day tours belfast

15 Mighty Day Trips from Belfast (Self-Guided + Organised Day Tours)

By Author Elisha Donkin

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

If you’re in search of some incredible day trips from Belfast, you’ve landed in the right place.

Belfast is a handy city to use as a base for exploring many of the best things to do in Northern Ireland .

The vibrant capital is perfectly located to explore everywhere from the glorious Causeway Coastal Route and the Glens of Antrim to  plenty  of mountains and colourful coastal villages.

In the guide below, you’ll find everything from adventurous day trips from Belfast to organised day tours from Belfast for those of you without a car.

Table of Contents

Day trips from Belfast (under 35 minutes from the city)

The first section of our guide tackles Belfast day trips that are just over a 30-minute drive from the city centre.

Below, you’ll find everything from the Causeway Coastal Route and Lisburn to Lough Neagh and much, much more.

1. The Causeway Coastal Route

Photo left: Lyd Photography. Right: Puripat Lertpunyaroj (Shutterstock)

A road trip along the Causeway Coastal Route is definitely one of the best things to do in County Antrim . It’s often ranked as one of the best drives in the world, so you know that it’ll be non-stop rugged beauty and incredible views along the stunning coastline of Northern Ireland.

The route can be tackled over one long day, although it’s best if you have a couple of days or even a week. The 313km long road trip starts in Belfast City and ends in Derry, heading through the nine Glens of Antrim .

There’s so much to see along the way from historic castles to small towns, that you really do get to see the best that the county has to offer.

2. The Gobbins Cliff Path

Photos by Cushla Monk + Paul Vance (shutterstock.com)

The Gobbins is arguably one of the most unique day trips from Belfast. If you’re up for more stunning scenery, you can try this incredibly dramatic cliff walk just 35 minutes away from Belfast.

It’s surprisingly often missed by people touring the Causeway Coastal Route but should definitely be added to your list if you’re looking for a thrill.

The Gobbins Cliff Path is a 2.5 hour guided walk along a narrow path that literally wraps its way around some of the cliffs around the coast of Antrim. It includes some incredible bridges and hairy staircases past caves that were once used by smugglers.

If you’re keen to visit the Gobbins, you should book the walk in advance and wear suitable clothing to tackle an uneven, coastal walk.

Photo via Google Maps

Just a 20-minute drive to the south of Belfast City, you can spend the day tackling some of the many things to do in Lisburn . Many of the buildings date back to the 18th century and the city has an interesting history as a leading textile producer in Ireland.

You can spend the day exploring the car-free city centre with the beautiful Georgian-style square at its heart.

The history is best discovered by heading to the Irish Linen Centre and Lisburn Museum, or even take the drive further south and visit Hillsborough Forest Park and Hillsborough Castle .

4. Lough Neagh

Photo by Ballygally View Images (Shutterstock)

Lough Neagh is the largest freshwater lake in Ireland and supplies almost half of the region’s water. It’s located just 32km west of the city and makes for a great day trip from the city.

You can explore the towns on the lake’s shore or even hop over to one of the islands to discover the history and wildlife out on the lake.

Ram Island and Coney Island both have unique histories. You can see the ancient round tower on Ram Island or head over to Coney Island to discover the history of the westernmost outpost of the Normans.

Day tours from Belfast under 1 hour from the city

The second section of this guide tackles Belfast day trips that’ll take you just under an hour to get to (but that are well worth the spin!).

Below, you’ll find everything from the glorious Ards Peninsula and the might Mournes to Castle Ward and more.

1. The Ards Peninsula (55 minutes away)

Photo via visitardsandnorthdown.com

To the east of the city, the Ards Peninsula is arguably one of the most overlooked day trips from Belfast. The peninsula is located in County Down and separates Strangford Lough from the Irish Sea.

You can head to one of the main towns on the peninsula including Donaghadee and Newtownards or explore some of the scenery in this beautiful part of Northern Ireland.

The peninsula is home to some incredible beaches along its eastern coast, including near the village of Cloughey where you’ll find beautiful dunes and a long sandy beach, and Ballywater which is a popular holiday spot on the peninsula.

2. Newcastle

Photo by Mick Harper (Shutterstock)

If you’re after active Belfast day tours, get yourself to Newcastle and tackle one of its many mighty rambles.

The small seaside resort town of Newcastle sits at the foot of Slieve Donard , the highest point of the Mourne Mountains in County Down.

It’s the perfect spot to escape the city of Belfast and immerse yourself in nature amongst spectacular scenery. It’s just a 45-minute drive from the city.

You can explore Tollymore Forest Park just outside of town or Murlough Beach, which are perfect places to stretch your legs on a walk.

3. Castle Ward

This incredible 18th century National Trust property is located near Strangford village in County Down, just 50 minutes southeast of Belfast and it’s one of the most iconic castles in Northern Ireland .

The unusual and unique double-sided mansion stands inside a perfectly manicured park overlooking Strangford Lough.

You can explore the gardens, woodland and shoreline of the lake, with over 32km of trails to head off on foot or on bikes.

And we can’t forget to mention that the farmyard and lake were one of several Game of Thrones filming locations in Ireland .

4. Glenariff Forest Park (55 minutes away)

Photo by Dawid K Photography (Shutterstock)

Next up is one of our favourite day trips from Belfast. To truly get lost in the incredible nature of Antrim, you should head out to explore the 1000 hectares of Glenariff Forest Park .

This woodland in the Glens of Antrim features lakes, picnic areas and walking trails with dense ferns and mosses growing along the rocky gorges of the river.

There are a few walks to choose from, including a 1km Viewpoint Trail and a 3km Waterfall Walk Trail which takes you to a beautiful, tiered waterfall that is especially impressive after heavy rain. The park is just 50 minutes northwest of Belfast City towards the coast.

Belfast day tours under 1.5 hours from the city

Right – our next batch of day trips from Belfast are for those of you that don’t mind a bit of a drive (it’ll be worth it!).

Below, you’ll find everywhere from the lively coastal village of Portrush to some often overlooked day tours from Belfast, like the Sperrins.

1. Portrush (1 hour and 10 minutes drive)

The resort town of Portrush is a fun little spot on the Causeway Coastal Route of Antrim. It sits on a mile-long peninsula with beautiful Blue Flag beaches on either side, so it’s the perfect summer destination.

It’s a popular stop along the Causeway Coastal Route for a visit to any of its three beaches or just to enjoy the lively pubs and shops in the small town.

West Strand is great for swimming and sunbathing, while East Strand tends to be the spot for surfing and other water sports.

There’s plenty of things to do in Portrush and there’s  lots  of great restaurants in Portrush to kick back in after rambling along Whiterocks Beach .

2. Mourne Mountains (1 hour and 5 minutes drive)

Photo by James Kennedy NI/Shutterstock.com

If you want something different to the coastal destinations, then the spectacular Mourne Mountains are calling. The granite range is in County Down, not far from Newcastletown, just over an hour’s drive south of Belfast.

They include the highest mountains in Northern Ireland including Slieve Donard at 850m. The mountains have inspired many poets and writers and even featured as a prominent set for Game of Thrones throughout the series.

There are some incredible hiking opportunities with the epic Six Peak Challenge taking three days to complete. There’s also the Mourne Mountains Cycle Loop or rock climbing and abseiling adventures as well.

3. The Sperrins (1 hour and 20 minutes drive)

Photo by Gordon Dunn (Shutterstock)

I’d argue that the Sperrins are one of the most overlooked day trips from Belfast. If you’re in search of more mountains to explore, the Sperrins are one of the largest upland areas in Northern Ireland stretching from Strabane to the shores of Lough Neagh.

It’s definitely a more wild and undiscovered part of Northern Ireland, but it’s easily explored with some incredible scenic drives.

The Sperrins are also a popular hiking destination with plenty of walks around the valleys to tougher climbs up some of the peaks, including Sawel, the highest one of the ranges.

For history buffs, the mountains are also home to some interesting sites including the Beaghmore Stone Circles in the southeast part dating back to the Bronze Age.

4. Derry City (1 hour and 30 minutes drive)

Photo by ronniejcmc (Shutterstock)

Derry is home to Ireland’s only completely intact historic Walled City from the 17th century. It’s located to the west of Belfast near the border of County Donegal.

While it’s often overlooked by visitors to Northern Ireland, there are plenty of incredible places to visit within the walled city, including St Columb’s Cathedral and the Tower Museum with stunning city views.

Derry is also referred to as a city of culture, with plenty of events going on all year round including its famous Halloween festival. While you’ll also find colourful murals around the streets celebrating and bringing awareness to the long history and culture of the city.

5. Slieve Gullion (1 hour and 15 minutes drive)

Photo by Pavel_Voitukovic on shutterstock.com

Slieve Gullion is a mountain in the south of County Armagh and the highest point in the county at 573m. It lies right in the middle of what is known as the Ring of Gullion, or circle of hills.

A visit to the Slieve Gullion Forest Park is a great day out for the whole family. The park offers a scenic drive, walks around the mountains to stunning views and an adventure park and children’s story trail for the kids.

Whether you’re up for a decent hike or a fun run around a maze with the family, a visit to this beautiful part of the county is a must.

Don’t have a car? Here are some excellent organised day tours from Belfast

The final section of our guide is filled with day trips from Belfast that’ll appeal to those of you without your own mode of transport.

Note: If you book a tour below we may make a tiny commission. You won’t pay extra, but it helps us keep this site going (and we greatly appreciate it).

1. Giant’s Causeway, Titanic and Dark Hedges Tour

Photo by Chris Hill

For a full day tour from Belfast, this trip takes you to see the Titanic Museum before heading to the Giant’s Causeway. This incredible place is an ancient volcanic formation and a UNESCO World Heritage Listed Site.

You can explore on foot as you see various interesting formations such as the Wishing Chair and Giant Boot and Organ.

On the return to the city, you get to also stop at the Dark Hedges, a centuries-old lane of beech trees that have been made famous by films and television, including of course Game of Thrones.

Check prices + learn more here

2. Belfast: Giants Causeway and Game of Thrones Locations Tour

Photo by Matthew Woodhouse

The ultimate day trip for Game of Thrones fans, this tour takes you to some of the best location sites for the series as well as some of the most beautiful spots in Northern Ireland.

Some of the places you get to visit include the Giant’s Causeway , Dark Hedges , Dunluce Castle and Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge .

Of course, you can even get dressed up with some of the provided props to take some fun photos at the locations along the way.

Day trips Northern Ireland: What have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve missed out on some brilliant day trips Northern Ireland has to offer in the guide above.

If you have any day trips from Belfast that you’d recommend, let me know in the comments below and I’ll check them out.

FAQs about the best day trips from Belfast

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from what are the best organised day tours from Belfast to which Belfast day trips are best if you only have 7/8 hours.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best day trips from Belfast?

I’d argue that the best Belfast day trips are the Causeway Coast and the Mourne Mountains.

What are the best day tours from Belfast if you have no car?

If you’re looking for organised Belfast day tours, there’s everything from Game of Throne tours to organised trips up the Causeway Coast (see guide above).

What are the most unique places to visit near Belfast?

It’s hard to beat Glenariff Forest Park and the Torr Head Scenic Route, however, tourists in particular tend to enjoy Carrick-a-rede.

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The best day trips from Belfast, from the Derry Girls' hometown to the Giant's Causeway

Jul 28, 2022 • 6 min read

From the real-life setting for Derry Girls to fantasy locations from Game of Thrones, culture comes alive on a day trip from Belfast © benedek / Getty Images

Ireland is truly an inspiring isle. A land of storytellers, talented musicians and impassioned songwriters, inspired by a breathtaking landscape like a patchwork quilt of colors and vistas that is always worth diving into and drinking in . And Belfast is perfectly placed for a host of captivating day trips.

With colorful characters and cute rogues aplenty, and accents that vary even from village to village, Ireland is the subject, muse, backdrop and inspiration for endless stories of fact and fiction played out in books and TV shows, and spoken word folklore passed down through the generations. Discover the reality on these top day trips from Belfast.

Make like a Derry Girl on a day trip to Derry

Why go: Discover the real city behind the hit TV show

Northern Ireland ’s second-largest hub, Derry (Londonderry ) has had a star turn on the small screen over the last five years as the backdrop for Channel 4’s hit series Derry Girls. This coming-of-age sitcom set in the 90s – as The Troubles ended and the Northern Ireland Peace Process became a reality – reveals the charm, humor, mischief and joy of a place all too often misunderstood or misrepresented, triggering a surge of interest in Northern Ireland’s intriguing second city.

Walk through history by ascending the impressively intact 17th-century city walls , which preserve some of the most important historical sites in the city, then visit the auburn-bricked neo-Gothic Guildhall to marvel at the stained glass windows and learn about the Ulster Plantation. Don’t miss The Walled City Brewery for great food and craft beers before you make a beeline back to Belfast.

How to get to Derry from Belfast: Hop on the train to Derry at Great Victoria Street; it takes about 2½ hours and runs hourly most days from around 7am. Note that the last train back from Derry leaves around 8:30pm. Traveling by bus, the 212 Goldline Express connects Derry and Belfast's Europa Bus Centre in two hours, leaving every half hour at peak times. Alternatively, drive the 70 miles in about 90 minutes, via the M2 and A6.

Drive the Epic Causeway Coast, the most dramatic day out from Belfast

Why go: To drink in some of Ireland's most spectacular landscapes

A mythical tale in local folklore tells the story of an ancient giant named Fionn MacCumhaill who tore up parts of the Antrim Coast and tossed them into the ocean to create a cobbled pathway towards Scotland to challenge another giant, Benanndonner, who threatened Ireland and needed to be taught a lesson. So begins the tale of the Giant’s Causeway .

As wonderful as the myth may be, the causeway is entirely explained by a natural phenomenon. Lava oozing furiously from the earth’s surface tens of millions of years ago cooled, contracted and cracked, creating a series of 40,000 interlocking, hexagonal-shaped basalt columns. The reality doesn’t make this popular day trip spot any less breathtaking – it's an otherworldly site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Northern Ireland.

Whilst driving along the North Antrim coast, take in Dunluce Castle , Mussenden Temple , the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and the pretty coastal towns of Portrush and Portstewart. Harry’s Shack set on Portstewart Strand is one of the most picturesque settings for a meal anywhere in Ireland.

How to get from Belfast to the Causeway Coast: This day trip is best undertaken with a rental car, so you can choose how far you travel and how long it takes, stopping along the way for incredible vistas and fascinating sites. The Giant’s Causeway is located 60 miles from Belfast and it takes around an hour to drive here via the M2. 

Visit Dublin, a city for all the senses

Why go: To soak in Dublin's sights, sounds, flavors and sensations

A day trip from one capital city to another, set two hours apart on the eastern side of the same island (but neither boasting an underground metro system). In some ways, Dublin and Belfast feel similar, even familiar, and though both are proudly unique, this pair of cities definitely complement one another. However, note that you’ll need to switch to euros (€) when you enter the Republic.

Dublin is a city experienced through the senses: the waft of roasted barley tempting visitors to the Guinness Storehouse ; the lilt of the fiddle and the bang of the bodhrán (frame drum) bouncing between the cobbles of the pub-lined cultural quarter of Temple Bar ; the verdant city center oasis that is St Stephen’s Green ; glimpses of the free-range herd of fallow deer in Phoenix Park .

Iconic experiences abound – check out the sea of light and dark blue on flags and jerseys as the crowds flow towards Croke Park on match day, or catch sight of the Spire or the Poolbeg Chimneys from many different corners of the city. Then there's the taste of that first sip of a creamy pint of cold stout, the slurp of fresh oysters, and thick buttered brown bread paired with coddle (sausage stew) or chowder.

Take time to enjoy a brown paper bag of fat, golden, freshly-fried, salt-and-vinegar doused chips from Leo Burdock’s or spend an hour in Sheridans Cheesemongers being led by the nose and tastebuds, trying as many samples of Irish farmhouse cheese as they are willing to offer. There’s a reason Irish writers, poets and playwrights use such evocative language to describe Dublin’s fair city – Dublin truly captivates.

How to get to Dublin from Belfast: The Belfast-Dublin Enterprise train service runs eight times daily (less frequently on Sundays) between Belfast Lanyon Place and Dublin Connolly Station, taking just over two hours. Aircoach’s 705X bus service runs 13 times daily between the two cities; the Goldline Express X1 service to Dublin Busaras station runs on a similar schedule. Alternatively, you can drive the 100 miles or so in just under two hours via the M1/A1 motorways (tolls apply).

Visit the best Game of Thrones’ locations near Belfast

Why go: To discover the real Westeros

Game of Thrones is probably one of the best things to happen to Northern Ireland tourism in the last decade. The filming location for many notable scenes in the fantasy drama series, "Norn Iron" has embraced its Game of Thrones legacy, celebrating its natural backdrop as a bonafide land of fantasy. Many of the show’s most distinctive filming locations can be discovered on a day trip from Belfast, from the caves of Cushendun to picture-perfect Ballintoy Harbour and, of course, the breathtaking avenue of intertwined beech trees known as The Dark Hedges .

When Storm Gertrude landed without welcome in early 2016 and thrashed for days, several trees from the iconic Dark Hedges were unfortunately felled. However, instead of breaking these casualties down for firewood, they were resplendently carved into intricate works of art. Ten wooden doors were created in honor of the fallen trees – fans can follow the trail and find all ten Game of Thrones doors, which are dotted widely around Northern Ireland in different pubs, restaurants and hotels.

Whether you're a Thronie or not, it’s well worth getting outside of the capital in order to appreciate the unique landscape, which seems to sit between reality and fantasy.

How to explore Game of Thrones locations from Belfast: Several tour companies offer 8–9 hour coach tours (among them Game of Thrones Tours , City Tours Belfast and Taxi Tours Belfast ) departing from and returning to Belfast, which include photo opportunities and a live commentary at several GoT stops. Private group tours are also available for smaller groups. Alternatively, you can hire a car and simply drive to many of the top locations.

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Giants Causeway Tour

Game of thrones tour, belfast city sightseeing tour, shore excursions from belfast, private belfast tours and day trips, custom private belfast tours tailor-made just for you.

We provide private day trips and Luxury Bespoke tours in Belfast and the surrounding areas of Northern Ireland and beyond. Tailor-made tours are carefully crafted to deliver a personalised adventure like no other.

We can create your Luxury Tailor-Made personal Giants Causeway tour , Private Belfast tour, and day trips in Belfast and the surrounding areas of Northern Ireland and beyond. Whether you are travelling as a couple, with your family, Solo, or with a group of friends, Our experienced staff will custom tailor a tour to match your travel style, your passions, and your pace.

The result is an experience that is more personal, more memorable, and more fun, and this is the freedom and flexibility only possible on a custom private tour. Experience the Best tourist attractions and the natural beauty of Northern Ireland with a private tour.

Immersive trips enable you to explore authentic local culture in a sustainable, experience-rich way. If you cannot find what you are looking for or have a Question about our Belfast tours? We are very happy to help or assist you in any way we can.

Tailor-Made Belfast Private Tours

Our Private Belfast tours and Northern Ireland day trips have been carefully chosen to incorporate all the highlights as well as offer you that little bit extra. You will be travelling throughout Ireland in spacious Luxury vehicles, which are fully licensed for our tours. Every detail of your Belfast tours and Northern Ireland-guided day trips will be special.

Take inspiration from our suggested Belfast attractions tours and private Belfast Day Trips such as Giants Causeway Tours, Private Shore Excursions from Belfast, Game of Thrones Tours as well as other Belfast City Sightseeing tours and Titanic Belfast tours. Also, check out the wonderful street art with a Belfast Mural tour and other top Belfast attractions with us. 

Touring Belfast can be booked to suit your individual requirements, Tours of Belfast may also be amalgamated together to create a truly unique Belfast attractions tour experience. Pre-booking is essential to ensure you do not miss out on what our country has to offer.

Contact us to arrange Belfast guided tours, Belfast day tours or Belfast tours from Dublin and a quotation.

Our Tour of Belfast and Day Trips

Giant's Causeway Tour

Experience the beauty of Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site and Antrim Coast on this stunning Private Giants Causeway Tour from Belfast.

Travel into the seven kingdoms with this exciting Private Game of Thrones Filming Locations tour from Belfast. See where many pivotal GoT scenes were shot.

Belfast Shore Excursions

Discover the Best and top tourist attractions in Northern Ireland including the world famous Giants Causeway and Titanic Belfast from Belfast cruise ship terminal.

Giants Causeway Express Tour

If you’re short on time and want to make the most of your Belfast trip , this is the tour for you Private half-day Giants Causeway Express from Belfast…

During this full-day Private, Chauffeured Experience explore Northern Ireland’s fascinating capital city with this Full-Day Belfast City Tour with one of our local experienced guides. 

Explore Belfast’s colourful Street art’s, Murals, and the political history of the recent conflict in Belfast with a local professional guide in a personal Private Tour…

private tours of Ireland

We know how important it is for you and your family to have a great time on your tour. Every detail of your Belfast tour and Northern Ireland-guided  day t rips must be special. Let’s design your perfect day trip, and tour using your wish list and our local knowledge and experience.

Whatever your requirements, whatever your budget, Solo traveller or a family group. Simply contact us and let’s get started on your tours to Belfast. We provide a private bespoke luxury tour service to meet all our customer’s individual requirements, we can adapt your visit to whatever you wish to see in Belfast, Northern Ireland , and beyond.

Let’s put together an exciting Belfast tour and Northern Ireland day trip that captures everything you want to see in Belfast. We provide professional tour services with local knowledge. We also Provide Belfast day tours from Dublin Contact us today and get started creating your perfect tour!

Northern Ireland Private Tours

We have something special for everyone. Our top Ireland attractions tours are always custom-designed to meet the needs of each group, whether you’re planning a romantic weekend escape or an outdoor adventure with friends and family.

We create extraordinary travel experiences for our guests, by providing private guided tours of the top attractions of Belfast, Northern Ireland, and beyond. We offer a wide selection of Ireland tourist attractions tours and day trips. 

Whether you’re travelling with a family, solo, or part of a group, our event planners will help you plan the perfect Belfast tour for your interests.

Belfast Tours NI will help you discover the beauty of the Causeway Coast in one day. From the rolling green hills of the Antrim Coast to the rugged cliffs at Portrush, there’s so much to see and do in Northern Ireland.

Giants Causeway and Belfast City Tour

Discover the magic of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Giant’s Causeway on a full-day trip from Belfast. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, travel by luxury vehicle through Northern Ireland’s spectacular countryside.

Game of Thrones and Belfast City Tour

Make the most of your time in Belfast and discover filming locations for HBO’s Games of Thrones on a full-day tour from Belfast. Travel the rural landscape with ease via private Luxury vehicle through Northern Ireland’s spectacular countryside.

Northern Ireland Top Attractions Multi Day Tour

Discover the top-rated tourist attractions and many Hidden gems in Northern Ireland with a private tour including the famous Giants Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, Old Bushmills Distillery and Titanic Belfast Experience

Belfast Private Tours and Day Trips

We have designed a specialist cruise ship shore excursion from Belfast. Realising time is limited and the importance of arriving back to your cruise ship terminal on time for departure, we use a smaller Private Luxury Vehicle, making the tour more personal and easily managed.

We have years of experience in showing our customers some of the most beautiful parts of Northern Ireland such as Belfast city the North Antrim coast, Giants Causeway, and Game of Thrones Filming locations in our modern, luxury Vehicles. 

Every tour is guided by a professional, knowledgeable, and experienced local guide who will ensure you are enriched and engaged by your visit.

We provide our clients with a bespoke luxury tour service for visiting Northern Ireland and Belfast. Whether you are interested in seeing the political murals on Falls Road, taking a luxury day trip or visiting Titanic Belfast for an opportunity to meet, chat, and mix with local people.

Let’s put together an exciting Belfast tour and Northern Ireland day trip that captures everything you want to see in Belfast. We provide professional tour services with local knowledge. Contact us today and get started creating your perfect tour!

Private Belfast Shore Excursions

Giants Causeway Tour From Cruise Ships

See Northern Ireland’s most spectacular geological wonders at the Giant’s Causeway on a private tour. Commonly called ‘the 8th wonder of the world.

Game of Thrones Tour From Cruise Ships

Immerse yourself in our Game of Thrones Filming Locations tour, taking you on a journey through parts of Westeros along the North Antrim Coast.

Belfast City Sightseeing Tour From Cruise Ships

Discover Belfast with Private Belfast City Sightseeing Tour from Belfast. Explore Northern Ireland’s fascinating capital city with this Private luxury tout.

Ireland is one of the top tourist destinations, Whether you are travelling as a couple, solo, or with a family, our tours will take you off the beaten track on your very own private tour accompanied by one of our friendly professional tour guides. We have devised a selection of itineraries to Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to suit your requirements, large or small.

Our number one priority is to provide you with a memorable, enjoyable experience where you are able to discover, explore, and learn about the cultural heritage and rich history of these beautiful regions. We can create your Private Tailor-Made personal tours in Belfast and the surrounding areas of Northern Ireland and beyond.

Whether you are travelling to Dublin or Belfast as a couple, with your family, or with a group of friends, our experienced staff will custom-tailor a tour to match your travel style, your passions, and your pace.

Travelling and touring Belfast with us will be more personal, more memorable, and more fun. This is the freedom and flexibility only possible on a custom private tour. Why not experience the best tourist attractions and the natural beauty of Northern Ireland with a private tour? We will make sure you take home amazing memories of Northern Ireland.

Discover the world-famous story through the eyes of those whose hard work and ambition built her.

In the self-guided Titanic Experience you will uncover the sights, sounds, smells and stories of the ship, as well as the people and city that made her.

Best way to avoiding crowds is Private touring and Spring is an incredible time to visit Belfast City to avoid the crowds while taking advantage of the slightly warmer days. Spring is also a time to be aware of public holidays with Good Friday and Easter usually falling in April, and May bringing two bank holiday weekends (the first and last Monday of the month).

Explore the beautiful countryside and stunning coastal locations on this private 4 Day Northern Ireland Tour . Over four comfortably-paced days, the Discover Northern Ireland Tour introduces you to the culture and countryside of Northern Ireland. Immerse yourself in the lives and histories of its people. Witness with wonderment and the beauty of the wild northern coastline. 

Rugged coastline and lush greenery, an ancient culture steeped in folklore, and a very modern capital that has every amenity you could ask for and more: holidays in Ireland truly have something for everyone.

Travel in your own luxurious vehicle with a private guide and enjoy seeing the top tourist attractions, including sights famously featured in scenes of Game of Thrones.

Q – Can you visit the Game of Thrones set in Belfast?

A – The world’s only official Game of Thrones Studio Tour, 40 minutes south of Belfast. Explore authentic sets, costumes and props from Game of Thrones.

Q – How long are black cab tours in Belfast?

A – Black Taxi Tour of Belfast lasts  90 minutes . On your Belfast Black Taxi Tour you will have the opportunity to take endless photos and sign Belfast’s infamous Peace Wall that still divides our communities.

Q – How long is the taxi tour in Belfast?

A – Depending on your itinerary, The Belfast taxi tour will last between 2 and 6 hours.

Q – What are the best tours in Belfast?

A – Giants Causeway tour, Game of Thrones tour and Belfast City sightseeing tour. You can also do a Belfast City bike tours. 

Q – What tours in Belfast are good for avoiding crowds?

A – The best way to avoid the crowds is to book a private tour.T

You can walk to the stones for free, but our on-site car park is reserved for those buying tickets for our Visitor Experience, which includes guided tours, running throughout the day; use of the audio guides, access to the shop, cafe and exhibition.

Running daily at 10.30am, ‘ A History of Terror ‘ starts at Belfast City Hall where your expert guide explains how and why ‘The Troubles’ started. Over two hours and 15 minutes you visit seven locations in the city centre where some of the most important events of the conflict occurred.

Belfast: The Titanic Experience with SS Nomadic Visit

Dublin: Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce & Belfast Tour

From Belfast: Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour

From Belfast: Giant’s Causeway Fully Guided Day Trip

Belfast: Political Taxi Tour

See all in Belfast with Belfast City Tour

Belfast bike Tours

Belfast city walking Tours and 

Belfast walking tours

If you are interested in experiencing an unforgettable adventure in Belfast, we highly recommend dedicating three full days to exploring the rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking sights of this amazing city. We assure you that Belfast ranks among the most prestigious cities worldwide and it’s bound to leave a lasting impression.

Northern Ireland offers an awe-inspiring bucket list experience. Whether one seeks to explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites, traverse scenic hiking trails, uncover locations used in the filming of Game of Thrones®, or marvel at the picturesque landscapes that inspired Narnia, Northern Ireland offers all of this and more. 

Furthermore, one can even pay a visit to the very spot where the Titanic embarked on its ill-fated journey or reside for a night in the childhood abode of the icon, George Best. In essence, Northern Ireland is a destination that promises unforgettable memories, unparalleled experiences, and a depth of history that is unrivaled in its magnificence.

Giant’s Causeway is a remarkable World Heritage site that must not be missed. The site is so impressive that an entire coastal route was named after it. The stones are believed to be either volcanic or the remains of a causeway built by an Irish giant, Finn McCool, to meet a challenge to a fight set by Scottish giant Benandonner. 

Additionally, the legendary Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge provides an epic experience, challenging visitors to cross a 30-meter deep and 20-meter wide chasm to reach the tiny island neighbour. 

It is worth noting that visitors must cross the bridge twice due to the absence of alternative routes. We highly recommend that you visit Giant’s Causeway to see these incredible sites for yourself and experience their magnificence firsthand.

We offer a variety of popular tours for those visiting Ireland, including day tours from Belfast. Our tours cover a range of interests, such as the Game of Thrones tour, Belfast city sightseeing, the Cliffs of Moher tour, and the Causeway tour Game of Thrones. For a more intimate experience, we also offer small group tours from Dublin to the Giants Causeway. 

Our team is dedicated to providing top-quality service and ensuring a memorable experience for our clients. Join us for a tour from Belfast and discover the beauty and history of Ireland.

We Providing Luxury Tailor-Made Personal Tours in Belfast and the Surrounding Areas of Northern Ireland and beyond. Our Tours experts deliver the types of experiences that can’t be Googled. 

Immersive trips enable you to explore authentic local culture in a sustainable, experience-rich way. Cannot find what you are looking for Have a Question about Belfast tours? Contact us and we are very happy to help or assist you in any way we can.

Whatever your requirement, simply provide your contact details and we’ll be in touch shortly. We can adjust any of the services included to meet your wish list, requirements, and your budget.

It’s a stress-free way to create your magical Irish adventure with our hospitality experts. We can adjust any of the services included to meet your wish list, requirements, and your budget.

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

The Best Day Trips from Belfast

Last updated: April 7, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 2 Comments

There’s a lot to do in Belfast, as our guides to spending 2 days in Belfast and things to do in Belfast should make clear.

Belfast also makes an excellent base for exploring some of the highlights of Northern Ireland. There are good transport links across the region, and the majority of companies operating day tours in Northern Ireland depart from Belfast.

There are also lots of accommodation options, as well as restaurants and pubs, to entertain you after a full day of exploring.

With this in mind, we wanted to share some of the best options you have for day trips from Belfast.

These cover a wide range of interests, as well as a variety of different transport options. Some will be easy to do by public transport by yourself, others will require either a hire car or to take a dedicated guided tour. For each one, we’ve gone through the options you have.

Day Trips from Belfast

These are some of our favourite day trips from Belfast, although of course it’s not a definitive list. There’s so much to see and do in Northern Ireland! Hopefully, this selection of tours will give you plenty of inspiration for your own trip.

Giant’s Causeway

Without a doubt, the day trip from Belfast to the Giant’s Causeway is one of the most popular day trips from Belfast.

And this is for a good reason. The geological marvel known as the Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO world heritage site, and is quite the sight to behold. A series of geometric basalt columns, largely hexagonal in shape, link together in what looks like a road, leading down into the sea.

You can walk all around and over the columns, which cover a fairly large area, and which make for some great photos. It’s also impressive just to witness the power of nature. It’s so perfect in its shape and form that it looks like it was built rather than formed by nature.

This, in fact, is why it is called the Giant’s Causeway. Legend has it that what we see today are the remains of a massive causeway built across the Irish sea between Ireland and Scotland by the Irish giant Fionn mac Cumhaill.

The legend says that Fionn built it in response to a challenge he was issued by a Scottish giant named Benandonner. The causeway was built to allow Fionn to cross the sea and do battle with Benandonner. Various versions of the story are told, with one or the other giant’s winning depending on which version you choose to believe.

You can learn all about the myths of the Giant’s Causeway, as well as the geological explanation for its formation, at the excellent Giant’s Causeway center, which is found at the top of the hill. From here, it’s around a 15 minute walk down the hill (or a 5 minute bus ride, for a small fee) to the Causeway itself.

Access to the Giant’s Causeway itself is free, and it is open year round. However, there is a charge for parking and to visit the visitor center, as well as for services like the audioguide. Tickets are cheaper if you buy them online in advance from the official site here .

It’s a National Trust property, so National Trust members get free access. The bus to and from the Causeway from the visitor centre also has a small fee, which is also waived for National Trust members.

We think a visit to the visitor centre is definitely worth it, as it has a lot of information about the geology and mythology of the area, as well as its history as a visitor attraction.

How to Get to the Giant’s Causeway from Belfast

The Giant’s Causeway is one of the most popular visitor attractions in Northern Ireland, and you have a number of options for reaching it.

First, if you have a car (or rent one), it’s around a 60 mile drive from Belfast to the Giant’s Causeway, a journey that usually takes a little over an hour via the M2 motorway. If you drive, you can park on site, for which you will need to pay the entry fee.

In the busier months, the car park can become full, in which case there is a park and ride service available from the town of Bushmills.

Second, you can also reach the Giant’s Causeway by public transport. There are a couple of options.

First, you can take a bus directly from Belfast to the Giant’s Causeway. This takes around 90 minutes, with service from Belfast through to Aird, Giants Causeway The Nook. The bus number is 221, find times here .

You can also take a train from Belfast to Coleraine (takes around 90 minutes, see times here ), then switch to the local Ulsterbus service which will take you to the Giant’s Causeway visitor centre (takes around 40 minutes, find times here ). The specific bus service is the 402 from Coleraine to Ballycastle, also known as the Causeway Rambler Service. The stop for the Giant’s Causeway is Aird, Giant’s Causeway The Nook.

Price wise, you can pick up a Zone 4 iLink day ticket for £16.50 which covers train and public bus across much of Northern Ireland.

Finally, there are multiple tours that run from Belfast (and Dublin) to the Giant’s Causeway. These vary in length, as well as the other attractions they visit. We’ve listed some of these options below.

Tours to the Giant’s Causeway from Belfast

When picking a tour, we suggest finding one that visits a number of sights that you are interested in. This may be Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland , more National Trust sites, or just some general sightseeing.

• This full day tour includes the Giant’s Causeway as well as a number of Game of Thrones filming locations, plus Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and Dunluce castle
• This full day tour includes the Giant’s Causeway, plus the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Old Bushmills Distillery, and Carrickfergus and Dunluce castles.
• A full day tour which includes the Giant’s Causeway, as well as time at the Titanic Museum in Belfast, the Dark Hedges and Dunluce Castle
• A private tour of the Giant’s Causeway as well as a number of the Game of Thrones filming locations north of Belfast

Causeway Coastal Route Highlights

One of the most scenic drives in Northern Ireland is the Causeway Coastal Route . This runs for nearly two hundred miles along the Northern Ireland coastline, from Belfast right around to Londonderry.

This driving route features many highlights – certainly too many to do in one day, even driving yourself. However, you could certainly cover some of the sights in a day trip from Belfast.

Some highlights include Carrickfergus Castle, Torr Head, the Dark Hedges , Ballintoy, the Giant’s Causeway and Bushmills Distillery. We have a guide to the highlights of the Causeway Coastal route here for more ideas.

Ideally, you would hire a car and try and schedule two days to take in the whole route to Londonderry, which would also give you time to explore more of the sights along the way. However, if you have only one day, you can still visit some of the highlights.

How to visit the Causeway Coastal Route from Belfast

The Causeway Coastal Route is primarily a driving route, and so the best way to experience it is in a hire car. The route largely follows the coast, and there are a great many attractions along the way. With a car, you’ll be able to pick and choose those that most interest you.

It is possible to explore parts of the Causeway Coastal Route by public transport, using one or more of the Translink Rambler Services . This will require some careful planning around bus schedules to ensure you can see everything you want to see.

You can also take a day tour from Belfast that will cover many of the highlights of this route.

Tours of the Causeway Coastal Route

If you don’t have a car, the best way to see some of the major highlights of the Causeway Coastal Route is a day tour. Some good options we’ve found are as follows:

• This full day tour includes the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Bushmills Distillery and Dunluce Castle
• A private tour of some of the highlights of the Causeway Coastal Route, including the Glens of Antrim, Ballycastle, Bushmills Distillery and the Giant’s Causeway
• This full day tour which includes many of the highlights of the Causeway Coastal Route
• A private tour of the Giant’s Causeway which includes many of the coastal attractions along the route

Game of Thrones Filming Locations

Fans of the HBO Game of Thrones TV series  will be delighted to hear that many of the real-world filming locations for the show are to be found in Northern Ireland.

One of the most famous of these filming locations is the Dark Hedges , which was the filming location for the Kings Road in the show.

However, there are a great many more filming locations all around Northern Ireland, from Castle Ward and Inch Abbey in the south, through to Ballintoy Harbour, the Dark Hedges, and Larrybane Quarry in the north.

In fact, the main decision you will likely have to make as a Game of Thrones fan visiting Northern Ireland is which direction to go from Belfast. There are filming locations both south and north of the city, and it would take at least a couple of days to explore them all.

For example, you could spend one day exploring locations south of the city like Castle Ward, Inch Abbey and Tollymore Forest Park. This is also where you’ll find the Game of Thrones studio experience .

Then you could spend a day north of Belfast, visiting the Dark Hedges, Ballintoy Harbour and Portstewart Strand, to name but a few of the locations.

Many of the locations you can visit have some sort of sign depicting the scene that was filmed there, to give you some context as to what you are seeing. Others, such as Castle Ward, offer full Game of Thrones experiences like archery lessons.

Whatever you discover, we’re sure you’ll have a great time hunting down all the Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland. We have a full guide to all the Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland which we definitely recommend you check out for more information.

How to visit the Game of Thrones Filming Locations from Belfast

The Game of Thrones filming locations are spread out across Northern Ireland. You could certainly visit some of the locations by public transport; however, if you really want to see a few in a day your best option is to either hire a car or take a tour.

With a car, we’d recommend either spending one day visiting the locations to the north of Belfast and/or spending one day visiting locations to the south of the city. You’ll need to choose the ones of most interest to you as there are two many to visit them all in one day.

If that sounds like too much work though, you can also take one of many tours which are available from Belfast. This is probably the easiest option for most people.

Tours of Game of Thrones Filming Locations from Belfast

We would recommend that a tour of the Game of Thrones filming locations might be the easiest and best way to see them.

Guides will know exactly where to take you, and many of them will carry images from the show on an iPad or printed out, so you can orient yourself for each scene and location. Some of the tour guides have been actors, extras, or staff in the GoT series.

If you have two days, you could take two different Games of Thrones tours that cover different locations.

Some tours you might consider are as follows:

• A full day tour of the Game of Thrones filming locations south of Belfast, including Castle Ward, Tollymore Forest Park and more. You’ll may also meet some real life dire wolves!
• This full day tour of some of the Game of Thrones filming locations north of Belfast, including the Dark Hedges and Cushenden Caves. Also includes the Carrick-a-rede rope bridge, Carrickfergus Castle, and the Giant’s Causeway.
• A private full day tour from Belfast of the Game of Thrones filming locations, which includes the Dark Hedges, Ballintoy Harbour, and Larrybane Quarry, as well as the Giant’s Causeway
• Another full day tour of the locations south of Belfast, which include Castle Ward, Strangford Lough, Tollymore Forest Park, and Inch Abbey
• This tour focuses on the Game of Thrones Studio Tour which is found about a 45 minute drive southwest of Belfast. The tour includes round trip transfer from Belfast and entry tickets to the experience.

The Gobbins

The Gobbins has been a popular day trip from Belfast since Edwardian times, although the attraction did fall into disrepair through the middle of the 20th century.

The good news is that it is fully restored and operational again!

You are probably wondering first of all what the Gobbins is. Well, it’s a dramatic cliff-face path that has you following a defined route in the company of a guide along some of Northern Ireland’s most spectacular coastal scenery.

It was built by an Edwardian engineer, ostensibly to demonstrate his skill and experience tackling complex engineering challenges, which the Gobbins walk construction certainly was.

The walk itself is not too far, but it involves a series of bridges, steps and cliff-hugging paths that afford wonderful views of the coastline, sea life, and birdlife. The experience takes around 2.5 hours in total, and it has to be done as a guided tour, which needs to be booked in advance on the official website here .

Note that tours do not run year-round, and weather conditions can cause cancellations. So do check the official website and contact them prior to setting out for your tour just in case.

How to Get to The Gobbins from Belfast

The Gobbins is not far from Belfast, found around 18 miles along the coast in a north-easterly direction.

If you have a car, the drive will take you in the region of 30 minutes, depending on traffic. You need to park at the Goffins Visitor Center and you need to have booked your tour in advance. You’ll arrive at the Gobbins Visitor Center, where there is free parking, and the tour includes your return shuttle transfer to the start of the walk itself.

You can also reach the Gobbins Visitor Center by public transport from Belfast. From Belfast you can take a train to Ballycarry, which is on the Belfast – Larne line. Ballycarry is around a mile from the Gobbins Visitor Center, which you can either do on foot (it is around 20 minutes), or you could take a taxi from Ballycarry.

Note that we’ve not been able to find a guided tour from Belfast which includes the Gobbins, so you will need to drive or take public transit.

Dublin is the capital city of the Republic of Ireland, and is a tremendously fun city to visit. There’s loads to do here, from trying Irish whiskey, to learning about the Irish Emigration, to finding out about some of Ireland’s greatest writers.

There’s also beautiful architecture, lovely old library rooms, and of course – lots of Guinness to be drunk!

A day in Dublin will definitely give you a good idea of what the city has to offer, from the party-centric vibe of the Temple Bar, to the bustling city center shopping streets, to the museums and other cultural attractions.

We’ve written guides for spending 2 days in Dublin and 3 days in Dublin , which should give you some options for your day here. We also have a guide to whether the Dublin Pass is worth it , which might help you save money if you are planning on visiting a number of paid attractions like the Guinness Storehouse.

Dublin is also easily visitable from Belfast, and it has quite a different feel in our opinion, making it very much worth of inclusion on our guide to day trips from Belfast.

How to Get to Dublin from Belfast

You can drive from Belfast to Dublin very easily, with the 105 mile journey usually taking in the region of 2 hours, depending on traffic.

However, as we don’t think you’ll be using your car in Dublin city and parking can be expensive, our advice would be to take public transport. There are regular bus and train services that run between Dublin and Belfast, with journey times of around 2 hours.

You can take a train or bus directly into the city centre of Dublin, so you can start sightseeing straight away.

Tours to Dublin from Belfast

We aren’t currently aware of any tours from Belfast to Dublin, although these have run in the past so do check.

Alternatively, you could take public transport to Dublin, and then take a guided tour in the city itself. For example, this is a guided bike tour of Dublin , and this is a guided walking tour of the city .

Londonderry

The city of Derry, officially known as Londonderry , is the second largest city in Northern Ireland after Belfast. It’s in the north-west of the country, near the border with the Republic of Ireland.

There is a lot to see and do in Derry. The city is particularly known for its 17th century city walls, a massive construction which encircles the older part of the city. They are the only intact city walls surviving in Ireland. Access to Derry’s old centre is achieved through the seven gates.

You can also walk atop the walls for nice views of the surrounding area, they are free to access and the whole route is a mile in length.

Of course, there is more to Derry than the walls. Take time to visit the Tower Museum, see the beautiful Guild Hall, cross the Peace Bridge, check out local street art, and explore the 17th century St. Columb’s cathedral.

Note that Derry was seriously affected by the Troubles , and is often regarded as the location where this conflict began. This time of violence had a lasting impact on the city, causing great divisions. The Peace Bridge is one symbol of the city trying to repair these divides.

How to get from Belfast to Derry

From Belfast to Londonderry it’s around a 70 mile drive on good roads, which averages between 90 minutes and 2 hours, depending on road traffic.

There are also regular trains, with a direct train from Belfast to Derry taking just over two hours. There are also direct bus services which take around two hours.

Tours of Derry

There is at least one tour of Derry departing from Belfast, which is this one .

As with Dublin, you could also make your own way to the city, and then take a guided tour once there. For example, there’s this walking tour , and this private tour of the walled city .

Carrickfergus

If you’re looking for a shorter day trip from Belfast, then you might consider a trip to Carrickfergus. This town is just over ten miles from Belfast along the Causeway Coastal Route, and is easy to reach by public transport or car.

Carrickfergus dates from the middle ages, and due to its important location on the water, it was for a time the largest city in the area. It was highly defended, with a large city wall encircling the town, as well as an impressive castle sitting on the waters edge.

Carrickfergus Castle , which was built in 1177, is still in very good condition, and a visit here is a highlight of a trip to Carrickfergus. It’s the best preserved Norman-style castle in Ireland, and you can tour rooms inside the castle as well as visit the walls. There’s a small entrance fee for doing so, but it’s well worth it.

As well as the castle, there are a number of other attractions worth visiting in Carrickfergus. We recommend you visit the excellent and free museum in the town center, the remains of the old town walls, and the beautiful St. Nicholas Church, first established in the 12th century.

Once you are in Carrickfergus, all the town’s main attractions are within walking distance of each other. A trip to Carrickfergus can make for an interesting and relaxing day out of Belfast.

How to get from Belfast to Carrickfergus

Carrickfergus is only a short distance from Belfast, with the drive here taking 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

You can also travel here by public transport. The train from Belfast takes less than 20 minutes, and direct bus services take around half an hour. See train and bus times here .

Tours of Carrickfergus from Belfast

We aren’t aware of any tours that specifically visit Carrickfergus from Belfast; however, some of the tours that run along the Causeway Coast and up to the Giant’s Causeway include a stop at Carrickfergus such as this full day tour or this full day tour .

Often this is just a quick photograph stop for Carrickfergus Castle, so if you do want to spend some time here, read the tour description carefully to be sure it includes time to visit some of the attractions. You might find it easier to just take a bus or train if Carrickfergus is your main aim.

Rathlin Island

One of our favourite places to visit whilst we were driving the Causeway Coastal Route was Rathlin Island. This small island is found off the north coast of Northern Ireland, and can be accessed by a ferry service which operates regularly from Ballycastle.

There are a number of reasons to visit Rathlin Island, other than it’s quiet and laid back atmosphere. The predominant reason for visiting is to go to the RSPB Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre , where you can see a huge variety of breeding seabirds in the spring and summer months. Species include puffin, guillemot, kittiwake, razorbill, and fulmar.

The reserve is operated by the RSPB, and is open to visitors from April through to September. When it’s open, there are volunteers on site who have telescopes and binoculars available to aid in bird watching, plus they can help you with bird identification. There’s a small museum on site as well, with information about the lighthouse here.

There’s a small fee to visit the RSPB reserve, which is free for RSPB members.

As well as bird watching, Rathlin has pretty churches, a cave where Robert the Bruce hid from the English, a lovely beach, and the opportunity to see seals. If you have time, we can highly recommend spending the night on the island, as we did.

How to get from Belfast to Rathlin Island

Rathlin can only be accessed by ferry, with ferries running from Ballycastle. The trip across takes 25 minutes on the fast ferry, and 40 minutes on the slower ferry. Note that unless you live on the island, or have a blue disability badge on your vehicle, you generally won’t be able to take a car across. There is a bus service on the island to get you around, or you can walk or bike.

From Belfast to Ballycastle, if you are planning on visiting Rathlin for the day, our recommendation would be to drive. The drive will take you just over an hour, and you can park at the Ballycastle ferry terminal.

It is possible to take public transport to do a day trip to Rathlin, but it will take a couple of hours each way by bus, so this will end up being quite a long day. You’ll want to leave early to have enough time on the island. Still, it is possible!

We aren’t aware of any tours that visit Rathlin Island from Belfast for the day, however you may be able to book a private tour, or find a local tour company that offers group tours.

Hillsborough Castle

If you prefer your castles to be of the regal variety, then you might want to pop along to Hillsborough Castle as a day trip from Belfast.

This castle, found around 30 minutes drive south of Belfast, is the official residence in Northern Ireland of the British monarch, as well as the residence for the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.

The “castle” is not really a castle, but actually a Georgian country house which dates from the 18th century. It was built for an Irish peer, the Marquess of Downshire, who was a secretary of state himself. His family sold it on to the British government in 1922.

From 1924 until 1973 the house served as the official residence for the Governor of Northern Ireland. It has also been the location for a number of key political talks, hence it has features not normally found on a Georgian House, like bulletproof glass!

The castle and its grounds have been open to the public to visit since 2014, and are managed by Historic Royal Palaces, who also manage the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace and Kensington Palace, among others.

The castle is open every day (although can close for official use), and you can take a guided tour of the castle interior. You can also explore the stunning gardens, which span 100 acres around the property. You can see opening times here.

There’s an entry fee for visiting, and you can buy your ticket online in advance here .

How to get from Belfast to Hillsborough Castle

Hillsborough Castle is in the town of Hillsborough, which is around 13 miles southwest of Belfast. You can drive, with the trip taking around 20 minutes, depending on traffic. There is no on-site parking, so you will need to find parking in Hillsborough. During busier months, a park and ride service operates.

You can also reach Hillsborough Castle easily by public transport, with the bus journey taking 20 – 30 minutes depending on the time of day.

We are not aware of any guided tours that visit Hillsborough Castle from Belfast for the day.

Lough Neagh

If you’d like to visit some beautiful Northern Irish countryside, then you might want to spend the day exploring the area of Lough Neagh .

Lough Neagh is the largest lake by area in the British Isles. It’s around 20 miles long and 9 miles wide, and there is a huge amount to see and do around its shores, from forest parks to historical buildings to wildlife attractions.

Lough Neagh being a large body of water, it’s also possible to partake in water-based activities, including boat tours, kayaking, and fishing. You can see more on the official website here .

How to Visit Lough Neagh from Belfast

Being so large, you’ll want to identify some key points of interest for your visit to Lough Neagh, so you can make the most of your day trip. We’d also recommend that the lake is probably best visited by car, so you can explore at your leisure.

From Belfast to the eastern shore of the Lough (closest to the city), it’s around 25 miles, or a half hour drive, depending on traffic. Fully circumnavigating the lake by car would take at least two hours of driving.

Depending on where you want to go around the Lough, it is also possible to travel here by public transport from Belfast, particularly to the towns around Lough Neagh like Crumlin. See times and options here .

There are also tours that visit Lough Neagh. We recommend looking at Lough Neagh Tours , which offers tours of the highlights of Lough Neagh, with departures from Belfast.

St. Patrick’s Trail

Last but not least in our guide to the best day trips from Belfast is a trip through Saint Patrick’s country. As you are likely aware, St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland, and there are a number of locations throughout Ireland which are associated with him.

Many of these are easily reachable from Belfast, and there is even a trail you can follow in Northern Ireland to visit these – the St. Patrick’s trail. This links 15 sites associated with the saint together into a manageable driving route.

This trail starts just to the east of Belfast in Bangor, and runs for 92 miles, through Newtownards, Downpatrick, Newry and Armagh. Along the way you’ll see the slopes of the mountain that St. Patrick tended his sheep on, the location of the first church he founded, and his grave at Downpatrick.

There’s an excellent guide to the Saint Patrick’s trail in Northern Ireland here , which also has a good map you can use to find all the key locations. The trail is do-able in a day if you drive yourself, but we’d suggest doing it in 2 days if you want to stop and visit most of the sites and attractions.

If you have less time, then we’d suggest heading to the St. Patrick Centre in Downpatrick to start with, which will give you an excellent overview of the Saint’s life.

How to Follow St. Patrick’s Trail from Belfast

If you want to visit all the major sites along the St. Patrick’s Trail from Belfast, then your best option is to drive a car. This will let you see all the sites easily and stop at your leisure.

In theory it would also be possible to visit some of the sites by public transport from Belfast, although to follow the whole trail would be more challenging as there are not always public transport options.

We would perhaps suggest picking a few highlights that you want to visit along the route and seeing if it’s possible to visit them with public transport.

If you are only visiting one place, we’d recommend heading to Downpatrick to visit St. Patrick’s Grave at Down Cathedral , the St Patrick’s Centre , and the Down Country Museum .

Downpatrick can be reached by bus from Belfast, the journey takes around an hour and is direct. You can see times and prices here .

Tours of St. Patrick’s Trail

We haven’t found any specific tours that follow the St. Patrick’s Trail in its entirety.

The closest option we have found which is currently available is this half-day walking tour which does pass a number of the key sights on the trail, including Saul Church and Inch Abbey.

Getting around Northern Ireland

There are a variety of ways you do day trips from Belfast – you can take a tour, you can hire a car, or for some of our suggested day trips you can take public transport.

For public transport, Northern Ireland has both rail and bus services. Usually these will be a little slower than driving yourself, and less direct than taking a tour. However, for travellers on a budget, or for destinations closer to Belfast, public transport can definitely be a good option.

Bus and train timetables and destinations can be found on the translink website , where you can also find prices and book tickets.

Where to Stay in Belfast

If you’re going to be basing yourself in Belfast while you take one or more of these days trips from the city, then you’re going to need somewhere to stay! We’ve done the research for you, and below are some of our preferred options for where to stay in Belfast.

• The Bullitt Hotel – this centrally located 4* hotel is where we stayed on a recent trip to Belfast. Rooms are spacious, there are 3 bars on site (including an excellent rooftop bar), and there’s evening entertainment. A great option if you want to be in the heart of the action.
• Belfast International Youth Hostel – One of the best centrally located hostels in Belfast in our opinion. It offers private shared and private dormitory rooms, an on-site cafe, linens, a communal kitchen, a breakfast menu, self-service laundry, and even free parking (rare in Belfast!).
• easyHotel  – This well-rated budget hotel offers no-frills but comfortable rooms and a 24 hour staffed desk. A great central option for those on a tighter budget.
• Jurys Inn – This 4-star hotel offers spacious rooms, breakfast buffet, bar, and restaurant. We have stayed in a number of Jury’s Inns and have always found that they provide good value for money.
• Titanic Hotel Belfast – This 4-star hotel sits within a historical building that was once the Harland and Wolff headquarters and drawing offices (the company that designed and built the RMS Titanic!). A beautiful historical property that offers Art Deco themed rooms, Titanic memorabilia, bar, restaurant, and room service. We’ve stayed here and very much enjoyed our stay.
• The Merchant Hotel – A beautiful 5-star historic luxury hotel in the heart of Belfast. Found in a beautiful 1860 building, the hotel offers all the luxury amenities you would expect, including a restaurant, bar and lounge, spa, hot tub, and a rooftop gymnasium.

Of course, there are lots more options in the city, at a range of price points and styles. We recommend you check out all the listings available in Belfast here . We can also recommend trying Vrbo if you’re looking for an apartment. We stayed in an apartment on our first visit to the city.

Further Reading

Well, those were some of our favourite day trips from Belfast! As you can see, there’s plenty to keep you occupied. There’s also plenty to see and do in the city itself, and we’ve written a number of guide to help you plan your time in Belfast, and across Ireland and the UK in general.

Here’s some content we think you’ll find useful for planning.

• We have an itinerary for how we think you should spend 2 days in Belfast
• We also have a detailed guide to all our favourite things to do in Belfast .
• We took a tour of Belfast’s street art , so you can get an idea of what’s on offer in the city
• We have a guide to visiting the Dark Hedges , which an make for an excellent part of a day trip from Belfast
• We also have a guide to all the Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland
• If you plan on taking a road trip, see our guide to the highlights of the Causeway Coastal Route , which runs from Belfast right around the coast to Londonderry
• Heading south across the border, we have guides to spending 2 days in Dublin and 3 days in Dublin
• We have an overview of how much it costs to travel in the UK to help you with budget planning
• For longer trips in the UK, we have a guide to spending 2 weeks in the UK , which includes time in Belfast
• We have a guide to driving in the UK , in case you choose to hire a car and do a road trip
• The official Visit Belfast website , which has lots of information to help you plan your visit
• If you are looking for a guidebook, we recommend the Lonely Planet guide to Ireland, the Rick Steves Northern Ireland guide  or the DK Eyewitness Ireland Travel Guide

And that’s it! Hopefully you found this post useful. As always, if you have any feedback or questions, do let us know in the comments below.

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There are 2 comments on this post

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Tash M says

6th August 2019 at 12:26 am

Ireland looks so beautiful! I’ve always wanted to visit the Giant’s Causeway, but I hadn’t heard of The Gobbins before and it looks like a good addition to an itinerary. Cheers!

Laurence Norah says

7th August 2019 at 2:49 pm

Our pleasure! Enjoy your trip 🙂

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17 Best Day Trips From Belfast (Cost, Transport and Tips For 2024)

Categories Antrim , Down , Where To Go

With the popularity of Game of Thrones, Northern Ireland is becoming a must-see for fans. But Northern Ireland is more than GOT’s popular filming locations . In fact, there are several day trips from Belfast aside from these filming locations.

So if you manage to visit Belfast , here’s our list of the top day tours from the city.

Things you'll find in this article

How to get to Giant’s Causeway from Belfast

How to get to game of thrones filming locations from belfast, how to get to carrick-a-rede rope bridge from belfast, how to get to dunluce castle from belfast, how to get to newry from belfast, how to get to londonderry from belfast, how to get to portstewart from belfast, 8. dark hedges, 9. the gobbins cliff path, 10. portrush, 11. mourne mountains, 12. donegal, 13. carrickfergus, 14. the glens of antrim, 15. bushmills, 16. rathlin island, 17. the sperrin mountains.

1. Giant’s Causeway

Chrisrine Rogador at Giant’s Causeway

The  Giant’s Causeway  is an area of about 40,000 interlocking  basalt columns , the result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national nature reserve. It is located in Northern Ireland and it is about a 3-4 hour drive from Dublin on a rental car .

Admission Fee

The access to the Giant’s Causeway is free however the visitor center charges £12.50 per adult and £31.00 for a family of 4.

Take a Translink UK bus (#218) from Belfast Bridge Street to Coleraine. The trip takes 1 hour and 40 minutes and it costs between €12-18 for a one-way trip or €24-36 for a round trip bus fare. Buses leave every 2 hours.

From Coleraine, take a   Translink UK bus (#172) to Aird Giants Causeway The Nook. The trip takes about 40 minutes for €5-8 per trip or €10-16 for a round-trip fare and buses leave every hour. Then walk about 1.4 km to get to the Giant’s Causeway. In total, you might have to spend between €34-52 on transport alone.

Or you can also take this Giant’s Causeway day tour from Belfast for just €35 per person. It also includes a trip to Game of Thrones filming locations and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. To book it, click here .

Opening Hours

The opening hours varies depending on the season. For updated opening hours, click here .

Contact Information

Location: 44 Causeway Road Bushmills County Antrim BT57 8SU Northern Ireland

Phone: (028) 2073 1855

Email: [email protected]

2. Game of Thrones Day Tour from Belfast

Dark Hedges, Image by Christine Rogador

Game of Thrones grew in popularity for the past 7 years. The TV series focuses on medieval realism which shows several medieval and exotic locations. These locations also grew in popularity that tours to these locations have become coveted by loyal fans. In Northern Ireland alone, there are over 10 locations where you can experience Game of Thrones in real life.

Depending which filming locations you’re looking into, taking public transport might not be a good idea due to the distance between locations. Renting a car might be a better option to make sure you visit all the places.

Or you can also take this Game of Thrones day tour from Belfast for just €47 per person. To book it, click here .

3. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Carrick A Rede, Image by Christine Rogador

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a popular rope bridge in Ballintoy and it connects the mainland to the island of Carrickarede. The bridge was mainly used by fishermen who frequent the area for salmon but salmon slowly declines in the area. As a result, the bridge is now mainly used for tourism.

The location of the bridge overlooks one of the best coastal views in Northern Ireland. Currently, visitors can access the bridge for a fee.

To cross the bridge, you will have to pay €6.5.

Take a Translink UK bus (#218) from Belfast Bridge Street to Coleraine. The trip takes 1 hour and 40 minutes and it costs between €12-18 for one-way trip or €24-36 for a round trip bus fare. Buses leave every 2 hours. From Coleraine, take a   Translink UK bus (#172, #402, #402a) to Ballintoy Carrick-a-Rede Rope and get off at Ballintoy Youth Hostel. The trip takes about an hour for €6-9 per trip or €12-18 for a round-trip fare and buses leave every hour. Then walk about 1.7 km or 20 minutes to get to Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. In total, you might have to spend between €36-54 on transport alone.

Or you can also take this Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge day tour from Belfast for just €35 per person. It also includes a trip to Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones filming locations. To book it, click here .

4. Dunluce Castle

Dunluce Castle, Image by Christine Rogador

Dunluce Castle is now a ruined medieval castle in Northern Ireland. It is located on the edge of rocks on the coast of County Antrim.   Richard Óg de Burgh, 2nd Earl of Ulster , built the first castle in Dunluce. From then on, this Irish castle witnessed a long and tumultuous history between Scotland, Ireland, and the UK.

Dunluce castle is also said to be the inspiration for Cair Paravel, the fictional castle in Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis . It is also the film location of Game of Thrones for the Seat of House Greyjoy of the great castle of Pyke.

Adult – £5.50, Child (age 4 – 16) – £3.50

Senior citizen £3.50

Student and Benefit Claimants (ID required) – £3.50

Child under 4 – Free

Family (up to 5 members, including up to 3 adults) – £15.00

Group rate(10 plus, must be pre-booked) – £4 per person

Take a Translink UK bus (#218) from Belfast Bridge Street to Coleraine. The trip takes 1 hour and 40 minutes and it costs between €12-18 for one-way trip or €24-36 for a round trip bus fare. Buses leave every 2 hours. From Coleraine, take a   Translink UK bus (#402, #402a) to Dunluce Castle. The trip takes about 25 minutes for €4-6 per trip or €8-12 for a round-trip fare and buses leave every 2 hours. Then walk about 400 meters or 4 minutes to get to Dunluce Castle. In total, you might have to spend between €32-48 on transport alone.

Or you can also take this Dunluce day tour from Belfast for just €35 per person. It also includes a trip to Game of Thrones filming locations, Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. To book it, click here .

Daily: 10 am – 4 pm (last entry strictly at 3:30 pm)

Location: 87 Dunluce Road, Bushmills, County Antrim , BT57 8UY

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (028) 2073 1938

5. Newry day trip from Belfast

Newry is a charming city between the counties of Armagh and Down . Only 55 km away, it is one of the best day trips from Belfast due to its proximity.

It is one of the oldest cities in Ireland and has a rich and colorful heritage. Aside from being a market town, it is also popular for its beautiful Georgian townhouses lining up the city center.

Take a train (#5) from Lanyon Place, Belfast to Newry. The trip takes about an hour for €8-12 for a one-way trip or €16-24 for a round-trip fare. Or take a Translink UK bus (#238) from Belfast Europa Bus Centre to Newry. The trip takes about an hour for €9-13 for a one-way trip or €18-26 for a round-trip fare. The bus leaves every hour. In total, you might have to spend between €34-50 for transport alone.

6. Londonderry

Derry or Londonderry is one of the finest examples of a walled city in Europe. It is also the only remaining walled city in Ireland. Known for its turbulent past, the city of Derry survived the Tudor conquest of Ireland, the Wars of the Three Kingdoms, the Glorious Revolution, Siege of Derry, the Irish War of Independence, and the Troubles.

These historic events defined the past of this unassuming city. So if you like to learn more of Irish history, this day tour from Belfast is a must.

Take a train (#5) from Lanyon Place, Belfast to Londonderry . The trip takes about 2 hours for €13-19 for a one-way trip or €26-38 for a round-trip fare. Or take a Translink UK bus (#212) from Belfast Europa Bus Centre to Altnagelvin. The trip takes about 2 hours for €14-20 for a one-way trip or €28-40 for a round-trip fare. The bus leaves every hour. In total, you might have to spend between €40-58 on transport alone.

7. Portstewart

This small town in Northern Ireland is a popular surfing spot and seaside resort. Although small, this town is prosperous and known as the holiday town for the middle class and affluent Northern Irish people. The property prices in this area are also the highest in Northern Ireland. So if you want to know how rich people live, then add this day trip from Belfast to your itinerary in Ireland .

Take a Translink UK bus (#218) from Belfast Bridge Street to Coleraine. The trip takes 1 hour and 40 minutes and it costs between €12-18 for one-way trip or €24-36 for a round trip bus fare. Buses leave every 2 hours. From Coleraine, take a   Translink UK bus (#278, #402a) to Portstewart Promenade. The trip takes about 10 minutes for €3-5 per trip or €6-10 for a round-trip fare and bus leaves once a week so plan accordingly. In total, you might have to spend between €30-46 on transport alone.

On the outside, it doesn’t show up to have much. However, if you step out of your car and take a look around, you’ll see why it’s lured photographers, painters, and curious visitors for decades.

The Dark Hedges are extremely mesmerizing. However, tourism has taken its toll over the years, and you might wish to visit soon before it all vanishes.

The tree limbs have been cut during the previous year or two, making the tunnel a little less striking. That doesn’t mean it’s not beautiful; you simply have to look a little harder to locate the ideal area.

How to get to Dark Hedges from Belfast

There are three ways to go from Belfast to Dark Hedges: train, taxi, or car. If you don’t have a car, the quickest way to get from Belfast to Dark Hedges is by train, which requires 1 hour and 30 minutes and costs between 37.94 USD and 52.40 USD.

Without a car, the quickest way to go from Belfast to Dark Hedges is via taxi, which costs between 162.62 USD and 198.76 USD and takes 50 minutes.

Alternatively, you can take this Tour from Belfast for 65.34 USD and see the splendor of Dark Hedges. The journey also takes you to the Giant’s Causeway and Dunluce Castle.

The Gobbins cliff walkway, which hangs from basalt cliffs straight over the Irish Sea, is a labor of love. The Gobbins, as lovely as it is, is more than meets the eye. Sedimentary rock dominates this basalt beach, hinting at conditions from the Triassic and Jurassic eras.

Surprisingly, a fossil discovered in Larne dates from a time when this region of Ireland would have been fully buried under a warm, shallow sea millions of years ago.

If you are not wearing proper footwear, including hiking boots with solid tread and ankle support, you may be denied access.

How to get to The Gobbins Cliff Path from Belfast

Drive the A2 Causeway Coastal Highway from Belfast to Larne if you have a car. Proceed through Carrickfergus, then take right onto B90 Island Lower Road and search for the brown signs. It is the cheapest method to go from Belfast to The Gobbins, costing between $6.14 and $9.03 USD and taking 29 minutes.

Take this tour for $339.80 for a group of no more than two people. Carrickfergus and its spectacular century castles are also included in the tour.

Portrush is a tiny beach tourist town on Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coastal Route. The town center of Portrush is located upon a mile-long peninsula named Ramore Head, which points north into the Atlantic Ocean. The majority of the hotels, restaurants, and taverns are located here.

If you’re seeking for exciting things to do in Portrush, consider walking from Portrush Harbour to Saint Patrick’s Well in Portstewart.

Despite being roughly 3 hours long, this is a pleasant stroll that covers a section of the Causeway Coast Way Walk.

How to get to Portrush from Belfast

If you have a car, travel the M2 to Antrim, then the A26 to Ballymena, and finally the M2/A26 to Portrush. Continue the yellow and digital signage for Public Parking as you reach Coleraine.

If you want to go by bus, the regular 218 Goldline coach journey from Belfast is available. The train arrives at Coleraine Rail and Bus Station, from where you can simply transfer to an Ulsterbus bus to Portrush.

The cheapest mode of transportation from Belfast to Portrush is by rail, which costs between 17.17 and 25.30 USD and takes 1 hour and 40 minutes.

You can book this group tour of six people and visit Portrush for $372.47. This trip includes a visit to the Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and a Flexible Drop-Off, leaving you with plenty of time to discover Belfast’s highlights.

The Mourne Mountains form a mountain range in County Down. It encompasses the tallest peaks in Northern Ireland as well as the province of Ulster.

The Mournes is a geographical region with remarkable natural beauty that has been suggested as Northern Ireland’s first national park. The National Trust owns a portion of the region, which attracts a huge number of people each year.

How to get to Mourne Mountains from Belfast

There are 4 options for getting from Belfast to the Mourne Mountains: rail, cab, bus, or automobile. The distance between Belfast and Mourne Mountains is roughly 60.8 kilometers. Driving from Belfast to the Mourne Mountains takes around 55 minutes.

Without a car, the best way to go from Belfast to Mourne Mountains is by rail and cab, which takes 1 hour and 30 minutes and costs 50.59 USD to 66.85 USD. Alternatively, for 71.88 USD, you may book an Electric Bike Experience and learn about the history of the Mourne Mountains.

Discover stunning vistas at every turn in gorgeous Donegal and recharge your batteries with a trip to one of Ireland’s most picturesque regions.

The enormous Derryveagh Mountains govern the wild countryside; explore its trekking routes and see Lough Eske’s shoreline. Make time to see some of Ireland’s loveliest beaches, including the white sands of Portsalon Beach.

The months of May to September are ideal for visiting Donegal and Ireland in general. Every year in September, I visit Donegal, and the weather is always dry and bright, which is all you can expect for while visiting Ireland.

How to get to Donegal from Belfast

You may travel from Belfast to Donegal via bus, rail, or vehicle. Driving from Belfast to Donegal takes 2 hours and 2 minutes and costs between 34.33 and 50.59 USD.

There is no specific bus service between Belfast and Donegal. However, operations leaving Jury’s Inn and reaching  Donegal Abbey Hotel through Letterkenny take around 3 hours and 15 minutes, involving transfers.

Carrickfergus, or simply Carrick, is a significant town on the coast of County Antrim, close to Belfast City.

As among Ireland’s oldest towns, it is most known for its iconic Carrickfergus Castle, one of the finest maintained in the country. Carrickfergus is an excellent place to start visiting Northern Ireland because it’s only a short drive from Belfast.

You may discover additional information about the history of Carrickfergus Castle and appreciate the excellently preserved Great Tower by attending a guided tour. Otherwise, you may see the castle from the town’s shoreline, either during the day or at night.

How to get to Carrickfergus from Belfast

You may get from Belfast to Carrickfergus via rail, bus, taxi, or vehicle. There is a direct bus that runs from Belfast Royal Avenue Tesco to Carrickfergus Joymount. Services run every hour and every day. The travel takes around 50 minutes.

There is also a direct train that runs from Belfast Lanyon Place to Carrickfergus. Services run every hour and on a daily basis. The travel takes around 26 minutes.

The cheapest method to go from Belfast to Carrickfergus is to drive, which costs between $3.43 and $5.24 and takes around 15 minutes. Alternatively, you may book this trip and see Carrickfergus Castle for 39.21 USD. Giant’s Causeway, Cushendun, and Carnlough Harbour are also included in the itinerary.

The Glens of Antrim are inherently unique within a few square miles, you may experience glacial valleys, sandy beaches, towering cliffs, tundra plateau, woodland glens, waterfalls, and lovely settlements.

The Antrim Plateau is divided into nine glens or valleys that radiate to the shore. The people that live in the glens are mostly related to native Irish as well as Hebridean Scots. The Glens are a prominent tourist destination in north Antrim and a region of great natural beauty.

How to get to The Glens of Antrim from Belfast

There are three options for getting from Belfast to Glens of Antrim: rail, cab, or automobile. Driving from Belfast to Glens of Antrim is the cheapest option, costing between 18.07 and 27.10 USD and taking 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Without a car, the best way to go from Belfast to Glens of Antrim is by train and cab, which takes 1 hour and 50 minutes and costs $75.89 USD to 99.38 USD.

You may also book this Tour to see the Glens of Antrim for 36.59 USD. The tour includes stops at Carrickfergus Castle and the Giant’s Causeway.

Bushmills is a tiny settlement on Northern Ireland’s North Coast in County Antrim. The community of Bushmills receives its name from the Bush River, which passes through it, and a big watermill was erected there in the early 17th century.

Bushmills has historical value in addition to its famous distillery. As a market hamlet, the area prospered, and Main Street reflected its rich history through various landmarks. The Macnaghten Family War Memorial, for example, serves as a poignant reminder of the town’s involvement in conflicts.

The Old Bushmills Distillery is a visible landmark that provides an insider’s perspective on the whiskey-making procedure, while the River Bush is great for romantic walks and is easily reached from the Bushmills Inn.

How to get to Bushmills from Belfast

The easiest way to get there from Belfast is to take the A2 Route, which weaves its way down the coast via some of Ireland’s most stunning landscape. This journey takes around 2 hours to complete directly, however, it is worth taking the extra time for a rest along the way.

Driving from Belfast to Bushmills is the cheapest option, costing between 18.06 USD and 28.90 USD and taking 1 hour and 5 minutes.

There is a direct bus that runs from Belfast Pottinger Entry High Street to Bushmills War Memorial. Services run twice a day and are available every day. The trip takes around an hour and 30 minutes.

Rathlin Island can only be reached by ferry and is situated 10 kilometers off the coast of Antrim. There are multiple crossings from Ballycastle Harbour each day, weather permitting.

Rathlin Island’s shoreline is lined with sea stacks, which provide spectacular views. Sea stacks are rock features that rise upright in the water. They are the remains of headlands that have been worn by water and wind as time passed.

Quick Tip: While there are some bus services that frequent the area, renting a vehicle or hiring a guide/driver is a preferable alternative; this will give you more freedom, make your journey more enjoyable, and, if guided, bring an added level of service.

How to get to Rathlin Island from Belfast

To reach the island, use the Rathlin Island Ferry. The Rathlin Island ferry connects Rathlin Island to Ballycastle.

To guarantee availability and reserve your spot on the ship, you must purchase tickets in advance. Tickets and passes must be presented for examination on demand by a member of the ferry operator’s crew or personnel or a Department of Infrastructure monitoring officer. Ticket costs range from $4.31 to $17.22.

Alternatively, for 587.85 USD, you may book this Group Tour of 3 that includes a tour of Ballycastle and information on Rathlin Island.

Despite possessing one of Ireland’s biggest highland tracts, the Sperrins range is a hidden gem, undisturbed and so magnificent that it has been declared an Area of exceptional natural beauty.

The Sperrins are a walking enthusiast’s dream. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely afternoon stroll or a strenuous climb up into the hills, you’ll discover it all here. Moderate hikes are ideal for undulating hills, calm valleys, and swampy uplands.

How to get to The Sperrin Mountains from Belfast

If you have a car, drive the M2 to Toomebridge, then to Cookstown via Toomebridge. Take the A505 route to Omagh from Cookstown. Travel approximately thirteen miles to Creggan Crossroads, then go 110 meters after the gas station until you reach the first right turn to An Creagan Visitor Centre.

The quickest method to go from Belfast to Sperrin Mountains is by car, which costs between 18.06 USD and 28.90 USD and takes 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Or you can also take this Derry/ Londonderry day trip from Belfast for just €78 per person. And the tour includes transport getting around Derry/ Londonderry and museum entrances. To book it, click here.

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries for the past 8 years. I also lived in 3 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia to Africa. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.

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15 Exciting Day Trips from Belfast You Need to Take

Belfast is an incredible city to explore, but sometimes it’s fun to get out and discover a new area. It’s an excellent base for adventures around Northern Ireland, and there are many day trips from Belfast to go on.

While there are so many things to do in Belfast itself, you can extend your trip by using the city as a base while you go out for a day or two to a surrounding area. From famous Irish landmarks to new cities waiting to be explored, you’ll love taking a Belfast day trip.

Here are 15 places in Ireland that you’ll want to check out for your next adventure!

Table of Contents

15 Day Trips From Belfast to Explore

Here are some of the best day trips that you can take from Belfast. It’s easiest to have your own car so you can go to some of these places, so make sure to read my tips for driving in Ireland first.

Worried about not having a rental car? Check out my guide on how to get around Ireland without a car . 

1. The Giant’s Causeway

Giant’s Causeway is one of the most popular day trips from Belfast. This geological wonder is Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site and is made up of around 40,000 basalt columns along the Northern Irish coast. It’s also an ideal thing to do with kids in Belfast if you’re staying nearby.

According to local legend, the columns formed when Irish giant Fionn mac Cumhaill and a Scottish giant named Benandonner faced off in a battle. 

It is believed that they tore up pieces of the Antrim coastline and threw them into the Irish Sea. They wanted to build a road to meet each other to engage in battle, hence the name Giant’s Causeway. It is, however, a result of an underwater volcanic eruption.

How to Get to Giant’s Causeway 

Giant’s Causeway is 60 miles (96 km) away from Belfast, and it will take you an hour without traffic to get there by car. It makes for the perfect day tour from Belfast, as you can leave early in the morning and be back before dark. 

If you prefer not to drive, there is public transport available. You can take a bus directly from Belfast, which will take about 90 minutes. 

Things to Do Near Giant’s Causeway 

This area is filled with myths and legends. Some of the other places you can visit include the Wishing Chair, Camel’s Back, and Giant’s Boot. 

You can also embark on a whiskey tasting tour at the Old Bushmills Distillery. It is believed to be the oldest whiskey distillery in the world, dating back 400 years. 

Then there’s also the Giant’s Causeway & Bushmill Railway, where you can learn more about the area’s old tramway, which opened in 1883. It was the first electric tramway in the world and operated for over 65 years. 

If you’ve got kids, you can take them to the Causeway Fun Farm for a day filled with exciting activities. 

Alternatively, you could opt for a guided tour to Giant’s Causeway in an air-conditioned tour van. 

Dublin is the dynamic capital of the Republic of Ireland. The best way to discover both Irish capitals is with a day trip from Belfast to Dublin , especially if you’re visiting this part of the world for the first time. 

Both capitals are synonymous with a dark period in Irish history known as “ The Troubles ” but have since worked hard to move forward and reinvent themselves. 

How to Get to Dublin 

You can easily drive from Belfast to Dublin, as the distance between the two cities is just 105 miles (168 km). It should take you just under two hours to get there without traffic. 

There are also regular train and bus services between the two cities, and the journey lasts around 2 hours by both services. 

Things to Do in Dublin

There is lots to see and do in Dublin in just one day . One thing you should do when visiting Dublin is to look in at one of the local Dublin pubs and try out some local food. Dublin is also home to the world-renowned Irish stout Guinness, so if you enjoy beer, be sure to give it a try. 

You can also visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn more about the history of this iconic Irish Beer. Some of Dublin’s other attractions worth seeing include the Dublin Castle, Trinity College Library, and Temple Bar. 

Be sure to walk across the Ha’Penny Bridge, which spans the River Liffey. If you want to have some fun, you can kayak under the bridge. 

For a unique experience, consider booking a bike tour of Dublin and discover the city’s hidden gems while learning fun facts about Dublin . 

3. Carrick-A-Rede Bridge

If you’re looking for something to get your adrenaline pumping, then visit the Carrick-a-Rede Bridge, one of the more famous landmarks in Ireland. This is also one of the best drives in Ireland when you come from Belfast.

The Carrick-a-Rede is a rope suspension bridge that hangs 98 feet above a rock cliff. A fun fact about Ireland is it was originally built in 1755 by fishermen, and the bridge spans 65 feet from the mainland to the small island of Carrick-a-Rede. 

How to Get to the Carrick-a-Rede Bridge from Belfast

The distance from Belfast to the Carrick-a-Rede Bridge is only 58 miles (93 km), and the journey will take you about an hour by car. If you’re looking for a more scenic option, you can take a 3-hour bus or train ride, which will take you through County Antrim.

Things to Do Near Carrick-a-Rede Bridge 

Giant’s Causeway is a short 15-minute drive away from the Carrick-a-Rede Bridge. You can also visit the Ballintoy Harbour, Dunseverick Castle, and Whitepark Bay Bridge.

You can also take the Causeway Coastal Route and stop at the Kinbane and Dunluce Castles.

This Northern Ireland tour will also take you here if you don’t have a car.

4. The Dark Hedges

Whether you’re a Game of Thrones fan or not, no trip to Northern Ireland would be complete without visiting the Dark Hedges. 

It’s one of 25 GOT filming locations in Northern Ireland. This mystical avenue is lined with beech trees that form a tunnel down Bregagh Road. 

How to Get to the Dark Hedges from Belfast 

The drive from Belfast to the Dark Hedges is a short one, as the distance between the two places is only 49 miles (78 km) and should take you about an hour. 

Alternatively, you can take a train from Belfast to Ballymoney Station, which will take about 90 minutes. You’ll then need to take a taxi from the station to the Dark Hedges, which will take another 10 minutes. 

Things to Do Near the Dark Hedges

Many tours combine a tour of the Dark Hedges with a visit to the Giant’s Causeway. If you’re not on a tour, you can still visit the Causeways along with the Ballintoy Harbour, Cushendun Caves, and Murlough Bay. 

After a long day of exploring the area, you can stop at Joey’s Bar for a pint of beer and a traditional Irish pub meal.

You can also choose to go on a Game of Thrones tour if you’d prefer to have someone else drive you.

Looking to take a scenic drive from Northern Ireland to its Irish neighbor? Then take a trip down to the beautiful County of Donegal. 

Donegal sits at the mouth of the River Eske. It is known for having the most fantastic scenery on the island, with rolling hills, stunning beaches, and dramatic cliffs. 

How to Get to Donegal from Belfast 

There are two ways to get to the town of Donegal, which is about 108 miles (173 km) from Belfast. You can travel by car or bus, both of which will take you about 2 hours. 

Things to Do in Donegal 

Donegal is filled with hidden gems and popular tourist attractions. The famous Donegal Castle was built right in the town center in 1474. 

To experience the area’s true beauty, I recommend visiting the Glenveagh National Park and Malin Point. Another must-see attraction in Donegal is the Doon Fort, which is on an island in the center of Loughadoon. 

There are also a number of beautiful beaches in the area that you can visit, like Silver Strand Beach. Check out my guide on unique things to do in Donegal for more in-depth information.

6. Carrickfergus 

Carrickfergus is a charming town that dates back to the middle ages and is located on the north shore of the Belfast Lough. 

It is home to the Carrickfergus Castle, a Norman-style castle that was built in 1177. It helped protect the town, which was the largest town in the area. 

How to Get to Carrickfergus from Belfast 

Belfast to Carrickfergus is one of the shortest day trips, as the distance between the two places is only 12 miles (19 km), and the drive will take you about 30 minutes. 

There’s a train from Belfast to Carrickfergus, which should get you there in about 20 minutes. There’s also a bus service, which should get you there in about 30 minutes. 

Things to Do in Carrickfergus

While visiting the Carrickfergus Castle is a must, you can also check out the Marine Gardens, Carrickfergus Museum, and Civic Center. 

Be sure to visit the beautiful Belfast Lough and check out the Blackhead Lighthouse as well. You can also take a stroll along Crawfordsburn Beach. 

7. Dunluce Castle 

A must-see attraction when visiting Northern Ireland is the Dunluce Castle. This historic castle dates back to the early 1500s and is situated on top of a rugged cliff, and Game of Thrones fans might also recognize it as the House of Greyjoy. 

How to Get to Dunluce Castle from Belfast 

The distance from Dunluce Castle to Belfast is about 58 miles (93 km). If you plan on driving there, the trip should take you around 70 minutes. You can also take a train or bus to the castle from Belfast, which should take about 2 hours.

Things to Do Near Dunluce Castle 

The Old Bushmills Distillery, Royal Portrush Golf Club, and Giant’s Causeway are all a short drive away from Dunluce Castle, making it one of the best day trips from Belfast.

You can also spend the day soaking up the sun at the Portrush Whiterocks Beach and visit the Dark Hedges on your way back. 

No day trip from Belfast would be complete without stopping in Derry. It is the second-largest city in Northern Ireland and is situated along the River Foyle. 

Derry is a vibrant city that has a rich history. The town is best known for its 17th-century city walls, which are still intact and have seven gates leading into the city center. 

How to Get to Derry from Belfast 

The distance between the two cities is about 70 miles (112 km), and it should take about 90 minutes to get there by car. There are also direct train and bus services between the cities, and the journey will take about 2 hours.

Things to Do in Derry 

In Derry, you can stroll along the cobblestone streets and admire the modern murals created by street artists. You’ll find a mix of craft shops, restaurants, and pubs inside this quirky village.

If you enjoy history, check out the Museum of Free Derry, which delves into the city’s rough past during The Troubles. You can also walk across the Peace Bridge and visit the Derry Craft Village in the city center. This area is one of the best places to stay in Derry when looking for accommodation.

9. The Gobbins Cliff Path

Another popular day trip from Belfast is the Gobbins Cliff Path. It is one of the most picturesque locations in Northern Ireland and part of the Causeway Coastal Route.

How to Get to the Gobbins Cliff Path 

The Gobbins Cliff Path is only 18 miles (28 km) away from Belfast, and it takes about 30 minutes to get there. 

You can also take a train or bus to Ballycarry Village and then take a taxi from there to the Gobbins Visitor Center. The whole journey should take about 40 minutes. 

Things to Do Near the Gobbins Cliff Path

Once you get to Gobbins, you can take a guided tour of the area’s intricately designed suspension bridges, caves, and tunnels. Alternatively, you could just hike around the area by yourself and enjoy the dramatic scenery surrounding you. 

10. Royal Portrush Golf Club

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There’s no better place to enjoy a game of golf than at the Royal Portrush Golf Club in County Antrim. 

Established in 1888, it boasts one of the most challenging golf courses in the world. Although it is a private golf club, it is open to visitors who book in advance. 

How to Get to the Royal Portrush Golf Club 

The Royal Portrush Golf Club is about 58 miles (93 km) from Belfast and an ideal day trip from Belfast if you love golfing. The scenic drive will take you about 70 minutes. 

Things to Do Near Royal Portrush Golf Club

Before or after a round of golf, you can take some time to visit Dunluce Castle, which is a short drive from the golf club. You could also admire the wonderful views of County Antrim from the Rinagree Coastal Park or Portrush Whiterocks Beach. 

 11. Mourne Mountains 

For one of the most amazing day trips around Northern Ireland, take a scenic drive to the Mourne Mountains. This stunning mountain range is nestled along the marvelous coastline of County Down, and it is home to Northern Ireland’s tallest mountain, the 2,700-feet high Slieve Donard.

How to Get to Mourne Mountains 

The Mourne Mountains are about 42 miles (67 km) away from Belfast, and a trip by car should take about an hour, depending on traffic. 

Things to Do Near Mourne Mountains

Once you reach the Mourne Mountains, you can hike up the Slieve Donard summit. It might be a bit tricky, but you’ll be rewarded with the best panoramic views of the Belfast Lough, Dublin Bay, and the Isle of Man. 

You can visit the nearby Tollymore Forest Park to enjoy activities like horse-riding. After a long hike, you can also cool off at one of three beaches in the Mourne Mountains area. If you’re thirsty, stop off at the Mourne Mountains Distillery. 

12. Causeway Coastal Route

One way to experience the highlights of Northern Ireland is to take the scenic Causeway Coastal Route. You can make multiple stops along the way and discover the best that the island has to offer.

How to Get Around the Causeway Coastal Route 

The Causeway Coastal Route runs for about 200 miles (321 km) around the Northern Irish coastline from Belfast down to Derry. 

You can also arrange a private tour or go on a full-day group tour to enjoy the route’s highlights.

Things to Do Along the Causeway Coastal Route

Some places where you can stop along this Northern Ireland route include Giant’s Causeway, The Dark Hedge, Carrickfergus Castle, and Bushmills Distillery. 

You can also enjoy fishing, hiking, and coasteering. If you enjoy being on the water, you can enjoy a day cruise, sea kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. 

13. The Glens of Antrim 

The Glens of Antrim is home to nine picturesque valleys and one of the most beautiful day trips from Belfast. While you could spend an entire week discovering the valleys, there is one that stands out above the rest: Glenariff Valley. 

How to Get to the Glens of Antrim 

The Glens of Antrim are about 42 miles (67 km) from Belfast, so it should take about an hour to get there by car, which is the best way.

You can also take a bus or train to Cushendun Square and take a further taxi. The journey by public transport will take just under three hours. 

Things to Do in the Glens of Antrim

The Glenariff Forest Park is a must-visit, and it offers four square miles of dense forest with lakes and picnic areas. There are also numerous hiking trails, but the most beautiful is the Waterfall Walkway, which leads to a gorgeous waterfall at the end of the path. 

14. Lisburn 

For another quick day trip, visit the neighboring town of Lisburn. The town has a fascinating history as it was one of the leading producers of linen in the 18th century. 

How to Get to Lisburn from Belfast 

Lisburn is only 9 miles (14 km) from Belfast. You can quickly drive there, or take a bus or train directly to the town center, and it should take you between 20 and 35 minutes to get there. 

Things to Do in Lisburn 

There are quite a few things you can do in Lisburn. Get to know more about the town’s history at the Irish Linens Center and Lisburn Museum. You can also visit Hillsborough Forest Park and Hillsborough Castle.

15. Lough Neagh 

To escape the chaos of the city, head over to the peaceful Lough Neagh area. It’s the largest lake in the British Isles, and there’s plenty to do in the area. Lough Neagh has it all, from historical buildings to wildlife attractions and forest parks. 

How to Get to Lough Neagh

Lough Neagh is about 19 (30 km) miles from Belfast. It will take you about 30 minutes to get there by car or 45 minutes by train or bus. 

Things to Do Near Lough Neagh

You can enjoy many water activities, including boat tours, kayaking, and fishing. You can also visit the Antrim Castle Gardens and Shane’s Castle.

Where to Stay After Belfast Day Trips

After your day of exploring, you’ll need somewhere to stay. I have a complete list of places to stay in Belfast , but here are a few recommendations:

• Ibis Hotel is in the middle of the bustling Central District so you’ll be close to shops, restaurants, and night life. (rates start at €116 per night)
• Jurys Inn is where I last stayed when I was in Belfast and I loved how affordable it was while providing free breakfast that I could grab and go. (rates start at €88 per night )
• Titanic Hotel Belfast is a fun place to stay if you love the Titanic, as you’re near the musem and shipyard. (rates start at €290 per night)

Which one of these day trips from Belfast are you looking forward to the most?

Marissa became obsessed with Ireland when she first visited in 2015, and has been back numerous times since to explore more of the Emerald Isle. She started this site to help others plan their trip to Ireland based off her experiences.

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Belfast

Day trips from belfast.

• Belfast to Bushmills
• Belfast to Ballycastle
• Belfast to Downpatrick
• Belfast to Carnlough
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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5 Best Day Trips From Belfast, Ireland

• By conorphelan
• August 16, 2020
• Category: Belfast , Northern Ireland

Belfast is a great hub to base yourself out of to explore Northern Ireland and beyond. While there enough things to do in Belfast to keep you busy, there are many amazing day trips nearby.

We’ve put together a list of the best day trips from Belfast so you can explore from the city to make your visit a memorable one!

In This Post:

1. Portstewart

Enjoy these day trips from belfast.

Portstewart is the town of choice when the sun comes out. This seaside town is flooded with people on sunny days, and for good reason!

The long seaside pathway and harbour are a great place for walking, while the Atlantic beach offers soft sand for sunbathing and waves for surfing.  Here’s all you need to know to make the day trip from Belfast.

Getting There By Train

The beautiful seaside town of Portstewart is easily accessible by train from Great Victoria Street station or Belfast Lanyon Place, trains from both stations depart every hour.

Hop on the train marked for Derry and get off at Coleraine after a 1-hour 40-minute journey, from Coleraine grab a taxi and you’ll be at Portstewart within minutes.

The train costs £19 for an adult return, but £12.70 if you travel at off-peak times (after 9.30am) You can use this handy fare calculator to see how much all rail travel will cost you.

Getting There By Car

If you would prefer to travel by car then you can take the M2 North and follow the signs, directions are straightforward enough.

Just remember, if you are planning to check out some of Portstewart’s bars then leave the car at home and hop on the train! Drinking and driving is taken seriously here, and they have similar laws to the Republic  so be smart. 

Things To Do in Portstewart

As this is a hugely popular day trip from Belfast for locals, there’s no shortage of things to do. My suggestions aren’t exhaustive, but if you’re only here for a day, you can’t miss these things.

Portstewart is so popular that we have a whole article about what to do there too!

1. Shopping on the Promenade

There’s a great selection of shops along the promenade so be sure to check them out and maybe even pick up a souvenir or two. I’d recommend the little second-hand bookshop ran by an adorable elderly couple.

Named ‘ The Book Shop ’ this store has a wide range of books and I often find myself spending a lot longer than expected to browse each section. You can also shop for jewellery that’s been handcrafted in Portstewart or pick up a cute bag from a local retailer.

2. Explore The Strand

The Strand is a great place for walking and it has some of the most spectacular views. With beautiful golden sand for miles and clear blue waters, it is a popular tourist attraction.

The beach is home to 6,000-year-old sand dunes which you can learn more about if you take a guided walk. Taking a tour of sand dunes mightn’t sound the most exciting thing in the world, but these have been designated an area of scientific interest.

Exploring the dunes is worth the time, you’ll feel as though you have stepped into another world! Go to the beach visitor centre to find out more about getting a tour. 

Where to Eat and Drink in Portstewart

My favourite part of any trip is trying out the local Irish food and lots of it! Here are a few of my personal recommendations which I hope you’ll love. 

The Anchor is probably the most popular bar in Portstewart and it’s always packed with locals. For food, you can dine in the tastefully decorated restaurant or you can grab a menu and sit in the bar area.

There is plenty to choose from on the menu but that doesn’t stop me from ordering the lasagne every single time . Honestly, it’s amazing.

However, if you want something lighter I would suggest the chowder, it comes with delicious wheaten bread. I always order a bottle of Orchard Thieves to have with my meal. What better way to wash down your food than with a cold bottle of cider?

Morelli’s

I love lunch followed by ice-cream at Morellis . They offer something for everyone, the menu has burgers, pizza, sandwiches, soups, salads and the list goes on.

In my opinion, you can’t beat the Mexican chicken panini and a nice coffee. Afterwards, if you fancy a blast from the past order a knickerbocker glory!

Just south of Belfast lies the little city of Newry. It’s a busy shopping town, but has so much more to offer than that!

The bus from Belfast departs from Europa bus station and the journey takes around 45 minutes. The bus you want to get is number 238, it will leave you off at Newry bus centre which is in a great and very central location.

Things To Do in Newry

1. Slieve Gullion Walk

Slieve Gullion Forest Park offers stunning views of the Mourne Mountains, Cooley Peninsula and more. Take one of the trails and get lost in the beauty of the forest while enjoying the calm that can only be found when you’re surrounded by nature.

There is a café that opens from 8 am to 6 pm if you fancy a coffee and a bite to eat during your visit, picnic tables can be found throughout the park if you would prefer to bring a packed lunch.

2. Buttercrane Shopping Centre And The Quays

If a shopping trip is what you’re after, then these two shopping centres are ideal! They both offer a variety of retailers and are a short distance from the bus centre. For an afternoon of shopping at your leisure Newry is the place to go.

Where To Eat And Drink in Newry

Even though it’s a pretty small city, you’re not short of places to eat here, but in my opinion, there’s only one place to go if you’re there for one day.

Bellini’s is in a great location, it’s lively and the cocktails are amazing! It is a great place to go for a meal and a drink and definitely my favourite place to eat out in Newry.

They have a “midweek madness” offer on Monday to Thursday giving you the choice of 3 courses for £15 or 2 for £12.

Try the Chicken Giovanni, it’s a delicious combination of chicken breast, champ and crispy onion rings soaked in Bushmills sauce. It’s the perfect meal to have with one (or three) of their signature cocktails.

Dublin is typically a destination on its own but it’s only two hours down the road from Belfast. As it’s a great walking city, a lot of the main attractions can be seen in just a day! 

Ireland’s capital is filled with history, restaurants, lots of pubs, city parks , and of course, great hospitality. 

Getting From Belfast to Dublin

If you want to travel to Dublin , the bus from Belfast to Dublin departs from Glengall Street, right beside the Europa Hotel and brings you right on to O’Connell Street. There are a few bus companies, but I’ve found the Aircoach to be the easiest.

The bus goes via Dublin Airport , and depart every hour pretty much all day, but check their website for the exact times. Tickets are cheaper from their website, but you can buy a ticket on the bus.

It’s £20 return if you buy in cash, or £16 if you book online. It’s often really busy so booking ahead of time is advised, especially for weekend trips.

Things To Do in Dublin

With so much to do in Dublin, it’s hard to narrow it down, but here are the choice things to do if you’re on a day trip from Belfast.

1. Kilmainham Gaol

My favourite thing to do when I visit Dublin is to immerse myself in the history of Ireland, which I feel is fitting with it being the capital and the largest city on the island. The perfect way to do this is to start your trip with a tour of Kilmainham Gaol.

The events of the 1916 rebellion lead to Kilmainham Gaol are one of the most important places in the foundation of the Irish Republic.

Jump on a bus at O’Connell street, either the number 13 or 40, it will take you straight to the gaol. You can take a tour for 8 euro which is a bargain for the amount of information you get on the tour.

From Henry Joy McCracken to the War of Independence, the tour will give you an in-depth knowledge of Ireland’s political past. The tour groups are small so you need to book tickets in advance. You can get tickets here .

2. O’Connell Street

O’Connell Street is a great place for shopping with a huge variety of stores to choose from. Of course any Irish shopper, the fact that there is a Penneys will be enough to attract them!

Penny’s is the place to go if you want to pick up some clothes for next to nothing. I can’t tell you how often I’ve run in and bought a cheap pair of socks when I was caught out in the rain in soaking shoes!

Before you go shopping though I recommend looking for the O’Connell monument at the south end of the street a tribute to the great orator Daniel O’Connell. On O’Connell street also is the GPO a landmark best known for its role in the 1916 Easter Rising. Look closely at the column and you’ll find them still pocked with bullet marks.

They also opened a museum inside the GPO, and it’s well worth a visit. It’s only €12 to enter and you can easily spend a few hours looking around.

3. The Temple Bar

There are tons of pubs to choose from in Dublin , especially in the Temple Bar Area — this is the most popular area of Dublin for tourists to stay .

Grab a drink at The Temple Bar, even though it’s a bit pricey, their sandwiches are so worth it! They also have a huge range of seafood on offer. 

4. Giant’s Causeway & Game of Thrones 

Anyone coming to Northern Ireland has to be aware that loads of HBO’s Game of Thrones series was filmed here. You can take some amazing tours of the locations and relive your favourite character’s best moments!

I recommend this tour as it covers a lot of the North’s beauty in one trip. If you are a Game of Thrones fan, then it’s a double bonus as you get to follow in the footsteps of the much-loved characters, but even if you’re not, you’ll still appreciate the sights.

This tour allows you to visit the impressive Giant’s Causeway otherwise known and the “8th Wonder of the World”.

You’ll also explore the famous Dark Hedges, Ballintoy Harbor, and Larrybane Quarry before continuing on the coastal route back to Belfast. This journey boasts some spectacular views.

This is easily one of the best tours you can do from Belfast, even if you’re not a Game of Thrones fan, the locations are truly stunning. Find out more about the tour here .

If you want to go for a few drinks after you arrive back in Belfast, then check out our post on the best bars in Belfast for a memorable night out! You have plenty to choose from.

Right up in the very north of the north, Derry is a city that should not be missed when visiting Northern Ireland.

Getting From Belfast to Derry

From Belfast, the city of Derry is only a train journey away! As mentioned previously in this post the two main train stations are Great Victoria Street and Belfast Lanyon Place. This train is the same one you would take to get to Portstewart with Derry being the last stop.

Things To Do in Derry

Derry is an ancient city, and walking up and down the hills here is certainly a workout. The walk around the city walls is really stunning and worth the uphill battle. There are numerous things to do in Derry , here are a few standouts.

1. Derry City Tours

This walking tour will tell you the story of Derry and its famous 17th-century walls and their purpose. It also highlights the North’s troubled past and how the city was affected, this tour is informative and will educate the visitor about several events.

2. Museum Of Free Derry

This museum should no doubt be on the list of things to do during your visit. You can learn about Derry’s Bloody Sunday in a raw and emotional way as you listen to real-life recordings and look at artefacts from that day and the days that followed.

It is such an emotional experience so prepare yourself, no matter how much you know about Bloody Sunday nothing prepares you for the museum and what it offers.

Where To Eat and Drink in Derry

After all that walking and learning, you’ll have built up an appetite for sure. Again you have so many options, but these are my default places when I’m in Derry. 

Granny Annie’s:

On my first visit to Granny Annie’s I scanned the menu and to my delight, there was plenty to choose from. Try the delightful melt-in-the-mouth salt and chili chicken, which is a wonderful pairing to the wok vegetables and spicy sauce.

If you aren’t a fan of spices then try a pasta dish or one of their huge beef or chicken burgers. You are bound to find something perfect for you as there’s quite a range on offer.

The Gweedore Bar:

The Gweedore bar is usually packed with locals and I can see why, it’s in a central location, it’s modern and it’s lively. There is usually live music and a great atmosphere, I would definitely recommend going here for a few before heading back to Belfast .

Belfast really is a great place to base yourself if you want to explore Northern Ireland, but with so many things to see and do, don’t forget to enjoy the city of Belfast too! 

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About The Author

Conorphelan.

Conor is an Irish born creative freelancer with strong experience as a camera operator, photographer, video editor, and writer. He graduated from Maynooth University. His work has taken him all over the world, but Ireland is where he calls home.

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Come as a visitor and leave as a friend., the ancient myths and legends from dublin to the northern golden coast.

From the heart of Ireland’s Ancient past to the troubled past of the North Ireland , this tour brings together the best of Ireland’s ancient past of Myths and legends with fascinating epic history. This adventure will take you into the tombs of Kings stretching back to 3200BC to Bobby Sands MP burial place.From the battle of the Boyne 1690 to the war in the street of Northern Ireland from1969 were built at the dawning of Ireland’s identity. A tour of Northern Ireland gems and golden coastline that combines fascinating history with exhilarating sights and sounds of the North Atlantic.

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​Today we will begin our adventure North. Our first stop will be at one of the world’s most important prehistoric sites – the UNESCO heritage site, Newgrange. Standing over 5,000 years old, this passage tomb not only predates Stonehenge but also the Great Pyramids of Egypt. Our tour will take you inside this ancient tomb for a recreation of the lightshow on the winter solstice when the sun shines through lighting up the inner chamber of the tomb. we will also have the option of enjoying the other treats that The Boyne Valley has to offer like The Hill of Slane.

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Today we will continue our journey north, this time taking the stunning north-east coastal drive through parts of the nine Glens of Antrim where the mountains meet the sea. This drive offers spectacular views across to our neighbours Scotland on a clear day and through many quaint towns and villages along the way. Your journey will take you into the queen of the glens – Glenariff where you will take a short walk to enjoy the forest and waterfall. Our next retreat is the beautiful fishing harbour of Ballintoy before journeying on to the world famous Giant’s Causeway, where geology meets mythology. Here you will have plenty of time to enjoy the stones and learn all the myths of Fionn MacCumhaill.   A short drive further west will see us arrive at the old Bushmills Distillery that sits on the River Bush. You will have the option of touring the distillery where you will learn all about the process that makes this whiskey so special and get a chance to sample the local stock.   To end the day   we will drive along the coast, stopping at the crumbling ruins of the incredible Dunluce Castle before making our way to the fascinating walled city of Derry for your overnight within the medieval walls. Sights that you will see will stay with you forever as memories of our glorious country.

Our final day on our private tour of Northern Ireland will see us explore the western parts of Northern Ireland with trips around Derry City and then a visit to the excellent Ulster American Folk Park where we will learn of Ulster’s extraordinary contribution to the rest of the world through emigration. After this educational stop we will then enjoy the lake lands of Enniskillen and take in the sights and sounds of the town. After Enniskillen we will make our way south back across the border, enjoying the area of outstanding beauty – The Ring of Gullion before making our way back to County Meath. Here we will end the days travels with a tour of one the most impressive castles in Ireland – Trim Castle before arriving back in Dublin City.

These our just examples of what we can offer up to 5 days say in the spectacular North of Ireland. Other days offered travel across the ferry to Strangford   from the fishing village of portaferry in County Down the burial place of   st patrick the patron   saint of Ireland or even play a course of golf on the world famous links course of Royal county Down.Walk the haunted forest where the white walking roams 1000s of years ago in the epic HBO production of   Game of thrones. The rustic and real life if the north of ireland is never seen this is a brief glimpse into our real life scenario.

Take your time and spent the whole day in Belfast exploring its parliament   building of stormont or Belfast castle that over sees this changing city Belfast that once raged in a war beamed to televisions around the world for over 30 years.Our why not hold the legend Rory Mcllroy trophies in his club house over seeing Belfast lough.

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Emerging from the rubble of a turbulent history, Belfast is a city which has undergone an incredible transformation in recent years. Reformed from former days, Belfast boasts a lively atmosphere and a zest for life ! Brimming with chic bars and restaurants, world-famous museums such as the Titanic Experience , and surrounded by bountiful natural wonders, Belfast is a destination not to be missed! Just a hop away from incredible beauty such as the Giant’s Causeway and stunning scenery worthy of Game of Thrones , day tours from Belfast are truly an eye-opening experience. Rugged coastal locations, historic castles, myths, legends, and incredible adventures are just around the corner! Why not take a Game of Thrones tour and visit the most mystical and storied parts of the North? Once you set eyes on this stunning scenery it will be crystal clear why so many Hollywood movies choose to shoot in this rugged and windswept landscape. When in the city, take a Belfast tour and learn all about it’s fascinating, if melancholy, past. Our Belfast Conflicting Stories Political Tour breaks down the bloody conflict of the North, offering perspectives from both Catholic and Protestant viewpoints. Join a day tour from Belfast and discover the mystery and appeal of this northern capital and surrounding beauty.

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One Day in Belfast Itinerary – Top things to do in Belfast, UK

Belfast is the biggest city in Northern Ireland and the capital of the region. It’s a beautiful town with a rich past and full of tourist attractions. Many of its buildings have been restructured after the period of the Troubles, a 30-year conflict that caused a lot of pain and suffering to the Northern Irish population. However, the city has regained its peace and expanded to become one of the most important ports in the UK. The number of tourists has increased exponentially since the 80s, so it’s safe to say that one day in Belfast is now an ideal solution if you’re craving a short vacation. Here’s a list of locations to visit and fun activities to do in 24 hours.

Plan your trip to Belfast

1. What’s the best time to visit Belfast? 2. A few facts about Belfast 3. One Day in Belfast Itinerary 3.1. Start your day at Saint George’s Market 3.2. Walk to Belfast City Hall 3.3. Have Lunch At Darcy’s Belfast 3.4. Visit Titanic Belfast 3.5. Explore the Ulster Museum 3.6. Relax at the Botanic Gardens 3.7. Check out the Peace Walls 3.8. Dine at Holohans At The Barge 3.9. Go to Crumlin Road Gaol, if you dare 3.10. Enjoy high-class entertainment at the MAC 4. Where to stay in Belfast, UK? 5. Day trips from Belfast 6. Extra tips for visiting Belfast

What’s the best time to visit Belfast?

The best time for visiting Belfast is summer , although you may find more tourists during that time in the city. The temperatures are optimal: 85 degrees Fahrenheit (30 Celsius) in July with low chances of precipitations. Nevertheless, you can also visit it all year round since the temperatures are mild. The climate is slightly humid due to the proximity of the bay. Therefore, it may get a little foggy in the morning. Also, you may want to visit during the weekend because that’s when Belfast’s best entertainment locations are open.

A few facts about Belfast

Here are some intriguing facts about the city of Belfast:

• Belfast’s Obel Tower has 27 floors and is 262 feet (80 meters) tall and is the highest storeyed building on the island of Ireland.
• C.S. Lewis got his inspiration from Belfast for the novel “The Chronicles of Narnia.”
• The symbol of Belfast is a glowing seahorse. The emblem comes from the history of the city, an important port in Northern Ireland.
• Liam Neeson had his first stage appearance in Belfast, in the Lyric Theatre.
• Because of its linen production in the 19th century, Belfast gained the nickname “Linenopolis.”
• Belfast’s twin towns are Nashville and Boston in the USA, Shenyang and Hefei in China.
• The first time Led Zepplin performed “Stairway to Heaven” was in Belfast at the Ulster Hall in 1971.

One Day in Belfast Itinerary

Start your day at saint george’s market.

On weekend mornings, the life of Belfast moves to Saint George’s Market . So start your one day in the city by visiting this fantastic place. The remodelled structure hosts the shops of 150 traders , and you can buy anything from antiques to bread, from seafood to candy. On Saturdays, a band plays live jazz while you taste the essence of Belfast.

Walk to Belfast City Hall

From St. George’s Market, you can walk to the City Hall , a civic building in the heart of Belfast. In 1906, the local administration decided to allow the public to visit the monumental structure. Additionally, Belfast City Hall tells myths and stories with its stained glass windows.

The Great Famine is one of the legends depicted on the glass. The City Hall has a garden on its eastern wing, the Titanic Memorial Garden . The 1,512 victims of the tragedy are commemorated on the bronze plates while nature’s green is an homage to life.

Have Lunch At Darcy’s Belfast

Near the city centre, you’ll find a top-rated restaurant: Darcy’s Belfast . Just Google 10 Bradbury Place, Belfast BT7 1RS Northern Ireland, and you can get to it on foot.

The restaurant is reasonably-priced and offers Irish, British, and European food. It has two levels, and the interior design takes you back in time through the history of Belfast. Just remember to book a table the day before.

Visit Titanic Belfast

Next, hop on a bus and go to Queens Road. Here you’ll find Titanic Belfast . The museum is dedicated to the world-famous ship, which was built in the port of Belfast. The construction is a massive building with a design that resembles the renowned craft. It has nine galleries that take you through the story of the Titanic.

The guided tour starts with a presentation of the Titanic’s construction. Then, you’ll find out more about the launch, sailing, and the tragedy of the 14th of April 1912. If you love the movie Titanic, this museum is a must-see.

Explore the Ulster Museum

If you take a bus to Stranmillis Road , you’ll find another Belfast landmark: the Ulster Museum . The council invested millions of pounds into the development of the structure, and today the Ulster Museum is a tourist attraction.

The exhibition presents archaeological pieces that connect to tell the story of the Irish population since the discovery of fire: clothes, tools, art, and more. Moreover, the museum holds the tapestry used in the making of the Game Of Thrones series.

Relax at the Botanic Gardens

The Botanic Gardens are a two-minute walk from Ulster Museum. The architect is Sir Charles Lanyon, a local star of 19th-century civil architecture.

The Botanic Gardens present a wide range of flowers, trees, such as hornbeam-leafed oaks and geraniums. You can also find a bowling place and a playground between the tropical trees. So, if you want to be surrounded by nature, consider visiting these gardens.

Check out the Peace Walls

The Peace Walls are a series of decorated walls full of peace-themed paintings and graffiti. The walls were raised to separate the Nationalists from the Loyalists, and today it divides the majority of Belfast. Nevertheless, the Northern Ireland administration wants to remove the structures that were initially needed to prevent violent attacks.

By 2023, the walls will exist as museum pieces or just in small portions, like the Berlin wall. You can decide to walk from your hotel to Shankill Road, or you can hop on a bus to get there.

Dine at Holohans At The Barge

If you want to taste local Irish food, try Holohans At The Barge , at the address 1 Lanyon Quay, Belfast BT1 3LG Northern Ireland.

The prices are reasonable, and the food helped the restaurant earn a stellar reputation. Moreover, the place is colorful, trendy, and on a boat. You can see the city lights and the sea through the window, at night. Just remember to book your table a day before.

Go to Crumlin Road Gaol, if you dare

Suppose you’re looking to see the after-dark Belfast: try The Crumlin Road Gaol . It’s the most visited and ghostly place in Belfast. You can participate in the Paranormal Tour , which reveals the most paranormal sites: the execution room, flogging room, and other torture chambers. It was closed for more than 150 years until 1996, when the city council opened it for public tours, weddings, and concerts.

Enjoy high-class entertainment at the MAC

If you don’t want to be spooked, end your one day in Belfast with The Metropolitan Arts Centre Belfast (MAC) opened in 2012. Take the road to Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, and you’ll find the center.

The structure is a theatre, a concert and exhibition venue. At MAC, you can find a full spectrum of entertainment: musicals, theatre pieces, live music, magic shows, documentaries, and more. Additionally, the building is a venue for local and international exhibitions with art pieces by renowned artists.

Where to stay in Belfast, UK?

After you make arrangements to spend your one day in Belfast, you can try finding a place to stay. Here are three excellent locations.

Clayton Hotel Belfast

22 Ormeau Avenue, Belfast, BT2 8HS

Clayton Hotel is one of the best in Belfast. The staff is warm yet professional, and the rooms are clean. It’s in the city center, so you don’t need a car to move around. The Peace Walls are near, and so is Titanic Belfast. However, even if you have a car, there is plenty of parking space around the hotel. You can find the location on 22 Ormeau Avenue, Belfast BT2 8HS Northern Ireland.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Jurys Inn Belfast

Great Victoria Street, Belfast, BT1 6DY

Jurys Inn Belfast is a four-star Inn in the heart of the city. It’s affordable, clean, and it provides you with free wifi and a flat-screen TV. The hotel even offers a wake-up service and a bar&lounge area. You can find it at the address Fisherwick Place Great Victoria Street, Belfast BT2 7AP Northern Ireland.

Europa Hotel

Great Victoria Street, Belfast, BT2 7AP

Europa Hotel is world-famous and offers a luxurious stay. The rooms are clean and sophisticated, the beds have Ralph Lauren fabrics, while the staff offers the best services. Additionally, the hotel provides free high-speed wifi, a nightclub, and even a fireplace in your room. You can find it at Great Victoria St., Belfast BT2 7AP Northern Ireland.

9 University Road, Belfast, BT7 1NA

Wonderfully decorated, Vagabonds is the best hostel pick in Belfast. It offers continental breakfast every morning to its guests, and it’s located reasonably close to the Ulster Museum and the Botanical Gardens. The guest room is equipped with all sorts of games, and there’s even evening entertainment you can enjoy. So, if you’re traveling on a budget, consider booking a room here.

Day trips from Belfast

If you ask the locals or your tour guide, you’ll find many locations near Belfast that you can visit if you decide to stay another day or two. Many areas in Belfast and around it are part of UNESCO World Heritage, so you have plenty of options that you can choose for your day trip.

The Giant’s Causeway is a famous location where you can find rocky beaches and basalt columns, near the sea. Close by is the Carrick-A-Rede Bridge , a rope bridge with a few boards that connects the mainland to this small island.

Gobbins Cliff Path is similar, although much sturdier, and a wonderful day trip from Belfast if you want to enjoy spectacular sceneries.

Extra tips for visiting Belfast

If you travel to Belfast, make sure you have an umbrella with you, especially if you’re visiting the city during cold months.

The best way to move around Belfast is on foot. Alternatively, you can take one of the many hop-on-buses.

More so, book a hotel in the center of the city, as that’s where most tourist attractions are.

Lastly, if you come from abroad, remember that the currency is the pound sterling. So exchange some money, as you may need cash for some locations such as St. George’s Market.

Pin for later!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Belfast Itinerary, feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

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Michael Gorman

Michael Gorman is a talented writer and proofreader who currently works at an assignment help Australia company. He also writes college paper.org reviews and is always available to be the best essay writer for you . During his free days, he likes to learn foreign languages and to travel. Feel free to contact him via Facebook or check his Twitter .

Love this blog. Thanks for sharing this beautiful blog. I would love to explore all these things in belfast 🙂

thanks for this information 🙂 I will definitely use it when I visit UK

Nice article!! Thanks for sharing.

Great post..

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