A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Nottingham vs. Belfast for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Nottingham or Belfast?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nottingham and Belfast can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a dynamic, livable, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.

Belfast

Belfast is a affordable, under-rated, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife and shopping.

Nottingham and Belfast: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Belfast?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nottingham. Although Nottingham and Belfast are both popular with visitors, Nottingham has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nottingham is popular for its authenticity and local cuisine. It is also home to Old Market Square. Belfast is popular for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles".

How is Nottingham different from Belfast?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Belfast and Nottingham. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nottingham or Belfast?

Nottingham
Belfast

Nottingham is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

Nottingham is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Nottingham or Belfast? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nottingham
Belfast

Nottingham is a nice place to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city for its restaurants.

Nottingham offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Nottingham or Belfast Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Belfast

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Nottingham and Belfast.

Nottingham has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

If you're looking for night time activities Belfast has a few options to choose from. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

Is Nottingham or Belfast Better for Music?

Nottingham
Belfast

Nottingham is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Belfast is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Nottingham active and fun. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Belfast is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Belfast?

Nottingham
Belfast

Nottingham is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Nottingham is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Belfast. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

Is Nottingham or Belfast Better for Families?

Nottingham
Belfast

Both Nottingham and Belfast are good to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nottingham. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.

Belfast offers lots of family activities. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.

Is Nottingham or Belfast Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Belfast

Nottingham is a nice place to visit for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city for its romantic activities.

Nottingham is a nice destination for couples. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.


Is Nottingham or Belfast Better for Students?

Nottingham
Belfast

Belfast is a city with good options for students. However, Nottingham is not popular with students.

Belfast is popular with students. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

Nottingham is not popular with students.

Is Nottingham or Belfast Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nottingham
Belfast

Nottingham is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Nottingham. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

Public transit is mostly limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.

Is Nottingham or Belfast a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Belfast

Nottingham is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Nottingham is very walkable. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

Belfast is a somewhat walkable place.


For even more information, also check out Is Nottingham Worth Visiting? and Is Belfast Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Belfast or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Belfast?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nottingham and Belfast. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Belfast than in Nottingham. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nottingham, and 1-3 days is enough time in Belfast.

Families should spend more time in Nottingham than Belfast. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Nottingham, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Nottingham than Belfast. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nottingham that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nottingham than Belfast if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Nottingham.


  • How many days in Nottingham or Belfast? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Belfast 1-3

One day in Nottingham or Belfast?

In Nottingham, you'll find shopping and museums. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

With shopping and nightlife around the affordable city of Belfast, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Belfast, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Nottingham or Belfast?

In Nottingham, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nottingham has to offer.

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Belfast, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Nottingham or Belfast?

Nottingham is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Belfast, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Nottingham or Belfast?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nottingham. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Nottingham. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Belfast is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Belfast or Nottingham?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £117, while the average daily cost in Belfast is £133. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Nottingham and Belfast in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Belfast £68
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Belfast £136
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Belfast

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or Belfast? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Nottingham


Hotels in Belfast


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nottingham Hotel Prices and Belfast Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Belfast £14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $96
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $223

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Belfast

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Belfast:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Belfast Airport BHD or BFS to Belfast by Luxury Car: $105
  • Arrival Private Transfer Belfast Airport BHD or BFS to Belfast by Luxury Van: $105
  • Arrival Private Transfer Belfast Airport BHD or BFS to Belfast by Minibus: $145
  • Belfast Accommodation to Belfast City Airport (BHD) - Departure Private Transfer: $23
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Bangor Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Bangor Accommodation - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $54
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Holywood Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Lisburn Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Lisburn Accommodation - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $55
  • Belfast City Airport BHD Executive transfer to Belfast 1-4 people: $58
  • Belfast City to Belfast International Airport (BFS) - Departure Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast International Airport (BFS) to Belfast City - Arrival Private Transfer: $27

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Belfast?

Prices for flights to both Belfast and Nottingham change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Nottingham £36
    Belfast £51

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Belfast

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Belfast.

  • Guided Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $81
  • Belfast Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Belfast £18

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

Here are a few actual costs in Nottingham for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Nottingham Treasure Hunt Adventure - Robin Hood's Secret Stash: $9.44
  • Stamford Town Guided Tours: $13
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Watson Fothergill Walk: Architecture of Victorian Nottingham Guided Tour: $25
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Whatsapp Murder Mystery Interactive City Tour: $74
  • Private Immersive Play Wall Experience in Nottingham: $89
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Stamford and Oakham Private Tour: $114
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140

Typical Entertainment Prices in Belfast

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Belfast are as follows:


  • Movie Tickets
    £8.00

Tours and Activities in Belfast

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Belfast are as follows:

  • Belfast’s Titanic Quarter: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.00
  • Belfast's Iconic Sites: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.47
  • Museum Ticket: $6.90
  • Hillsborough Castle Gardens Entrance Ticket: $12
  • If Buildings Could Talk Tour Belfast: $15
  • If Buildings Could Talk Tour: $15
  • Crumlin Road Gaol Experience: $18
  • 2.5-Hour Street Murals Tour in Spanish: $19
  • Belfast Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Belfast Murals Political Tour in Spanish: $19
  • Line of Duty Guided Walking Tour: $21
  • Belfast Line of Duty Walking Tour: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Belfast £7.86

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

Sample the Local Flavors in Belfast

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Belfast:

  • Pub Crawl and Bar Walking Tour with Two Drinks: $15
  • Belfast Pub Crawl: $15
  • Explore & Taste: Distillery Tour at Titanic Distillers: $32
  • Belfast Giant's Causeway and Titanic Distillery Whiskey Tour: $69
  • VIP Skip-the Line Titanic Museum and Distillery Tasting Tour: $119


When comparing the travel costs between Nottingham and Belfast, we can see that Belfast is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Nottingham Expensive? and Is Belfast Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Belfast?

Belfast has a larger population, and is about 11% larger than the population of Nottingham. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham and Belfast, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Nottingham or Belfast?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nottingham or Belfast in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Belfast. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Belfast because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Nottingham is around the same temperature as Belfast in the summer. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 16°C (62°F) in July, and Belfast fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Belfast during summer. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Belfast receives 151 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Belfast. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Belfast receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Belfast 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Belfast in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Belfast. The autumn months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Belfast this time of year.

In the autumn, Nottingham is a little warmer than Belfast. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nottingham in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Belfast averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the autumn, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Belfast. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Belfast receives 92 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in October than Belfast. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Belfast receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Belfast 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Belfast in the Winter?

Both Belfast and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Belfast for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Belfast. It's quite cold in Nottingham in the winter. In January, Nottingham is generally around the same temperature as Belfast. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 4°C (39°F), and Belfast fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Belfast during winter. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Belfast receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Belfast. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Belfast receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F) 
    Belfast 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Belfast in the Spring?

Both Belfast and Nottingham during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nottingham for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Belfast in the spring for the activities around the city.

Nottingham is around the same temperature as Belfast in the spring. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Belfast fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Nottingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Belfast. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Belfast receives 150 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Belfast. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Belfast receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    Belfast 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Belfast and Nottingham

Nottingham Belfast
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)