Giant’s Causeway Tour Including Game of Thrones Locations

Exploring the Giant’s Causeway Tour Including Game of Thrones Locations

Taking a day trip from Belfast to see some of Northern Ireland’s most captivating sights sounds like a dream—especially when you get to combine natural wonders with a sprinkle of pop culture magic. This comprehensive tour, run by Citysightseeing Belfast, promises a balanced experience of scenic drives, historic sites, and geological marvels, all wrapped into roughly 8.5 hours. It’s praised for its excellent guides, well-chosen stops, and incredible scenery.

What really catches the eye is how this tour manages to blend storytelling, history, and stunning landscapes, all while offering good value for money at just over $34 per person. However, the long day means it’s most suitable for those comfortable with a full schedule and some walking. If you’re eager to see the best of Northern Ireland in one day without the hassle of planning, this trip could be a perfect fit—especially if you love learning from engaging guides and snapping photos of dramatic coastlines.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery and historic sites packed into one day
• Expert guides who provide insightful, humorous commentary
• Great value for the price, with an emphasis on quality stops
• Comfortable coach transportation suited for groups of all sizes
• Limited time at each stop, so ideal for those with tight schedules
• Some stops, like Carrick-a-Rede, are free, but others require additional tickets

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Carrickfergus Castle: The Historic Start

The tour kicks off with a visit to Carrickfergus Castle, one of Ireland’s best-preserved Norman castles. Built in 1177, it offers a fascinating glance into medieval life and the turbulent history of the region. We loved the way the guide shared stories of sieges and battles, making history lively and accessible. You have the option to explore inside if you purchase a ticket, but even from outside, the castle’s formidable stone walls and the statue of King William III make for compelling photos.

This initial stop is around 40 minutes, giving ample time to explore or simply soak in the views over the harbor. Reviewers mention that this is a good warm-up, setting a historical tone before heading further along the coast.

Scenic Coastal Drive & Glenarm Castle

From there, the journey continues with a coastal drive that’s as much about the views as the destinations. Passing Glenarm Castle, visitors appreciate its charm and significance. It’s one of Ireland’s oldest continuously inhabited castles, and the surrounding landscape of rolling hills and water makes for fantastic photos. Reviewers highlight the natural beauty and the authenticity of these lesser-known spots, making the drive itself a highlight.

Carnlough Harbour: Hollywood Meets History

Next, the bus pulls into Carnlough Harbour, a picturesque fishing village that also features in the hit series Game of Thrones. Fans might recognize this as Arya Stark’s escape route, where she leaps into the water following an attack. Many note that the harbor is a peaceful spot with traditional boats, stone buildings, and rugged coastline—perfect for a quick walk or a few photos.

Travelers who love cinematic history will find this stop especially fun. It’s also appreciated for its tranquility and the chance to see how the Irish coast can double as a film set.

Glens of Antrim: Nature’s Masterpiece

Driving through the Glens of Antrim, the tour offers views of nine lush valleys. Each glen has its own character, with stories and legends that the guide shares, adding depth to what might otherwise seem just scenic beauty. We found this part of the drive particularly engaging, as it offers a real sense of Ireland’s unspoiled landscape and rural charm.

Portaneevy Viewpoint & Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

The next stop is at the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge viewpoint, where you’ll get jaw-dropping views of the 75-foot chasm that separates the mainland from Carrick Island. While the actual bridge isn’t crossed, the viewpoint itself is a photographer’s dream. Reviewers love the vistas here, noting that it’s a short but sweet stop packed with photo opportunities.

The Dark Hedges: A Film Fan’s Dream

Then, it’s time for the Dark Hedges, a 300-year-old avenue of beech trees that seems to lead straight into a fantasy world. HBO fans will instantly recognize this as the Kingsroad from Game of Thrones, where Arya Stark makes her daring escape. Even those unfamiliar with the series find the haunting beauty of the canopy awe-inspiring.

This stop typically lasts around 65 minutes, giving enough time for photos and a relaxing walk. Many reviewers mention how this tree-lined avenue is as breathtaking in person as in the photos, making it a highlight of the day.

Dunluce Castle: The Dramatic Ruins

Perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Dunluce Castle is a visual knockout and a favorite among scenic stops. Known as the House of Greyjoy in the series, the castle’s ruins evoke images of storms, betrayal, and intrigue. You can choose to explore inside if you buy a ticket, or admire the exterior and enjoy the dramatic ocean views. Several mention that this is one of the most photogenic spots, with its rugged stone walls and crashing waves.

The Grand Finale: Giant’s Causeway

Finally, the moment everyone’s waiting for—the Giant’s Causeway. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its thousands of hexagonal basalt columns formed from volcanic activity millions of years ago. We loved how the guide explained Finn McCool’s legend as we wandered among the formations, giving a mythic dimension to what’s already an awe-inspiring landscape.

You’ll spend around 90 minutes here, enough to stroll the Red Trail, take photos, and marvel at geology that’s both surreal and timeless. Reviewers frequently mention how impressive the Causeway is, calling it “breathtaking” and “worth every penny,” especially given the free access included with the tour.

The Practical Side: What To Expect

Transportation & Comfort

The entire journey is conducted on a luxury coach, praised for its air conditioning and comfortable seating. With a maximum group size of 150, the trip offers a good balance of social atmosphere and personal space. Reviews highlight the skill of drivers like Stuart and Troy, who not only navigate narrow roads with ease but also keep the commentary lively and engaging.

Duration & Pacing

The full-day trip lasts around 8.5 hours, with most stops lasting anywhere from 15 minutes (Carrick-a-Rede viewpoint) to an hour at Dark Hedges. The schedule is well-paced, but keep in mind that the long day means some travelers might find it tiring, especially if weather conditions aren’t perfect.

Cost & Value

For approximately $34, you’re covering transportation, a guide, and access to the Causeway (tickets included). Several reviews note that the guide’s commentary is one of the tour’s strong points, with many describing the guide as knowledgeable, humorous, and sincere. The stops are thoughtfully selected to give a mix of history, nature, and culture.

The only additional costs might be for entry at Carrickfergus Castle or Dunluce Castle, which aren’t included in the ticket price. The Rope Bridge viewpoint and Dark Hedges are free, making the overall expense quite reasonable for what’s offered.

Food & Breaks

There’s a lunch break at the Hedges Hotel, which many reviewers say offers good food and a nice atmosphere. The tour also includes some downtime for photos and exploration, though mealtimes are relatively short.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Travelers consistently mention how guides like Stuart, Lisa, and Troy elevate the experience with their storytelling and humor. One reviewer emphasized how Stuart’s “significant experience” and “insightful and fun” commentary made the trip memorable. Others appreciated the balance of facts and funny anecdotes, making sightseeing both educational and entertaining.

A few noted minor drawbacks, such as seating arrangements that separated family groups or a rainy day that limited visibility, but these are minor compared to the overall positive impressions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re short on time but want to see the highlights of Northern Ireland, this tour offers excellent value and a well-rounded experience. It’s perfect for families, single travelers, or couples who enjoy scenic drives, historic sites, and a touch of Game of Thrones magic. The group size makes it social but not overwhelming, and the variety of stops keeps the day engaging.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to explore each location in depth, you might find this tour somewhat rushed. Also, those with mobility issues should consider that some sites involve walking and uneven terrain.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour stands out for its well-curated stops, expert guides, and breathtaking scenery. The mixture of history, geology, and pop culture makes it appealing to a wide audience. Many reviewers have called it “well worth the money,” and the consistent praise for guides like Stuart and Troy underscores the importance of good storytelling on such trips.

The cost is reasonable considering what’s included, and the pace is suitable for travelers who want an efficient, enjoyable day. The inclusion of key sights like the Giant’s Causeway and Dark Hedges, combined with charming villages and historic castles, ensures you’ll leave with a well-rounded impression of Northern Ireland’s beauty and character.

If your goal is to see iconic sights without the hassle of organizing multiple tours or transport, this trip offers a balanced, memorable way to do so—whether you’re a history buff, a geology enthusiast, or a Game of Thrones fan. Just remember to bring your camera, a good pair of walking shoes, and an appetite for stories and scenery.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, you’ll travel comfortably on a luxury coach, with air conditioning and space for everyone.

Are tickets to attractions included? Entry to Giant’s Causeway is free and included in the tour price. However, entry to Carrickfergus Castle and Dunluce Castle is optional and not included.

How long is the tour? The full-day experience lasts roughly 8.5 hours, with stops of varying lengths to explore and photograph.

Can I visit the castles inside? You have the option to pay for entry if you want to explore the inside of Carrickfergus or Dunluce Castle. Outside views are also impressive.

What’s the best part of the tour? Many say the highlight is the Giant’s Causeway’s surreal basalt columns, but the Dark Hedges and Dunluce Castle also draw high praise.

Is this tour suitable for kids? Yes, children are welcome, but keep in mind it involves some walking and a full-day schedule, so it’s best for families with moderate physical fitness.

To sum it up, this Giant’s Causeway Tour including Game of Thrones locations offers a fantastic way to see Northern Ireland’s highlights without the stress of planning. It’s ideal for those who appreciate engaging guides, scenic drives, and a good mix of history and natural wonder—all wrapped into a convenient, value-packed package.