Belfast: Giant’s Causeway Tour and 2-Day Open Top-Bus Tour

If you’re dreaming of a scenic, well-organized way to see the highlights of Northern Ireland, this Giant’s Causeway plus 2-day Belfast hop-on hop-off bus tour might just be your perfect fit. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve reviewed the detailed itineraries, traveler feedback, and what makes this package a strong contender for anyone craving authentic sights, engaging guides, and flexible exploration.

What immediately stands out is the combination of a full-day, immersive journey to the iconic Giant’s Causeway—a geological wonder with volcanic basalt columns—and the convenience of a two-day open-top bus pass that lets you wander Belfast’s streets at your own pace. The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, though it’s worth noting that some stops, like Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, are viewed from afar, which might disappoint some expecting closer access. This experience suits travelers who love scenic drives, photo opportunities, and having the flexibility to explore city sights without rushing.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines a full-day coastal adventure with city sightseeing over two days.
• Expert Guides: Guides are described as fun, knowledgeable, and engaging, enhancing your experience.
• Flexible Sightseeing: The hop-on hop-off bus provides a 2-day pass, perfect for leisurely exploring Belfast.
• Stunning Sights: From Carrickfergus Castle to the Dark Hedges, scenery is a highlight.
• Value for Money: Includes discounts at attractions and an extra exclusive ticket.
• Authentic Experience: Focus on natural beauty, historic sites, and local stories.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Day at the Coast: What to Expect

Our journey begins early at the Donegall Square West meeting point, just outside Belfast’s City Hall. The tour departs sharply at 9 AM, so arriving a bit earlier ensures you’re ready to go. The coach, usually a comfortable bus, whisks you away along what’s called the Causeway Coastal Route, recognized for its dramatic sea views and rugged cliffs.

Carrickfergus Castle: A Medieval Marvel

The first stop is Carrickfergus Castle, constructed in 1177. It’s a highlight for history buffs and photographers alike. Well-preserved, it offers a chance to step back into Norman times and capture some striking images of this medieval fortress. As one reviewer noted, it’s a worthwhile start to the day, despite a slight wait at the final castle stop.

Carnlough Harbour: A Charming Fishing Village

Next, a scenic drive takes us to Carnlough Harbour, a quaint fishing village that exudes old-world charm. Fans of Game of Thrones might recognize this as the Free City of Braavos, adding a bit of pop culture to the trip. It’s a great spot for a quick stroll, and some travelers find this village particularly picturesque.

Portaneevy Viewpoint: Picture-Perfect Coastal Vistas

From here, the coach stops at Portaneevy Viewpoint, offering sweeping views of the coastline and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. While access to the bridge itself isn’t available due to tour restrictions, the viewpoint remains a favorite for photos and soaking in the rugged landscape. The dramatic cliffs and crashing waves make this a highlight for many.

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The Dark Hedges: A Natural Wonder

No trip here would be complete without a visit to the Dark Hedges—a stretch of beech trees planted over 300 years ago, famously called the Kingsroad in Game of Thrones. This iconic avenue, often featured on Instagram, provides a magical backdrop for photos. Many travelers agree it’s one of the most photogenic spots on the tour, though the crowds can be busy during peak times.

Lunch at The Hedges Hotel or Packed Meal

The tour typically includes a lunch stop at The Hedges Hotel, or you can bring your own packed meal. The hotel offers a chance to enjoy a local meal or a quick snack before heading to the next stops.

Bushmills and Dunluce Castle

After lunch, the journey continues to Bushmills, a village famed for its whiskey distillery. Even if you’re not a drinker, Bushmills offers a charming village atmosphere and scenic surroundings. Just before the main attraction, there’s a quick photo of Dunluce Castle ruins. Built in the 13th century, this castle clings dramatically to a cliffside, making it a favorite for Game of Thrones fans, who recognize it as Pyke’s Great Castle.

The Crown Jewel: The Giant’s Causeway

Finally, we arrive at the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s genuinely breathtaking. Comprising around 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns, the formation is a result of ancient volcanic activity. Legend tells of Finn McCool, the giant who supposedly created the causeway, making for a fun storytelling element.

The site is accessible via a visitor center with a shuttle bus down to the coast, which is a thoughtful touch for those with mobility concerns—reviewers appreciate this convenience. You’ll have ample time for photos, a guided walk, and exploring the unique formations. Many travelers find the scenery here worth every penny, with reviews praising its “spectacular” and “unforgettable” nature.

Return to Belfast

The coach heads back around 5:30-6 PM, providing a full and satisfying day of exploring, capped off with some memorable views and stories.

The Two-Day Belfast Hop-on Hop-off Bus Experience

On Days 2 and 3, the focus shifts to Belfast itself. The included hop-on hop-off bus tour covers 19 stops, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Top Stops Include

• Titanic Belfast: A must-see for history lovers and those intrigued by Belfast’s shipbuilding past, with discounted entry included.
• Crumlin Road Jail: A historic prison offering guided tours.
• HMS Caroline: A preserved Royal Navy ship.
• Queen’s University: A beautiful campus with historic architecture.
• Botanic Gardens: Perfect for a relaxing stroll.
• Political Murals: A vivid display of Belfast’s recent history, visible from several stops.

The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes if you stay onboard, but with the hop-on hop-off format, you can spend as much time as you like at attractions. The ticket is valid for two days, making it easy to spread out your sightseeing or revisit favorite places.

What Travelers Say

Reviews show that guides make a real difference—many describe guides like Louis, Paul, or Stuart as funny, engaging, and full of interesting anecdotes. One reviewer said, “It’s like meeting an old friend,” emphasizing how personalized and friendly the experience feels. The bus also offers discounts, especially at Titanic Belfast, adding extra value to your visit.

Transportation, Pricing, and Practical Details

The full-day coastal tour departs from a centrally located point at Donegall Square West outside Belfast’s City Hall at 8:30 AM for a 9 AM departure—arriving early helps avoid any rush. The coach provides comfortable seating, and the guides are praised for their lively commentary.

The two-day Belfast bus pass is a flexible way to explore the city without the stress of rushing, and many reviews highlight its usefulness. The cost is considered a good investment, especially since it includes discounts at key attractions and the convenience of a guided tour.

While food and drinks aren’t included in the price, there are plenty of options during stops or opportunities to bring your own. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and most stops are suitable for travelers with reduced mobility, according to reviews.

Authentic Experiences and Value

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, who add character and humor to the journey. The scenic stops along the coast are pristine and photo-worthy, making it a worthwhile trip for nature lovers. The cost is seen as reasonable considering the number of attractions covered, especially with included discounts.

The Day 1 trip is packed with iconic sights, from medieval castles to legendary landscapes, and the two days of Belfast exploration allow you to really get a feel for the city’s character. Reviewers mention the guided walks and storytelling as highlights, giving the experience depth beyond just sightseeing.

Some mention minor disappointments, such as the limited access to Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, which is only viewed from a distance, or occasional issues with timing at stops. However, overall, the tour delivers excellent value and a well-rounded introduction to Northern Ireland’s highlights.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Northern Ireland’s natural and historical highlights. It’s also ideal for families and couples who appreciate flexible sightseeing and engaging guides. If you’re keen on photo opportunities, legendary landscapes, and local stories, this package ticks many boxes.

Travelers with limited mobility will find the accessibility features helpful, and those on a budget will enjoy the included discounts and multiple stops. However, if you’re seeking a deep dive into local history or very close access to certain sites like Carrick-a-Rede, you might want to supplement this tour with additional visits.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most stops are family-friendly, and the coach provides a comfortable environment for kids. The story-telling and scenic views tend to engage younger travelers.

How long is the bus tour each day?
The full-day coast trip ends around 6 PM. The Belfast hop-on hop-off bus tour lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes if you stay onboard, but you can hop on and off throughout the two days.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You can bring a packed meal or buy at stops like The Hedges Hotel.

Are the viewpoints accessible?
Yes, the site at Giant’s Causeway has a bus down from the visitor center, and reviews mention that some stops are suitable for those with mobility issues.

Can I skip certain stops?
Absolutely. With the hop-on hop-off format, you can decide how long to stay at each stop.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The Giant’s Causeway is the star attraction, with its extraordinary basalt columns and legendary stories. The scenic coastal stops also provide plenty of memorable views.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the coach is described as comfortable, and guides keep the commentary lively and engaging.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Departs are typically in the morning, but check availability. The scenery is best during clear weather, and morning departures help you beat the crowds.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Most travelers find the timing works well, with enough time for photos, quick walks, and exploring. Slight delays at some sites are common but manageable.

Is this a good value?
Considering the multiple attractions, discounts, and the guided experience, many travelers feel it’s a good value for the price.

Final Thoughts

This combined full-day coastal tour and two-day Belfast hop-on hop-off experience offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, historic sites, and city exploration. The guides’ enthusiasm and storytelling add personality, making the journey more than just a sightseeing run. The scenic stops along the Causeway Coast are undeniably breathtaking, and the city tour gives you flexible, practical access to Belfast’s key sights.

If you’re after a comprehensive, authentic, and value-packed way to see Northern Ireland’s highlights, this tour is a strong choice. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy guided storytelling, stunning landscapes, and the freedom to explore at their own pace over multiple days.

Note: Always check current availability and details before booking, as schedules and access can change.

You can check availability for your dates here: