Belfast is a fantastic hub for full-day tours, thanks to its close proximity to stunning coastlines, historic sites, and legendary film locations. Whether you’re after the natural wonder of the Giant’s Causeway, the dramatic landscapes used in Game of Thrones, or the city’s own rich maritime history, Belfast offers a wide range of options. One tour we particularly like is the Giant’s Causeway Full-Day Guided Trip, which combines natural scenery with historical stops, all led by a knowledgeable guide. For those short on time, the Northern Highlights Guided Tour packs many of Northern Ireland’s top sights into one seamless day with stress-free transport.
In this guide, we’ll explore 16 of the best full-day tours in Belfast, focusing on what makes each one special—from private luxury options to themed tours for Game of Thrones fans or history enthusiasts. We’ll help you find the perfect fit for your interests, schedule, and budget.
Quick Overview
Belfast’s full-day tours cover a wide spectrum—from guided coach trips along the Causeway Coastal Route to private, customizable adventures. Some tours focus on the iconic Giant’s Causeway and the Dark Hedges, while others include visits to Derry or even Dublin. For fans of movies and TV, several tours highlight Game of Thrones filming locations, while history buffs can opt for private guided explorations of Derry Londonderry. Prices range from budget-friendly options around $32 to exclusive private experiences over $800. Check the links for detailed itineraries and reviews.
1. From Belfast: Giant’s Causeway Full-Day Guided Trip
This popular day trip promises a full immersion into Northern Ireland’s most iconic sites. Starting from Belfast, you’ll drive the rugged Causeway Coastal Route, with commentary from your guide about legends, geology, and history. The highlight is undoubtedly the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway, where over 40,000 basalt columns tell stories of volcanic activity and myth. Along the way, you visit the Dark Hedges, the Carrickfergus Castle, and the Cushendun Caves—famous for Game of Thrones scenes. Guests praise Wilson’s engaging storytelling and the well-paced stops, with reviews consistently hitting a perfect 5/5. At just over $32, this tour offers exceptional value, especially considering the comprehensive itinerary and scenic stops.
Bottom Line: If you want a full day of stunning coastal scenery, historical highlights, and some folklore, this tour is hard to beat for its mix of iconic sights and storytelling.
2. Northern Highlights Full-Day Guided Tour in Northern Ireland
For those who want to see as much of Northern Ireland’s highlights as possible, this Northern Highlights Guided Tour is a smart choice. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time but big ambitions—covering Belfast city, the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and Glenariff Nature Reserve. What makes this tour stand out is the guided commentary and smooth logistics, eliminating the need to navigate yourself. Guests love the knowledgeable Fergal, who makes the history and folklore come alive, and the large number of sites covered in just 6-8 hours. The price tag of around $375 might seem steep, but the all-inclusive transport and expert guide deliver excellent value for a packed day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a rundown of Northern Ireland’s top sights, with expert guidance and minimal hassle.
3. From Belfast: Giant’s Causeway Full-Day Guided Tour
Offering a slightly shorter but equally engaging experience, this Giant’s Causeway Full-Day Guided Tour balances natural wonders with historical sites. Guests rave about the spectacular Causeway, with ample time to explore and take photos of the Dunluce Castle ruins and the Dark Hedges. The guide, Dominic, adds local insights that deepen the experience. Although reviews are slightly lower than other tours at 4.3/5, guests appreciate the well-paced schedule and value at just over $45 per person. It’s a good option if you prefer a shorter day but still want the essentials and some storytelling.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for travelers wanting a classic Irish coast experience with enough time to enjoy the main sights.
4. Luxury Tours Belfast. Full-day Private Hire Tour for 2-6 people
This private tour offers complete customization, making it ideal for couples, families, or small groups who prefer intimate experiences. You choose the themes—whether a Game of Thrones tour, a political/history focus, or scenic coast drives—and a private driver tailors the itinerary accordingly. Highlights include visits to the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and Dunluce Castle. Guests rave about the flexibility and personalized service, with reviews mentioning the guide Fergal’s extensive knowledge and friendliness. The price, around $879 for the group, is justified by privacy, flexibility, and the chance to skip crowds.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a flexible, private experience with personalized attention and full control over the itinerary.
5. From Belfast: Full-Day Giant’s Causeway Shore Excursion
This tour is tailored for cruise ship passengers wanting to maximize their time ashore. It’s a full-day land excursion that begins directly at the cruise terminal, making logistics seamless. The itinerary includes Dunluce Castle, the Causeway, and Carrick-a-Rede, with stops at Cushendall and Larne. The reviews highlight the beautiful scenery and well-organized stops, with a typical 1.5-hour visit to the Causeway giving ample exploration time. Given the convenience of cruise port pickup and drop-off, it offers excellent value for travelers with limited time.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for cruise passengers wanting a hassle-free, scenic day at Northern Ireland’s highlights.
6. Derry Londonderry Private Full Day Tour From Belfast
For a deep dive into Northern Ireland’s history, this private tour to Derry is perfect. Led by a local historian, you’ll explore the Bogside murals, walk the Ancient City Walls, and visit the Museum of Free Derry. The reviews praise the personalized approach, with guide Paula sharing detailed insights about the Battle of Bogside and Bloody Sunday. At around $473 per person, this tour offers an immersive experience with plenty of photo opportunities and storytelling. It’s especially suited for history buffs or travelers who prefer a tailored, intimate experience.
Bottom Line: A compelling option for those interested in Northern Ireland’s political history and seeking a private, engaging guide.
7. Full-Day Private Giant’s Causeway Experience
This luxury private tour offers a truly personalized day at the Giant’s Causeway and surrounding sites. The route includes the Glens of Antrim, Dunluce Castle, and Ballintoy Harbour—all famous Game of Thrones filming locations. Your private guide ensures ample time to explore each stop at your own pace, making it perfect for travelers craving flexibility and comfort. Reviews commend the professionalism and knowledge of guides like Eamonn. For around $823, the experience is tailored to small groups or families wanting exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a private, flexible tour with premium comfort and in-depth storytelling.
8. Private Tour: ‘Game of Thrones’ and Giant’s Causeway Full-Day Tour from Belfast
This private, full-day Game of Thrones-themed tour takes you to filming locations like Ballintoy Harbour, the Dark Hedges, and Dunluce Castle—all with a guide who shares behind-the-scenes stories. It’s perfect for GOT fans wanting an exclusive experience. Guests mention the guides’ knowledge of the series and the ability to explore at their own pace, with options for lunch and more. Priced at about $414 per person, it offers an immersive, intimate experience that combines scenery with TV lore.
Bottom Line: Ideal for Game of Thrones enthusiasts seeking a private, detailed tour of filming locations.
9. Derry Londonderry Private Luxury Full Day Tour From Belfast
This luxury private tour offers a high-end experience exploring Derry’s landmarks. Traveling in an air-conditioned van, you’ll visit Free Derry Corner, walk the city walls, and see the Guildhall. Guide Paula’s detailed commentary and the relaxed pace make for a memorable day. The reviews highlight the guide’s personable nature and the immersive storytelling. At around $1028 for up to 7 people, it’s a premium choice for travelers valuing exclusivity and comfort.
Bottom Line: For those who want a private, luxurious experience exploring Derry with in-depth local insights, this is the top pick.
10. Giant’s Causeway Full Day Tour from Belfast
A straightforward, budget-friendly option, this Giant’s Causeway Full Day Tour combines the natural wonder with stops at Dark Hedges and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. The guide’s commentary, including stories of Irish legends, adds flavor, and the 7-hour schedule keeps it manageable. The reviews praise the driver’s engaging style, and the price—around $45—is hard to beat for this classic experience. It’s especially suitable for first-timers or budget travelers.
Bottom Line: A no-frills, value-packed tour perfect for those wanting the main sights without extra fuss.
11. From Belfast: Full-Day Giants Causeway Land and Boat Tour
This unique tour combines land and sea exploration. Starting in Belfast, you visit the Causeway, then take a boat tour along the coast, offering different perspectives of the rugged cliffs and basalt formations. Guests say the boat ride is a highlight, with guides like Paddy creating a fun, informative atmosphere. The reviews consistently rate it 5/5, and the combination of land and sea creates a more comprehensive experience. It typically lasts around 9 hours, making it ideal for those who don’t want to miss any aspect of the coast’s beauty.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a varied experience, blending land exploration with a scenic boat ride.
12. Full-Day Private Tour of Giants Causeway with Pick Up
This private tour emphasizes relaxation and personalized pacing. You’ll visit Dunluce Castle, Ballintoy Harbour, and the Giant’s Causeway, with ample time at each site. The guide, Eamonn, is praised for his easygoing style and local knowledge. The price, about $549 for up to four people, reflects the private nature of the experience, making it ideal for families or friends wanting to avoid crowds and rushing. Reviews highlight the flexibility and thorough exploration at each stop.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a private, stress-free day with plenty of time at each location.
13. Game of Thrones and Giant’s Causeway Full-Day Tour from Belfast
This comprehensive tour covers both Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones filming sites. It includes stops at Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle, and Cushendun Caves. Guides share insider tips and stories about the TV series’ filming locations, making it perfect for GOT fans and scenery lovers alike. The itinerary allows plenty of exploration time, and reviews praise the driver’s engaging commentary. At about $48 per person, it offers great value for a full-day experience full of iconic sights.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for TV fans and scenery enthusiasts who want a balanced mix of nature and series locations.
14. Game of Thrones Tour Executive Mercedes 7 Hours
This executive tour takes you to the out-of-the-way Game of Thrones filming sites inaccessible to larger groups. Traveling in a luxury vehicle, you’ll visit Pyke Castle, Iron Islands, and other key locations, with a private guide providing tailored insights. It’s perfect for fans wanting exclusivity and a more comfortable, personalized experience. Guests appreciate the ease of reaching remote sites and the in-depth storytelling. Priced at $780 for 4-7 people, it’s an investment in comfort and exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for serious GOT fans looking for a private, high-end tour with access to hidden filming locations.
15. Belfast to Dublin Full Day Tour with St Patrick’s Centre
While slightly outside Northern Ireland, this full-day tour offers a chance to visit Dublin’s top sights, including St Patrick’s Centre and Trinity College. It’s perfect if you want to combine Belfast’s local sights with a day in Ireland’s capital. The reviews praise the efficient itinerary and knowledgeable guides, making it a practical choice for travelers wanting a taste of Ireland’s other major city.
Bottom Line: Great for those looking to extend their trip to Dublin with a well-organized day tour, especially if you have a long layover or a day off.
16. Full-Day Private Giants Causeway Tour
This private, fully customizable experience delivers a relaxed pace and personalized sightseeing. Your guide Eamonn takes you to Dunluce Castle, Ballintoy Harbour, and the Giant’s Causeway, allowing ample time to explore each site. Guests highlight the comfort and flexibility, with reviews praising the guide’s local knowledge. For around $767, it’s perfect for families or groups who want a tailored day with no rushing or crowds.
Bottom Line: The best pick for travelers desiring an exclusive, flexible day with detailed exploration at each stop.
How to Choose Your Perfect Belfast Full-Day Tour
When picking a tour, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend on each site. For a budget-friendly, classic experience with many highlights, the Giant’s Causeway Full Day Tour offers excellent value. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, the private Game of Thrones locations or executive GOT tour in luxury provide immersive, intimate experiences.
For travelers who want a rundown of Northern Ireland’s highlights, the Northern Highlights Guided Tour is hard to beat. Private options like the Luxury Tour Belfast or Private Derry Tour cater to those seeking a more personalized, relaxed pace.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability and secure the best guides and vehicles.
To sum it up, Belfast offers a rich variety of full-day tours to suit every taste—from stunning natural landscapes and historic sites to immersive TV series filming locations. Whether you prefer a budget-friendly coach trip, a private luxury experience, or a themed tour for Game of Thrones fans, there’s a perfect option waiting. Consider your interests, time constraints, and budget carefully—and don’t forget to book ahead to avoid missing out on these unforgettable adventures.