After an often-soggy winter, spring comes as a relief, with temperatures ticking upward and daylight slowly stretching out. The lovely combo of later sunsets and seasonal blooms brings locals and tourists flooding back into the streets.

Spring events add fresh energy to Belfast, filling up the cultural calendar with annual highlights like the Belfast Titanic Maritime Festival, the Balmoral Show, and film fests.

Savor blossoming trees and blooming flowers in the many gardens and parks of Belfast. Botanic Gardens and Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park are just a few of the must-visit spots for soaking up springtime.

Spring is the perfect moment to enjoy Belfast’s iconic waterfront. Make the most of a sunny spring day by walking or cycling along the 10 kilometers of paths (and one mile of waterfront) of the Maritime Mile.

Warm-but-not-sweltering weather and longer days make summertime the most popular season to explore Northern Ireland’s biggest city. Get in on the festive spirit that breezes through Belfast, inspiring everyone to throw open their doors and join in the urban bustle.

The good news: There’s no need to worry about reduced or seasonal hours during Belfast’s busiest season. The bad news: You’ll want to book ahead at top sights, so you can skip the ever-growing queue.

Summer is the perfect time to hit the links at the lush golf courses in and around Belfast. Northern Ireland is home to more than 90 golf clubs, many of which are just a short jaunt from the city.

Lace up those hiking boots! With less rain in summer, it’s the best time to trek around stellar natural sights like Divis and the Black Mountain. The exhilarating walk to the peak offers both a good workout and great views of the city.

Mother Nature dials up the rain in autumn, but locals don’t let it stop them from getting on with things as they expertly dodge puddles around the city. Plus shorter days means longer nights, and more reasons to bask in Belfast’s nightlife scene, one that includes everything from a pint at the pub to dancing all night.

Welcome to Belfast’s festival season! Buzzy, big-name annual events include the Belfast International Arts Festival, film festivals, the city’s Queer Arts Festival, plus a yearly celebration honoring native son C.S. Lewis.

In autumn, students pour back into this university town, bringing a boisterous vibe to the pubs, bars, and clubs. The student population also turns up the volume on Belfast’s thriving live music scene.

Grab a jacket and get outside. Belfast and the surrounding areas are full of beautiful nature walks, and a gorgeous canopy of reds and golds blankets wooded areas this time of year.