From Belfast: The Giant’s Causeway & Game of Thrones Tour

If you’re looking to explore Northern Ireland’s most iconic sights without the hassle of organizing transportation or timing, this guided day tour from Belfast might be just what you need. It promises a scenic journey along the rugged coast, a glimpse into legendary landscapes, and a sprinkle of HBO magic for Game of Thrones fans.

What we love about this experience is how it balances the awe-inspiring scenery with fascinating history—whether it’s the volcanic columns of the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway or the haunting ruins of Dunluce Castle. Plus, the chance to cross the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge offers a thrill for those who want a bit of adventure.

One thing to consider is that, given the packed itinerary, some stops might feel rushed, especially if you’re keen to explore every nook thoroughly. Still, for travelers who enjoy a well-organized overview that hits all the highlights, this tour covers a lot of ground in just one day.

This tour suits those eager to see the most famous sights of Northern Ireland, especially if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive experience. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want to tick off major landmarks with ease, and those who are fans of Game of Thrones, eager to visit the filming locations that brought Westeros to life.

Key Points

• Stunning Coastal Views: Expect breathtaking vistas of the Irish and Scottish coasts, especially from the Carrick-a-Rede and Dark Hedges stops.
• Rich Cultural and Historical Sites: Explore castles, ruins, and landscapes steeped in legends and history, like Dunluce Castle and Carrickfergus.
• Game of Thrones Filming Locations: Perfect for fans wanting to visit iconic sites such as the Iron Islands and Braavos.
• Comfortable, Hassle-Free Transport: The tour includes pickup and drop-off within Belfast city center in a clean, insured vehicle.
• Flexible and Friendly Guide Service: The reviews highlight engaging guides who share stories and accommodate your interests.
• Value for Money: Although you pay for entrance tickets separately, the convenience and comprehensive itinerary offer good overall value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins with pick-up options in Belfast’s city center, with two convenient locations to choose from. Afterward, you’ll settle into a comfortable coach with a small group—making navigation and communication easier than large tour buses. The journey to the coast takes about an hour, giving you time to settle in and enjoy the scenery.

Glenarm Castle: First Stop

Your first glimpse of Glenarm Castle offers a photo opportunity of a still-active estate owned by the McDonnell Clan and the Earl of Antrim. This stop is mainly for photos and quick appreciation of Northern Ireland’s noble estates. It’s a good chance to stretch your legs and take in some history before heading further north.

Carnlough Harbour and Braavos Steps

Next, a brief stop at Carnlough Harbour provides a chance for a restroom break, coffee, and soaking in more coastal beauty. This area is also where you’ll find the steps of Braavos, the famous scene from Game of Thrones where Arya Stark makes her escape. Fans will recognize the rugged stone steps and seaside setting—an authentic piece of Westeros right here in Ireland.

More Great Tours Nearby

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

This is a highlight for many travelers. The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is an exhilarating crossing over a deep chasm—if you’re brave enough. The views of the cliffs and ocean are truly spectacular. You can choose to walk across or simply admire the dramatic scenery from the mainland if you prefer a less adventurous experience. Tickets to cross the bridge are sold separately, and booking in advance is advised to avoid missing out.

At the site, you’ll also see Larrybane Quarry, which was featured as the camp where Brienne of Tarth faces Loras Tyrell. It’s a treat for fans wanting to connect the dots between the show and real locations.

The Giant’s Causeway

No trip to Northern Ireland is complete without visiting the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sight of over 40,000 interlocking volcanic columns, formed 60 million years ago, is utterly unforgettable. The legend of Finn McCool and his Scottish rival, Benandonna, adds a playful layer to the natural wonder.

This stop offers ample time for exploration, photos, and soaking in the atmosphere. There are cafes and toilets nearby, making it traveler-friendly despite the busy day. Expect to spend around an hour here, enough to wander on the basalt formations and learn about their volcanic origin.

Dunluce Castle

Following the causeway, the tour visits Dunluce Castle, a dramatic ruin perched on cliffs above the Atlantic. Once home to the McDonnell Clan, it’s a place that whispers stories of battles and legends. The castle’s ruins are striking, and the view from the site makes it clear why it has inspired many stories and movies.

Ballintoy and the Iron Islands

The next stop takes you to Ballintoy Harbour, known as the Iron Islands in Game of Thrones. This rugged harbor setting is where the Greyjoys rule, and you’ll get a sense of the raw, windy landscape that characters like Balon Greyjoy would have known. If you’re a fan, walking around here is like stepping into Westeros.

Dark Hedges

The final major stop is the Dark Hedges, an enchanting avenue of twisted trees made famous by the opening scenes of Game of Thrones. Walking beneath these ancient branches, you can imagine Arya Stark setting off on her journey disguised as a boy. The twisting canopy provides fantastic photo opportunities, especially as the light filters through the branches.

Returning to Belfast

After a full day of sightseeing and a lot of walking, the coach heads back to Belfast, arriving roughly 8 hours after departure. The drop-off is in the city center, making it easy for you to continue your Irish adventure or head straight to your hotel.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The real charm of this tour lies in its balance between natural wonders and cultural landmarks. The scenery along the coast is genuinely breathtaking, with some stops offering views that will stay with you long after your trip. The Giant’s Causeway alone justifies the price, given how iconic and photogenic it is.

For fans of Game of Thrones, this tour offers a tangible connection to the series, transforming fictional locations into real-world sites. The opportunity to see Braavos steps, the Iron Islands, and the Dark Hedges enriches the experience, especially if you’ve watched the show multiple times.

The guides, as noted in reviews, tend to be engaging and knowledgeable, sharing stories and historical tidbits that bring the sites alive. The vehicle is described as clean and comfortable, which adds to the overall positive impression.

Price and Value

While the entrance tickets for some sites (like the Giant’s Causeway) are extra, the overall value lies in the convenience, expert guiding, and the chance to see so many major sights in one day. If you attempted this independently, organizing transport, tickets, and timings would likely cost more and involve a lot more planning.

Potential Downsides

Some travelers might find the day a bit rushed, especially if they want to linger longer at each stop. The stops are timed for sightseeing rather than leisure, so history buffs or slow walkers may want to plan extra time on their own. Also, booking in advance for the Rope Bridge is recommended since it can sell out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip best suits travelers with a moderate level of fitness who enjoy scenic drives, walking, and photo opportunities. It’s ideal for those wanting a rundown of Northern Ireland’s highlights without the stress of independent planning.

Game of Thrones fans will appreciate the visit to locations used in the series, but even those not familiar with the show will find the natural beauty and historic sites captivating. It’s a good choice for first-timers to Ireland, as it hits many must-see spots in one day, making it a practical way to maximize limited time.

The Sum Up

This guided tour from Belfast offers an engaging mix of spectacular scenery, historic castles, and iconic filming locations. It’s a well-organized way to experience the highlights of the Antrim coast without the hassle of navigation or planning, especially if you’re short on time. The stops are thoughtfully selected, giving you a taste of Ireland’s folklore, landscapes, and cultural touchstones.

Travelers who value comfortable transport and knowledgeable guides will find this tour particularly worthwhile. The opportunity to walk across the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and stand beneath the Dark Hedges makes it memorable. While some may find the schedule tight, most will leave with a deep appreciation for the landscape’s natural and cultural richness.

If you’re after a balanced, authentic, and visually stunning introduction to Northern Ireland’s coast, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors, Game of Thrones fans, and those craving a scenic, hassle-free day out.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour? Yes, pickup and drop-off within Belfast city center are included, and you should be outside the designated spot 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

Can I cross the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge? Yes, you can choose to cross it or simply enjoy the views from the mainland. Tickets for crossing are sold separately, and booking ahead is recommended.

How long do we spend at each stop? Stops are timed to allow sightseeing and photos, with most around 15-80 minutes. Expect some stops to be shorter to fit everything in.

Is this tour suitable for families? The tour is generally suitable, but consider children’s comfort with walking and heights—especially at the Rope Bridge and castle ruins.

Will I get enough time at the Giant’s Causeway? Most likely, yes. You’ll have around an hour to explore and take photos of the columns and landscape.

Are meals provided? No, food and drinks are not included, but there are cafes at several stops.

How much does the tour cost? The price covers transportation and guiding but does not include entrance fees or crossing tickets, which are purchased separately.

What should I wear? Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate outdoor clothing are advised, as you’ll be walking on uneven ground and exposed to the elements.

Is the tour language flexible? Yes, live guides speak English and Spanish, catering to a diverse group.

Can I book this tour last-minute? Yes, with availability, but it’s wise to book in advance especially for popular sites like the Rope Bridge.

This tour packs a lot into one day, balancing natural beauty, history, and a touch of fantasy. For those wanting a hassle-free way to see Northern Ireland’s top sights, it’s a compelling choice—especially if you’re a fan of legends and legends in the making.

You can check availability for your dates here: