Belfast: Giant’s Causeway, Coast Road & Game of Thrones Tour

Belfast: Giant’s Causeway, Coast Road & Game of Thrones Tour — An Honest Look

If you’re planning a day trip from Belfast to explore Ireland’s incredible landscapes and movie magic, this tour might just catch your eye. It promises a blend of breathtaking natural formations, scenic road trips, and iconic filming spots, all packed into about 8.5 hours. We’ve looked into what it offers—and what it doesn’t—to help you figure out if it matches your travel style.

What we really like about this tour is the chance to see the otherworldly basalt columns at the Giant’s Causeway—a truly awe-inspiring sight. Plus, the route along the Antrim Coast Road offers some spectacular landscapes and charming towns, making the journey as memorable as the destinations. Another big plus is its focus on Game of Thrones filming locations, a definite hit with fans or anyone interested in Ireland’s cinematic history.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the tour experience can feel rushed or crowded, especially at popular sites. There’s also a mention of the bus sometimes being too hot and the windows being dirty, which can impact your photo opportunities or comfort. So, if you’re after a more relaxed or private experience, this may not hit the mark.

All in all, this tour tends to suit travelers who love a mix of natural beauty, storytelling, and pop culture, and are okay with a busy schedule. If you’re looking for a comprehensive day out with lots of iconic sights, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery at the Giant’s Causeway and along the coast
• Interesting stories and legends told by knowledgeable guides
• Great for fans of Game of Thrones filming locations
• Busy schedule that covers many sites in a single day
• Comfortable transportation but some minor complaints about bus condition
• Suitable for travelers wanting an active, sightseeing-packed day

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Starting Point and First Stop: Carrickfergus Castle

The tour kicks off from Donegall Road in Belfast, with a comfortable bus ride to Carrickfergus Castle. We love that the first stop is a 12th-century fortress that’s well-preserved, giving a sense of Ireland’s medieval past. You get about 20 minutes here to wander the grounds, snap photos, and take in the atmosphere. It’s a nice way to ease into the day before the coast adventure begins.

Road Along the Causeway Coast: Scenic Views and Small Towns

The drive along the Causeway Coastal Route is a highlight. The bus takes you past small towns like Glenarm and Carnlough Harbour, offering plenty of chances to soak in the scenery. From our review of what others experienced, the view of the coastline and lush green valleys is spectacular, and the guide’s stories about myths—like leprechauns—add some local flavor.

One commenter appreciated how the scenic drive allowed for more of the surrounding landscape to be seen compared to just visiting the main attractions. You’ll pass the Waterfoot Caves and Glendun Viaduct, which all contribute to that classic Irish scenery. Just be prepared for some winding roads and variable weather—bring rain gear!

Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge: Limited Views but Iconic

Next up is the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, a must-see for many. The stop here is about 20 minutes, giving you enough time to take photos and walk to the viewpoint. Some reviews mention that the bridge itself might not be fully accessible or viewable up close—you may only see it from above. One traveler noted, “we only saw it from the top,” which might be a bit disappointing if you wanted to walk across.

The view across to Mull of Kintyre and Rathlin Island is stunning, and many find the experience thrilling. But if you’re worried about long lines or limited time, keep in mind it’s a popular spot that can get crowded.

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The Dark Hedges: A Game of Thrones Fan’s Dream

Then, it’s time for a walk down the Dark Hedges, the famous tree-lined avenue used as the Kingsroad in Game of Thrones. The stop lasts about an hour, and you’re free to stroll, take photos, and soak in the eerie, beautiful atmosphere. This spot is especially loved by fans, as it’s a tangible piece of TV history.

Some travelers, however, have noted that the site can be crowded, especially during peak times, making it hard to get that perfect shot. Still, the trees make for a striking scene, and the walk is gentle enough for most.

Lunch Break and Whiskey Tasting

After the Dark Hedges, the tour stops at a local pub for lunch—note that the cost isn’t included, so budget accordingly. The food options tend to be hearty, local fare. Following lunch, there’s an opportunity to visit the Old Bushmills Distillery for about 30 minutes. Here, you can sample some whiskey and browse souvenirs.

This part of the tour offers a nice break from sightseeing, and the whiskey tasting gets good reviews from those interested in Ireland’s spirits. If you’re not into whiskey, the shopping opportunities are still worth a look.

The Main Event: The Giant’s Causeway

Finally, the moment everyone’s been waiting for—the Giant’s Causeway. You’ll have around 1 hour and 45 minutes to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. We love the feeling of walking across those interlocking basalt columns, imagining Finn McCool’s legendary battles. It’s a landscape that makes your jaw drop, and many say it’s even more impressive in person than photos can convey.

One reviewer mentioned that they found the site “stunning,” and appreciated the free time to explore at their own pace. Just be aware that it can be busy with fellow travelers, so take your time and enjoy the natural wonder.

Return Journey

After soaking up the sights, the bus heads back to Belfast via an inland route, with a roughly 1-hour break in between. The last leg is about 75 minutes, giving a comfortable cushion for the day’s journey. We’ve seen comments about the bus sometimes being too hot or having dirty windows, which can affect your experience, especially when trying to take photos.

Practical Details and Logistics

This tour packs a lot into a single day, which means early mornings and a packed schedule. The meeting point in Belfast is easy to find—just look for the pink building on Donegall Road—and the bus is described as comfortable. The duration is 8.5 hours, so be prepared for a full day.

Transport is by coach, guided in English, with stops for toilet breaks, although there’s no WC on the coach itself. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing—the Irish coast can be unpredictable, and some sites involve walking on uneven surfaces.

The cost isn’t specified, but considering the number of attractions and transportation, it’s a reasonable way to see a lot in one day. For those with a keen interest in game locations and natural scenery, many find the experience worthwhile, especially given the stunning views and engaging stories.

Who is this tour best for?

If you’re someone who loves dramatic landscapes, mythology, and pop culture, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. It’s especially suitable for those who want to see the highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. Fans of Game of Thrones will enjoy visiting the Dark Hedges and the filming locations, though some may find the sites crowded or underwhelming if they prefer solitude.

On the practical side, if you don’t mind a busy schedule and some minor discomforts such as bus temperature or window cleanliness, the value for money is good. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a rundown of Northern Ireland’s coast and legends in one day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind that some sites involve walking and the coach journey is full-day. It’s best for older children or teens who can handle long periods of sitting and a busy schedule.

How long do I get at each site? The itinerary provides roughly 20 minutes at Carrickfergus Castle, 20 minutes at Carrick-A-Rede, about an hour at the Dark Hedges, 30 minutes at Bushmills Distillery, and about 1 hour 45 minutes at the Giant’s Causeway.

Are meals included? No, lunch isn’t included, but there’s a stop at a local pub where you can purchase food and drinks. Expect hearty, traditional fare.

Is there free time at the Giant’s Causeway? Yes, you’ll have around 105 minutes to explore the Causeway, walk on the stones, and take photos at your leisure.

What are the main downsides? Some reviews mention the bus being too hot or dirty windows, and the sites can get crowded, especially the Dark Hedges and Causeway. The schedule is tight, so don’t expect a relaxed pace.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Bookings are flexible, allowing peace of mind.

To sum it up, this tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Ireland’s most iconic sights in one day. It’s perfect if you’re eager to tick off the Giant’s Causeway, coast scenery, and Game of Thrones locations without organizing multiple trips yourself. While it’s somewhat busy and has minor comfort issues, the breathtaking views and stories make it a worthwhile outing for many travelers. Just be prepared for a full day of sightseeing—bring your camera, some snacks, and a sense of adventure.

Happy exploring!

You can check availability for your dates here: