From Belfast: Giants Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour

Traveling through Northern Ireland, this full-day guided tour offers a compelling mix of natural wonders and iconic filming locations. Whether you’re a history buff, a scenery lover, or a Game of Thrones fan, this trip packs in some of the most photogenic and story-rich spots along the Antrim coast. With an expert guide leading the way, you’ll get insightful stories, breathtaking views, and plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

One of the main draws is the Giants Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its unique hexagonal basalt columns. But what keeps this tour appealing is the way it combines that with visits to castles, dramatic coastlines, and the atmospheric Dark Hedges—famous for Game of Thrones fans. We love the detailed itinerary that balances sightseeing with enough flexibility for personal exploration. However, be aware that the day is packed, and some stops are more drive-by than walk-in.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and pop culture, and don’t mind a long day on a comfortable bus. If you’re after a deep dive into one specific site, this might feel a bit rushed. But if you want a broad taste of Northern Ireland’s highlights, this trip is hard to beat for value and variety.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary with a mix of natural beauty, castles, and Game of Thrones filming locations
• Knowledgeable guides who share engaging stories, myths, and local lore
• Excellent value for a full day of sightseeing, including entry fees to the Giants Causeway and Dark Hedges
• Comfortable transportation on a well-equipped bus with scenic routes along the coast
• Flexible pacing with enough time at key locations to explore on your own
• Ideal for diverse interests—history, folklore, nature, or TV series fans

What to Expect on This Tour

This tour from Belfast is designed to give you a broad yet immersive look at Northern Ireland’s most photogenic and storied spots. Starting early from the city center, you’ll head out with a small group, led by a guide who keeps things lively and informative. The journey is over 8.5 hours, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are must-haves, especially given Ireland’s unpredictable weather.

The first stop is Carrickfergus Castle, a 12th-century Norman fortress perched by the harbor. It’s a quick but rewarding visit, perfect for snapping some pictures and soaking in the medieval atmosphere. The guide will share stories about its history, making it more than just a photo op.

From there, you’ll cruise along the Antrim Coast Road, passing through some of the nine Glens of Antrim—a lush, rolling landscape brimming with myths about fairies and leprechauns. As you wind through small towns like Glenarm and Ballygally Castle, expect to hear local legends woven into the scenery, enriching your understanding of this enchanting region. Reviewers highlight how guides like Stewart and Lindsay make these stories come alive, adding humor and depth.

The highlight of the drive is a stop at Portaneevy View Point, which offers stunning vistas across the sea to Scotland’s Mull of Kintyre and Rathlin Island. Here, you’ll also see the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge—a thrilling crossing that’s worth the photo alone. You’ll appreciate the guide’s stories about the bridge’s history and its connection to local fishing traditions.

Next up is The Dark Hedges, a surreal tunnel of beech trees that served as the Kingsroad in Game of Thrones. Most reviewers find this to be a magical spot, perfect for photos. You’ll get about an hour here, giving plenty of time to walk among the trees and take that perfect shot.

Lunch breaks in traditional pubs are included in the itinerary, but reviews suggest that the portions are generous, and some found the food a bit pricey. If you’re picky about lunch, you might prefer to bring your own or plan ahead.

Post-lunch, the tour visits several filming locations used in Game of Thrones—like Magharamorne Quarry, which served as Castle Black, and Carnlough Harbour, where Arya Stark swam in the series. These stops are especially enjoyable for fans, who will recognize scenes and appreciate the behind-the-scenes stories.

Finally, the day culminates at the Giants Causeway, where you’ll have around 1.5 hours to walk among the legendary stones, learn about Finn MacCool, and snap some unforgettable photos. Many reviews mention how awe-inspiring this natural formation is, even in mist or rain. The guide will share legends that add a layer of magic to the experience.

A brief visit to Dunluce Castle offers a picture-perfect moment before heading back to Belfast along the inland route. The return journey provides scenic views and a chance to relax after a busy day.

The Real Value of the Tour

At a price that includes transportation, guides, and entry to major sites, this tour offers solid value. Reviewers like Christine and Lydia mention how their guides, Kevin and Stewart, made the experience fun and informative, often going beyond basic facts with jokes and personal anecdotes. The bus itself is noted for being comfortable and air-conditioned—an important detail for long days.

The tour also scores points for the flexibility of timings—most stops are long enough to explore without feeling rushed, though some like the Dark Hedges or Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge are primarily photo stops. The inclusion of entry to the Giants Causeway and Dark Hedges at no extra cost enhances the value, especially considering how popular these sites are.

That said, the tour doesn’t include meals, aside from a recommended lunch stop, so planning ahead is wise if you have dietary restrictions. The reviews suggest that meals can be substantial but also costly, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch might be a good idea.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits a wide range of travelers. History buffs will appreciate the castles and folklore stories, while fans of Game of Thrones will love walking through the filming locations. Nature lovers will enjoy the rugged coastline and the iconic basalt columns of the Giants Causeway. It’s especially good for those who prefer a guided experience that covers a lot in one day without the hassle of planning.

Who Might Want to Skip It?

If you prefer to focus deeply on a single site or enjoy independent travel at your own pace, this tour might feel a bit rushed or too structured. Also, those seeking gourmet food or more exclusive experiences might find the included meals and stops a little basic.

The Sum Up

This Belfast day tour offers an engaging, well-rounded snapshot of Northern Ireland’s natural beauty, history, and TV fame. With a knowledgeable guide, scenic routes, and a good mix of highlights, it provides excellent value for travelers wanting to maximize their time and see a variety of iconic sights. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, and the storytelling adds an extra layer of charm, especially for fans of Game of Thrones.

While it’s a full and busy day, most reviewers agree that the experience is worth the effort—and the awe-inspiring views of the Giants Causeway alone make it worthwhile. If you’re after a fun, informative, and scenic trip that covers the essentials without breaking the bank, this tour ticks all boxes.

Ideal for those who want a guided, hassle-free adventure with plenty of photo opportunities, this trip suits first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, weather gear, and an appetite for stories and stunning scenery.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, you’ll travel comfortably on an air-conditioned bus with a guide, making the long journey easy and pleasant.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts around 8.5 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and stops.

Are entry fees included? Yes, the tour covers entry to the Giants Causeway and the Dark Hedges, so you won’t need to pay extra for these highlights.

Is lunch included? No, lunch isn’t included, but the itinerary has a stop at a traditional pub where you can purchase food. Portions are generous and prices vary.

Can I visit the sites at my own pace? You’ll have designated time at each stop, which is generally enough for photos and a quick exploration, but extensive sightseeing isn’t possible at every location.

Is the tour suitable for children? While the tour is generally family-friendly, consider the long hours and walking involved, especially at the Giants Causeway.

What should I bring? Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera or smartphone for photos. Snacks might be helpful since meals aren’t included.

Embark on this scenic and story-filled journey from Belfast, and you’ll walk away with unforgettable memories of Northern Ireland’s rugged coast, legendary stones, and legendary series filming spots.