Giant’s Causeway with the Titanic Exhibition and the best of Northern Ireland

Travel from Dublin to Northern Ireland for a full-day adventure that combines natural beauty, cinematic history, and cultural landmarks. Priced at $98.48 per person, this 13-hour tour offers a rich mix of iconic sights like the Giant’s Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle, and the Titanic Belfast museum. The tour departs early at 6:45 am from the Hugh Lane Gallery and includes transportation, all attraction admissions, and a professional guide—making it a convenient way to explore Northern Ireland’s most notable sites without the hassle of planning.

This tour is highly praised for its knowledgeable guides, well-curated stops, and good value. While it involves a good deal of walking and a long day, it suits travelers eager to see a variety of highlights in a single trip. It’s especially ideal for those interested in Game of Thrones filming locations, Irish mythology, or maritime history. A key consideration: it’s not suitable for small children, or those with walking difficulties, due to the amount of walking involved.

Key Points

• Full-day from Dublin: 13 hours covering Northern Ireland’s most famous sites
• Price of $98.48 includes admissions to Giant’s Causeway and Titanic Belfast
• Stops include Dunluce Castle, Dark Hedges, and Belfast city center
• Guided commentary enhances the experience, with a focus on Game of Thrones filming locations
• Transport is included, so no need to worry about bus schedules or driving
• Long day with some walking and minimal free time at certain stops

From Dublin to the Iconic Dunluce Castle

The tour begins early at 6:45 am from Hugh Lane Gallery in Dublin. The first stop is Dunluce Castle, perched on a basalt outcropping on the north coast. Built in the 13th century, this castle served as a medieval fortress, a seat of Clan MacDonnell, and has seen Viking, Christian, and British influences. Its rugged setting against the Northern Atlantic Ocean makes it a dramatic photo spot, especially with tales of its haunted walls and history of collapsing structures.

In recent times, Dunluce gained fame as a filming location for Game of Thrones, representing Pyke—the seat of House Greyjoy. Visitors can admire the ruins and imagine the medieval battles that once took place here, though note that admission tickets are not included in the price.

Visiting the Natural Marvel of Giants Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway is the highlight of the trip, famous for over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns. Recognized as one of the top 100 geological heritage sites worldwide, this UNESCO World Heritage site features hexagonal and up to 8-sided volcanic formations. The story says that the bridge was built by Finn McCool to fight a Scottish giant, but the real wonder lies in its natural origin—formed by lava cooling over millions of years.

Travelers spend about one hour and thirty minutes here, walking among the spectacular pillars and taking photos of the breathtaking landscape. The site is suitable for all ages, but note that some walking is required, and public toilets are available, though sometimes lines can be long.

Exploring the Dark Hedges: An Irish Cinematic Icon

Next, the tour visits the Dark Hedges, a legendary avenue of Beech trees planted around 1775. Their branches arch over the road, creating an atmospheric tunnel bathed in dappled sunlight. This location gained international fame by featuring as the King’s Road in Game of Thrones and also appeared in the 2017 Transformers movie.

A 20-minute stop allows for photos and a stroll along this hauntingly beautiful pathway. Visitors often find the setting both spooky and enchanting, especially if they enjoy atmospheric landscapes and cinematic history.

The Titanic Belfast Experience

After driving through the Glens of Antrim, the group heads to Belfast to explore the Titanic Belfast museum. Situated next to the Harland & Wolff shipyard, the site of Titanic’s construction, the museum provides an immersive look into the ship’s story—from its conception to its tragic sinking.

The admission is included, and the tour allocates about 1 hour and thirty minutes for this stop. Visitors learn about Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage, explore interactive exhibits, and gain insight into the events surrounding Titanic’s maiden voyage. This stop is considered a must-see for maritime history enthusiasts and those interested in Belfast’s industrial past.

Discovering Belfast City Center

The final stop is Belfast city center, specifically Belfast City Hall. This area has been inhabited since the Bronze Age and features architecture and history that reflect Belfast’s development through the ages. The group is given around 15 minutes to walk around, take photos, and perhaps grab some snacks or a pint before heading back to Dublin.

This brief visit offers a chance to appreciate Belfast’s vibrant atmosphere and iconic landmarks, with the convenience of being close to the bus drop-off point at 12 Aston Quay.

Travel Logistics and Comfort

The tour features air-conditioned transportation with a professional driver and knowledgeable guide. The small group size—up to 53 travelers—ensures a comfortable experience. The tour includes all attraction admissions and transport, making it a convenient option for visitors who prefer guided visits without the hassle of navigation.

Participants should note that food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or money for meals is advisable. The meeting point is centrally located, but hotel pickups are not available. Travelers are advised to arrive early and ensure they are on time, as the bus does not wait for late arrivals.

What Truly Sets This Tour Apart

A standout feature is the expert commentary provided by guides like Luke, Quiggs, and Harry, praised for their knowledgeable and engaging storytelling. The stops are carefully curated to include spectacular natural formations, cinematic filming locations, and significant cultural sites. The inclusion of Titanic Belfast and the Dark Hedges makes this tour particularly appealing for fans of Game of Thrones or those interested in Irish and Northern Irish stories.

While the long day and walking involved may challenge some, reviews consistently highlight the excellent value and well-paced itinerary. Many reviewers especially appreciate the informative guides and smooth logistics.

Final Thoughts on the Northern Ireland Tour from Dublin

This tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into the best of Northern Ireland in just one day. The value for money is clear, with admissions included and a knowledgeable guide leading the way. It’s perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and Game of Thrones fans eager to see iconic locations.

The primary limitations are the long hours and shorter-than-ideal time at key sites like Titanic Belfast, where some wish for more exploration. Nevertheless, the well-curated stops and professional staff ensure a rewarding experience. Travelers with moderate physical fitness will find it manageable, but those with walking difficulties or small children should consider the physical demands.

This tour balances spectacular scenery, cultural insights, and cinematic history, making it a recommended choice for anyone visiting Dublin who wants to see Ireland’s stunning natural landmarks and historical sites in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, transportation in an air-conditioned coach is included, with pick-up from Dublin’s Hugh Lane Gallery.

What attractions are included in the ticket price?
The tour includes admissions to the Giant’s Causeway, Titanic Belfast, and Dunluce Castle. The Dark Hedges and Belfast city tour are free to enjoy from the bus stop.

How long is the tour?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 13 hours, starting at 6:45 am and returning to Dublin around 8 pm.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. Travelers should bring snacks or money for meals and souvenirs.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with walking disabilities?
The tour is not recommended for small children or those with walking difficulties due to the amount of walking involved.

What is the guide’s role during the trip?
The guides provide engaging commentary, share stories about each site and Game of Thrones filming tales, enhancing the overall experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there is free cancellation available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a rainproof jacket. Also, carry cash if you want to buy shuttle tickets at Giants Causeway, as cards may not be accepted.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, all attractions are included in the price except for personal expenses like meals, tips, or souvenirs.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 53 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience with plenty of opportunity for questions and interaction.