Belfast & Giant's Causeway: 2-Day Rail Tour from Dublin

Traveling from Dublin to Northern Ireland doesn’t have to be a complicated or lengthy affair. This 2-day rail tour offers a straightforward, well-paced way to see some of the most iconic sights—Belfast, Giant’s Causeway, and the scenic Antrim Coast. Priced at around $521 per person, it balances comfort with immersive experiences, making it an attractive option for those short on time but eager for authentic highlights.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines stunning scenery with well-chosen stops like Ballycastle, the Carrick-a-rede rope bridge, and Dunluce Castle, all delivered with knowledgeable guides. These details make the experience both enjoyable and educational. Plus, staying overnight in Belfast means you get to explore the city beyond just a quick glance, adding depth to your trip.

However, it’s worth noting that some parts of the scenic drive, like crossing the Glens of Antrim, are only available from mid-March through October, so winter travelers might find some limitations. Still, if you love a structured plan that covers a lot of ground with ease, this tour is a splendid fit. It’s perfect for first-time visitors or anyone who appreciates well-organized itineraries that maximize sightseeing without the hassle of arranging logistics on your own.

If you’re someone who values expert guides, scenic drives, and a balanced mix of history and nature, you’ll find this tour a smart choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy engaging commentary—many reviews praise guides like John T and Mark for their knowledge and storytelling. It’s also ideal if you prefer a small group experience that feels personal, yet offers plenty of time for shopping and exploring Belfast’s vibrant city center.

Key Points

Convenient two-day format with organized transfers and overnight stay
Beautiful scenic drive along the Antrim Coast, including the Glens of Antrim and Carrick-a-rede
Expert guides enhance the experience with stories about the sights and history
Flexible options for train departure times, including return options from Belfast
Great value for the inclusion of accommodations, admissions, and breakfasts
Limited in winter for some scenic stops, so plan accordingly

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at Your Belfast & Giant’s Causeway Experience

While in Dublin, here are other experiences we've covered

Easy and Reliable Transportation

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is that it takes care of transportation seamlessly. You check in at Dublin’s Connolly Station early in the morning, where friendly staff in yellow jackets help you settle into your reserved first-class train seat. From there, you relax in comfort as you travel by Enterprise Service to Belfast, avoiding the stress of driving or navigating public transit on your own.

The train ride itself is a highlight, offering a chance to enjoy the scenery en route—rolling fields, distant hills, and on clear days, views of the Scottish coast. The fact that all transfers and the hotel stay are included means you can focus on the sights rather than logistics, which many reviewers appreciate.

Scenic Drive Along the Antrim Coast

Once in Belfast, your journey continues with a scenic drive along the famous Antrim Coast Road. This stretch is a feast for the eyes—cliffs, sea stacks, and lush greenery—especially if the weather cooperates. The tour is particularly praised for its crossing of the Glens of Antrim, a series of picturesque valleys that seem almost untouched by time.

A highlight here is the stop at Ballycastle and the Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge. This daring crossing offers fantastic views and a thrill for those who aren’t fazed by heights. Keep in mind this part of the tour is only available from mid-March through October, so winter travelers might miss out. Still, the scenery on this route is a major draw, and many reviews mention how stunning the coast looks on a clear day.

The Iconic Giants Causeway

No trip here would be complete without visiting the Giants Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We loved the way the basalt columns stretch out into the sea—imagine natural geology shaping a landscape that looks almost otherworldly. Visitors can take time to walk among these striking formations, take photos, and soak in the unique atmosphere.

A quick stop at Dunluce Castle adds some medieval charm, with its ruins perched dramatically on the cliffs above the sea. From the comments of past travelers, the castle’s photo stop is appreciated for its picturesque views and historical intrigue.

More Great Tours Nearby

Belfast City Exploration

After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll settle into a 4-star hotel in the city center—conveniently close to shops, restaurants, and attractions. The next morning begins with a hearty Ulster Fry, a traditional Irish breakfast, fueling you for the day ahead.

The hop-on hop-off bus tour of Belfast is a flexible way to explore the city’s highlights. It takes you through the bustling Titanic Quarter, where the Titanic was built—an emotionally resonant site—and past Belfast Castle for panoramic city views.

You’ll also have free time for shopping, or perhaps visiting the Crumlin Road Gaol and sitting in the Governor’s Chair, which many reviews describe as a fun, immersive experience. The guided commentary is noted for being very knowledgeable, making even familiar sights come alive through storytelling.

While you're exploring Dublin, here are other experiences we've looked into

Flexible Return Options

You have the option to return to Dublin on any scheduled train, but most groups choose the 20:00 departure, arriving back at Dublin Connolly Station around 22:15. This flexibility helps you tailor your trip based on how much time you want to spend in Belfast or the coast.

Authenticity and Value

For the price of about $520, you’re getting all transfers, guided tours, admissions, and a comfortable night’s stay. Many travelers feel this offers good value—especially considering the small group size, which keeps the experience intimate and engaging. Our review of the comments confirms the tour’s excellent time management and knowledgeable guides, with mentions of “superb” organization and “making our trip memorable.”

Practical Considerations

While most aspects of this tour are positively reviewed, some travelers might find the scenic stops limited in winter. Also, the tour does not include meals except for breakfast, so you’ll want to plan for lunch or snacks along the way. The tour has restrictions on mobility aids like electric wheelchairs and walking frames, so be prepared if you have mobility needs.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour appeals most to those who enjoy organized, guided experiences that balance scenic drives, historical sites, and city exploration. The guides receive high praise for their knowledge and storytelling, making it a good fit for history buffs or curious travelers. The small group format fosters a more personal vibe, ideal for travelers who prefer a less crowded, more intimate atmosphere.

If you’re short on time but want a rundown of Northern Ireland’s highlights, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors or those who prefer a comfortable, hassle-free way to see the coast and Belfast without the stress of navigation or planning.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility difficulties?
The tour restricts mobility scooters, non-folding wheelchairs, walking frames, and electric wheelchairs. If you have mobility challenges, you might find some parts of the trip difficult, especially the scenic stops that involve walking or standing.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers all transfers, guided tours, admissions to attractions, and one night’s stay at a city-center four-star hotel with breakfast. Meals besides breakfast are not included.

When does the tour run?
The tour departs daily from Dublin, with specific start times available depending on the season. In January-February and November-December, departures are Monday through Saturday. Be sure to check availability for your preferred dates.

How long do I spend in Belfast?
You stay overnight in Belfast, giving you time to explore the city’s sights, shops, and restaurants at your own pace the following morning, after breakfast.

Can I return to Dublin on my own schedule?
Yes, you can choose to take any scheduled train back to Dublin, or join the group’s 20:00 return, arriving by 22:15. Flexible options are offered.

What is the weather typically like?
While not specified, expect typical Irish weather—likely cool and possibly rainy, especially outside the spring and summer months. Bring suitable clothing and waterproofs.

How much time is spent at each major stop?
The tour includes a full day of sightseeing, with stops at Ballycastle, Carrick-a-rede, Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and Belfast city. The guided tours and photo stops are timed to maximize enjoyment without feeling rushed.

To sum it up, this Belfast & Giant’s Causeway tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenic coastal drives, captivating natural formations, and vibrant city life. It’s a good value for those who want a guided, comfortable, and informative way to explore Northern Ireland’s highlights in just two days. The knowledgeable guides and scenic stops make it especially appealing for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to see the best of what this part of the UK has to offer. If you enjoy a structured itinerary with plenty of photo opportunities and stories behind the sights, this tour is likely to leave you with great memories.