Full-Day Private Tour of Giants Causeway with Pick Up

A Friendly Take on the Full-Day Private Tour of Giants Causeway

If you’re planning a trip to Belfast and want to explore the iconic sights of Northern Ireland without the chaos of big bus tours, this private full-day excursion might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, reviews and descriptions suggest it offers a relaxed, personalized way to see some of the region’s most famous spots — all with your own small group and a knowledgeable guide.

What we like about this tour is the flexibility and intimacy it promises. You won’t be part of a crowd, waiting around or rushing from place to place. Plus, the fact that it’s a private experience means you can enjoy each stop at your own pace, taking time to soak in the views or snap photos without feeling hurried.

On the flip side, a key consideration is the cost — at around $548.63 for a group of up to four, it’s definitely an investment, especially with some admission fees not included. But if comfort, convenience, and a tailored experience are worth it to you, this could be a worthwhile splurge.

This tour works best for travelers who value personalized attention, want to avoid large tour groups, and are excited about visiting both natural wonders and filming locations from Game of Thrones. It’s perfect for those keen to explore at their own pace and spend quality time at each stop.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience for up to 4 people, no sharing with strangers.
• Flexible timing at each site, avoiding rushed visits.
• Includes transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
• Guided by an experienced driver/guide, offering insights and local knowledge.
• Costly but includes convenience, with some admission fees extra.
• Ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed, tailored day over crowded tours.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

This tour hits some of Northern Ireland’s most celebrated sites, with a well-rounded balance of natural beauty, history, and pop culture. It’s a full day that offers enough time at each stop to truly appreciate the scenery and stories behind them.

The Dark Hedges

Your day kicks off with a visit to the Dark Hedges, famous from Game of Thrones as the Kings Road where Arya Stark made her escape. It’s a 30-minute stop, and while you won’t need a ticket here, it’s a popular photography spot, especially for fans of the show. We’ve read that visitors love the eerie, picturesque avenue of intertwined trees, making it an atmospheric start to the day.

Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge

Next up is the Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge, which stands 30 meters high and stretches 20 meters across. This is definitely a highlight for thrill-seekers and those who want a bit of adventure. Expect around 2 hours for this stop — enough time to cross, enjoy the views, and take photos. Keep in mind, admission isn’t included (£13.50 per person), so budget accordingly if this is on your must-do list. Some reviews mention that crossing the bridge is an exhilarating experience, but it’s not for anyone uncomfortable with heights or swaying suspension bridges.

Ballintoy Harbour

From there, you’ll visit Ballintoy Harbour, another Game of Thrones filming location, where Theon was baptized and Yara admired her ship. It’s a short, 30-minute stop, and the best part? It’s free. Fans of the show will love seeing these iconic coastal scenes up close, and even casual visitors can appreciate the rugged scenery.

The Giant’s Causeway

Of course, the main event is the Giant’s Causeway. This UNESCO World Heritage site features over 50,000 basalt columns formed by volcanic activity. You’ll have about 2 hours here — plenty of time to walk along the stepping stones, admire the legendary figure Finn McCool, and take in the stunning views of the Atlantic. While the entry fee isn’t included (£6), many consider the site worth the expense for its natural beauty and geological significance. The area is popular, but with a private tour, you can take your time exploring without the rush.

Dunluce Castle

Another highlight for fans of Game of Thrones (or history buffs) is Dunluce Castle. Known as the Greyjoys’ home in the series, the castle has also been featured in movies like The Medallion. It’s a 30-minute stop, and while the admission fee (£6) isn’t included, it’s a quick, scenic visit worth considering if you’re into castle ruins or film locations.

County Antrim Drive

Finally, the tour wraps up with a scenic drive through County Antrim, giving you a chance to enjoy the landscape and reflect on the day. The driving time and travel between spots total about an hour, which helps mitigate the long walking stretches.

What’s Included—and What’s Not

The tour’s main selling point is its private transportation — an air-conditioned vehicle just for your group, with a driver/guide who’s well-versed in local sites. This setup offers significant comfort, especially after a long day of exploring.

However, keep in mind that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan for a meal during the day. Also, several admission fees aren’t covered, so budget for those extras: Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle, and you might find other smaller costs depending on your interests.

The Real Experience from Reviews

One reviewer, Karen_W, expressed her appreciation for hiring a private guide, emphasizing the need to see sites at your own pace. She mentioned her desire to avoid waiting or rushing, which aligns perfectly with what this tour offers. Her review hints at the value of having a knowledgeable guide who can tailor the experience to your timing and preferences.

Another reviewer pointed out that it’s a long day, so being prepared for some walking and outdoor exploration is key. While the schedule is flexible, the total duration—6 to 8 hours—means you’ll want to be ready for a full day of sightseeing.

Final Thoughts on Value and Suitability

This private tour is a good option for those who value personalized attention, want to avoid large crowds, and enjoy a leisurely pace. The guided experience, combined with private transport, allows for a more relaxed day than crowded bus tours. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate historical sites, natural wonders, and filming locations, and who are willing to pay a bit extra for comfort and flexibility.

While the cost may seem steep, the ease of having everything arranged for you—timing, transport, and local insights—can make it worthwhile. The experience’s success hinges on your interests: if giant stone columns, dramatic coastlines, and iconic film locations excite you, this tour ticks many boxes.

Be prepared for extras like admission fees and lunch, and consider whether the private, slow-paced vibe matches your travel style.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the stops are mostly outdoor sites that can be enjoyed by older children. However, the crossing at Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge might be challenging for very young children or those afraid of heights.

How long does the tour last?
Most tours are around 6 to 8 hours, giving you plenty of time at each site without rushing.

Are meals included?
No, guests are responsible for their own lunch. You might want to pack a snack or plan to eat during the day.

Are admission fees included?
No, some sites like Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge (£13.50pp), Dunluce Castle (£6), and others are paid separately.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can likely discuss your preferences with the guide—though the standard stops are generally fixed.

Is pickup available?
Yes, pickup from Belfast is included, making logistics simple.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are recommended. Be prepared for outdoor exploration.

All in all, if you’re after a tailored, stress-free way to explore Northern Ireland’s famed sights and are comfortable with a higher price point, this private Giants Causeway tour could be a great fit. Just plan ahead for some extras, and you’re set for a memorable day.