Belfast is an excellent port of call for anyone interested in exploring Ireland’s rugged beauty, legendary sites, and storied past—all without the hassle of planning every detail. The city’s proximity to stunning coastlines, castles, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites makes it a natural hub for memorable shore excursions. Whether you’re after a quick visit to the Giant’s Causeway, a scenic drive along the Causeway Coast, or a more personalized adventure, Belfast offers a variety of options to suit different tastes and schedules. We especially like the small-group tours for their focus on in-depth experiences and flexibility.
One of the standout attractions here is the Giant’s Causeway—a World Heritage site famous for its breathtaking basalt columns and legends of Irish giants. But Belfast’s appeal extends beyond just scenery; the city and nearby sites like Dunluce Castle and the Dark Hedges are packed with stories waiting to be told. With so many choices, choosing the right tour depends on your interests, time, and budget. Let’s walk through some of the best options.
1. Shore Excursion: Giants Causeway Tour From Belfast Port
This tour is a solid choice for those wanting a comprehensive day out that hits all the highlights. The tour lasts about 7 to 8 hours and includes a small coach for a personal touch. You’ll enjoy stunning coastal scenery en route to the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway, where legend and geology collide. Entrance to the Causeway is free, but you can choose to explore the visitor center if you wish.
The itinerary is carefully planned, with stops at Dunluce Castle—a dramatic ruin perched above the Atlantic—and Ballycastle, a charming seaside village perfect for a leisurely lunch or a beach walk. The small group setting means plenty of attention from your guide, who will share stories like how Finn McCool built the Causeway, or the castle’s turbulent histories. Reviewers highlight the “outstanding scenery” and “friendly, knowledgeable guides” as major pluses. The tour is ideal for travelers wanting a balanced mix of natural beauty and historical sites without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: Great value for its length and inclusiveness, especially if you want to see the major sites comfortably in one day.
2. Shore Excursion: Giants Causeway Tour From Belfast Port (Extra Leg Room Bus)
For travelers craving more space and comfort, this tour offers extra legroom and a dedicated guide. Priced slightly higher at around $102.95, it’s perfect for those who value comfort during long days of sightseeing. The tour covers the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Dunluce Castle, and Ballycastle, with live commentary providing insight into each stop.
The highlight here is the relaxed atmosphere and attention to detail—passengers praise the “comfortable bus” and the guide’s “engaging storytelling.” The itinerary is similar to the previous tour, but the added space makes it a more enjoyable experience for taller travelers or those prone to discomfort on tight buses. Reviews note the efficient timing and the opportunity to beat other large groups, which means more time at the Causeway.
Bottom line: Slightly more expensive, but worth it if you prioritize comfort without sacrificing coverage of key sights.
3. From Belfast: Causeway Express Tour Shore Excursion
This express tour is designed for cruise passengers with limited time—lasting around 5.5 hours. It concentrates on the main attractions: the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and a brief look at Belfast’s murals. The focus is on efficiency, so you get to see the primary sites without much downtime.
The tour includes the UNESCO site with free access, and stops at Dunluce Castle—an iconic ruin on dramatic cliffs—and Ballycastle for a quick lunch or stroll. The reviews mention the “well-organized schedule” and “friendly guides,” which help make the most of a tight window. If you’re pressed for time but still want a taste of Northern Ireland’s rugged coastline and history, this is a practical choice.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers with tight schedules who want a quick, well-paced overview.
4. Private Shore Excursion From Belfast Cruise Terminal
If privacy and flexibility top your list, this private tour is a standout. Costing around $1,167 for up to four people, it offers a full-day experience tailored to your interests. You’ll be picked up directly from the cruise terminal, avoiding crowded buses and making your trip more intimate.
The itinerary is customizable—perhaps you want to focus on Game of Thrones filming locations like Carnlough Harbour or enjoy extra time at the Giant’s Causeway. The driver/guide will adapt to your preferences, which means more time at sites you care about most. Reviewers mention the “luxury transport” and “personalized experience,” making this a great option for families or small groups seeking exclusivity.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers who want a private, flexible day with tailored stops and no compromises.
5. From Belfast: Full-Day Giant’s Causeway Shore Excursion
This full-day tour takes you through the Glens of Antrim before arriving at the iconic Giant’s Causeway. It includes a scenic drive along the coast, time to explore the UNESCO site, and a return trip with a panoramic Belfast city tour.
The itinerary balances natural beauty and historical points, with a chance to visit Dunluce Castle en route. The reviews mention the “excellent guide” and “well-paced schedule,” making it suitable for those wanting a comprehensive experience. The tour’s value is high, considering the full day of sightseeing and the opportunity to see additional sites like the Dark Hedges.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want an in-depth look at both nature and history on a full-day adventure.
6. Shore Excursion from Belfast: Including Giants Causeway and Belfast City
This tour offers a mix of coastal adventure and urban exploration, lasting about 8 hours. It combines a trip up Ireland’s Causeway Coast with sightseeing in Belfast itself, including the Murals of Belfast and Queens University.
The itinerary is flexible, with stops at Dunluce Castle, Bushmills Distillery, and the Giant’s Causeway. Reviewers like the “informative guide” and the “great value” for the variety packed into one day. It’s perfect if you want to see both natural and cultural highlights.
Bottom line: Suited for travelers wanting a well-rounded experience that covers key sights and city highlights.
7. Shore Excursion Giants Causeway Private Tour
This private tour provides a highly personalized experience for up to 15 guests at around $1,714. It features multiple filming locations from Game of Thrones, Bushmills Distillery, and Ballycastle, all with a dedicated guide.
The flexible itinerary allows you to visit White Park Bay, Carrick-a-Rede, and other sites at your pace. Reviewers mention the “expert guidance” and “fantastic photo opportunities,” making it a top pick for enthusiasts of storytelling, photography, or private comfort. It’s especially appealing for large groups or families wanting a bespoke day.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a private, customizable, and immersive experience.
8. Customisable Private Shore Excursion From Belfast Cruise Terminal
This luxury private tour offers a flexible day in a luxury Mercedes-Benz vehicle. It’s ideal for travelers wanting total control over their itinerary, from the Causeway Coast to Dunluce Castle and beyond.
The driver is also a guide, with Wi-Fi included in the vehicle for planning or sharing photos. The customizable route means you can select the sights that matter most—whether that’s the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge or the Dark Hedges. Reviewers love the “exclusive experience” and “personalized service,” making this a luxurious way to see Northern Ireland.
Bottom line: Great for discerning travelers who want a tailored experience with privacy and comfort.
9. Shore Excursion from Belfast to Giants Causeway & Rope Bridge
This small-group tour is perfect if your focus is the Giant’s Causeway and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. With a friendly guide, you’ll explore Cushendun Caves, Ballintoy Harbour, and more, all in about 8 to 10 hours.
What sets this apart is the luxury of private Mercedes MPVs with Wi-Fi and refreshments, plus the opportunity to learn more about each site than on larger buses. Reviewers appreciate the small group size and the flexibility to customize stops, making it a personalized experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, intimate day with added insights into Northern Ireland’s coast and scenery.
10. Luxury Shore Excursion From Belfast
This luxury option is perfect for those seeking a semi-private experience with a focus on Dunluce Castle, Giants Causeway, and the North Coast. Although the reviews are more limited, the focus on scenic drives and iconic sites makes it a good choice for travelers wanting style and comfort.
The tour lasts about 7 hours, providing a streamlined but quality experience. It’s suitable if you prefer a smaller group but aren’t necessarily looking for complete privacy.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking a comfortable, upscale group experience that covers major highlights.
How to Choose Your Belfast Shore Excursion
When deciding which tour is right for you, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For an in-depth, guided experience, the full-day tours or private options are best. If you’re short on time, the Causeway Express offers a quick but thorough visit. For those valuing comfort and flexibility, the extra leg room and private customizable options stand out.
Booking early is recommended, especially for private tours or high-demand dates. Also, consider your mobility and whether you want to include activities like the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge—which may require pre-booking tickets or additional planning.
Final Thoughts
Belfast offers a rich mix of natural wonders and historic sites, with options ranging from quick, budget-friendly trips to luxurious private excursions. If you’re after the most comprehensive experience, the small-group Giants Causeway Tour provides excellent value. For those wanting more exclusivity, the private tours and customizable private options deliver tailored experiences.
No matter which option you choose, Belfast’s dramatic coastlines and legendary sites are sure to leave a lasting impression. Book early, plan your priorities, and enjoy one of the most scenic parts of Ireland’s coast.