Adventure Collective
Belfast Street Art Walking Tour and Urban Culture - Belfast

Belfast Street Art Walking Tour and Urban Culture

Belfasteasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; primarily a walking tour on city sidewalks

Overview

Discover Belfast’s powerful street art scene with a private walking tour that reveals stories behind 7,000 murals set against historic landmarks.

Walking Tour
Belfast, Northern Ireland

Art in the Heart of the City Tour - Private Tour

All ages • 2 Hours • Take A Tour of the Street Art Capital of the World!

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About This Adventure

Embark on the "Art in the Heart" tour and explore Belfast's vibrant street art scene, featuring over 7,000 murals that reflect the city's rich history and transformation. Discover hidden gems and iconic pieces while uncovering the powerful stories behind the art, all set against the backdrop of Belfast's historic landmarks.

Duration: 2 Hours Life imitates Art, more than Art imitates Life' Oscar Wilde

The mural collection in Belfast is unlike anywhere in the world, with around 7000 documented murals in the city, . Street art has always been part of culture in Belfast although in the past it often symbolised war, civil conflict and the eventual journey towards peace. For decades the walls in Belfast have been covered with political murals depicting our religious divisions and often used to mark territory. 

A new wave of contemporary mainstream art has emerged which is modern and varies from street art to murals and graffiti. It has added colour and spectacle to the city and transformed the streetscapes in such a powerful and positive way. Some murals are by well known international artists and others by very talented local artists, which link into the history and heritage of Belfast or social issues of the day.

So put your walking shoes on, keep your camera at hand and get ready to explore the amazing Belfast street art scene on our “Art in the Heart” tour.  We’ll check out some of our well known pieces and some of our hidden gems in the heart of Belfast and uncover the subtle messages. They tell stories of the city’s past and reflect the warm and vibrant place it is today.

DISCOVER BELFAST – ONE OF THE STREET ART CAPITALS OF THE WORLD

With over 7,000 murals freely on display to all throughout the city, Belfast has been dubbed the ‘street art capital of the world. This tour route covers more than just street art and will take us through some of  the oldest and most historic parts of Belfast, passing many of its landmarks and a great way to explore the city.

UNDERSTAND BELFAST’S PAST

We will be there to interpret the social, historical, environmental and many other messages that the art and artists are trying to express, whilst we pass through some of the coolest parts of the city.

This tour can also be combined with The Historic Pub tour.

INTERPRET HISTORICAL EVENTS THROUGH ART

Our eclectic art adorns many passageways and street corners. The street art celebrates the people and events that have shaped the city.

EXPLORE A RICH EVER-EVOLVING CANVAS

Local and international artists alike have left their mark on every nook and cranny of Belfast’s city streets. Their work showcases how Belfast’s transformation from a divided and troubled place to a thriving and inclusive cultural capital.

Meeting Point

Tour start location: Cotton Court, Waring Street, opposite the Merchant Hotel. End Location: Central Belfast Location of your choice

Important To Know

If you're booking for a group of over 18 people, please contact us to arrange your tour.

This tour is exclusive to your group. As a private tour you can choose a time to suit you (subject to guide availability). We can also design a bespoke tour tailored to your group’s interests with flexibility over where the tour starts and finishes.

Adventure Tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes

The tour involves walking on urban streets and uneven pavements, so sturdy shoes are a must.

Bring a camera or smartphone

Street art details can be intricate; having a camera helps capture these vibrant stories.

Be respectful of neighborhoods

Many murals are in residential areas; keep noise low and respect private property.

Check weather forecast

Tours run rain or shine, so dress for Belfast’s unpredictable weather.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Urban birds like peregrine falcons
  • Resident squirrels in city parks

History

Belfast’s mural tradition dates back to the Troubles era in the late 20th century, reflecting political divisions and community identity.

Conservation

Efforts are ongoing to preserve murals as cultural heritage, balancing public art with urban development.

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Adventure Hotspots in Belfast

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

To navigate city streets and uneven surfaces comfortably.

Water bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated throughout the tour regardless of season.

Weather-appropriate clothing

Essential

Layered clothing is advisable to accommodate Belfast’s variable weather.

Camera or smartphone

Capture the vibrant murals and urban scenery.