From Belfast: Giants Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour

If you’re heading to Belfast and want a well-rounded day exploring both the legendary sights of the Irish coast and the iconic filming locations from Game of Thrones, this tour might catch your eye. We’ve gathered insights from countless travelers and reviews to give you an honest, thorough picture of what to expect.

What we love most about this experience? First, the expert guide who shares stories filled with local myths, legends, and behind-the-scenes info about the show. Second, the stunning scenery—the drive along the Causeway coast is one of the most beautiful in the world. That said, there’s a bit of a trek involved, especially at the Giants Causeway, so if you’re not keen on walking several kilometers or have mobility issues, keep that in mind.

One potential snag? The day is packed, and it might feel a little rushed at some stops. Plus, food isn’t included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan for a meal during the free time. Overall, if you love natural wonders, history, and a touch of TV magic, this tour fits well for those wanting a comprehensive day out with plenty of photo ops and stories to tell.

Key Points

• Stunning Coastal Views: The Causeway coastal route offers some of the best scenery Northern Ireland has to offer.
• Game of Thrones Fan Delight: Visit key filming sites like Cushendun Caves and The Dark Hedges.
• Rich History & Mythology: Learn about castles, legends, and Irish myths from your guide.
• Efficient Itinerary: Carefully curated stops allow you to see many highlights in one day.
• Good Value: Includes transportation, an experienced guide, and multiple iconic sights.
• Some Walking Required: Be prepared for walking at the Giants Causeway and other sites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: What’s Included and How It Flows

Starting bright and early from central Belfast, this 8.5-hour tour whisks you along the famous Causeway coastal route, a drive loved by travelers for its breathtaking views and picture-perfect scenery. The journey itself is part of the charm, passing through charming towns and lush landscapes.

First Stop: Carrickfergus Castle

Your first taste of history is Carrickfergus Castle, a 12th-century Norman fortress. It’s a solid introduction to the area’s past, and you’ll get about 25 minutes here to wander around and snap some photos of the castle and harbor. The reviews highlight how much visitors appreciate the chance to stretch their legs early on and absorb the medieval ambiance.

Scenic Drive Through the Glens and Coastal Villages

From there, you’ll cruise through the Glen of Antrim, an area celebrated for its lush greenery and peaceful views. The guide’s commentary on local myths and legends makes the drive more engaging, adding context to the scenery. Expect about 45 minutes of scenic driving, with stops at several picturesque spots.

Carnlough Harbour & Cushendun Caves

Next, you’ll visit Carnlough Harbour, which played a big role in Game of Thrones as Bravoos in Season 6. This spot is a favorite for many travelers, giving a real sense of the show’s filming locations. The harbor is perfect for photos, and you can explore a little on your own during the free time, with snacks available for purchase.

From there, it’s on to the Cushendun Caves, used multiple times in the series — for Davos Seaworth’s landing and Melisandre’s shadow baby scene, among others. These caves are accessible enough for most, and the history/TV trivia shared here makes the visit more meaningful. Travelers often comment how special it feels to stand exactly where key scenes were shot.

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The Dark Hedges: The King’s Road

One of the most Instagram-worthy spots, The Dark Hedges is a stunning avenue of beech trees that served as Arya Stark’s escape route. The guide gives you about an hour to walk, take photos, and soak in the magical atmosphere. Reviews frequently mention how atmospheric and photogenic this site is, though some note it can get crowded.

Lunch Break

After a morning packed with sightseeing, you’ll have a chance to buy lunch at your own expense at the Hedges Hotel or nearby. Keep in mind that this is a pause to refuel before heading to the giants’ playground.

The Giants Causeway: Nature’s Masterpiece

The highlight for many, the Giant’s Causeway, is one of Ireland’s most treasured natural wonders. You’ll have around 1.5 hours here, giving enough time to walk across the iconic stones, learn about Finn MacCool, and appreciate the geological marvel. The walk is about 4 km in total, so comfortable shoes are a must. Some reviews mention being glad they prepared for the walk, while others say it’s a rewarding experience worth every step.

Traveling back, you’ll pass by Dunluce Castle, which served as the Greyjoys’ seat in the series. Although just a short stop, it’s worth it for the stunning views and photo opportunities.

The Return Journey

The trip ends with a scenic inland route back to Belfast, roughly 1.5 hours of relaxed driving. Many reviews mention how the driver’s storytelling, humor, and knowledge made the entire experience even more enjoyable.

What Travelers Are Saying

This tour consistently earns high praise, with a 4.6 out of 5 based on over 1,400 reviews. Many reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides, with some emphasizing how guides like Dave or Hue made the trip engaging and fun. One reviewer said, “Dave was a brilliant driver, he was friendly and engaging and gave us so much information about sites,” highlighting how important a good guide can be.

The scenery is another big hit—travelers love the drive along the coast and the chance to see iconic landmarks like the Causeway stones and Dark Hedges. One reviewer noted, “The drive itself has stunning views of the country throughout,” making it clear this is as much about the journey as the destinations.

Many praise the value for money, especially given how many sights are visited and the included transportation. Travelers appreciated the flexibility of booking now and paying later, which makes planning easier.

However, some mention the walking distance at the Giants Causeway, which can be demanding for those with mobility issues or small children. The tour description does not specify accessibility, so it’s best to come prepared with comfortable shoes and an awareness of the physical activity involved.

Highlights from Reviews

• “Our tour guide Dave was a pleasure, he had a lot of interesting stories and tips about the places we were visiting.” – Gabriela
• “Big thank you to our driver Dave who made the trip very informative and fun.” – Malgorzata
• “The sites were incredible and we felt we weren’t rushed at all.” – Jessica
• “The scenery was stunning, the guide made it even better.” – Rachel

Practical Details & Tips

Transportation: The tour uses a coach that is comfortable and well-organized. Expect a full day of travel, with several stops along the way. Some reviews mention a bus breakdown, but the team managed to quickly switch to another vehicle with minimal delay.

Duration & Schedule: The tour lasts about 8.5 hours, starting early from Belfast, with a 9:00 AM departure. Be sure to arrive at least by 8:30 AM. The return is back in central Belfast, so plan for an evening pickup or arrival.

What to Bring: Pack comfortable walking shoes, a rain jacket (weather can be unpredictable), and snacks since meals aren’t included. Reviewers recommend bringing a camera or smartphone for all the photo opportunities.

Cost & Value: Given the number of sites visited—castles, caves, cliffs, the Causeway—and the included guide and transport, the price is quite reasonable. Many guests say they felt it was good value, especially since they saw so much in one day.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re a fan of scenic drives, history, or Game of Thrones, this tour hits many of those marks. It’s perfect for those wanting to see Northern Ireland’s most iconic sights comfortably without the hassle of planning multiple trips. The guide’s storytelling and humor elevate the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing bus.

Travelers who enjoy nature, geology, or fairy-tale landscapes will love walking across the Causeway stones and wandering through the Dark Hedges. That said, patience for some walking and standing is necessary.

If you’re traveling with young children, keep in mind the walking involved. While not explicitly family-focused, many reviews mention that families with older kids enjoyed the trip. The key is being prepared for the physical aspects and being flexible with timing.

FAQ

• How long is the tour? It lasts about 8.5 hours, with an early start and a return to Belfast in the late afternoon or early evening.
• What’s included? Transportation and an experienced guide are included; food and drinks are not.
• Is it suitable for people with mobility issues? The tour involves considerable walking, especially at the Giants Causeway, so it may not be ideal for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.
• Do I need to book in advance? Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot, especially during peak seasons. You can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.
• Can I buy food during the tour? Yes, stops at Carnlough Harbour and The Dark Hedges offer options to purchase snacks and lunch.
• What’s the best time to start? Check availability for the specific start times, but generally, the tour departs at 9:00 AM. Arrive by 8:30 AM.
• Are the sites wheelchair accessible? Accessibility isn’t specified, so if needed, contact the provider for details before booking.
• Can I visit Dunluce Castle? Yes, there’s a scenic stop for photos, and if you choose, you can explore the castle during the free time.
• Is this tour good for Game of Thrones fans? Absolutely. It covers multiple filming locations, including Cushendun Caves and Dark Hedges, making it a must for fans.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Belfast tour offers a great mix of natural beauty, historic sites, and TV landmarks, all wrapped into a well-organized experience. The many positive reviews show that guides like Dave are a highlight, bringing history and stories to life with humor and insight.

Ideal for travelers who want to see the northern coast without the stress of DIY driving or figuring out logistics, this trip provides a comprehensive snapshot of what makes this part of Ireland so special. Just be prepared for some walking and bring your camera—these landscapes and filming spots are Instagram gold.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone interested in the scenic, historic, and cinematic sides of Northern Ireland. If you’re ready for a full day of exploring, you’ll come away with unforgettable memories—and plenty of photos to prove it.

You can check availability for your dates here: