Belfast International Arts Festival (couple trip)

Ottilie (Rathmore Productions):

One-woman theatre show about blues singer Ottilie Patterson at the Grand Opera House.

Tip: Book £20 tickets online early and arrive 15 minutes before doors open to choose good seats.

Piaf – Christine Bovill:

An intimate recital of Édith Piaf songs at Áras Mhic Reachtain.

Tip: Arrive at least 20 minutes early to grab a café latte at the venue’s lobby café.

Denouement (Lyric Theatre):

Darkly comic two-hander about a couple’s last hours before Armageddon.

Tip: Check seating maps when booking £16–£34 tickets to sit center for best acoustics.

Blue Plaque Walking Tour:

Guided 1½-hour city-centre walk tracing Belfast’s famous figures and places.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and join the 11 am tour to enjoy morning light on City Hall.

144th Royal Ulster Academy Exhibition:

Free entry to a large contemporary art show at the Ulster Museum.

Tip: Combine with a museum café visit; go early to avoid midday crowds.