Belfast and the Causeway Coast Named Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2018

Belfast and the Causeway Coast, it’s time to celebrate, as you’ve been named Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2018.

In huge news for Northern Ireland, Belfast and the Causeway Coast have been named the world’s number one region to visit next year. Beating out Alaska, the Languedoc-Roussillon region in France and Bahia in Brazil to claim the much-coveted title.

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With quotes like “full of hip neighbourhoods that burst with bars, restaurants and venues to suit all tastes,” and “while the rusting old docklands are now the vibrant Titanic Quarter, home to fancy apartments and a sensational museum.” It’ll have us packing our bags and heading there asap.

Weekend adventures for under €50 in Northern Ireland

The area truly deserves it after the heroic efforts in recent years to transform it into the vibrant tourist destination it is today. It’s now brimming with new restaurants and hotels, all the Game of Thrones hotspots and home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Giant’s Causeway.

“Belfast & the Causeway Coast topped our list because it is deservedly now recognised as a must-visit destination by travellers from across the globe,” said James Smart, Lonely Planet’s Destination Editor for Britain and Ireland.

“Dynamic Belfast has put its troubled past behind it and is a city transformed, its streets packed with buzzing bars and great stories, while the coastline beyond boasts spectacular scenery and plenty of great diversions.”

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This result will be a huge boost for both places, so get up there before the crowds start flying in!

Take a look at who else made the list:

Lonely Planet’s 10 Best Regions 2018

1. Belfast & The Causeway Coast
2. Alaska, USA
3. Julian Alps, Slovenia
4. Languedoc-Roussillon, France
5. Kii Peninsula, Japan
6. Aeolian Islands, Italy
7. Southern USA
8. Lahaul & Spiti, India
9. Bahia, Brazil
10. Los Haitises National Park, Dominican Republic

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