What a spot.

I'd say I have easily spent the last two years yabbing on about the fact that I "need to go visit Belfast" and yet, like everything, I kept putting it off and off due to work commitments and other plans. However, no longer will I be putting off weekend trips and breakaways to this beautiful city as it is now up there on some of my top spots to visit and for good reason. Belfast is bustling with culture, shopping and most importantly, food. From the history to the incredible street art to the massive shopping district - there really is something for everyone in this gem of a place and if like me, you are constantly thinking about going, but haven't yet... GO. Last weekend, I packed my bags and headed off to Belfast for a one night mini-break. A quick but jam-packed trip spent roaming around the streets, eating a lot of delish food and of course, drinking goblets of gin. So to ensure you get the best from the city, like I did, I have compiled a list of the top things to do on a short va-cay to Belfast.

Stay

I stayed in the Titanic Hotel, located on Queen's Road (straight across from the Titanic museum), this hotel is an utter dream. The bar is beautiful with high ceilings, a tiled mosaic from the actual baths of the Titanic and plenty of plush seats to lounge on. The staff are also so helpful and there on your beck and call to assist you in any way they can. Just LOOK at those blue skies through the ceiling, the perfect setting for a few drinks and unwinding. The bedrooms are also fabulous - continuing the Titanic vibe with simplistic nods back to the liner. The entire hotel ties together beautifully. The only slight disadvantage is that it is a little further away from the city centre. Roughly a 20 minute walk or £7 in a taxi. Worth the journey however for the beautiful service and glam decor.

Eating

We ate in Coppi restaurant on our short stay, and if it is only 24 hours you have in Belfast... you need to try this place. Beautiful Italian food from small tapas style dishes to larger mains and delicious cocktails. It is a MUST. The place also has a NYC-esque vibe which I adored. If you choose to pick a small few dishes to nibble from, like I did - then you need to try the feta fritters. They are to die for and come with a sweet honey sauce. Nom. If you are looking for somewhere for brunch the next day, then Harlem is the spot for you. Delicious brekkie, prosecco and enough eggs to keep you content for a day full of shopping. The job.

Shopping

If shopping is your thing, then Belfast will have you seriously satisfied. There are SO MANY SHOPS here it is immense. From Victoria Square to the copious streets that surround it, you will be spoilt for choice!

Culture

Two things I would seriously recommend if you can squeeze them into your two day break is the "Black Taxi Tour" of Belfast, that will drive you privately around the city, bringing you to all the historic landmarks and giving you all the history which accompanies them. And secondly, the Titanic museum is a must. Voted one of the best tourist attractions in the WORLD, the history in this place is second to none plus it keeps you nicely entertained with plenty of interactive sections too.

Bars

Lastly, it is only fair to end every night with a little tipple and our spot of choice (due to plenty of recommendation) was the Babel rooftop bar. Fab location in the city centre, divine cocktails and a rooftop with one serious view. Oh and can we please take a moment for just how GORGE the ladies toilets are? We will most certainly visit again and next time for longer. It's an incredible city!