Belfast, Ireland

Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland, supporting a metropolitan population of approximately 345,000 residents along the mouth of the River Lagan. The city grew rapidly during the Industrial Revolution into a global center for linen production, rope-making, and shipbuilding. At the historic Harland & Wolff shipyards, the RMS Titanic was designed and constructed before departing on its maiden voyage in 1912. Top cultural sites include Titanic Belfast museum, the Victorian City Hall in Donegall Square, and political mural art along the Peace Lines walls. Travelers explore the Cathedral Quarter's cobbled streets, walk through the Botanic Gardens, and take day trips along the nearby Antrim Coast.