From Belfast: Giants Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour

Travelers looking for a full-day adventure that combines Northern Ireland’s natural beauty with its famous TV filming locations will find this tour offers a lot. Operating from central Belfast, it promises visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Giants Causeway, plus key spots from Game of Thrones. With a friendly, knowledgeable guide and a well-paced itinerary, this experience has garnered an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 1,400 reviews.

What immediately catches the eye is the combination of history, mythology, and cinematic magic—perfect for both fans of the show and those who just want to see stunning landscapes. One of the most appreciated aspects is the full coastal route along the Causeway coast, often dubbed one of the world’s best drives. However, the day can be quite busy, and some travelers might find the pace a little rushed, especially if they want ample time at each site.

This tour is especially suited for those who enjoy guided commentary, scenic drives, and multiple stops in one day. It’s a good pick for first-timers to Northern Ireland wanting a rundown, but less so for travelers with mobility issues, as some walking is involved. Overall, it balances great value with memorable sights, making it a popular choice among visitors.

• Diverse Stops: From medieval castles to film locations, the tour covers a wide range of the area’s highlights.
• Expert Guide: Guides like Dave and Hue are praised for their humor, storytelling, and knowledge.
• Scenic Routes: The Causeway coastal route offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
• Cinematic Highlights: Locations like Cushendun Caves and The Dark Hedges appeal to Game of Thrones fans.
• Time Management: The itinerary is well-structured, but some reviews mention the day feels a bit rushed.
• Value for Money: Many find the price reasonable considering the number of sites visited and the guided experience.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Starting Point and Early Departures

The tour kicks off from Donegall Square West in central Belfast, with a prompt departure at 9:00 AM (be sure to arrive by 8:30 AM). The early start ensures you maximize daylight and avoid the afternoon crowd, especially at popular spots like the Giants Causeway.

Carrickfergus Castle – A 12th-Century Landmark

Your first stop is Carrickfergus Castle, a formidable Norman fortress. It’s a relatively quick visit—about 25 minutes—but enough to walk around and snap some impressive photos of the castle and harbor. Reviewers like Deepthi mention how their guide, Dave, made the history come alive with humor and stories, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Coastal Drive and Glens of Antrim

Next, you’ll travel along the famous Causeway coastal route, voted one of the world’s best drives. Expect to pass through the Glen of Antrim, with views that make you want to stop for photos at nearly every bend. The scenic drive is about 45 minutes, offering panoramic vistas of cliffs, sea stacks, and lush greenery.

Carnlough Harbour and Game of Thrones Filming Sites

Carnlough Harbour serves as a key Game of Thrones filming location, functioning as Bravos in Season 6. Here, you’ll have a brief stop—about 25 minutes—to explore and take pictures. Reviewers like Widi Herman note that the guide’s commentary enhanced their understanding of the show’s filming sites. It’s also a handy refreshment stop, with options to buy snacks and use toilets.

Cushendun Caves and the Show’s Dark Moments

The Cushendun Caves are next—famous for the scenes involving Melisandre giving birth to her shadow demon and the Jaime-Euron fight. The caves are a favorite for fans and are also intriguing for anyone interested in natural scenery. The tour includes a pass-by, so you won’t spend much time here, but it’s enough to appreciate the dramatic cliffs and caves.

The Dark Hedges – The King’s Road

One of the most Instagrammable spots, The Dark Hedges, were where Arya Stark fled King’s Landing disguised as a boy. Walking beneath the arching, centuries-old beech trees is atmospheric and a highlight for many. Expect about an hour here, including time for photos and a chance to soak in the eerie, fairy-tale vibe. Multiple reviews praise the tree-lined avenue as a “must-see” location.

Lunch and Local Food

You’ll have some time for lunch at your own expense after The Dark Hedges. Many travelers opt for nearby cafes or restaurants, often praising the hearty Irish fare and generous portions, especially at the Hedges Hotel.

Giants Causeway – Nature’s Masterpiece

The main event is the Giants Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site and geological wonder with its iconic “organs” of basalt. You’re allotted around 1.5 hours to walk among the stones, learn about Irish giant Finn MacCool, and enjoy the dramatic coastline. Several reviews, including those from Emily, highlight how walking on the Causeway feels almost surreal, especially with the legend of Finn’s bridge adding a layer of story to the natural formations.

Dunluce Castle – A Medieval Ruin with a View

Before heading back to Belfast, a quick stop at Dunluce Castle provides fantastic photo opportunities and a taste of medieval history. Known for its dramatic cliffside position and appearance as the Greyjoy seat in Game of Thrones, the castle is a favorite photo spot and offers a glimpse into Irish castle ruins.

Return Journey

The return drive is approximately 1.5 hours, along a scenic inland route that offers more views of the Irish countryside. Most travelers say the journey back is smooth, with guides like Hue or Stuart providing entertaining commentary.

What It’s Like with the Guides

Throughout the reviews, guides like Dave and Hue are consistently praised for their enthusiasm, humor, and storytelling skills. Dave, in particular, is singled out as going above and beyond—dressing up in costumes and sharing interesting tidbits about local history and legends. According to several reviews, this personal touch makes the day feel more engaging and less like just another bus trip.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Comfortable shoes are a must since some sites involve walking over uneven surfaces, especially at the Giants Causeway.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.
• Given the busy schedule, packing snacks or a quick lunch is recommended, although there are stops for food.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to ensure a smooth start—staff in red coats are easy to spot.

Analyzing the Value

Though the tour is priced to include transportation and a guide, many reviews highlight how the comprehensive itinerary offers great value. Visiting 8-10 sites in one day means you’re saving yourself both time and money compared to exploring independently. Plus, the guided commentary and insider tips add richness to what could otherwise be just a series of photo stops.

While food and drinks are not included, the option to purchase snacks and enjoy hearty Irish cuisine at lunch makes the day flexible and convenient. The length—around 8.5 hours—may seem long, but with so many sights and stories, it rarely feels tedious.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This experience shines for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded overview of Northern Ireland’s most iconic locations. Fans of Game of Thrones will love the chance to see actual filming sites, but even casual travelers will appreciate the stunning coastal scenery and historic sites like Carrickfergus Castle and Dunluce.

It’s perfect for those who enjoy guided tours with lively guides, scenic drives, and a mix of history and mythology. However, if you prefer more flexibility or have mobility concerns, you might find the schedule a little packed. Still, for its price, the tour delivers a lot of memorable moments and photo opportunities.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides fully guided transportation from Belfast, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8.5 hours, with multiple stops and scenic drives, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. There are stops where you can purchase snacks and enjoy lunch at your own expense.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and involves some walking, particularly at the Giants Causeway. Comfortable shoes are strongly recommended.

Can I customize or add extra sites?
The itinerary is fixed, but some sites like Dunluce Castle and Carrickfergus Castle are optional add-ons if you pay a small entrance fee.

What is the weather like?
Weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing just in case. Several reviews mention enjoying the trip despite rain or chilly conditions.

This Belfast-based tour offers a rich combination of natural beauty, cinematic locations, and historic sites. The guides’ fun personalities and storytelling make the day enjoyable and informative. The scenic drives, especially along the Causeway coast, are unforgettable, and the chance to walk on the Giants Causeway makes this a bucket-list experience.

While packed, the itinerary provides excellent value for those wanting a comprehensive look at Northern Ireland’s highlights. Perfect for first-timers and Game of Thrones fans alike, this tour promises a full day of breathtaking views, engaging stories, and memorable moments.

Whether you’re chasing legends, filming sites, or simply soaking up Irish scenery, this tour has plenty to offer—and leaves most travelers eager to return for more.