Shore Excursion: Giant’s Causeway Tour Including Belfast City Tour

Exploring Northern Ireland’s most iconic sights doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. This Giant’s Causeway Tour Including Belfast City Tour offers a well-organized, full-day experience for just $41.18 per person, lasting approximately 9 hours. Starting from Belfast Port, the tour takes you directly to the UNESCO World Heritage site, ensuring you beat the crowds with an early arrival. Alongside the Causeway itself, the itinerary includes Dunluce Castle, Cushendall, the Carrickfergus Castle, and a quick look at Belfast’s famous murals and peace walls.

Guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides in an air-conditioned vehicle, this tour strikes a balance between sightseeing, cultural insight, and scenic drives. With a high 5.0 rating from 234 reviews and 96% recommending it, this trip clearly offers great value and memorable moments. One note: the tour includes no food or drinks, so packing a snack is advisable for the full experience.

Key Points

• Affordable price: Only $41.18 per person for a comprehensive 9-hour tour.
• Priority access: Arrives at the Giant’s Causeway early, before the crowds.
• Diverse stops: Includes Dunluce Castle, Carrickfergus Castle, and scenic Antrim Coastal Road.
• Expert guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, entertaining narration, and dedication.
• Hassle-free logistics: Offers pickup and drop-off from Belfast cruise port, plus mobile tickets.
• Limited walking: Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness.

Start at Belfast Port with Hassle-Free Pickup

This tour begins right at Belfast Port, with pickup included. Travelers benefit from a convenient start, avoiding the hassle of finding transportation. The air-conditioned vehicle keeps everyone comfortable on the approximately 9-hour journey through the scenic Irish countryside and coast.

The tour operates every day from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, ensuring flexibility for cruise schedules. To secure a spot, booking confirmation occurs immediately, and the full refund policy allows cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Visiting Dunluce Castle: Ireland’s Picturesque Medieval Ruin

The first stop offers a 10-minute photo opportunity at Dunluce Castle, perched dramatically on a basalt cliff. This ruined medieval fortress is considered one of Ireland’s most photogenic castles. Although the visit is brief, the view of the castle’s ruins against the rugged coastline offers a striking photo backdrop.

This stop has free admission and is perfect for quick photos and soaking in the castle’s atmosphere. Its position on the cliffs makes it a compelling glimpse into Ireland’s medieval past and a favourite among visitors for its dramatic scenery.

The Marvel of the Giant’s Causeway: Ireland’s Only UNESCO World Heritage Site

The main attraction is the Giant’s Causeway, often called the “8th wonder of the world.” The stop lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving ample time to explore the unique hexagonal basalt stones formed by ancient volcanic activity. Visitors can climb, snap photos, and reflect on the myths surrounding this extraordinary landscape.

Arriving early means fewer crowds, and the free admission allows full freedom to walk over the stones at your own pace. The tour emphasizes reflection on legends, making it more than just a sightseeing stop. The scenic environment makes it a highlight that many reviews praise for its stunning natural beauty.

Scenic Drive Along the Antrim Coastal Road

One of the tour’s most celebrated features is the Antrim Coastal Road, recognized as one of the world’s finest drives. This route hugs the coastline, offering spectacular seaside views, passing unspoiled beaches, and rugged cliffs. On clear days, the chance to see Scotland across the water adds a special touch.

This drive provides plenty of photo stops and a chance to appreciate Ireland’s diverse coastal landscape. Many reviews mention how this stretch alone makes the trip worthwhile, thanks to its breathtaking vistas.

Lunch and Refreshments at Harry’s Cushendall (Time Permitting)

In Cushendall, the tour makes a stop at Harry’s Licensed Restaurant, which sources all food locally. The seafood dishes are especially celebrated for their freshness. While the stop is about 1 hour, it offers a chance for a refreshing break and a taste of regional cuisine if time allows.

Note that lunch is not included in the tour price, so bringing snacks or planning for a quick meal is recommended if desired. The stop at Harry’s enhances the experience by pairing scenery with delicious local food.

Exploring Carrickfergus Castle: Ireland’s Well-Preserved Medieval Fortress

The final stop is at Carrickfergus Castle, a Norman fortress dating back to 1177. The 10-minute visit offers opportunities to photograph this impressively preserved medieval structure on the Northern Belfast Lough shoreline.

This castle’s extensive history includes sieges by Scots, Irish, English, and French armies, making it a significant historical site. The free admission and picturesque setting make it a favorite for those interested in history and architecture.

Discover Belfast’s Murals and Peace Walls in a Brief City Tour

The Belfast City Tour component lasts about 30 minutes, covering murals, peace walls, Falls Road, and Shankill Road. Visitors see the famous murals, which depict the region’s political history, and get a glimpse of the peace walls symbolizing reconciliation.

While this segment is not a hop-on/hop-off, it provides valuable context about Belfast’s past and present. Many reviews highlight guides’ expertise and engaging narration during this quick city overview.

Practicalities and Accessibility of the Tour

The tour is suited for those with moderate physical fitness—most stops involve short walks. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, and service animals are allowed. The tour operates year-round, with departure times from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Booking is straightforward with mobile tickets, and cancelations are free up to 24 hours before the tour start. The group size is up to 50 travelers, maintaining a comfortable atmosphere with plenty of personalized commentary.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value and Reliability

This full-day excursion delivers a rundown of Ireland’s highlights near Belfast, combining natural wonders, historic sites, and scenic drives. The positive reviews frequently mention knowledgeable guides, entertaining narration, and excellent value for the price.

The early arrival at the Causeway minimizes crowds, and the multiple photo stops along the coast make for engaging sightseeing. While some note the long bus ride, many appreciate the well-organized schedule and professional drivers who keep the trip moving smoothly.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour best suits history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those interested in scenic coastal drives. It’s ideal for cruise passengers who want a full-day, hassle-free experience with easy logistics and priority access to major sights.

Travelers with moderate physical fitness will find it manageable, as most stops involve short walks. Food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks or a light meal makes the day more comfortable.

Final Thoughts on the Giant’s Causeway and Belfast Day Trip

This well-reviewed tour offers a cost-effective way to see Northern Ireland’s most iconic sights. The inclusion of Dunluce Castle, the scenic Antrim Coastal Road, and Carrickfergus Castle ensures a diverse experience that highlights both natural beauty and history.

While the long bus ride can be tiring for some, the expert guides, breathtaking views, and smooth logistics make this tour a reliable choice for those wanting to maximize their day in Northern Ireland. It appeals most to those who value organized sightseeing and authentic local insights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, most stops involve short walks and are accessible for travelers with moderate physical fitness.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, but there is a stop at Harry’s Cushendall where you can purchase fresh seafood if desired.

What is the best time to visit the Giant’s Causeway?
Arriving early helps avoid crowds, as the tour emphasizes arriving before the main rush.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most ages, but moderate walking is advised, so very young children or those with mobility issues should plan accordingly.

Are tickets flexible or refundable?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

How long is the drive from Belfast Port?
The entire tour lasts about 9 hours, including all stops and city sightseeing.

Is the vehicle accessible for travelers with disabilities?
While service animals are allowed, specific accessibility features are not detailed, so confirm with the provider if needed.

What makes this tour stand out?
The priority early access to the Giant’s Causeway and expert guides who provide entertaining and informative commentary are key strengths.

Can I see Scotland from the coast?
Yes, on a clear day, you may see Scotland while driving along the Antrim Coastal Road.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, transportation is air-conditioned, ensuring a comfortable ride throughout the day.

This Giant’s Causeway Tour combines scenic beauty, historical sites, and cultural insights, making it an excellent choice for cruise passengers and day-trippers alike.