Dublin Day Trip to Belfast, Titanic, Giant’s Causeway by Car

Key Points

• Private full-day tour from Dublin offers a personalized experience of Belfast and Northern Ireland.
• Options include an 8-hour trip focusing on Belfast highlights or an 11-hour tour with the Giants Causeway.
• Guided by a 5-Star licensed guide in Belfast, with expert insights into local history and culture.
• Includes private car transfers, entrance to Belfast Cathedral, and skip-the-line tickets to Giants Causeway (for the longer trip).
• Not included: lunch, Titanic Belfast tickets, and optional Giants Causeway guided tour (for 8-hour option).
• Perfect for travelers seeking an in-depth day trip with flexibility and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Belfast with a 5-Star Local Guide

This tour begins with a private car pickup from your Dublin accommodation, offering a comfortable 2-hour scenic drive to Belfast. Once in Belfast, a 5-Star licensed guide takes you on a comprehensive tour of the city’s key sights. The guide shares in-depth stories about Northern Ireland’s history, including the significance of the Peace Wall and the colorful murals that symbolize the conflicts and hopes of the region.

The guide explains how Northern Ireland separated from the Republic of Ireland, providing context around recent peace agreements. The tour includes a visit to the Belfast Cathedral, where entrance fees are included, allowing for an appreciation of its architecture and cultural importance. The guide’s insights make the city’s history accessible and engaging, whether discussing the shipyard where Titanic was built or the modern developments shaping Belfast today.

The Significance of the Peace Wall and Belfast Murals

A key stop during the city tour is the Peace Wall, a symbol of Northern Ireland’s turbulent past and ongoing hope for peace. The wall, which divides the Falls and Shankill Road areas, features colorful murals that reflect the complex identities and histories of the communities. These murals serve as poignant reminders of past conflicts but also as symbols of a desire for unity and reconciliation.

The guided explanation helps visitors understand the significance of these artworks and the Good Friday Agreement, which marked a turning point in peace efforts. Walking along the Peace Wall provides a tangible connection to the city’s recent history, offering a meaningful perspective for visitors interested in the sociopolitical landscape of Belfast.

Visiting Belfast’s Historic Town Hall and Cultural Landmarks

The tour also takes you through Belfast’s Old Town, where highlights include the magnificent Town Hall. This building stands as a central piece of Belfast’s historic architecture and civic pride. The guide shares stories about Belfast’s development as an industrial and maritime hub, giving visitors a sense of the city’s evolution over centuries.

The Belfast Cathedral visit is a highlight, with the entrance fee included, and offers a chance to admire its architecture and spiritual significance. Tours inside the cathedral are available during weekdays from 10:30 am to 4:00 pm, but may be limited during mass or special events. This stop provides both cultural insight and a peaceful environment amid a busy day.

Titanic’s Shipyard and the Story of the Titanic

A highlight of the Belfast visit is the old shipyard where Titanic was designed, built, and launched in 1912. This historic site holds immense significance as the birthplace of the Ship of Dreams. The tour includes a visit to the shipyard area, where you can learn about the construction process and the ship’s history.

While the Titanic Belfast Experience is not included in the ticket, the location remains a compelling stop for history enthusiasts. The story of Titanic’s design, construction, and tragic voyage is central to Belfast’s maritime identity, and this visit offers a solid overview of that story.

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Giants Causeway: Natural Wonder (11-hour Option)

The Giants Causeway is available solely for the 11-hour tour option. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a national nature reserve famous for its unique basalt columns at the edge of the sea. The natural formations are the result of ancient volcanic fissure eruptions, creating an otherworldly landscape.

In this option, visitors enjoy a self-guided visit to Giants Causeway, where they walk among the striking basalt columns and learn about the volcanic activity that formed this stunning landscape. The skip-the-line tickets ensure quick access, but the guide does not accompany guests inside the site. The visit is a chance to admire breathtaking views and marvel at nature’s artistry.

Logistics and Group Size

The tour is designed for private groups of 1-4 or 5+ people, with vehicles arranged accordingly—sedans for small groups and larger vans for bigger parties. The pickup and drop-off are included directly at your Dublin accommodation, making the day seamless and stress-free.

For the 8-hour option, group sizes are limited to 25 guests per guide for a more intimate experience, with larger groups possible through additional guides. The 11-hour tour restricts the group to just 5 people due to site regulations, ensuring a more personal experience at Giants Causeway.

Flexibility and Additional Options

The tour offers flexible booking with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the option to reserve now and pay later provides added convenience. Lunch arrangements in Belfast can be made upon request, allowing travelers to tailor the day to their preferences.

While the guided tour of Giants Causeway is not included in the 8-hour option, skip-the-line tickets are provided, making the visit smoother and more efficient. The Titanic Belfast Experience tickets are also not included, giving travelers flexibility to choose whether to explore that attraction separately.

Value and Pricing

At $1,036 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive and private exploration of Belfast and the Giants Causeway. The price includes private transfers, guided insights, and entrance fees to key sites, making it a convenient choice for those seeking a personalized experience. The inclusion of skip-the-line tickets for Giants Causeway in the longer option adds value for visitors wanting a hassle-free visit to this iconic site.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This private trip is ideal for those who prefer a customized, comfortable day that covers Belfast’s city highlights and natural marvels. It suits travelers who want an in-depth understanding of Northern Ireland’s history, culture, and landscape without the hassle of organizing transportation and tickets independently.

The 11-hour option is perfect for those eager to see Giants Causeway and enjoy its scenery at a relaxed pace. Meanwhile, the 8-hour option is well-suited for visitors mainly interested in Belfast’s urban environment and historical sights.

Final Thoughts: An Enriching Day Trip

This Dublin to Belfast tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Northern Ireland’s capital and its notable natural features. The private transfer and expert guide make for a smooth, engaging experience, especially with the inclusion of key landmarks like the Peace Wall, Belfast Cathedral, and Titanic shipyard.

The option to visit Giants Causeway adds a spectacular natural element, though it’s only available in the longer version. For travelers valuing personalized attention, cultural insights, and flexible scheduling, this tour provides a practical and memorable way to explore Northern Ireland in a single day.

While not including some attractions like Titanic Belfast or guided visits inside Giants Causeway, the tour balances value, convenience, and depth, making it a strong choice for those eager to understand Belfast’s history and marvel at its landscapes without the fuss of independent planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is private and flexible; check with the provider for specific age recommendations, but the pace and stops are generally family-friendly.

What is included in the price?
Private car transfers, a 5-Star licensed guide in Belfast, entrance fee to Belfast Cathedral, and skip-the-line tickets to Giants Causeway (for the 11-hour option).

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is private, allowing for some flexibility in stops and timing, especially if booked with special requests like lunch arrangements.

How long is the trip from Dublin to Belfast?
The journey takes approximately 2 hours each way in a private vehicle, with scenic Irish countryside views along the route.

What attractions can I visit in Belfast?
You can see the Peace Wall, Belfast Cathedral, Town Hall, and the shipyard where Titanic was built.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included but can be arranged upon request.

Is the Giants Causeway visit guided?
No, the visit to Giants Causeway is self-guided with skip-the-line tickets, allowing for independent exploration.

What is the group size restriction?
For the 8-hour tour, groups are limited to 25 guests per guide; the 11-hour tour is limited to 5 people for a more intimate experience.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
The provided data does not specify accessibility options; inquire directly with Rosotravel Ireland for details.

Can the tour be canceled?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby