From Belfast: Giants Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour

If you’re considering a day trip from Belfast that combines natural wonders, iconic filming locations, and a taste of local lore, this Giants Causeway and Game of Thrones tour might just be what you’re after. While I haven’t taken this tour myself, I’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers and reviews to help you decide if it fits your travel style.

What I really like about this tour is how it manages to pack so many spectacular sights into one day. The fact that it includes entry to the Giants Causeway and the Dark Hedges—both must-see landmarks—is a big plus. Plus, the stories and myths your guide shares can add a layer of fun to the journey, especially if you’re a fan of the series or love learning about local legends.

That said, it’s a long day, and some might find the schedule tight or the stops a bit rushed, especially if you want to linger at each site. Also, food isn’t included, so you’ll want to come prepared for lunch. Though, this tour seems best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Northern Ireland’s highlights without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

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Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines natural beauty, historical sites, and Game of Thrones filming locations.
• Expert Guide: Several reviews praise the guide’s knowledge, humor, and storytelling skills.
• Packed Itinerary: Stops include castles, scenic coastal routes, caves, and iconic landmarks like the Giants Causeway.
• Value for Money: Many say it’s quite affordable given the number of sites visited.
• Long Day: Expect around 8.5 hours, so be prepared for a full schedule.
• No Food Included: Bring snacks or plan to buy lunch; some stops have dining options but prices vary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Thorough Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Morning Pickup

The tour kicks off at the Allen Tours office, conveniently located on Donegall Road. From there, your guide and coach will set out on what promises to be a visually stunning journey. The first stop is just a short 20-minute drive to Carrickfergus Castle, a well-preserved Norman fortress from the 12th century. Here, you can take some photos of the castle’s impressive battlements and the harbor, and enjoy a bit of history before heading further north.

Exploring Carrickfergus Castle

Many travelers appreciated this brief stop as a good introduction to Northern Ireland’s history. It’s a self-guided visit, so you can take your time or just enjoy a quick look around before the journey continues.

Scenic Drive Along the Antrim Coast

The next part of the day is all about the scenery. Traveling along the famed Antrim Coast Road, you’ll pass through parts of the nine Glens of Antrim. This coastal route is known for its breathtaking views—cliffs, lush greenery, and charming villages—making it an ideal drive for those who love picture-perfect landscapes.

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Passing Through Charming Towns

Stops at places like Glenarm, Carnlough Harbour, Waterfoot Caves, and Cushendun Curfew House give you a glimpse into local life and folklore. Several reviews note that the guide shares stories of fairies, leprechauns, and legends tied to these spots, adding a playful and cultural flavor to the drive.

Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge and Sea Views

One of the highlight stops is Portaneevy View Point, where you’ll find the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. It’s not just a thrill to cross but also an opportunity to gaze across to Scotland’s Mull of Kintyre and Rathlin Island. Many travelers found the views spectacular and enjoyed the stories behind the bridge, which add context to the experience.

The Dark Hedges and Game of Thrones

Next up is the Dark Hedges, a wintry tunnel of beech trees that became world-famous as the Kingsroad in Game of Thrones. Walking among the trees, some reviews mention the right amount of free time—about an hour—to take photos and soak in the atmosphere. Several travelers note the significance of this location for fans and non-fans alike, thanks to its cinematic appeal.

Lunch Break and Optional Dining

The tour includes a stop at a traditional pub, but food is not included in the price. Reviews advise ordering just one meal because portions are large and prices are on the higher side (£19/$25). If you’re hungry, it’s worth considering this before ordering, and some mention there’s a café inside if you prefer lighter options.

Bushmills Distillery and Additional Game of Thrones Sites

After lunch, you’ll visit the Old Bushmills Distillery—an opportunity to learn about Irish whiskey and maybe enjoy a quick tasting. Then, it’s time for the main event: the Giants Causeway. Here, you get about 1 hour and 45 minutes to explore, walk over the legendary stones, and hear the story of Finn MacCool. Many reviews rave about how surreal and awe-inspiring the Causeway is, with some suggesting it’s even more captivating in the rain or mist.

Dunluce Castle and Scenic Return

Before heading back to Belfast, there’s a quick stop at Dunluce Castle, which offers good photo opportunities and adds a medieval touch to the day.

The Drive Back

The return journey takes roughly 75 minutes, with the option to be dropped off at the city center or at the activity provider’s office in Queen’s Quarter. Many reviews highlight the comfort of the coach and the friendly, knowledgeable guide, making the long day feel more relaxed.

What Travelers Say: Honest Feedback and Tips

Many reviewers sing the praises of the guide. Comments like “Lindsay was an excellent guide—funny, informative, and helpful” or “Kevin kept us entertained with stories and jokes,” show how much a good guide can elevate the experience.

Several reviews mention that the scenery along the coast truly lives up to the hype, especially when sitting on the driver’s side for better views. Some travelers found the stops well-paced, giving enough time to take pictures or just enjoy the scenery, while others thought a few sites could have benefited from a little more time—particularly the Dark Hedges.

Food options can be a mixed bag. While the pub stop provides a chance to stretch your legs and sample some local fare, portions are large, prices high, and the quality not always consistent. So if you’re on a budget or particular about food, bringing your own snacks might be a smart move.

One of the most appreciated aspects is value for money. Many travelers feel that covering so many sights for around the cost of a single ticket is a great deal—especially when you factor in entry fees, guide expertise, and transportation.

A Few Caveats

• The tour duration is about 8.5 hours, so it’s a full and sometimes tiring day.
• Weather can impact certain stops—many mention that rain or wind didn’t spoil their enjoyment, but it’s worth dressing weather-appropriate.
• Some reviews suggest that the bus could benefit from USB ports or better air circulation, as it can get warm or stuffy during stops.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal if you want to see the highlights of Northern Ireland in one day without the hassle of driving or planning each stop yourself. It’s perfect for first-timers looking for a well-organized, informative experience that ticks off both natural and cultural sights. Fans of Game of Thrones will particularly enjoy the filming locations, but even if you’re not into the series, the scenery alone makes this worth considering.

Travelers who appreciate a good guide with stories to tell, and those willing to spend a long day on the road, will find this tour rewarding. However, if you’re after a more leisurely pace or want to explore sites in depth, you might find it a little rushed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is food included in this tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. There’s a stop at a pub for lunch, but you’ll want to budget for meals or bring snacks.

How long is the total duration?
The entire experience lasts about 8.5 hours, including travel, stops, and sightseeing.

What sites are included in the tour?
You’ll visit Carrickfergus Castle, the Antrim coast, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dark Hedges, Bushmills Distillery, Giants Causeway, and Dunluce Castle.

Is the tour suitable for fans of Game of Thrones?
Absolutely. The Dark Hedges and other filming locations make it a treat for series fans, with enough time to explore and take photos.

Are the stops well-paced?
Most reviews say yes, with enough time for photos and sightseeing, but some sites could be a little rushed depending on the day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as you’ll be walking and exposed to the elements at certain stops.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Belfast day tour offers a well-rounded look at Northern Ireland’s stunning coast, historic sites, and cinematic landmarks—all in one accessible package. The combination of expert guides, scenic vistas, and iconic filming locations makes it a solid choice for travelers eager to make the most of their time.

While the day is long and logistics tight, many find the experience worth every penny thanks to the diverse sights and engaging storytelling. Whether you’re into natural wonders, Irish folklore, or TV series, this tour delivers a memorable taste of what Northern Ireland has to offer.

If you’re a traveler who thrives on seeing many sights in one day, appreciates good storytelling, and is prepared for a full schedule, this trip is likely to leave you with great memories—and plenty of photos. Just remember to bring some snacks, dress for the weather, and keep your camera ready.

You can check availability for your dates here: