2-Day ‘Game of Thrones’ Rail Tour from Dublin Incl. Belfast and Giant’s Causeway

If you’ve ever wanted to see the filming locations of Game of Thrones combined with some of Ireland’s most breathtaking sights, this 2-day rail tour from Dublin might catch your eye. It’s an adventure geared toward fans of the show but also a great way to experience Northern Ireland’s stunning landscapes and vibrant city life.

What we genuinely like about this experience is the combination of scenic train travel and guided visits to key filming sites, making it feel both relaxed and immersive. Plus, the inclusion of Belfast’s fascinating history through the hop-on hop-off bus and the Titanic Belfast museum adds a layer of cultural depth that enriches the trip.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves a fair amount of walking and some busy stops, which might not appeal if you prefer a more laid-back, less active style of travel. Also, with a price of around $575.91 per person, this is definitely an investment, so weighing the value of the included experiences is wise.

This tour really suits those who have a soft spot for Game of Thrones, enjoy natural scenery, and don’t mind a packed schedule for the chance to see a lot in a short period. It’s perfect for travelers interested in a mix of pop culture and rugged landscapes, especially if you’re looking for a guided experience that takes the hassle out of planning.

Key Points

• Includes both Belfast city highlights and Game of Thrones filming locations for a complete Northern Ireland experience.
• Comfortable overnight stay in a 4-star hotel with breakfast, offering some luxury after a full day of exploring.
• Scenic train ride from Dublin sets the tone, providing a relaxed start with views of Ireland’s Atlantic coast.
• Guided tour of filming sites offers insider stories and background, making the locations come alive.
• Flexible Belfast exploration with a hop-on hop-off bus and ticket to Titanic Belfast adds autonomy.
• Valuable for fans and first-time visitors wanting a curated, hassle-free trip with diverse activities.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Dublin to Belfast

Your journey begins bright and early, with a round-trip train departing from Dublin at 6:50 am. This first-class train ride is a smooth way to begin your trip—expect a comfortable, scenic voyage along Ireland’s rugged Atlantic coastline. The train commentary, as reviewers noted, makes the experience more engaging, and while there’s a charge for extras like coffee and tea, the journey itself provides a lovely start to your adventure.

Once in Belfast, your stay is at a luxurious 4-star hotel with breakfast included, giving you a comfortable home base. The evening in Belfast offers plenty of options to explore, with many travelers praising the city’s vibe and the ease of accessing local pubs and sights. One reviewer mentioned the hotel’s accommodating staff and how Belfast has come a long way from its grittier days, making it an inviting stop.

Day 2: The Game of Thrones Sites and Natural Wonders

The highlight of this tour is the 2nd day, which is packed with visits to seven iconic filming locations and natural landmarks. You’ll start with an early departure to the Dark Hedges, famed for their eerie, twisting trees that served as Arya Stark’s escape route on Game of Thrones. This spot is genuinely photogenic and often called Ireland’s most photographed location.

Next, your guide takes you to Cushendun Caves, where Melisandre gave birth to her shadow baby—an unforgettable scene for fans and a striking natural formation for all. Moving on to Ballycastle, you’ll see the town where Varys was born into slavery, adding a depth of storytelling about the show’s characters.

The tour includes a stop at Ballintoy Harbour, a key filming site for the Iron Islands, where several major scenes were shot. Here, many reviewers found the setting charming—perfect for photos and soaking in the landscape. The tour also schedules a break for lunch at the Fullerton Arms, a cozy spot in Ballintoy Harbour, which adds to the authentic experience.

From here, you’ll venture towards the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Ireland’s most impressive natural monuments. The site’s otherworldly basalt columns leave many visitors awe-struck, and it’s often praised as a must-see. Our reviews show that even if the weather isn’t perfect, the views and formations make it worth the walk and exploration.

The Guide and Experience

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable, humorous guides—especially Derrick—who bring a lot of personality and insider stories to the tours. One reviewer mentioned that Derrick’s enthusiasm and in-depth Game of Thrones knowledge made the trip even more engaging.

The group size is small, capped at 10 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable. Positive comments often refer to how guides tailor their commentary based on the group’s interests and physical needs, like mentioning accessibility concerns.

Included and Excluded

Your tour price covers breakfast, hotel overnight stay, round-trip train transport, and a comprehensive Game of Thrones filming site tour, led by a guide with commentary on all the highlights. You also get a hop-on hop-off bus ticket to explore Belfast independently and a ticket to Titanic Belfast, which many reviewers found to be a surprisingly top-notch museum experience.

What’s not included? Meals beyond breakfast, personal expenses, and hotel transfers. Some reviewers mention that their hotel room quality varied, with one unfortunate traveler ending up in a lower-quality hotel, so it’s worth noting that accommodations might differ.

The Value for Money

At around $575.91 per person, this trip is a bit of an investment but reflects the inclusion of luxury accommodation, guided visits, train travel, and entrance fees. Several travelers commented that the tour provided a lot of value, especially considering the convenience of having everything organized and the chance to see both natural and cultural sights in just two days.

However, a handful of reviews mentioned that certain hotel options didn’t meet expectations, which can impact overall perceived value. It’s a reminder that while the experience is well-curated, accommodations might vary, so check what’s included when booking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits fans of Game of Thrones eager to see the show’s filming sites in real life, but it also appeals to travelers who enjoy stunning coastal scenery and Irish culture. It’s a good fit if you don’t mind full days of sightseeing and walking, and if you appreciate guided commentary that brings the locations to life.

If you’re traveling solo, in a couple, or even a small group of friends, you’ll likely find this trip engaging—and many reviews underscore the enthusiasm and humor of the guides as a highlight.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 16 cannot book independently and need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The trip involves walking and sightseeing, so consider the age and stamina of younger travelers.

What’s included in the price?
You get the train ride from Dublin, overnight accommodation with breakfast, guided tours of Game of Thrones sites, and a Belfast hop-on hop-off bus ticket plus tickets to Titanic Belfast. Food and drinks beyond the breakfast are not included.

How long is the train journey?
The train ride is part of the morning departure, and while specific hours aren’t detailed, reviews suggest it’s a comfortable, uneventful trip with a commentary that adds to the experience.

Are the stops at the filming sites long enough?
Yes, most reviews mention that the scheduled stops, such as Cushendun Caves and Dark Hedges, are ample for photos and exploration, though the overall itinerary is quite packed.

Do I need my passport?
Yes, a current valid passport is required, especially since the tour involves crossing from Dublin into Northern Ireland.

Can I explore Belfast on my own afterward?
Absolutely. The hop-on hop-off bus allows you to explore Belfast at your own pace, and many travelers enjoyed wandering the city after the guided day.

What about the hotel quality?
The included hotel is generally a 4-star, but there are reports of hotel room quality varying, so it’s wise to verify your accommodation details when booking.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Less notice means you’ll lose your fee unless you opt for partial refunds under specific conditions.

Final Thoughts

If you’re keen on Game of Thrones and want to combine that with Ireland’s stunning landscapes, this tour offers a packed, well-organized way to see a lot in just two days. The combination of scenic train rides, guided site visits, and Belfast’s city highlights makes it a dynamic experience.

It’s best suited for fans looking to indulge their curiosity about the show’s filming locations, as well as travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Northern Ireland’s natural beauty and urban life without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

While the price might seem high, most reviews indicate that the value, guided insights, and memorable sites justify the cost—particularly if you’re keen on getting the most out of a short trip. Just keep in mind the hotel accommodations may vary, and the day is quite full, so flexibility and a good pair of walking shoes are key.

This trip really shines when guides like Derrick bring the locations alive with stories and humor, making it not just sightseeing but an engaging storytelling experience. If you’re up for a whirlwind tour that hits all the major Game of Thrones landmarks plus the island’s natural marvels, this could be your next memorable adventure.