The Sunflower- If you ask a Belfast local where they love to enjoy a night out in the city, it’s highly likely they will say the Sunflower. Liberal, dog friendly, great drinks, and awesome music sessions. It is instantly recognisable by the security cage on its front door, a relic from 1980’s Belfast. While the cage is no longer needed for security reasons it has been kept and preserved as part of the city’s social history.

The Dirty Onion - Cool looking venue with a friendly atmosphere, a simple food menu, and local musicians often performing.

Kelly’s Cellars- This traditional pub is much-loved among locals looking for a real, local feel, joyful trad music sessions, and a good pint of Guinness.

Madden's - This unassuming pub is beloved by locals for its genuine charm, friendly staff, and, most notably, its live traditional Irish music sessions. You have to press a buzzer to gain access. They will let you in, its just a hallmark of the troubles.

The Point's- Located on the Dublin Road, The Points is a lively Irish whiskey and alehouse that always has Irish folk music performances and Irish dancers at the weekends.

Duke of York - One of the most traditional pubs in Belfast. Located on the most photographed cobbled alleyway in the city, it has a lively atmosphere, and fantastic traditional music sessions.

Margot-Tucked away below street level, hidden from the hustle and bustle of Belfast’s city centre. This intimate cocktail bar is warm and friendly.

There are many more awesome bars in the city, this is Ireland after all. So go for a dander and have a mini pub crawl.

If you're hoping for something a bit fancier, the following cocktail lounges are worth a visit:

- Bert's Jazz Bar and the Merchant Cocktail Lounge

- Angel and Two Bibles- Belfast's hidden speakeasy

- Babel - Located on the top floor of the Bullitt Hotel.

- The Observatory- Perched on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel, it’s the tallest cocktail bar on the island of Ireland.