Private Tour: ‘Game of Thrones’ and Giants Causeway Full-Day Tour from Belfast

If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones or simply love spectacular scenery, this private tour from Belfast promises a full day of iconic filming locations coupled with some of Ireland’s most stunning natural wonders. While it’s a comprehensive experience catering to thrill-seekers and TV show enthusiasts alike, it also offers a relaxed pace and personalized attention that many group tours can’t match.

What we really love about this experience are the insider insights from knowledgeable guides and the chance to explore at your own pace—especially at the Giants Causeway, where you can soak up the otherworldly landscape. Plus, the itinerary includes some of Ireland’s most photograph-worthy spots, like the Dark Hedges and Ballintoy Harbour. The main drawback? The price tag of $414.07 per person might seem steep for some, especially considering the additional costs like entrance fees or optional extras.

This tour is ideal if you’re a dedicated Game of Thrones fan seeking a tailored experience, or if you’re simply eager to see the striking scenery of Northern Ireland with a local guide by your side. It’s perfect for travelers who value flexibility, insider stories, and a private setting over large group travel.

Key Points

• Private Guide: Personalized attention and tailored commentary make the experience more enriching.
• Iconic Locations: Covering key filming sites like Cushendun Caves, Dark Hedges, and Ballintoy Harbour, plus the Giants Causeway.
• Flexible Itinerary: The private nature allows guides to adapt to your interests, with extra stops or time at sites.
• Scenic Drive: The Causeway Coastal Route is renowned for its breathtaking views and charming small towns.
• Cost Consideration: The experience costs over $400 per person, but many find the depth of insight and exclusivity worth it.
• Extra Expenses: Some sites, like the Giants Causeway, have additional entry fees, and optional experiences like crossing the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge can add to costs.

The Experience in Detail

We want to give you a clear picture of what you can expect from this tour, starting from the moment you’re picked up in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The tour kicks off with a scenic drive along the Causeway Coastal Route, widely regarded as one of the world’s top five most beautiful drives. As you pass through charming towns like Carnlough and Ballycastle, your guide will share stories about the area, its history, and its connection to the series.

Cushendun Caves: A Key ‘Game of Thrones’ Landmark

Your first stop is the Cushendun Caves, where Melisandre of Asshai gave birth to her shadow baby in the series. The caves are a real geological feature, and it’s fascinating to see the actual location behind the storyline. As one reviewer noted, hearing about the power struggles and family rivalries in Westeros makes the experience more alive. This stop offers a glimpse into the show’s darker, mystical side and also provides some great photo opportunities.

Ballycastle and Westeros Origins

Next, your journey takes you to Ballycastle, which is linked to Varys’s birthplace. While the town itself is charming, the significance is mainly in its proximity to other key locations. The guide will share inside gossip about the show’s filming, which makes the experience more engaging, especially if you’re a fan eager to connect scenes to real places.

The Dark Hedges: An Iconic Tree Tunnel

The Dark Hedges is undoubtedly the most recognizable filming site on this tour. This road of twisted, intertwined trees was used as the Kings Road in Westeros, and it’s easy to see why it’s so photogenic. Visitors often find themselves taking dozens of photos here, and as one reviewer shared, it’s a spot that gets busy later in the day, so visiting early helps you avoid crowds.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge: An Adventure for All

Crossing the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is not just about the scenery—it’s an adrenaline rush. The bridge links the mainland to a small island and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Though not directly used in the series, many visitors find the crossing equally thrilling as watching the show unfold. The tour includes ample time for this, and many reviews highlight it as a highlight of their day.

Lunch at Lordsport Harbour

Midway, the tour stops for lunch at Lordsport Harbour, which doubles as a fictional port in the series. This is your chance to relax, refuel, and enjoy the lively harbor scene. While lunch is on your own, the setting is picturesque and perfect for unwinding before more sightseeing.

The Giants Causeway: An Irish Natural Wonder

The Giants Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the star of Ireland’s striking coastal scenery. Even if you’re not a fan of the show, the natural hexagonal stone formations are captivating on their own. Many travelers rave about the opportunity to explore at leisure, taking photos of the dramatic cliffs and rugged coastline.

One reviewer shared that although the site isn’t used in Game of Thrones, it’s still a must-see, thanks to its extraordinary geology. You might find that wandering among the stones, listening to the sound of crashing waves, and taking in the view is a highlight of your trip.

Downhill Strand: The Dragonstone Setting

The final stop is at Downhill Strand, which was used as Dragonstone in the series. It’s a scenic beach with a wild, untamed feel—perfect for those who love rugged coastlines. The tour wraps up here before heading back to Belfast, with most travelers feeling they’ve gotten a well-rounded taste of Northern Ireland’s landscape and series lore.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides. Many mention guides like Derrick, Hugh, or Ian as being passionate, fun, and full of interesting stories about both the filming locations and Irish history. This personal touch makes the experience more engaging and memorable.

Travelers also frequently mention the scenic routes and breathtaking views, which are the real gems of the day. The drive along the Causeway Coastal Route alone is worth the price for those who love landscapes, even if they aren’t die-hard fans.

The flexibility of a private tour allows your guide to tailor stops or spend more time at certain sites, which is a big advantage over larger group tours. As one reviewer noted, Derrick even altered their itinerary to suit their interests, which added a lot to their experience.

Potential Drawbacks

A couple of reviews mention the additional costs involved, such as the entrance fee to the Giants Causeway (£13.00) and optional extras like crossing the rope bridge (which might cost extra). Also, some have experienced issues with the accuracy of what’s included in the tour, such as the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge not being originally included, leading to extra charges and missed stops.

The price point may feel steep to some, but many feel the personalized service, insider knowledge, and exclusive access justify the cost. Still, it’s worth weighing whether the private experience and tailored itinerary are essential for your trip style.

Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re a big fan of Game of Thrones, this tour offers a fantastic way to connect some of the most iconic filming locations with the stunning scenery of Northern Ireland. The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, often making the story of Westeros feel just a little more real.

Even if you’re not obsessed with the series, the scenery alone—especially the Giants Causeway and the Dark Hedges—is enough to make this a worthwhile day, particularly if you appreciate geology, dramatic coastlines, and Irish charm. The private setting means fewer crowds and more flexibility, allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests.

However, if budget is a concern, and you’re happy to explore on your own or with a larger group, you might find similar sites to visit independently or through less expensive tours. Just keep in mind that the private guide aspect is what brings the added value here—more stories, better timing, and a more personalized experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for fans of Game of Thrones, landscape lovers, and those who prefer a private, flexible tour. It’s ideal if you want tailored insights, a more intimate experience, and the chance to explore at your own pace. It’s also good for travelers who value comfort and personalization over budget.

If you’re traveling with a group of friends or a couple, and you’re keen on exploring some of Ireland’s most breathtaking spots with an expert guide, this could easily become one of your trip highlights.

FAQs

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, the tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting with pickup at 8:30 am and returning to Belfast afterward.

What locations will I visit?
You’ll explore Game of Thrones filming sites like Cushendun Caves, Ballycastle, Dark Hedges, Ballintoy Harbour, and Carnlough Harbour, as well as natural wonders like the Giants Causeway and Downhill Strand.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, though there is a stop at Lordsport Harbour for you to enjoy lunch on your own.

What is the tour price?
The cost is $414.07 per person, which reflects the private, personalized experience. Keep in mind, some sites like the Giants Causeway have an entrance fee of around £13, and optional extras like the Rope Bridge crossing cost extra.

Can I cancel this tour freely?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activities such as walking around scenic sites and crossing the rope bridge might be more suitable for older children or teenagers comfortable with outdoor adventures.

How many people are in the group?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, offering a more intimate, customized experience.

All in all, this private tour offers an engaging mix of series lore and stunning Irish scenery, guided by passionate locals who love sharing their knowledge. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a landscape enthusiast, it’s a day that’s likely to leave a lasting impression—and plenty of great photos.