Private Belfast Mural & Giant’s Causeway Tour from Belfast (2 in 1)

Discover the Best of Northern Ireland with a Private 2-in-1 Tour

Imagine spending a full day exploring the rugged beauty and vibrant culture of Northern Ireland—all in a private vehicle with your own guide. For about $811, you and up to three companions can enjoy a personalized 8-9 hour journey that combines the breathtaking Giant’s Causeway, iconic murals in Belfast, historic Dunluce Castle, and other captivating sights. This tour is perfect for travelers with limited time but a deep curiosity for authentic experiences and stunning scenery. The best part? Your guide, often praised for their knowledgeable storytelling, makes every stop memorable.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the private transportation, which avoids the hassle and rigidity of large group tours, and the Wi-Fi access on board—a real bonus for sharing photos or catching up on travel updates. On the flip side, one consideration is that certain attractions, like the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle, have entrance fees not included in the price, so budgeting a little extra for those is wise. This journey suits history buffs, nature lovers, and those wanting a flexible, intimate look at Northern Ireland’s most famous sights.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour with your own guide and vehicle.
• Cultural & Natural Highlights: Combines Belfast murals with iconic coastal scenery.
• Flexibility & Comfort: Air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi and custom pickup.
• Rich Historical Context: Stops include Dunluce Castle, the Peace Wall, and murals reflecting Northern Ireland’s past.
• Cost & Value: Though pricier than group tours, the private nature and tailored experience offer remarkable value.
• Included & Extra Costs: Entrance fees for some attractions are not included, so plan accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

The Giants Causeway: A Natural Wonder and a Mythical Site

The journey begins at the Giants Causeway, arguably the star of the North Antrim Coast. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its hexagonal basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. Walking among these formations, you’ll find yourself pondering the legends of a giant building a causeway to Scotland—a story your guide will happily recount. Expect about 1 hour 30 minutes here, with free admission, though shuttle buses cost just £1 if you choose to ride instead of walking.

Travelers often highlight the stunning views and the chance to see the formations up close. One reviewer notes, “The causeway is breath-taking, and hearing the myths made it even more magical.” We love that you can explore and take your time, making this stop a perfect blend of natural beauty and storytelling.

Carrick A-Rede Rope Bridge: Thrilling with Safety

Next, you’ll visit the Carrick A-Rede Rope Bridge, perched 100 feet above Atlantic waters. Though currently closed due to COVID, this historic bridge, dating back to 1755, was once a daring crossing for fishermen. Today, it’s a safer but still exhilarating walk, swaying in the wind with impressive views. The experience takes about 1 hour 20 minutes, but note that admission is not included (£13.50 per person). If you’re a thrill-seeker or just want a fantastic photo opportunity, this is a memorable pitstop.

Dunluce Castle: Medieval Ruins with a View

Afterward, the tour takes you to Dunluce Castle, a medieval fortress with a history spanning nearly 800 years. The castle’s ruins offer a window into Ireland’s turbulent past, with stunning photo opportunities and a sense of stepping back in time. The visit lasts about 25 minutes, with no admission fee included. The castle’s dramatic cliffs and storied past make it a top highlight.

Ballintoy Harbour: Coastal Charm & Game of Thrones Fame

A brief drive along the coast brings you to Ballintoy Harbour, known as the Iron Islands in Game of Thrones. This rugged harbor, with its striking coastline, draws thousands of visitors annually. You’ll have around 45 minutes here to walk, snap photos, and soak in the scenery. The harbor is free to explore, and many find it a peaceful contrast to the castle ruins.

The Dark Hedges: An Enchanting Tree Tunnel

Before heading back to Belfast, you’ll stop at The Dark Hedges, a famous avenue of ancient beech trees planted in the 18th century. Their eerie, twisting branches create a tunnel often associated with the King’s Road in Game of Thrones. With about 20 minutes here, you’ll have ample time for photos and to hear legends of the Grey Lady ghost. It’s a site loved by both fans and casual travelers alike.

Belfast Murals & Shankill Road: Stories of a Divided City

The tour then turns inward, exploring Belfast’s murals and neighborhoods with profound histories. You’ll walk through the Shankill Road, a place rich in stories from the Troubles, with murals depicting both remembrance and political messages. This area, with its vivid street art, offers a deeply authentic experience—just keep in mind that the area has historically been associated with paramilitary activity, so approach with respectful curiosity.

Falls Road & Bobby Sands Mural: A Visual History

Continuing through Belfast, you’ll see the Bobby Sands mural on the Falls Road, an emblem of resistance and political activism. The guide will explain Sands’ pivotal role in Irish history, giving context to the artwork and the area’s significance. This stop provides insight into the ongoing impact of the Troubles, with opportunities to take photos and reflect.

The Peace Wall: A Symbol of Hope and Division

A poignant part of the tour is the Peace Wall, which stretches over 21 miles in Belfast. It’s a reminder of the city’s past conflicts but also a place where visitors can leave messages of peace. We loved how the guide explained the wall’s history and its role in community life, making it clear that change is ongoing. It’s a meaningful stop, especially if you’re interested in understanding the social fabric of Belfast.

Bombay Street & 51 Falls Rd: Remembering the Past

The tour concludes with visits to Bombay Street and the Bobby Sands mural at 51 Falls Road. Bombay Street is a powerful reminder of the destruction during the Troubles, with memorials honoring families affected. The entire experience offers a chance to reflect on resilience and reconciliation.

Whisky at Bushmills Distillery: A Tasty End

For those interested in Ireland’s world-famous whiskey, the tour includes an optional visit to Bushmills Distillery. Guided by an expert, you’ll learn about the craft of whiskey-making that dates back to 1608, followed by a tasting session. The whiskey tour lasts about an hour and is an excellent way to cap off the day, though it’s not included in the tour price.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This private tour offers comfort and flexibility. Your guide, often praised for their storytelling skills, makes the day engaging and informative. The air-conditioned vehicle provides a smooth ride, and Wi-Fi on board helps you share your adventure in real time.

The tour is priced at $811.62 per group (up to 4 people), which might seem steep at first glance. However, considering the private transportation, the personalized attention, and the inclusive stops, many travelers find it good value—especially for those wanting a tailored experience without the crowds.

Entrance fees for some attractions, like the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle, are extra. Planning for around £20-£25 per person for these is wise. The flexible schedule allows the guide to adapt to your interests, making each trip unique.

Most travelers find this tour suitable if they’re ready to spend a full day exploring varied aspects of Northern Ireland—from natural wonders to cultural landmarks—and prefer a private, commentary-rich experience. The glowing reviews for guides like Chris and Paul highlight the importance of knowledgeable guides who bring stories and history to life.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy understanding a place’s history and culture through storytelling, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s especially great for those who crave comfort, want to skip the hassle of large groups, and value personalized attention. History buffs, nature lovers, and Game of Thrones fans alike will find something to love in each stop. Just be prepared for some walking and to budget for optional entrance fees.

Final Thoughts

This private Belfast and North Antrim Coast tour offers a comprehensive, engaging way to see Northern Ireland’s highlights. It balances natural beauty, history, and culture in a relaxed, personalized setting, making it ideal for travelers wanting an authentic experience without the rush of big group tours.

The guides’ storytelling makes history accessible and adds warmth to your day. While the price may seem high, the added comfort, flexibility, and private focus can make it worthwhile—especially if you value insider knowledge and a tailored adventure.

Whether you’re marveling at the hexagonal columns of the Giants Causeway, walking through murals that tell powerful stories, or sampling whiskey at Bushmills, this tour is designed to leave you with lasting memories of Northern Ireland’s rugged scenery and resilient spirit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but consider physical comfort if walking or standing for extended periods.

How long are the stops at each site?
Stops vary from about 10 minutes at Peace Wall and murals, up to 1.5 hours at the Giants Causeway and Bushmills if you include the distillery tour.

Are entrance fees included?
No, some attractions like Dunluce Castle and Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge require additional tickets, which are not included in the tour price.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can adapt the stops based on your interests, within the time constraints.

What’s the transportation like?
You’ll travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi, ensuring comfort and connectivity throughout the day.

Is food included or available?
Food is not included, but there will be opportunities to buy snacks or lunch along the way.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked around 80 days in advance, so early planning is recommended.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

This private tour from Belfast offers an enriching blend of scenery, history, and culture, all tailored for your group. If you’re seeking a flexible, immersive way to explore Northern Ireland with expert guides, this is a route to consider.