Titanic Experience: All you need to know about one of Belfast’s most iconic attractions

Let’s just start this off by saying there absolutely was enough room on that board for Jack and Rose to survive! 

But beyond that particularly hot topic within the Titanic film fandom, there’s a lot more to learn about the infamous ship. Duh – I mean, it was one of a kind, a true feat of engineering at the time! And though it tragically sank, it was the beginning of a new era of colossal ships. 

Belfast, being the birthplace of the RMS Titanic, is home to an incredible Titanic Experience, also known as the Titanic Belfast and the Titanic Museum! Visiting this place is an absolute must when visiting Northern Ireland, and we’re here to tell you all about it. 

What is the RMS Titanic?

The RMS (stands for Royal Mail Ship) Titanic was a British luxury passenger liner which was designed by Alexander Carlisle and built in Belfast by Harland & Wolff. Construction was started in 1909 and completed in 1911, and it was the largest and most luxurious ship of its kind at the time, and it was reported to be ‘unsinkable’ – which is why the sinking of it was so shocking at the time. 

When did the Titanic sink?

The Titanic sunk in the early hours of 15th April, 1912; two weeks into its maiden voyage from Southampton, England, to New York, USA. 

What can I do at the Titanic Experience?

A world leading visitor attraction, Titanic Belfast offers an incredibly in-depth and authentic retelling of the ship’s story. It’s a self-guided tour where you will go through several interactive galleries, each covering different facets of the ship. Infused with sights, smells, and sounds, it’s completely immersive as well, making this a unique museum experience.

Maps, dates, timelines, names of those who tragically drowned and those who luckily survived, are some of the things you’ll see. As well as some relics from the ship, including lifejackets. You’ll be able to get to know the RMS Titanic all the way from her construction to her eventual demise.

The Titanic Experience also offers a ‘Discovery Tour’ where you will be taken around Belfast’s Titanic Quarter to walk in the footsteps of the designers and shipbuilders.

How long does it take to go around the Titanic Experience in Belfast?

This is a self-guided tour, so the time it takes you to go around the museum will depend on how in-depth you’d like to go! But generally, the tour averages around 1h30-2h30. Though you can definitely make a day of visiting the rest of Titanic Quarter with it!

Is the Titanic Experience in Belfast worth it?

Absolutely! If you’re wanting to learn more about the history of the Titanic (beyond the heartbreaking 1997 movie), then the Titanic Experience in Belfast is the perfect place to do it. The exhibits shed a modern light on the tragic story and create an immersive and authentic experience.

Where is the Titanic Experience?

The Titanic Experience in Belfast is located 2.4km from Belfast City Centre, right on the edge of River Lagan. It’s very easy to get to, and multiple modes of public transport are available to get there. You can walk (20-30 mins), cycle, or take a bus or metro.

When does it open?

Opening times for the Titanic Experience are as follows:

• Monday – Sunday from 10am to 5pm

Please note that opening times will vary on national bank holidays. 

How much is entry?

There are different ticket types for entry into the Titanic Experience, and it’s also worth noting that it’s cheaper to book online ahead of time instead of at the door!

Prices for adults start at £24.95 with family passes amounting to £62 and student or senior tickets costing £21.95. 

What can I do around the Titanic Experience?

Located in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, it follows that there are many other ship-related activities on offer! Some of the most interesting ones include:

• Visiting the HMS Caroline, a survivor of WW1
• Explore the Dock & Pumphouse
• Explore the Lagan Boat Company around the harbour

There are also plenty of great restaurants and pubs around (get yourself a pint of Guinness!) and you can even stay in the area if you just love the Titanic that much!

For more activities around bustling Belfast, consider these:

• A locally guided walking tour of the city to glimpse history and culture
• Walk down Belfast’s Maritime Mile taking you along historic waterfronts and other sea-related attractions
• Discover the city’s distilling history and sample some local whiskey

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Visit the Titanic Experience with Contiki!

A visit to the iconic museum features in our Ireland in a Week trip, which you can book if you’d like your fix of history and culture on top of the load you’re already getting!