Belfast saw the worst of the Troubles of the last century, but is currently experiencing a regeneration as a cosmopolitan destination for both business and pleasure. Home to the world's largest dry dock, the giant cranes that built the Titanic are still visible from several parts of the city. The Ulster Museum preserves remnants from Belfast's maritime past, and the surrounding Botanic Gardens attract picnickers and loungers.

A stroll through the city will take visitors through various areas of either Loyalist or Republican orientation, and homes, pubs and public buildings are painted with murals depicting the sentiments of either side. Built during the prosperous Victorian era, the city's Opera House has been restored to its original opulence, decorated with expert tiling, woodworking and stained glass also seen at the Crown Liquor Saloon, the only pub owned by the National Trust. Across from the saloon is the Europa Hotel - the most bombed hotel in Europe. Always open to discussion, interested and political citizens gather for conversation at Belfast's Albert Memorial Clock, erected between 1865 and 1870.