2-Day Northern Ireland Tour from Dublin Including Belfast and Giants Causeway

If you’re thinking about taking a quick peek into Northern Ireland without planning a whole separate trip, this 2-day tour from Dublin might catch your eye. Designed by Paddywagon Tours, it promises a mix of history, natural wonders, and some fun sightseeing spots—all packed into just two days. We’ve combed through plenty of reviews and details to give you a clear idea of what you’re signing up for, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your travel plans.

What we love about this experience? First, the coverage of key highlights like the Giants Causeway and Belfast’s Titanic Experience, which are truly bucket-list worthy. Second, the knowledgeable guides seem to make a real difference—they add stories and context that make the stops come alive. That said, one thing to consider is that the itinerary can feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re someone who prefers to linger longer at each site.

This tour tends to suit travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Northern Ireland in a short amount of time, and those who are comfortable with group travel and some quick transitions. It’s a good choice for first-timers, solo travelers, or couples looking for an efficient way to see the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Great Highlights: The Giants Causeway, Titanic Experience, Dark Hedges, and Dunluce Castle are the star attractions.
• Value for Money: For around $231, you get entrance to major sites and an overnight stay, which many reviews find reasonable considering the sights.
• Guides Make a Difference: Many travelers praise the guides for being engaging and informative.
• Rushed Schedule: Some reviews mention feeling hurried, especially at sites like Titanic and the Causeway.
• Transport: Comfortable, air-conditioned coaches with Wi-Fi make the long drives easier.
• Optional Extras: Black Taxi Tours and upgraded accommodations are available at extra costs—worth considering if you want a deeper experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

How the tour begins and what to expect

You’ll start early in Dublin, with pick-up points on Lower Gardiner Street, O’Connell Street, and Suffolk Street. The departure time is around 7:50-8:15 am, so it pays to be punctual. From there, the journey kicks off with a scenic two-hour drive on the new ‘Peace Highway’ heading north. This part of the trip is designed to stretch your legs a bit with some interesting stops along the way, and it’s a good chance to settle into the trip.

Morning stop at Monasterboice

Our first stop is at the Monasterboice Monastic Site, where you’ll see a genuine 10th-century round tower—an ancient refuge from Viking raids—and some of Ireland’s most beautiful Celtic crosses carved by monks in the 9th century. This is a relatively short stop (about 30 minutes), but it’s a meaningful glimpse into Ireland’s early Christian past. Many travelers comment on how the Celtic crosses are “beautiful” and well-preserved, making it a peaceful, reflective start to the tour.

Belfast and Titanic Experience

Arriving in Belfast, the highlight for many is the Titanic Experience. It’s an interactive, walk-through exhibition that covers Titanic’s conception, construction, and the tragic maiden voyage. It’s a good way to understand Belfast’s shipbuilding history and the story behind the world-famous liner. Reviewers mention that the experience is quite engaging, and the included entrance value is about £25, so it’s a decent deal.

During free time in Belfast, you might want to explore the city center, grab lunch, or consider the optional Black Taxi Tour. This tour (costing around £90) is highly recommended by travelers who want a deeper understanding of Belfast’s complex political history, visiting murals, peace walls, and neighborhoods like Falls and Shankill Roads. One reviewer called it “fascinating,” especially if you’re interested in the city’s Troubles.

Day 2: Natural Wonders and Castle

The second day begins with a pickup in Belfast around 9:30 am, as a separate coach arrives to collect you. The first major stop is at the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre. This UNESCO World Heritage site is often called “The Eighth Wonder of the World,” and for good reason. You’ll walk among thousands of hexagonal basalt columns, created from ancient volcanic eruptions. The new visitor center offers audio guides that tell stories about the formations, making the experience both visual and educational.

Many reviewers describe standing on the Causeway as “breathtaking,” and the natural formations are indeed striking. It’s a place that feels almost otherworldly, especially with the dramatic cliffs and ocean views. The included entrance, worth about £9, adds good value.

Next, you’ll stop at Dunluce Castle for a quick photo. While you won’t go inside, the ruins perched on the edge of a rocky cliff create a dramatic backdrop, and the stories of it being haunted add a little mystique. Some travelers say it’s a “photo stop only,” but definitely worth snapping a few pictures.

Return to Dublin

After a short comfort break, the group heads back south, arriving in Dublin around 8 pm. The drive back is a good opportunity to rest, chat about the trip, or review what you’ve seen.

What the Reviews Say

The overall impression is quite positive, with many travelers appreciating the well-organized nature of the trip and the knowledgeable guides. One person noted that the first day’s Titanic tour was better than they expected, with engaging commentary. Others loved being able to see iconic sites like the Giants Causeway and the Dark Hedges, the latter made famous by Game of Thrones.

However, a handful of reviews mention some disappointments. The most common criticism is the rushed feeling—some felt they didn’t have enough time at each stop, particularly at Titanic or the Causeway. One reviewer shared, “We did the 2-day tour. What they don’t tell you is they will put you on another tour bus on the second day,” which can lead to a feeling of being shuffled around. The pick-up issues and inconsistent communication also pop up in reviews, so arriving early and double-checking details is wise.

Accommodation and extras

Many travelers choose to upgrade their accommodations, especially since the included B&B in Belfast can sometimes feel “like a hostel,” according to some. If comfort is a priority, booking your own hotel might be a better option, but keep in mind this increases the overall cost.

Optional extras like the Black Taxi Tour are considered worthwhile by many, providing context and stories that make Belfast’s political murals more meaningful. The tour also offers the chance to explore neighborhoods that played key roles in Ireland’s history, which many find enlightening.

Cost and value

At roughly $231 per person, this tour is quite reasonable considering it includes transportation, entrance fees, and an overnight stay. Many reviews praise the value for money, especially because the entrance to sites like the Giants Causeway and Titanic Experience add up to significant savings if purchased separately.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience fits well for travelers who want a quick but comprehensive introduction to Northern Ireland’s highlights. If you prefer a structured schedule with guided commentary, this is a good pick. It also suits those interested in history, natural scenery, and iconic filming locations from Game of Thrones.

However, if you’re someone who prefers more time at each site or a more leisurely pace, you might find this tour a little rushed. It’s best for people comfortable with group travel and who don’t mind a busy itinerary.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children? While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, many stops like the Giant’s Causeway and Titanic Experience are interesting for older children and teens. Keep in mind the schedule is tight, so younger kids should be prepared for some quick transitions and walking.

How long is the drive each day? The day-one drive from Dublin to Belfast is about 2 hours, with additional stops. On day two, the drive back to Dublin takes roughly 3 hours, depending on traffic.

Are meals included? No, meals and drinks are not included unless specified. You should plan to bring snacks or buy lunch during free time.

Can I upgrade my accommodations? Yes, the tour offers options for upgraded hotels and B&Bs, but these come at an additional cost. Many reviews suggest booking your own accommodations if comfort is a priority.

What’s the Black Taxi Tour? It’s an optional tour in Belfast costing about £90, taking you into neighborhoods to learn about the Troubles, murals, and peace walls—highly recommended if you want a deeper understanding of Belfast’s recent history.

Is Wi-Fi available on the coach? Yes, most vehicles feature high-speed Wi-Fi, making it easier to share your trip or catch up on messages during the long drives.

What if I want more time at the Giant’s Causeway? The tour allows about an hour and a half there, which many find enough to explore, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. If you prefer more time, consider extending your stay or booking a private tour.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Northern Ireland tour from Dublin offers a well-rounded snapshot of some of the country’s most iconic sights. With the combination of natural beauty, historical sites, and engaging guides, it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting to maximize their brief visit. The main strength lies in the coverage of key attractions like the Giants Causeway and Titanic, while the guides’ storytelling adds depth to what you see.

However, keep in mind that the schedule can feel a bit rushed, especially if you love to linger at each spot. The optional extras, like the Black Taxi Tour, can deepen your understanding but will raise the overall cost. Overall, if you’re okay with a packed itinerary and appreciate insightful guides, this tour offers good value and a memorable experience.

This experience is best suited for first-timers or quick travelers eager to hit the highlights. If you value flexibility and more relaxed pacing, you might want to explore other options or customize your trip. But for a taste of Northern Ireland that covers the essentials, this tour delivers on its promise, with many travelers leaving with happy memories and stunning photos.