Giant’s Causeway Tour including Game of Thrones Sites from Belfast

Exploring Northern Ireland’s Natural Wonders and Game of Thrones Scenes with a Budget-Friendly Tour from Belfast

This full-day tour from Belfast costs around $48.31 per person and lasts about 8 hours, making it a practical choice for travelers eager to see some of Northern Ireland’s most iconic sights. The tour includes stops at Carrickfergus Castle, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, the mysterious Dark Hedges, the Giant’s Causeway, and a visit to Dunluce Castle—a site famous for its role in Game of Thrones.

What we love about this experience are the stunning coastal views along the Antrim Coastal Road and the opportunity to walk across the Giant’s Causeway stones—a natural phenomenon that’s both a geological marvel and a photographer’s dream. We also appreciate the chance to visit Dark Hedges, which feels like stepping into a fantasy world, and the optional stop at Bushmills Distillery to sample local whiskey.

One consideration to keep in mind is the time spent at each stop. Several reviews mention that the stops can feel rushed, which might limit your ability to fully enjoy each site. Plus, some travelers noted inconsistent experiences with guides and transportation conditions, so it’s worth setting expectations accordingly.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, Game of Thrones fans, or anyone wanting a budget-friendly, well-rounded day exploring the North Coast. If you enjoy scenic drives, cliffside castles, and iconic filming locations, you’ll find this trip offers more than enough variety to make the day memorable.

Key Points

• Affordable price for a full day of sightseeing
• Highlights include Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges, and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
• Comfortable transportation with an air-conditioned coach
• Potential for time constraints at certain stops based on reviews
• Ideal for those interested in natural wonders, Irish folklore, or Game of Thrones filming sites
• Guides praised for their knowledge, though some reviews note varying experiences

A Closer Look at the Belfast Giants Causeway Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Northern Ireland, this tour offers a solid mix of natural beauty, cultural sites, and pop culture highlights. Starting at 9:30 am, the journey begins with a scenic drive along the Antrim Coastal Road, one of the most spectacular routes in the country. Traveling in a luxury, air-conditioned coach, you’ll glide past rugged cliffs, the Irish Sea, and lush green hills, making the ride itself worth the price.

The First Stop: Carrickfergus Castle

Your day starts with a quick photo stop at Carrickfergus Castle, a 12th-century Norman fortress perched on Belfast Lough. Though the visit is brief—about 20 minutes—it offers a glimpse into Ireland’s medieval past. From reviews, many appreciate the chance to snap photos and get a sense of history without an admission fee.

The Scenic Drive and Glens of Antrim

After the castle, the coach winds along the Glens of Antrim, a series of lush, steep-sided valleys that sweep down to the Irish Sea. Travelers love the views here, with some describing it as a “breathtaking ride” and a chance to see Ireland’s pastoral side. The journey includes crossing the Glen Dun Bridge and descending into Ballycastle, which provides a perfect spot for photos and a quick stretch.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Next, the tour stops at Portaneevy Viewing Point for the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. This 20-minute visit offers stunning views of the sea and the famous bridge, which connects the mainland to a tiny island. Some reviews highlight that the adventure of crossing the rope bridge is a highlight, while others note the brief time at this stop might leave some wanting more.

The Dark Hedges: A Fairy Tale Setting

One of the most Instagram-worthy spots, the Dark Hedges—a tunnel of intertwined beech trees—provides a mystical backdrop for photos and a quick walk. Many visitors say it’s an ideal spot for a short breather and marvel at its appearance in Game of Thrones, where it served as the King’s Road.

Bushmills Distillery: Whiskey Lovers’ Stop

The tour includes a 30-minute stop at Bushmills Distillery, where you can purchase whiskey or even a bottle to bring home. Reviews praise the friendly staff and the opportunity to sample local spirits, making this stop more than just a photo op. It’s a good place to stretch your legs and learn about Ireland’s whiskey-making heritage.

The Main Attraction: Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway itself is the tour’s star. You’ll have approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to walk among the unique basalt columns, explore the visitors’ center (admission not included), and absorb the legendary tales of Irish folklore. Many reviewers rave about the scenic views, describing the stones as “breathtaking” and a geological wonder.

While some mention the stops can feel rushed, most agree that walking the causeway is a highlight worth prioritizing. The site’s natural landscape combined with the stories about Finn MacCool and the formation of the stones provide a memorable experience.

Dunluce Castle: A Filming and Historic Site

Before heading back to Belfast, the group stops briefly at Dunluce Castle, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking crashing waves. This 5-minute stop is perfect for photos and sightseeing and is also recognized by Game of Thrones fans as a filming location and the historic home of the MacDonnell Clan.

What the Tour Includes and Excludes

This tour comes with the convenience of a professional guide providing live commentary and a luxury coach with air conditioning—a major plus on warm days. All stops, except the Giant’s Causeway, are free of extra charges, and the guide’s insights seem to be highly valued, with many reviews praising their knowledge and friendliness.

However, food and drinks are not included**, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy at the stops. The visitors’ center at the Causeway requires an extra ticket, which is not included in the tour price. Also, hotel pickup and drop-off are not provided**, meaning you’ll need to meet at the designated starting point.

The Realities: Reviews and Practical Tips

The major highlight—the natural beauty and scenery—receives high praise. Many reviews mention that the scenic drive, stunning cliffs, and famous sites make the tour worthwhile. For example, one reviewer said, “Breathtaking ride up the coast! Terrific hike throughout the Causeway. Very cool to see GOT sites.” Another appreciated the value for money, noting how much they saw for the price.

However, not all experiences are perfect. Some reviews point out that timing can be tight at stops like the castle and Dark Hedges, which may limit your experience. One traveler noted that the coach was sometimes uncomfortable or not very clean, and another expressed frustration over feeling rushed at each stop. A few reviews also suggest that guide variability can affect the overall experience, with some guides being more engaging and others less so.

A couple of travelers had negative experiences—one citing poor transportation conditions and overcrowding, and others mentioning poor communication or overhyped Game of Thrones sites that are visible from the coach rather than actual filming locations.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you are looking for an affordable, scenic day trip that combines natural wonders, folklore, and pop culture, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors, families, and those wanting a guided overview of the North Coast. Be prepared for some rushed stops and variable guide quality—but overall, most travelers found it worthwhile and a great value.

Travelers who enjoy stunning landscapes, history, and a bit of adventure will likely find this tour engaging. If your priority is deep exploration or more relaxed time at each site, you might want to consider a smaller, more personalized option.

The Sum Up

This Giants Causeway tour offers a robust, budget-friendly way to see some of Northern Ireland’s most iconic sights within a day. From the dramatic basalt columns of the Causeway to the fairy-tale feel of the Dark Hedges and the historic charm of Carrickfergus Castle, you’ll get a good taste of the region’s natural beauty and cultural significance.

While some stops can feel rushed, the scenic coastal drive, the informative guides, and the diversity of sites make it a worthwhile choice for many travelers. It’s especially suited for budget-conscious visitors who want to maximize their sightseeing without sacrificing comfort or value.

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, a nature lover, or simply eager to see Ireland’s rugged coast, this tour provides a comprehensive, enjoyable experience that captures the essence of Northern Ireland’s scenic and mythic appeal.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation from Belfast in an air-conditioned, luxury coach, making it convenient to relax and enjoy the scenery.

How long do I spend at each site?
Time varies, but generally, stops are about 20-30 minutes each, with 1 hour and 30 minutes allocated for the Giant’s Causeway itself. Some reviews suggest these times could feel a bit rushed.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll need to bring snacks or plan to purchase food at stops like the Bushmills Distillery or Dark Hedges.

Can I visit the Giant’s Causeway visitors’ center?
Admission to the center is not included in the tour price, so if you want access to exhibitions and the gift shop, you’ll need to buy a ticket separately.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Moderate physical fitness is advised, especially for walking around the Causeway.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately. If the weather is severe enough to cancel, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Most reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness, though some mention variability. Guides often share stories and insights, enriching the experience.

Is there free time at the Dark Hedges?
Yes, about 20 minutes are allocated, just enough for a quick walk and photo session. It’s a highlight for many visitors.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, layers for changing weather, snacks, and a camera. Since the stops might be brief, having a small bag to carry essentials is a good idea.

This tour strikes a balance between cost, convenience, and scenic variety, making it a popular choice for those wanting a well-rounded Northern Ireland experience without breaking the bank.