Belfast’s compact size makes it ideal for exploring in short, focused trips. Its history-rich neighborhoods, iconic murals, and still-visible peace walls offer a compelling look into a city that has endured and transformed. What makes these 2-hour tours especially appealing is their ability to pack intense stories and vivid visuals into a manageable time frame. We particularly like the Belfast Black Taxi Tour of Murals and Peace Walls for its immersive storytelling and direct access to sites like Falls Road and Shankill Road, driven by someone who lived through The Troubles. Whether you prefer a guided experience, a private ride, or a fun pub cycle, each tour offers a unique way to connect with Belfast’s complex past.
Belfast’s 2-hour tours cover a broad spectrum—from political murals and peace walls to deep dives into the Troubles and republican history. Some tours focus on cultural and artistic outlets, showcasing murals and international art, while others provide personal stories from locals who experienced the conflict firsthand. Our list includes options for different budgets, interests, and comfort levels, ensuring there’s a fit for everyone. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each top-rated experience, helping you decide which tour best matches your curiosity and schedule.
1. Belfast Black Taxi Tour of Murals and Peace Walls 2 hours
At number 1, this Black Taxi Tour offers a powerful introduction to Belfast’s iconic murals and peace walls, with a guide who lived through The Troubles. The tour lasts about 2 hours and visits major sites like Falls Road and Shankill Road, where vibrant murals depict political allegiances and cultural identity. Your guide, a local cab driver, shares firsthand stories that bring the murals’ significance to life—something you won’t get from a book.
What makes this experience stand out is the combination of a sightseeing tour with storytelling rooted in lived experience. You’ll stop at the Falls Road Library to photograph the famous Bobby Sands mural and learn about the hunger striker MP. Then, on Shankill Road, you’ll hear about loyalist paramilitary history. The Peace Wall, where you can write your message of hope, is a poignant highlight. The international mural wall features artworks supporting countries like Cuba and Palestine, broadening the cultural scope. With a 5.0 rating from 232 reviews and lively anecdotes, this tour delivers a deep, authentic understanding of Belfast’s divided past. Perfect for history lovers and those wanting a meaningful introduction.
Bottom Line: If you want a guided, story-rich experience in a short time, this tour is hard to beat, especially with its personal insights and access to key sites.
2. 2 hours Belfast Original Drivers The Troubles Black Taxi Tour
For around $100, the Original Drivers Troubles Tour offers a private, tailored journey through Belfast’s Troubles-era landmarks. This tour is ideal if you prefer a more intimate experience and want to cover more ground than a walking tour. With a knowledgeable driver-guide, you’ll explore Shankill Road, the Loyalist Walk, the Peace Walls, and Falls Road, all while hearing personal stories about the conflict.
What sets this tour apart is the private nature—your group gets undivided attention, making it easier to ask questions and explore specific topics. The guide will explain the 1690 Battle of the Boyne, the Troubles’ origins in 1969, and the significance of murals and peace walls. You’ll have time to photograph murals and get a clear sense of how Belfast’s divisions still influence daily life today. Reviews mention the driver’s engaging storytelling and the ease of customizing the experience. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting a flexible, personal exploration of Belfast’s history.
Bottom Line: This private tour offers a comprehensive look at Belfast’s Troubles with a personal touch, making it perfect for history buffs who value tailored insights.
3. Belfast political tour Original Drivers 2 hour private adventure
At number 3, this Private Political Tour combines history and local insight in a 2-hour ride around Belfast’s key political sites. Your driver-guide, a local with insider knowledge, will navigate the city’s streets, visiting Shankill Road, Divis Street, and the Peace Wall, with plenty of stops for photos and questions.
This tour is distinguished by its personalized approach—your group decides the focus areas, whether it’s murals, the division of neighborhoods, or the history of paramilitary groups. The guide provides context on loyalism, republicanism, and the events leading to the Good Friday Agreement, making it ideal for those interested in the political nuances. Visitors mention how the driver’s firsthand experience brings authenticity to the stories. It’s a flexible option suited for travelers who want to customize their itinerary and learn directly from someone who grew up in the city.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a private, adaptable tour with insightful commentary from a local expert.
4. Belfast Famous Black taxi political mural peace wall tour 2 hour
Number 4 on our list, this Famous Black Taxi Tour focuses on Belfast’s most celebrated murals and the ongoing story of peace and conflict. Traveling through neighborhoods like Divis Falls and the International Wall, this experience highlights murals created during and after The Troubles, including powerful images supporting both nationalist and loyalist communities.
What makes this tour special is its emphasis on art as activism, with stops at murals that have become symbols of resilience. The guide shares stories of the conflicts, peace efforts, and cultural changes reflected in the murals—plus, visitors can add their messages on the Peace Wall. The tour’s in-depth look at street art and graffiti provides a vivid, visual complement to Belfast’s history. With 60 reviews averaging 5 stars, it’s a well-loved way to see the city’s political expression firsthand.
Bottom Line: If you are interested in murals, street art, and the stories they tell, this tour offers a vibrant, visual experience that captures Belfast’s spirit.
5. 2 Hour Terror and Mural History Belfast taxi Private Tour
This private tour provides a detailed look at Belfast’s Troubles with a focus on murals and the peace process. During 2 hours, your driver will take you to see key sites like the Peace Walls, Divis Flats, and murals painted by former prisoners. The tour delves into the stories behind the images, explaining their symbolic meanings and the broader conflict.
What makes this experience stand out is the expert narration, offering four versions of the conflict—British, Republican, Loyalist, and International perspectives. The review comments highlight how well the driver explained complex history in an accessible way. It’s ideal for travelers wanting an in-depth, nuanced understanding of Belfast’s divisions, with enough flexibility for questions and discussion. The value for money is good, considering the personalized experience and detailed storytelling.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history and conflict enthusiasts looking for an in-depth, multi-perspective overview of Belfast’s Troubles.
6. Bobby Sands Grave 2 Hour In-depth Republican Tour
Number 6 offers an in-depth private tour focused on republican history, including a visit to Bobby Sands’ grave and the Irish Republican History Museum. This 3-hour expedition is more intensive, but if you’re passionate about Irish Republicanism, it’s a must-do.
The tour includes visiting Milltown Cemetery, where Sands is buried, and exploring Ballymurphy Road, where Gerry Adams grew up. The guide provides detailed accounts of IRA activities, the hunger strikes, and the ongoing republican movement. Guests have praised the guide’s knowledge and the respectful atmosphere. The tour’s personal approach makes it ideal for those interested in political history and memorial sites.
Bottom Line: For dedicated history lovers and supporters of the republican cause, this tour offers a detailed, respectful look at Belfast’s most iconic figures and locations.
7. Belfast Murals & Troubles: “A 2-Hour Political Journey”
Number 7’s Political Journey explores Belfast’s murals and neighborhoods like Falls Road and Shankill Road in a 2-hour guided ride. It focuses on the visual storytelling of the conflict, emphasizing how murals have become symbols of identity and peace.
This experience is particularly suitable for those who want a broad overview with some cultural context. The tour includes passing through security gates and viewing murals that illustrate Belfast’s ongoing journey from division to reconciliation. The reviews mention how informative the guide was and how well the tour balanced history with personal stories. It’s a good option for travelers interested in the political art scene.
Bottom Line: If murals and their stories fascinate you, this tour will give you a vivid sense of Belfast’s evolving identity.
8. Private 2-hour Derry Girls Tour by Taxi
Number 8 is a fun, pop-culture-oriented Derry Girls Tour, perfect for fans of the hit series. Visiting Belfast sites featured in the show, like Erin’s house and the school, it offers a lighter, nostalgic perspective on Irish life.
This private experience lasts 2 hours 30 minutes, including hotel pickup. It’s tailored for fans seeking a behind-the-scenes look at filming locations. The guide’s friendly approach makes it engaging, especially for younger travelers or those who enjoy Ireland’s TV culture. While it’s more about entertainment than heavy history, it’s a great way to see Belfast through a different lens.
Bottom Line: Perfect for Derry Girls fans wanting to connect the show to real Belfast locations in a relaxed, private setting.
9. Belfast: 2-Hour Pub Golf Tour on Party Bike
Finally, the Pub Golf Tour offers a lively, social way to experience Belfast’s nightlife. Cycling between nine pubs on a neon-lit party bike, you can BYO drinks and enjoy the fun atmosphere. It’s a different kind of tour—more about socializing and having fun than history.
Ideal for groups looking for a memorable, energetic outing, this tour combines exercise, drinks, and laughs. With options for karaoke and selfies, it’s best suited for travelers wanting an informal evening activity. Check availability to find the right times, as this tour is popular with party-goers.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a lively, casual way to experience Belfast’s pub scene, this tour guarantees a good time.
How to Choose Your Perfect Belfast 2-Hour Tour
When selecting the right tour, consider your interests and priorities. Are you passionate about history and politics? The Black Taxi Murals Tour and Troubles Private Tour provide detailed stories and vivid visuals. If street art and murals are your focus, the Famous Black Taxi is a top pick.
For a more personalized, in-depth experience, the Political Private Tour and Troubles Private Tour suit those who want to ask questions and explore specific sites. Budget and group size matter too—private tours tend to be more expensive but offer flexibility, while shared options are more economical.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time. If you’re traveling with kids or Derry Girls fans, the Derry Girls Tour combines fun with sightseeing. For a lively night out, the pub golf on the party bike is a memorable choice.
From detailed political murals to lively pub cycles, Belfast’s 2-hour tours are an excellent way to grasp the city’s complex history and vibrant culture. Whether you want an educational deep dive, a fun pop-culture experience, or a private tailored adventure, there’s something to suit your style. Plan early, choose wisely, and enjoy your short but meaningful exploration of this fascinating city.