Giant’s Causeway and Belfast City Murals Tour inc Game of Thrones Dark Hedges

If you’re considering a day trip from Belfast that hits some of the most iconic sights in Northern Ireland, a tour like this is often recommended. It promises a blend of natural wonders, cultural insights, and a touch of Hollywood glam with Game of Thrones locations. While we haven’t personally taken this exact experience, we’ve gone through the details and reviews to give you a well-rounded picture.

What stands out about this tour are the diverse stops—from the breathtaking basalt columns at Giant’s Causeway to the vibrant Belfast murals, and the atmospheric Dark Hedges. Plus, the convenience of port pickup makes it appealing for cruise travelers. On the downside, some reviews mention that the tour might feel a bit rushed or that certain spots aren’t given as much time as hoped. Still, if you love packed days with variety, this tour could be a good fit.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to see a good mix of Ireland’s natural beauty and its complex history, all in one day. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want a taste of everything, especially if you enjoy stories, scenery, and a little adventure.

Key Points

• Variety of stops: Natural wonders, cultural sights, and filming locations all included.
• Value for money: At around $48, the tour offers a comprehensive experience with multiple highlights.
• Guided insights: Knowledgeable guides add depth through storytelling and history.
• Flexible for cruise travelers: Convenient port pickup and drop-off.
• Time management: The itinerary is carefully planned, though some stops may feel rushed.
• Weather considerations: Some sites, like the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, are weather-dependent and might be closed.

What this tour covers and why it’s worth considering

The Giant’s Causeway and Belfast City Murals Tour is a solid choice if you’re eager to see a broad swath of Northern Ireland’s top attractions in one day. For roughly six hours, you get a mix of natural landscapes, historic and political insights, and pop culture landmarks. The tour is operated by Allens Tours and is especially convenient for cruise ship passengers, with pickup at the Sixt Cruise Port.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Start at Belfast Murals (40 minutes)
Your journey begins with a quick overview of Belfast’s famous murals. These street art pieces reflect the city’s divided past and complex identity. According to reviews, this part can be quite sobering and thought-provoking. One traveler commented, “The murals are interesting and very emotional, making the Troubles very real.” Although some feel this stop is brief, it offers a meaningful glimpse into Belfast’s recent history and the peace walls that still stand today.

Belfast City Centre (40 minutes)
Next, the tour takes you through Belfast’s city core, offering a political perspective of the divided city. You’ll see the peace lines and hear about the Troubles. Some reviews note that this part is a “drive-by,” but others appreciate the concise storytelling. If history interests you, this is a good primer, but don’t expect an extensive walking tour here.

The Dark Hedges (30 minutes)
One of the most photogenic spots, the Dark Hedges are an atmospheric tunnel of intertwining beech trees planted in the 18th century. This location gained international fame as a filming site for Game of Thrones. Visitors love the scenery; it’s eerie yet beautiful. Be prepared for some short walks and photo opportunities. Several reviews mention how “magical” the Hedges look, making it a highlight for fans of the series and nature lovers alike.

Bushmills Distillery (30 minutes)
If you’re into whiskey, this stop provides a taste of Ireland’s heritage at Bushmills. While it’s not a full tour of the distillery, you’ll have time to visit the visitor center and gift shop, with an option to sample or buy whiskey. Some travelers found this part slightly dull, especially if you’re not a drinker, but it’s a nice cultural touch. One review noted, “It was interesting, but not a full tour, so if you’re looking for whiskey tasting, plan accordingly.”

Giant’s Causeway (1.5 hours)
This is the big showstopper. Around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns form a surreal landscape shaped by ancient volcanic activity. It’s often called the “8th wonder of the world” and is an absolute must-see. Visitors love the dramatic scenery, and many comment on how awe-inspiring it is. The tour usually provides around 90 minutes here, giving enough time for photos, exploring, and taking in the views. One reviewer exclaimed, “The stones are fantastic, and the landscape is unlike anything I’ve seen before.” Be prepared for some walking, as the site has uneven terrain, and wear sturdy shoes.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (15 minutes)
Depending on weather and COVID restrictions, this famous rope bridge may or may not be accessible. Currently, the bridge is closed to coach groups but can be viewed from a distance at the Portnacreevy Viewing Point. For those who do cross, it’s quite a thrill—cross at your own risk—and offers stunning views of Rathlin Island and the coast. Several reviews express disappointment if they couldn’t cross, but all agree the scenery from afar is still worth the visit.

Transport, Duration, and Group Size

The tour uses a coach, with a driver-guide providing commentary on the way. The group size is capped at 100 travelers, which helps keep things manageable but still lively. The total duration is about six hours, which is quite full considering the number of sights. The timing is tight, which means some stops may feel rushed, especially if crowds or delays happen.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off at the cruise port, making it super convenient for travelers with tight schedules. The start time is 8:30 am, so early risers will get the most out of the day.

The Good, the Not-So-Good, and What You’ll Love

Guides are frequently praised for being knowledgeable and engaging, bringing stories and history to life. Multiple reviews mention how humor and insight made the trip enjoyable. For example, one guest said, “Ben was so funny and informative, loved the history and his attitude.”

The scenery at Giant’s Causeway and Dark Hedges is a highlight — images don’t do justice to the scale and beauty of these sites. Reviewers often describe the Causeway as “spectacular” and “a natural wonder,” confirming that it’s well worth the visit.

Value for money is another plus. For around $48, you get a full day of sightseeing with guided commentary, which many consider a good deal, especially considering the transportation and entry to most sites are included.

Timing and pacing can be a mixed bag. Some travelers find the schedule tight, especially if they want more time at each stop. One reviewer noted, “The drive was a bit rushed, and we didn’t spend long at Dark Hedges.” If you prefer more relaxed visits or in-depth exploration, this tour might feel hurried.

Weather and accessibility are worth considering. The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge’s closure at the moment is a disappointment for some, but viewing from a distance still offers great photo ops. Also, the terrain at Giant’s Causeway can be uneven—be prepared for some walking and wear appropriate shoes.

Real Experiences from Travelers

• “Overall good. The driver was very humorous, we had a lot of fun on the coach and reached the cruise on time.” — Jinbin_Y
• “Giants Causeway is a must! The views are incredible, but I advise being a good walker for the uphill and downhill walks.” — Sherri_B
• “The tour was very enjoyable, and the amount of time at each stop was just right. Our driver Mark was friendly and informative.” — ROLF_E
• “The tour is good value for money, especially with a knowledgeable guide and a well-organized schedule.” — Sally_H

On the flip side, some criticisms include disappointments with the organization, like delays or feeling rushed, and some sites not being given enough time. One review called the trip a “disappointment,” citing poor organization and limited time at certain attractions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a rundown of Northern Ireland with a little bit of everything, this tour offers great value. It’s suited for cruise passengers needing a reliable, all-in-one experience, and those interested in both natural wonders and cultural history. Be prepared for a full day, with some walking and a packed schedule, so it’s ideal if you’re comfortable on your feet and enjoy moving between sights.

However, if you crave more time at each location or want to explore sites in greater depth, you might find this tour too hurried. Also, travelers who aren’t keen on guided group outings may prefer to go independently or with a smaller, more flexible operator.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at the Belfast cruise port are included, making it easy to hop on without extra arrangements.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, with a set schedule designed to cover all the stops efficiently.

Can I visit the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge?
Currently, due to COVID restrictions, the rope bridge is closed to coach groups but can be viewed from a distance at the Portnacreevy Viewing Point.

What sites do I get to see?
You’ll visit Belfast murals, Belfast city centre, Dark Hedges, Bushmills Distillery, Giant’s Causeway, and possibly Carrick-a-Rede (viewed from afar if crossing isn’t available).

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and some walking is involved, so bring comfortable shoes. The sites are generally family-friendly, but check individual needs.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s about $48.31 per person, which many find reasonable considering the number of attractions included.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, some water, and maybe a rain jacket, depending on the weather.

Wrapping Up

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Northern Ireland’s highlights, combining natural beauty, history, and pop culture in one accessible package. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and humor, making the day engaging and informative. The scenery at Giant’s Causeway and Dark Hedges alone makes it worthwhile, especially if you’re eager to tick these off your bucket list.

While the schedule can feel a little rushed for some, the value for money and the variety of sights make it a solid choice—especially if your time is limited or you’re arriving by cruise. It’s not perfect, but few tours are, and the positives tend to outweigh the drawbacks for most travelers.

If you’re looking to get a taste of what Northern Ireland has to offer in a single day — and don’t mind a busy schedule — this tour is probably worth your consideration.