Northern Ireland is a land of dramatic contrasts — volcanic basalt coastlines, rolling green drumlins, and a capital city that has transformed itself from a divided post-industrial city into one of Europe's most vibrant short-break destinations. From the otherworldly columns of the Giant's Causeway to the Titanic Quarter's stainless-steel galleries, Northern Ireland rewards visitors who look beyond the obvious.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Waterford Crystal (official stocks at selected Belfast jewellers)
Ulster linen — tablecloths, napkins, handkerchiefs from the Linen Quarter heritage
Bushmills Irish Whiskey — available at the distillery gift shop and duty-free
Belfast-themed prints and posters from Paperjam Press in the Cathedral Quarter
Yellowman honeycomb toffee — unique to Northern Ireland; from Ballycastle market
Derry hand-painted pottery
Belleek Pottery (County Fermanagh) — distinctive Irish parian china
Titanic Belfast merchandise from the museum gift shop
Local artisan food: Armagh cider, Broighter Gold rapeseed oil, Mourne salt
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
St. George's Market
Northern Ireland's most famous market; artisan food, crafts, antiques, street food, flowers
Where: Belfast
Hours: Friday 6am–3pm (variety market), Saturday 9am–3pm (food market), Sunday 10am–3pm (food, craft, antiques)
Ballymena Saturday Market
Local produce, household goods, clothing; large and traditional
Where: Ballymena, County Antrim
Hours: Saturday 8am–2pm