quarter, this is a bar with lots of character. It has works of art, memorabilia and typical Belfast phrases painted all over the walls, capturing the true essence of Belfast.

Explore and soak up the culture of old Ireland and choose from an excellent selection of craft beers. Find the Duke of York on a map, here.

Bert’s Jazz Bar

Attached to the 5* Merchant Hotel in the Cathedral Quarter, it is perfect for higher budgets. It has a 1930s New York theme and is Belfast’s only dedicated jazz bar.

Enjoy brunch or an all-day dinner menu while watching or listening to the great tunes of a live jazz pianist. Soak up the sophisticated atmosphere with a selection of handpicked cocktails or choose from a long list of delicious wines. Click here for directions.

The Dirty Onion

This place is perfect for summer, it’s a real Irish pub with a modern touch. You can chill outside and try a variety of craft beers and whiskeys while enjoying live music every night.

If you’re hungry, there’s Yardbird upstairs, serving delicious rotisserie chicken. It’s a charming pub that’s great for the whole family, and they even welcome dogs. You can find directions to Dirty Onion here.

Muriel’s Cafe Bar

If you are in the mood for something different, Muriel is the spot. The ceiling is covered in underwear and underwear, giving it a unique vibe.

It’s a cozy place, like a Parisian cafe. They’ve got a huge selection of gins, so if you’re a gin lover, it’s perfect. And the staff is really friendly – they will help you pick the perfect drink.

This is a charming little bar that many people overlook. You can find it on the map here.

Tipsy bird

Hey, we’ve got a bonus bar for you: Tipsy Bird! If you’re into cocktails, this is your place. It’s on Ann Street and has a cool, modern vibe.

They’re all about the cocktails here, and they have a huge menu. There is something for everyone.

You can sip your cocktail inside the stylish bar or chill out outside in the new Tipsy Garden. It’s the perfect place to start your weekend. Click here for directions.