From Belfast: Giants Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour

Explore the captivating Game of Thrones filming locations and the UNESCO-listed Giants Causeway on this full-day guided tour departing from central Belfast. Priced at around £60, this 8.5-hour excursion takes you along the famous Causeway coastal route, often praised as one of the world’s best drives, offering stunning sea views and dramatic landscapes. The tour includes visits to Carrickfergus Castle, Cushendun Caves, Dark Hedges, and a self-guided walk at the Giants Causeway. Expect plenty of photo stops and storytelling from your experienced guide, who enhances the journey with lively commentary on local legends, Irish culture, and Game of Thrones lore.

While food and drinks are not included, ample free time at key sites allows for lunches, snacks, and exploring at your own pace. The tour operates with transportation provided, and though not suitable for wheelchair users, it offers a comfortable way to see iconic locations in a single day. With a solid rating of 4.6 out of 5 from over 1,400 reviews, this tour balances scenery, history, and pop culture in a well-organized package.

Key Points

• Departure from Donegall Square West in central Belfast at 8:30 AM, with the tour leaving promptly at 9:00 AM.
• Full 8.5-hour guided experience covering scenic coastal drives, historic castles, caves, and Game of Thrones filming sites.
• Visit Carrickfergus Castle, Cushendun Caves, and Dark Hedges, with opportunities for photos and brief exploration.
• Explore the Giants Causeway for about 1.5 hours, walking among its iconic basalt stones and learning the legend of Finn MacCool.
• Stops at Dunluce Castle for scenic views and a photo opportunity, with the castle known as the seat of House Greyjoy.
• Expert guides lead storytelling and historical insights, praised repeatedly for their enthusiasm and knowledge.
• Transportation and guided commentary keep the day smooth and engaging, with plenty of time for sightseeing.
• Food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks or planning for lunch at your own expense is recommended.
• The tour is ideal for fans of Game of Thrones, lovers of scenic coastal drives, and those interested in Irish legends and castles.

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Discovering Northern Ireland’s Coastal Beauty

The tour kicks off in central Belfast, with a quick 30-minute coach ride to the first stop at Carrickfergus Castle. This 12th-century Norman fortress provides a striking introduction to Ireland’s medieval architecture. Visitors can walk around the castle grounds, take photos of the harbor, and soak in the historic atmosphere. The short 25-minute stop offers plenty of time to explore and capture views of the surrounding scenery.

Next, the journey follows the Causeway coastal road, winding through the Glens of Antrim. This scenic route offers breathtaking sea vistas and lush landscapes. The driver and guide share stories about local legends, enhancing the experience of small towns and villages along the way, making each stop feel connected to Irish culture.

Exploring Carlnough Harbour: A Game of Thrones Hotspot

The Carnlough Harbour stop stands out as a key filming location for Game of Thrones. Season 6 scenes of Bravoos were shot here, making it a must-see for fans. During the 25-minute visit, visitors can walk along the harbor, take photos, and enjoy the seaside atmosphere. The area also serves as a refreshment stop where snacks can be purchased and restrooms are available.

Cushendun Caves: Filming Site and Natural Wonder

The Cushendun Caves are another highlight, used multiple times in the series. Fans recognize this location from Season 2, where Melisandre gives birth to a shadow baby, and from Season 8, during a battle scene involving Jaime Lannister and Euron Greyjoy. The short scenic drive to these caves offers a chance to appreciate their natural beauty and their significance as a Game of Thrones filming site.

Walking Down the Iconic Dark Hedges

One of the most Instagrammable spots on the tour is the Dark Hedges, famously known as Arya Stark’s escape route from King’s Landing. Visitors are encouraged to walk along this tree-lined avenue, which has become a symbol of Ireland’s scenic beauty. The one-hour stop allows for photos and soaking in the atmosphere of this natural tunnel, which remains popular despite the crowds.

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Lunch and Additional Photos

After exploring the Dark Hedges, travelers have the chance to purchase lunch at their own expense at a nearby hotel or cafe. The timing provides a break in the schedule to relax, eat, and prepare for the afternoon’s highlights.

The Bushmills stop offers a 20-minute photo opportunity and sightseeing before heading to Dunluce Castle, another famous film location and scenic ruin. Known as the seat of House Greyjoy, the castle provides dramatic views of the coastline and a sense of Irish history.

Walking Among the Giants: The Causeway Experience

The Giants Causeway is the tour’s centerpiece, where visitors spend about 1.5 hours exploring the unique basalt formations. Walking among the stones, travelers can learn about the legend of Finn MacCool, the Irish giant said to have built the Causeway. The site provides ample photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate one of Ireland’s most celebrated natural wonders. The self-guided walk offers an intimate experience, with options to explore further if desired.

Final Stop at Dunluce Castle and Return to Belfast

A short photo stop at Dunluce Castle allows for capturing the ruins against the backdrop of the Atlantic coast. This scenic spot also marks the end of the sightseeing in Northern Ireland. The coach then departs for the inland route back to Belfast, arriving at the original meeting point in central Belfast after approximately 1.5 hours of travel.

Logistics and Practical Tips

The tour starts promptly at 8:30 AM at Donegall Square West, with live commentary from guides throughout the day. The large coach provides comfortable seating, although WiFi is not available, and some USB chargers may not work, based on recent reviews. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking at the Giants Causeway and other stops.

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to terrain and accessibility constraints. It’s advisable to bring your own food and drinks, as none are included in the price, but plenty of free time at key sites makes it easy to buy snacks or meals along the way.

Guides and Reviews: The Heart of the Experience

The guides and drivers receive high praise for their knowledge, humor, and friendly demeanor. Multiple reviews highlight Dave, who is celebrated for his entertaining storytelling and enthusiasm. Guests appreciate the personalized attention and informative commentary that bring each site to life.

The guide’s personality and stories seem to be the biggest differentiators, with many travelers expressing eagerness to rebook based on their experiences with guides like Dave and Stuart. The value for money is consistently noted, especially given the number of sites visited and the quality of the commentary.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This day trip suits anyone interested in Game of Thrones, Irish castles, and stunning coastal scenery. It’s perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and pop culture fans alike. The long day requires comfortable shoes and patience for walking, but the diverse stops provide variety and plenty of photo opportunities.

While not accessible for wheelchair users, the tour is well-organized, with timed stops that balance sightseeing and travel comfortably. Travelers who appreciate guides with personality and storytelling will find this tour especially engaging.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are free times to buy snacks or lunch at your own expense.

What is the duration of the Giants Causeway visit?
The Giants Causeway stop lasts about 1.5 hours, giving enough time to walk among the stones and learn about the legend.

Are there any accessibility restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to terrain and site access.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include Carrickfergus Castle, Cushendun Caves, Dark Hedges, the Giants Causeway, and Dunluce Castle.

Can I purchase extras like castle tickets?
Yes, there are optional castle visits, such as Carrickfergus and Dunluce Castle, costing around £4-£4.50 each.

How early do I need to arrive?
Please arrive at Donegall Square West by 8:30 AM; the tour departs sharply at 9:00 AM.

How do guides enhance the experience?
Guides like Dave are praised for their entertaining storytelling, local knowledge, and friendly presence, making the trip memorable.

Is there WiFi onboard?
No, WiFi is not available, and some USB chargers may not work, based on recent reviews.

This guided tour offers a balance of scenic beauty, historic sites, and pop culture landmarks, making it a comprehensive way to experience Northern Ireland in a single day.

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