Game of Thrones and Giant’s Causeway Day Tour from Belfast

This comprehensive tour from Belfast promises an exciting mix of filming locations from Game of Thrones, legendary natural wonders like the Giant’s Causeway, and picturesque coastal sights. With a well-organized itinerary, modern coaches, and expert guides, it’s a popular choice for travelers wanting to see the highlights of this captivating region in just one day.

What truly stands out about this experience is the expert commentary and the chance to explore some of the most photographed spots in Northern Ireland. Having read reviews, we love how guides like Patrick and Wilson bring stories and humor into the mix, making the journey engaging and informative. The main drawback? The long duration (about 10 hours) may be tiring for some, especially with a packed schedule and a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Still, it’s perfect for those who want a full immersion into Ireland’s stunning scenery and iconic filming locations.

This tour is ideal for film enthusiasts, nature lovers, and history buffs, as well as those simply eager to explore Northern Ireland’s rugged coastline with minimal planning. If you’re traveling from Belfast and want a comprehensive, value-packed day trip, this tour offers a great balance of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and fun stories.

Key Points

• Authentic Filming Locations: Visit real sites used in Game of Thrones, like the Cushendun Caves and Ballintoy Harbour.
• Iconic Natural Wonders: Marvel at the Giants Causeway’s basalt columns and scenic coastal routes.
• Expert Guides and Comfortable Transport: Benefit from knowledgeable guides and modern, well-equipped coaches.
• Variety of Stops: Over 20 different stops, including castles, distilleries, and scenic viewpoints.
• Good Value for Money: The extensive itinerary and included commentary offer a rich experience.
• Suitable for Most Travelers: Best for those who enjoy a full-day adventure, moderate walking, and scenic drives.

Starting Point and Initial Journey

Your day begins at the convenient meeting point on Donegall Road, Belfast. A member of staff helps you locate the luxury coach, which is revealed to be a comfortable, modern vehicle with amenities like phone chargers—adding a touch of convenience to a long day. The guide, some with over 20 years of experience, kicks off with a brief introduction, setting a friendly tone for what’s ahead.

The first part of the ride is a 20-minute drive out of Belfast, giving everyone a chance to settle in and get excited. As you head toward the coast, the scenery quickly shifts from city streets to open countryside, setting the tone for the scenic day.

Visiting Castle and Coastal Highlights

Your first stop is Carrickfergus Castle, a well-preserved Norman fortress that dates back to the 12th century. With around 20 minutes here, you can snap some photos, admire the medieval architecture, and get a quick history lesson from your guide. Reviewers appreciated the easy access and the opportunity for a brief exploration before moving on.

Next up, the coach takes you along some of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful coastal routes—Magheramorne, Larne, Ballygally, and Glenarm Castle. These scenic drives provide stunning views of the rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and historic sites, with several stops for photo opportunities. As one reviewer noted, “The scenery was beautiful even in the rain,” which is a reminder to bring weather-appropriate clothing.

Exploring Game of Thrones Filming Locations

This is where the tour really shines for fans and curious travelers alike. You’ll visit Cushendun Caves, where Melisandre gave birth to her Shadow Assassin—a highlight for those into the show’s lore. The caves are a 30-minute stop with a chance to walk around and take photos. Reviewers mention that this stop was particularly memorable, with one noting that their guide’s humor and storytelling made the experience even more engaging.

Next, the dark lanes of the Dark Hedges—famous as King’s Road in Westeros—are a must-see. The avenue of twisted beech trees makes for an iconic photograph, and the guide often shares fun facts about filming here. Some reviewers wish for more “on-location” stops related directly to Game of Thrones, but the guide’s commentary keeps the experience lively.

Ballintoy Harbour and the Iron Islands exterior shots are next. You’ll have enough time here to walk along the quay, snap photos, and soak in the rugged scenery that perfectly matches the show’s setting. The reviews praise the guides’ storytelling, which helps bring these locations to life.

Giants Causeway and the Natural Wonder

No trip to Northern Ireland is complete without marveling at the Giants Causeway—a UNESCO World Heritage Site made of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns. The walk around the site takes roughly 105 minutes, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace. The causeway’s staircases and geological formations are breathtaking, and you’ll love the views—whether clear or drizzled in mist.

Some reviews highlight that the small hike to the Causeway is especially beautiful, with one noting, “the views are absolutely lovely,” and the guide’s commentary adding to the experience. Although the site isn’t directly linked to Game of Thrones, its dramatic scenery makes it a natural “photo magnet” and perfect for fans imagining their own stories in this landscape.

Adjacent to the Causeway, you’ll see Dunluce Castle—a dramatic ruin perched over the cliffs—and the Old Bushmills Distillery, where you can learn about whiskey production and enjoy some shopping. These stops, lasting around 30 minutes each, add cultural depth and variety to the day.

The Coastal Route and Additional Castles

The tour continues along the Causeway Coastal Route, considered one of the most scenic drives in the world. Pass by Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, where a 15-minute stop allows for photos and a quick walk across the famous bridge if you’re feeling brave. The views from here are dramatic, with reviewers describing the experience as “well worth it,” especially for the panoramic vistas.

Further along, you’ll pass Dunseverick Castle and scenic villages before reaching your final stops—highlighting the region’s historic and natural richness.

Final Highlights and Return

The last stretch involves a 75-minute coach ride back to Belfast, during which your guide continues to share stories and insights. Reviewers often mention how the guides like Patrick and Wilson keep the journey lively, humorous, and packed with interesting facts.

Arriving back at your starting point on Donegall Road, you’ll feel that you’ve covered a lot of ground—both literally and figuratively—in one full day.

This tour packs in more stops than many others, offering a blend of cultural, natural, and pop culture highlights. The price reflects this extensive itinerary, and reviews emphasize the quality of the guides and the modern, comfortable coaches, which make the long day manageable. The inclusion of commentary about the filming locations, castles, and scenery ensures you walk away with more than just photos—you get stories and context.

Entry fees are not included, and there’s no lunch provided, but the stops at places like Bushmills allow for quick snacks or shopping. Reviewers especially appreciated the timing and organization, noting that everyone returned to Belfast on time and felt the day was well balanced.

This full-day experience is perfect for those who want to see a wide variety of sights without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s particularly suited for Game of Thrones fans, lovers of coastal scenery, and history buffs eager to explore castles and historic sites. The guides’ humor and extensive knowledge ensure a lively experience, ideal for those who enjoy storytelling along with sightseeing.

Travelers with moderate mobility should be aware of walking on uneven surfaces at locations like Cushendun Caves and the Causeway. The long duration might challenge those with limited stamina, but the frequent stops help break up the day.

In short, if you’re after a well-organized, value-rich tour that tick all the boxes—from epic scenery to filming sites—this Belfast-based adventure delivers beautifully.

Is transportation provided for the entire tour?
Yes, you’ll travel in a modern, luxury coach with expert commentary throughout the day.

Are entry fees included?
No, entry fees are not included. You’ll need to pay for sites like Dunluce Castle and the distillery separately if you wish to visit inside.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, with many stops along the way for sightseeing, photos, and walking.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for wheelchair users, and some walking on uneven surfaces is involved, so consider this if traveling with small children or mobility concerns.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing is essential, as Northern Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable. Comfortable shoes are also a must for walking at sites.

Will I get enough time at each location?
Most stops range from 15 to 30 minutes, which is enough for photos and quick explorations. The Giants Causeway allows for a longer, more in-depth visit.

Are food options available during the tour?
Lunch isn’t included, but stops at places like the Bushmills Distillery or local pubs offer opportunities to purchase food and drinks.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour date.

Is this tour suitable for photography enthusiasts?
Absolutely. Many reviewers praised the scenic stops and photo opportunities, especially at Giants Causeway and the Dark Hedges.

This Belfast day trip offers a fantastic way to see Northern Ireland’s highlights, especially if you’re a fan of Game of Thrones or natural scenery. With a carefully curated itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and a comfortable coach, it balances storytelling, sightseeing, and fun. While the length and walking may be a bit demanding, the experience’s richness makes it worthwhile for most travelers.

Whether you want to walk in the footsteps of Westeros, marvel at geological marvels, or explore castles and coastlines, this tour packs a punch. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a full, immersive day with lots of variety and a sense of humor along the way. Perfect for first-timers eager to get the most out of their Belfast visit without the hassle of organizing multiple trips themselves.

Experience Provider: McComb’s Coach Travel

More Info & Booking: GetYourGuide Link