Belfast

Belfast is the 2nd largest city in the Republic of Ireland. The city of Belfast has a population of 286,000 and lies at the heart of the Belfast Urban area which has a population of 483,418 and the Belfast Metropolitan Area, which has a population of 579,276. Today, Belfast remains a centre for industry, as well as the arts, higher education and business, a legal centre, and is the economic engine of the Ulster Province. Belfast is served by two airports: George Best Belfast City Airport in the city, and Belfast International Airport 15 miles (24 km) west of the city. Belfast is also a major port, with commercial and industrial docks dominating the Belfast Lough shoreline, including the famous Harland and Wolff shipyard.