I come from the North, live in Belfast, and these wee six counties are still top of my list for a weekend away.
I was born and brought up in County Armagh and, after years away travelling the world as a singer, I settled back in Belfast. I have a few personal favourite spots I've included in this guide but there's plenty to help you navigate Belfast, the Causeway Coast and all six counties.
To make this easy, I've broken down the accommodation options by region, helping you choose the perfect base for your Irish adventure. Whether you're seeking some 5-star luxury or budget-friendly options, I've tried to find you great places to stay based on your interests and travel style.
Quick Regional Overview
Belfast: Northern Ireland's Capital
The excellent Titanic Hotel
Belfast has transformed dramatically over the past two decades, evolving into one of Europe's most exciting city break destinations. I keep meeting people who visit for a long weekend and are surprised at how easy the city is to navigate and how friendly local people are. The city offers everything from converted warehouses in the trendy Cathedral Quarter to elegant Victorian hotels near the Botanic Gardens.
Best Areas to Stay in Belfast
Cathedral Quarter - The cultural heart of Belfast, perfect for first-time visitors who want to be within walking distance of restaurants, bars, and attractions like the MAC arts center.
Titanic Quarter - Ideal for those interested in maritime history, with the iconic Titanic Belfast museum as your neighbour and stunning waterfront views.
Queen's Quarter - Near Queen's University, this area offers a more residential feel with tree-lined streets, local pubs, and easy access to the Botanic Gardens.
Top Belfast Accommodation Recommendations
Luxury Options:
Grand Central Hotel Belfast
Belfast's newest luxury addition and the tallest hotel in Ireland, featuring panoramic city views and the spectacular Observatory cocktail bar on the 23rd floor (that's the bar in the image at the very top of the page!)Check availabilityTitanic Hotel Belfast
A stunning conversion of the former Harland & Wolff headquarters where Titanic was designed, featuring original Edwardian features, luxurious rooms with shipyard views, and unparalleled maritime heritageCheck availability
Mid-Range Favorites:
AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast
Modern hotel in the Cathedral Quarter with excellent breakfast and rooftop viewsCheck availabilityHampton by Hilton Belfast City Centre
Reliable comfort with free breakfast, perfect for familiesCheck availability
Budget-Friendly:
Tara Lodge Belfast
Boutique-style accommodation in the Queen's Quarter with parking includedCheck availabilityBelfast International Youth Hostel
Clean, safe hostel accommodation in the Cathedral QuarterCheck availability
Local Tip: If you're visiting during summer festival season (July-August), book Belfast accommodation well in advance as the city gets incredibly busy during festival periods.
Causeway Coast: Dramatic Coastlines and Legendary Attractions
The Causeway Coastal Route is often called one of the world's most beautiful drives, and staying along this stretch puts you within minutes of the Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and some of Ireland's finest golf courses.
Where to Stay Along the Causeway Coast
Portrush - The quintessential seaside resort town, perfect for families and golf enthusiasts. Royal Portrush Golf Club hosts The Open Championship, and the town has excellent restaurants and traditional seaside charm.
Bushmills - Home to the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery, this small town puts you within walking distance of the Giant's Causeway and offers a quieter alternative to Portrush.
Ballycastle - A charming harbour town at the eastern end of the coast, ideal for exploring the Glens of Antrim and catching ferries to Rathlin Island.
Causeway Coast Accommodation Highlights
Luxury & Unique Stays:
Bushmills Inn Hotel
A coaching inn dating to the 1600s with peat fires, whiskey tastings, and unmatched characterCheck availabilityThe Harbourview Hotel
Comfortable hotel with 2 restaurants on site and free breakfast.Check availability
Family-Friendly Options:
Causeway Hotel
The only hotel within walking distance of Giant's Causeway, perfect for early morning visits before crowds arriveCheck availabilityBayview Hotel Portballintrae
Family-run seaside hotel with excellent seafood restaurant and panoramic coastal viewsCheck availability
Coastal B&Bs:
Larkhill House
Exceptional B&B with comfy beds perfectly positioned for PortrushCheck availabilityFullerton Arms, Ballintoy
Traditional inn featured in Game of Thrones, serving excellent pub foodCheck availability
Causeway Coast Activity Planning
Derry: Ireland's Walled City
Derry is the only completely walled city in Ireland and offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and stunning riverside settings. The city has undergone remarkable regeneration and now has excellent restaurants, much-loved street art, and some of Northern Ireland's must-see historical attractions.
Best Areas to Stay in Derry
City Centre (Within the Walls) - Stay inside the historic walls for maximum atmosphere and walking access to all major attractions.
Waterside - Across the River Foyle, offering great views back to the walled city and slightly more affordable options.
Surrounding Villages - Consider nearby Limavady or coastal villages for a quieter base with easy city access.
Derry Accommodation Recommendations
Historic Charm:
Bishop's Gate Hotel
Boutique hotel within the city walls, converted from Victorian buildings with modern luxuryCheck availabilityEverglades Hotel
Established hotel on the banks of the River Foyle with a more traditional feelCheck availability
Modern Comfort:
City Hotel Derry
Contemporary hotel in the heart of the walled city with a well-regarded restaurantCheck availabilityPremier Inn Derry
Reliable chain hotel with parking and family roomsCheck availability
Cultural Tip: Derry hosts the fantastic Halloween (Samhain) festival each October - one of Europe's largest. If you're visiting then, book accommodation months in advance and expect higher prices.
Fermanagh Lakelands: For a Peaceful Retreat
County Fermanagh centers around the beautiful Lough Erne, offering some of Northern Ireland's most peaceful and luxurious accommodation options. This region is perfect for those seeking tranquility, water activities, or simply a countryside retreat.
Fermanagh's Accommodation Gems
Ultra-Luxury:
Lough Erne Resort
Five-star resort that has hosted G8 summits, featuring championship golf, spa treatments, and fine dining - one of my personal favourites!Check availabilityEscape Ordinary at Castle Hume
Unique stay in a spacious apartment near the fascinating Castle Hume.Check availability
Country Houses & B&Bs:
Lusty Beg Island
Private island accommodation accessible by boat, perfect for special occasionsCheck availability- Finn Lough Resort - Luxury lodge accommodation with floating pods and forest domes for a unique glamping experience
Enniskillen Base:
Belmore Court & Motel
Central Enniskillen location with parking and good valueCheck availabilityWestville Hotel
Family-run hotel in Enniskillen town centerCheck availability
Fermanagh Activity Guide
The Fermanagh Lakelands have unique activities you won't find elsewhere in the North:
- Marble Arch Caves - Underground boat tours through stunning cave systems
- Crom Estate - National Trust property with ancient woodlands and lakeshore walks
- Devenish Island - Monastic ruins accessible by ferry from Enniskillen
Mourne Mountains: Where Mountains Meet the Sea
The Mourne Mountains region combines dramatic mountain landscapes with beautiful coastal towns. I was lucky enough to live at the Warrenpoint end of the mountains and never grew tired of the stunning views. This area is perfect for hikers, beach lovers, and anyone seeking the famous "where the mountains sweep down to the sea" scenery.
Best Bases in the Mournes
Newcastle - The main resort town with the best selection of accommodations, restaurants, and direct beach access.
Warrenpoint - A charming Victorian seaside town with a more authentic local feel and beautiful promenade walks.
Rostrevor - Between mountains and Carlingford Lough, offering forest walks at Kilbroney and mountain access.
Mourne Mountain Accommodation
Seaside Hotels:
Slieve Donard Resort & Spa
Luxury Victorian seaside resort in Newcastle with championship golf course and full spaCheck availabilityBurrendale Hotel Newcastle
Family-friendly hotel with indoor pool and mountain viewsCheck availability
B&B:
Mourne View Lodge B&B
Spectacular mountain views from this family-run B&B near AnnalongCheck availability
Good Value Options:
Canal Court Hotel Newry
Good value hotel with parking and restaurantCheck availability
Mourne Mountains Hiking Access
County Tyrone: Heartland Adventures
County Tyrone offers an authentic taste of rural Northern Ireland, away from the main tourist trails. This is where you'll find ancient stone circles, pristine forest parks, and some of the friendliest hospitality in Ulster. Tyrone serves as an excellent base for exploring the geographical heart of Northern Ireland while enjoying significantly better value than coastal areas.
Where to Stay in County Tyrone
Omagh - The county town and your best bet for accommodation variety, putting you within easy reach of the Ulster American Folk Park and Sperrin Mountains.
Cookstown - Perfectly positioned in the center of Northern Ireland, ideal for day trips in any direction and close to the mysterious Beaghmore Stone Circles.
Dungannon - Rich in history and culture, offering easy access to Lough Neagh and the Hill of The O'Neill.
Tyrone Accommodation Options
Country Hotels:
Silverbirch Hotel Omagh
Modern hotel in Omagh town center with excellent restaurant and spa facilitiesCheck availability
Rural Retreats:
- Grange Lodge Country House - Luxury country house near Dungannon with beautiful gardens and award-winning breakfast
An Creagan Visitor Centre
Unique accommodation in traditional cottages with cultural centre and walking trailsCheck availability
Budget-Friendly:
Cohannon Inn Dungannon
Traditional Irish inn with comfortable rooms and renowned restaurantCheck availability
Why Choose Tyrone as Your Base
Authentic Ulster Experience: Away from tourist crowds, you'll experience genuine Northern Irish hospitality and culture
Central Location: Perfect for day trips to any other region - you're never more than 90 minutes from major attractions
Value for Money: Accommodation costs are typically 20-30% lower than coastal or city areas
Unique Attractions:
- Beaghmore Stone Circles - Seven Bronze Age stone circles older than Stonehenge
- Ulster American Folk Park - Interactive museum telling the story of Irish emigration to America
- Sperrin Mountains - Northern Ireland's largest mountain range with gold mining heritage
Tyrone Activity Planning
Hidden Gem Tip: The Sperrin Mountains are one of Northern Ireland's best-kept secrets. Stay in Omagh and drive the scenic route through Gortin to discover waterfalls, mountain views, and traditional Irish music sessions in remote pubs.
Newry & South Armagh: Gateway to Ancient Ireland
Often overlooked by tourists, the Newry and South Armagh region offers excellent value accommodation and serves as a perfect gateway to both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. This area boasts the mystical Slieve Gullion, ancient archaeological sites, and charming market towns.
Accommodation in Newry & South Armagh
Newry City:
Canal Court Hotel
Modern hotel in Newry city centre with good restaurant and parkingCheck availabilityMourne Country Hotel
Comfortable hotel on the outskirts with mountain viewsCheck availability
Slieve Gullion Area:
Ti Chulainn Cultural Activity Centre
Unique accommodation combining cultural experiences with comfortable lodgingCheck availabilityCarrickdale Hotel
Situated between Newry and Dundalk, perfect for exploring both sides of the borderCheck availability
Armagh:
Armagh City Hotel
Historic hotel in the ecclesiastical capital of IrelandCheck availability
Why Choose South Armagh as Your Base
- Strategic Location: Easy access to Belfast (45 minutes), Dublin (90 minutes), and the Mourne Mountains
- Cultural Richness: Ancient Ring of Gullion with Neolithic sites and stunning landscapes
- Value for Money: Generally lower accommodation costs than tourist hotspots
- Authentic Experience: Less touristy areas where you'll meet locals and experience authentic Irish culture
Practical Accommodation Tips for Northern Ireland
Booking Strategies
Best Times to Book:
- Summer (June-August): Book 2-3 months in advance, especially for coastal areas
- Festival Periods: Belfast in summer, Derry at Halloween - book 4-6 months ahead
- Off-Season (November-March): Often 30-50% cheaper, book closer to travel dates
Money-Saving Tips:
- Look for packages including breakfast - Northern Irish breakfasts are substantial (the "Ulster fry") and will fuel your day
- Many B&Bs offer significant discounts for stays of 3+ nights
- Consider staying slightly outside main tourist centres and driving in
Transportation Between Regions
Essential Booking Platforms
For the best deals and selection, I recommend checking these platforms:
Booking.com
Widest selection of Northern Ireland properties with good cancellation policiesCheck availability- Hotels.com - Excellent loyalty program and often better rates for longer stays
Expedia.com
Great for unique properties and longer stays, especially in countryside areasCheck availability
What to Expect
- Check-in/Check-out: Most accommodations follow standard 3 PM check-in, 11 AM check-out
- Breakfast: The Ulster fry is famous for breakfast here: don't miss the soda bread and potato bread
- Parking: Always confirm parking availability with your hotel, especially in Belfast city, where it's usually an extra charge.
- WiFi: Generally excellent throughout Northern Ireland, even in rural B&Bs
The Last Word
Northern Ireland's accommodation scene has evolved dramatically, offering something special for every type of visitor. From converted mills to castle hotels, from seaside B&Bs to luxury resorts, your choice of where to stay will significantly shape your experience in this part of the world.
Remember that Northern Ireland is compact, so you're never more than a few hours from anywhere else. Don't feel you need to pack in every region; instead, choose a base that matches your interests and use it to explore thoroughly. Some of my best memories come from staying longer in one place and truly getting to know an area.
Have you decided on your Northern Ireland base? Read more about visiting Northern Ireland or share your questions in the comments below, and I'll help you choose the perfect accommodation for your Irish adventure.
