Where to Stay on a Budget in Belfast, Northern Ireland

The Bullitt Hotel gives you all the perks of an expensive indie boutique hotel for a fraction of the price. Its philosophy is to offer simple, cheap accommodation without skimping on the essentials. Every room – whether you book the less expensive Dinky room or the spacious Roomy option – has a king-size bed, clothes rail, rain shower and stylish Scandinavian decor. The best bit? No visitor will leave with an empty stomach – it provides every guest with a free breakfast goodie bag, containing a granola pot, orange juice and fruit to set you up for a day of exploring.

The grandeur of the Europa Hotel comes with a surprisingly low price tag when you consider the amenities. It offers rooms decorated with a classic, chic design, as well as a spa resort and a restaurant featuring a decadent dinner menu. Be sure to reserve time for afternoon tea at the Causerie Restaurant or a glass of wine in the beautiful lobby, which lights up Great Victoria Street every evening in dazzling style. And you’ll be situated in the centre of the city – too good to be true in most European cities.

Hikers and nature lovers will love how close this hotel is to Cave Hill. In fact, it sits right at its base, allowing easy access to walking tours and a first look at the sun rising over the Belfast docks (if you’re an early riser). Discreetly placed in the outer suburbs of the city, you’ll be away from all the hustle and bustle of the centre – particularly if you climb to the peak of Cave Hill, where you’ll enjoy views from the North Coast to the Mourne Mountains.

The 1852 Hotel achieves the perfect balance of location and price. Situated in the cultural hub of Botanic Avenue, an area filled with endless cafés, restaurants, the stunning Botanic Gardens and the Ulster Museum, this converted townhouse has been recently refurbished and offers simple rooms with a king-size bed, TV, safe, desk and chair.

The classic B&B gets an upgrade at Botanic Rest, which caters to groups, families, self-catering travellers and solo explorers – and children stay for free. This cosy inn is near to fantastic music venues and bars, making it a great budget stay for lively travellers who want a taste of Northern Irish culture for the best price. You’ll get a free Irish breakfast during your stay, to set you up for your daily Northern Ireland adventure.

Tara Lodge is a great budget hotel, both for its spacious rooms and extended tour packages. If you want a taste of the Game of Thrones experience, book the Ice and Fire Tour, which includes a deluxe room and a discounted award-winning tour of Northern Ireland’s Thrones filming locations. Additional tours include the pamper package, a must for those who have been on the road for a long time and need to refuel with a luxurious treatment and a quiet night in.

Expect a vibrant colour scheme and contemporary style at this smart, centrally-located hotel, which is just as well suited to staycationers as business travellers. The bedrooms are spacious and bright, with tangerine headboards and teal armchairs. The colourful theming continues into the restaurant, with cosy booths and lemon yellow bar stools. Tuck into everything from Penang curry to New York cheesecake – or order direct to your room.

This hotel is perfectly placed for exploring nearby boutiques and attractions, such as Titanic Belfast and Victoria Square. Step inside the gleaming lobby, backed by a modern bar and lounge area, where staff are on hand to share favourite spots and local secrets. Rooms are decorated in a muted colour scheme, pepped up with yellow throws and cushions. Coffee aficionados will enjoy the Red Bean Roastery, which sells the hotel’s own brand for your morning cup of Joe.

Set amid the Victorian homes, green landscapes and eclectic shops of the Queen’s Quarter, the ibis offers good value for money without compromising on comfort. Rooms are pared-back, with taupe walls, crisp sheets and modern wood flooring. If you’re not dining out at one of the nearby restaurants (try Brights for their award-winning Ulster fries and burritos), the hotel’s own restaurant serves food round the clock, with a children’s menu plus gluten-free options available.

A boutique hotel stay doesn’t have to break the bank, as Malone Lodge proves. Its guest rooms are individually styled, with elegant furnishings, printed curtains and spotless en suites. The location is also stellar – south of the city centre, you’ll be in a quieter, tree-lined neighbourhood but close enough to walk to the Botanic Gardens and Ulster Museum in 10 minutes. Hungry? Tuck into locally sourced nosh at the on-site restaurant.

There’s sharp, straight-line style in spades at this hotel on Howard Street. Walls are painted in deep navy and there’s a hygge feel to the furnishings, from the Scandi-style sofas to the minimalist coffee tables. Self-catering suites are complete with white-tiled kitchens and the light oak flooring adds a fresh, modern touch. Expect fresh milk in your fridge, free laundry and a breakfast bag outside your door each morning.

There’s free breakfast and a friendly feel on offer at this well-situated hostel, on the edge of the Botanic Gardens. Once a large Belfast house, it’s now run by a South African guy who seems to get just what backpackers want – from the complimentary fry-ups each morning to the free wifi and baggage storage. Guests can choose from 12-bed dorms for the ultimate budget overnighter, to double and private rooms.