2-Day Northern Ireland Tour from Dublin Including Belfast and Giants Causeway

Key Points

• Affordable two-day tour from Dublin at $231.05 per person
• Includes entrance to the Titanic Experience and Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre
• Visit Belfast’s lively city center, with free time for shopping and sightseeing
• See iconic sites like Dark Hedges and Ballintoy, famous from HBO’s Game of Thrones
• Travel in air-conditioned coaches with high-speed Wi-Fi and a professional guide
• A mix of natural wonders, historic ruins, and cinematic locations in Northern Ireland

An Action-Packed Two-Day Adventure Starting from Dublin

This two-day Northern Ireland tour from Dublin offers a practical way to visit some of Ireland’s most striking sights without the hassle of planning multiple trips. Priced at $231.05 per person, the tour is designed for travelers looking to experience Belfast’s cultural highlights, stunning natural formations, and famous HBO filming locations in a short timeframe. The tour operates with a professional, knowledgeable guide and features air-conditioned transport equipped with Wi-Fi, making the trip comfortable and engaging.

While the itinerary is packed, it’s ideal for those who want to see major sights without the stress of driving or logistics. The tour receives a solid 4.0/5 rating from 84 reviews, with many praising the expert guides, stunning scenery, and value for money. Some reviewers note that the accommodation quality and timing issues at certain stops could be improved, but overall, it delivers a fun and informative experience.

Starting Point and Departure Times in Dublin

The tour begins early, with pick-up points at Paddy’s Palace, O’Connell Street, and Suffolk Street in Dublin, starting at 7:50 am. The meet-up is organized and in central locations, helping to streamline the start of the trip. The group size is limited to 56 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience compared to larger coach tours.

Travelers can expect a short 2-hour drive on the ‘Peace Highway’ to Belfast, with interesting stops along the way. The tour’s mobile ticket feature offers added convenience, allowing guests to store their tickets on their phones.

Exploring Monasterboice’s Celtic Ruins

The first stop on the route is at the Monasterboice Monastic Site, a 10th-century ruin famous for its hand-carved Celtic crosses and a round tower that dates back to the Viking era. Visitors get about 30 minutes to explore this atmospheric site, which offers a glimpse into early Irish monastic life and Viking refuge.

The Celtic crosses are particularly noteworthy for their intricate carvings and significance in Irish history. This stop is admission-free, making it a practical introduction to Ireland’s ancient past.

Belfast’s Titanic Experience and City Free Time

In Belfast, the Titanic Experience is the tour’s standout attraction. This interactive museum walks visitors through the story of the ill-fated RMS Titanic, from her construction in Belfast to her tragic maiden voyage. The admission ticket is included, with a value of £25.

After the Titanic exhibit, visitors have free time to explore Belfast’s lively streets. Recommendations include the Crown Liquor Saloon, a historical pub, or attending a show at the Grand Opera House. An optional Black Taxi Tour costs about £10 and provides a deep dive into Belfast’s political history, visiting murals, the peace wall, and troubled neighborhoods. This tour is highly recommended by travelers and adds a richer understanding of Belfast’s complex story.

Day Two: Giants Causeway and Castle

The second day begins with a 9:30 am departure from Belfast, heading towards the Giant’s Causeway. Known as ‘The Eighth Wonder of the World’, this UNESCO-listed site features approximately 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns formed during a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago. The Visitor Centre, included in the tour, provides audio guides that narrate the fascinating geology and legends—like the story of Finn McCool building the causeway.

Travelers spend about 1 hour 30 minutes at the site, soaking in breathtaking views and exploring the unique rock formations. The new visitor centre enhances the experience with modern facilities and storytelling through audio guides.

Dunluce Castle: A Picturesque Photo Stop

Following the Causeway, the tour makes a 10-minute stop at Dunluce Castle, the ancestral home of the MacDonnell Clan. Perched dramatically on the cliffs, the castle is famous for its mysterious history and haunted reputation. While visitors only get a photo stop here, the views are spectacular, offering an atmospheric glimpse into Ireland’s medieval past.

Admission to the castle is not included, so this stop is purely for photos and enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

Returning to Dublin with Comfort and Convenience

After exploring Dunluce Castle, the bus makes a short comfort stop on the way back to Dublin. The return journey concludes around 8:00 pm, with travelers returning to the original meeting point. The coach features high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring that the journey remains comfortable and connected.

Included and Optional Extras

The standard package includes breakfast, overnight accommodation, the Titanic Experience and Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre tickets, and the services of a professional guide. The tour’s value is enhanced by saving approximately £40 on entrance fees.

Optional extras include the Black Taxi Tour for about £90, which is highly recommended for those wanting a deeper understanding of Belfast’s history. Food and drinks are not included, so guests can plan accordingly.

Practicalities and Meeting Points

The start point is 5 Beresford Place, Mountjoy, Dublin, with convenient options for public transport nearby. The activity ends at the same meeting point, making logistics simple for travelers. Confirmations are received at booking, and most travelers can participate, with timing at driver’s discretion.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This two-day trip offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and cultural sites. It suits travelers who appreciate well-organized tours, interactive museums, and stunning landscapes. The guided commentary and included tickets make it a good value for those wanting a rundown of Northern Ireland’s highlights in a short time.

While some reviews mention timing issues and accommodation quality concerns, many still praise the enthusiastic guides and spectacular scenery. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those who prefer guided logistics over self-driving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, though physical mobility should be considered for walking around sites like the Giant’s Causeway or Dunluce Castle.

Are meals included?
No, the tour includes breakfast but lunch and dinner are not included. Guests should plan to eat in Belfast or bring snacks.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The Titanic Experience in Belfast, Giant’s Causeway, and the HBO filming locations like Dark Hedges and Ballintoy are the key sights.

Can I upgrade my accommodation?
Yes, the standard package offers overnight B&B, but many recommend upgrading to a hotel for more comfort, especially since some reviews found the accommodations basic.

How do I book the optional Black Taxi Tour?
The Black Taxi Tour costs about £90, can be organized during the tour with the guide, and is highly valued for its insight into Belfast’s history.

This two-day Northern Ireland tour from Dublin offers a practical, engaging way to experience the country’s most famous attractions with reliable guides and included tickets that add real value. It’s perfect for those eager to see stunning landscapes and rich history in just a weekend.