Northern Ireland Shore excursions

Our most recommended Northern Ireland Shore excursions

From Belfast: Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour

From Belfast: Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour

Discover the beauty of Northern Ireland and the world-famous Giant’s Causeway on a tour from Belfast. Visit the Giants Causeway, Carrickfergus Castle, Glenarm Castle, Carnlough Harbour, Waterfoot Caves, Cushendun Curfew House, Rope Bridge, and The Dark Hedges while navigating the Antrim Coast Road. After leaving Belfast in the morning, a short journey will take you to the first stop of the day at Carrickfergus Castle, a 12th-century Norman castle. Walk around and take photographs of the castle and the harbor. Continue the drive along the Antrim Coast Road, traveling through some of the nine Glens of Antrim. Wind through small towns and villages, hearing the myths and legends of the fairies and leprechauns that reside in these Glens. Driving through Glenarm, pass Carnlough Harbour, the Waterfoot Caves, and Cushendun Curfew house. Travel up through Glencorp and Glendunn, passing the coastal town of Ballycastle before arriving at the Portaneevy View Point to see Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge.  Stop to admire views at the rope bridge and look across to the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland and Rathlin Island. Listen to the stories behind these sights before stopping next at the Dark Hedges, known as the Kingsroad in the Game of Thrones HBO series. Walk among the trees made famous by the Game of Thrones followed by a lunch stop at a traditional pub (costs not included).  Later, visit more locations from the Game of Thrones. Travel by Carnlough Harbour where Arya Stark swam and pass by Magharmorne Quarry where Castle Black was located. The finale of the day is a stop at the Giant’s Causeway where you can explore, walk across the historic stones, and learn about the legend of the Giant Finn MacCool. Discover how and why he built the Causeway.  After your day of exploring is done, travel directly back to Belfast via the inland route and get dropped off back in the city center or at the activity provider's office in Queen's Quarter.

Belfast: The Titanic Experience with SS Nomadic Visit

Belfast: The Titanic Experience with SS Nomadic Visit

Titanic Belfast Discover the amazing story of RMS Titanic on a fascinating day visit to Titanic Belfast, the world’s largest Titanic visitor experience. Explore the sights, sounds, smells and stories of Titanic as you take an interactive journey through over 100 years of authentic history, at the very place where RMS Titanic was designed, built and launched in 1912. Highlights include: • The Shipyard Ride - join Harland & Wolff workers to be taken on a journey around the shipyard. • Encounter individuals with stories to tell such as the Chief Designer Thomas Andrews, members of the H&W Guarantee Group, local craftsmen and passengers. • Discover the reality of Titanic’s interiors in a 3D cave and replica cabins. • Explore The Pursuit of Dreams with a 7.6m long scale model of Titanic which illuminates in sync with state-of-the-art projections for a truly immersive experience. • A stunning artefact collection including Wallace Hartley’s violin, an original life jacket and deckchair. SS Nomadic Known as ‘Titanic’s little sister’, SS Nomadic has been restored to her former glory and is the world’s last remaining White Star vessel. Berthed next to Titanic Belfast is the SS Nomadic, the tender ship for first and second class passengers at Cherbourg. Designed by Thomas Andrews and built using the same design, it’s similarities to RMS Titanic are plain to see. Highlights include: • Restored to her original 1911 glory, see the original woodwork and wall panels that greeted passengers onboard. • Explore Nomadic’s fascinating stories, from a tender ship to her days in service in two world wars to her later life as an entertainment venue in Paris. • Peek into the crew’s quarters and the tunnels which allowed them to move around the ship, unseen by White Star passengers. • Meet the ship’s characters as they explain to you about their role onboard SS Nomadic. Watch out for Pierre the barman and Louis the stoker.

From Belfast: Giant's Causeway Full-Day Guided Trip

From Belfast: Giant's Causeway Full-Day Guided Trip

Embark on a scenic drive to Northern Ireland's most iconic locations from Belfast. Visit the Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Ropebridge, Cushendun Caves, Carnlough Harbour, Bushmills Distillery, and the Dark Hedges. Learn about the history with live commentary on board. Board a comfortable bus and set off on your adventure. Make a stop at Carrickfergus Castle to take some striking photos. Then, journey along the Causeway Coastal Route, with stops at the Caves at Cushendun and Carnlough Harbour—both made famous by the hit TV show Game of Thrones. Enjoy a short photo stop at Portaneevy Viewpoint for breathtaking views of Carrick-a-Rede Ropebridge. Enjoy a delicious pub-grub-style lunch at the Fullerton Arms in Ballintoy (not included). Then re-board and head to the highlight of the tour, the Giant's Causeway. At Ireland’s only World Heritage Site, climb over the ancient stones and discover the myths and legends that surround this world-famous attraction. After the Giant’s Causeway, stop at the ancient ruins of Dunluce Castle, a castle ruin unlike any other in the world. Spend 30 minutes at Ireland's oldest whiskey distillery, Bushmills. Visit the gift shop or enjoy a taste of this world-famous and critically acclaimed whiskey. The final stop of the day is at the stunning Dark Hedges, so easily recognizable from Game of Thrones. Finally, relax on the comfortable return journey to Belfast.

Dublin: Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce & Belfast Tour

Dublin: Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce & Belfast Tour

Tour the coastline of Northern Ireland on a day trip from Dublin in a comfortable bus. Visit iconic sights, including the Giant's Causeway, the Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle, and Belfast. Depart Dublin and travel North, stopping at a service station along the way for breakfast, to buy lunch, and to stretch your legs. Your first attraction is to take a 5-minute photo stop at the famous and picturesque ruins of Dunluce Castle. Afterward, head to the Giant's Causeway, formed from about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns. Enjoy at least 2 hours at the UNESCO World Heritage Site and get up close to the hexagonal columns, often referred to as the "8th Wonder of the World." Take in the fantastic views of the Irish Sea and then spend around 20 minutes traveling along the avenue of intertwined beech trees known as "Dark Hedges." Planted in the 18th-century by the Stuart family, the beautiful sight was used in the Game of Thrones series and the Transformers movie. Lastly, head to Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland and the birthplace of the Titanic ocean liner. Stop next to Belfast City Hall and spend approximately 1.5 hours exploring the city. Do some sightseeing, shopping, and grab some food before continuing the journey home. As a added bonus we included a complimentary whiskey tasting back in Dublin - ask your guide for more details on how to book it for FREE!

Belfast: Political Taxi Tour

Belfast: Political Taxi Tour

Meet your guide, a working Belfast cab driver, and hear about their personal involvement in The Troubles on this car tour. Be welcomed to Belfast and dive into this facinating political conflict from a local perspective. Explore important locations from the conflict like the Falls Road and Shankill Road. See how two communities are still separated by the looming Peace Walls. View many telling political murals. Be transported back in time by stories from those who lived through the conflict. Take the same tour as notable public figures like Anthony Bourdain, Vince Vaughn, and George Negus. Experience unique insights from the past and present. Have your burning questions about the city's troubled history answered. Discover how the city has undergone changes and find out about its future. Get recommendations from a local about where to shop, eat, drink, or do for fun.

From Belfast: Giant's Causeway Guided Day Tour With Castles

From Belfast: Giant's Causeway Guided Day Tour With Castles

Join us for a full-day adventure along Northern Ireland’s spectacular coast. The tour departs daily at 9:00 AM sharp, right beside Belfast City Hall on Donegall Square West. We leave the city behind and travel north along the legendary Antrim Coast Road, often named one of the world’s most scenic drives. Travel in comfort aboard our modern, air-conditioned coach and get ready for a day packed with incredible views, fascinating stories, and unforgettable photo stops. Bring a fully charged phone, you’ll want to capture it all! Stop 1: Carrickfergus Castle Our first stop is the historic Carrickfergus Castle, built in 1177. This Norman stronghold has watched over Belfast Lough for more than 800 years, surviving sieges by Scottish, English, and French forces. Admire the medieval architecture, stroll along the harbour, and enjoy sweeping views. Feel free to enter & explore the castle or relax with a coffee in the scenic setting. Antrim Coast & Glens of Antrim We continue along the breathtaking Antrim Coastal Route, passing through charming seaside villages like Carnlough, Cushendall, and Waterfoot. The route winds between cliffs and the Nine Glens of Antrim, offering views of green hills and crashing waves. Your guide will share stories, folklore, and local history as you soak in the beauty of this iconic drive. Keep your eyes peeled — dolphins are often spotted along this stretch! Stop 2: Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Viewpoint Next, we pause at Portaneevy viewpoint, where you’ll take in panoramic views of the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, nearby cliffs, and — on a clear day — even Scotland. It’s the perfect photo stop to stretch your legs and take in the scenery. Stop 3: The Dark Hedges We head inland to the mysterious Dark Hedges, a natural tunnel formed by twisting beech trees. This iconic location was featured in Game of Thrones as the King’s Road and is a must-visit for fans and photographers alike. We also stop nearby for lunch at The Hedges Hotel, offering a wide range of options to suit all dietary needs (lunch not included). Stop 4: The Giant’s Causeway The highlight of the tour is the incredible Giant’s Causeway — Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. This geological wonder features over 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns, formed by volcanic activity — or, as legend tells it, by the giant Finn McCool. Take your time walking the stones, enjoying coastal views, and soaking in the myths that bring this landscape to life. Entry is included in your ticket. Final Stop: Dunluce Castle Our final stop is the dramatic Dunluce Castle, perched high on sea cliffs above the Atlantic. This 13th-century ruin was once the seat of the MacDonnell clan and remains one of the most photographed landmarks on the north coast. Enjoy a stunning photo opportunity, or if you’d like, enter and explore the castle at your own expense. It's the perfect way to wrap up the day before we return to central Belfast.

Dublin: Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce & Belfast Tour

Dublin: Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce & Belfast Tour

Tour the highlights of Northern Ireland on a day trip from Dublin aboard a comfortable touring coach. Explore iconic locations such as UNESCO Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle ruins, Dark Hedges and Belfast. Depart central Dublin and enjoy rolling green countryside and historical commentary as you travel across the Irish border on the M1 motorway. The road signs change from miles to kilometres as you depart the European Union and enter the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Arriving in Co. Antrim by mid-morning you will have panoramic views of Glens of Antrim, Whitepark Bay, Portbradden, Causeway Coast, Mull of Kintyre, Rathlin Island and on clear days the coast of Scotland. Your first stop on Northern Irish soil is typically at Dark Hedges - an amazing avenue of intertwined beech trees planted in the 1700s by the local Stuart family to line the approach to their estate and farm. Dark Hedges is eerily beautiful and has been made one of Northern Ireland’s iconic sights by Game of Thrones and Transformers. Apparently the road is haunted by a ghost - so we will only stop here briefly for fresh air and photos. Afterwards, visit the spectacular ruins of Dunluce Castle for a comprehensive tour with paid entrance included. This is the former residence of the McDonnell clan, made famous as House of Greyjoy in Game of Thrones and considered by many to be the most romantic castle in Ireland. Departing the area we’ll drive along the Causeway Coastal route between Dunluce and Ballycastle - one of the most dramatically scenic roads in the world. There will be time for lunch, typically in a good local pub, cafe or restaurant with options to suit every taste. Alternatively, feel free to bring a packed lunch. The highlight for many today is undoubtedly UNESCO Giant’s Causeway. Volcanic activity created the 37,000 basalt “stepping stone” columns and spectacular formations. Locals will tell you it was actually a local warrior Giant by the name of Fionn. Enjoy the local legend from your guide and then make your own mind up. You’ll enjoy at least 90 minutes at Giant’s Causeway - the perfect amount of time based upon 25 years of guest feedback. End the day with an orientation tour of Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. Highlights include City Hall, Victoria Square and famous Titanic Dock, where the world famous ocean liner Titanic was built in 1912. Your tour will drop you back in downtown Dublin with plenty of time for late dinner arrangements, entertainment and rest.

Belfast: Hop-On Hop-Off Belfast Open Top Bus Tour

Belfast: Hop-On Hop-Off Belfast Open Top Bus Tour

Explore Belfast on an open-top bus tour. Hop on and off at your leisure with a 48-hour ticket and discover the highlights of the city including the Titanic Quarter, Queen's Univeristy, and the City Hall. Board the bus beside the city hall and discover the highlights of Belfast. Hop on and off at the sights of interest to you. Explore the Titanic Quarter and learn about the history of the White Star Line and the Harland and Wolff shipbuilding company. Visit the covered St. George's Market and the Victorian Botanical Gardens. Hop off at Queens University and visit the Ulster Museum. Travel through the heart of the Nationalist and Loyalist communities, seeing the colorful murals that showcase the turbulent history of the city. Travel along the 40ft high peace wall which was constructed to separate the communities. Pay a visit to Crumlin Road Gaol and learn about some of its infamous inmates.

From Dublin: Game of Thrones Studio Tour with Coach Transfer

From Dublin: Game of Thrones Studio Tour with Coach Transfer

Game of Thrones Studio Tour offers a rare glimpse into the world of TV & filmmaking. As the world’s only official Game of Thrones Studio Tour, it lets you experience first-hand the iconic sets where unforgettable moments of television history unfolded, preserved exactly as they were when filming ended. Take a comfortable coach transfer from Dublin, just 90 minutes away, to the authentic filming location of Linen Mill Studios in Banbridge—one of Northern Ireland’s premier filming locations for the globally acclaimed series. Begin your journey with a warm welcome from expert guides, who set the scene by providing fascinating insights into how the legendary series was brought to life. Walk through the iconic Great Hall of Winterfell, the setting of unforgettable moments such as Jon Snow being proclaimed 'King in the North', and marvel at the intricate detailing that defined this majestic set. Explore meticulously preserved, authentic sets that bring the series to life. Walk through Dragonstone's atmospheric chambers, where Daenerys plotted her conquest. Then, enter the iconic throne room of King's Landing, the epicentre of political drama. Discover the secrets behind the series and learn how visual effects artists and prop makers collaborated to bring epic moments vividly to the screen. You'll also get an up-close look at hundreds of original costumes worn by your favourite characters, from the exquisite gowns of Cersei Lannister to the rugged furs worn by the Night’s Watch. Interactive displays allow visitors to dive deeper into the creative process, showcasing detailed concept art, production sketches, and fascinating behind-the-scenes footage. Snap memorable photos in front of your favourite props and sets, or get hands-on and try out some of the visual effects techniques used by the show's creative team. Immerse yourself further with the chance to view original storyboards and scripts, gaining a deeper understanding of how George RR Martin’s rich storytelling was adapted into an iconic TV phenomenon. After your immersive experience, complete your visit by browsing the world's largest Game of Thrones shop, featuring exclusive merchandise, collectibles, and souvenirs unavailable elsewhere. Relax and reflect on your tour at the onsite café or restaurant, which offer unique themed dining experiences, including afternoon tea inspired by the series. Conveniently located just 30 minutes from Belfast and 90 minutes from Dublin, the Game of Thrones Studio Tour is easily accessible for both self-drive visitors and those opting for comfortable coach transfers from either city. Ideal for fans of the series, film and TV enthusiasts, or anyone intrigued by Ireland’s rich storytelling heritage, this is a must-see attraction that offers a captivating glimpse into the artistry behind the global phenomenon of Game of Thrones.

Game of Thrones Studio Tour Admission Ticket

Game of Thrones Studio Tour Admission Ticket

Game of Thrones Studio Tour offers a rare glimpse into the world of TV & filmmaking. As the world’s only official Game of Thrones Studio Tour, it lets you experience first-hand the iconic sets where unforgettable moments of television history unfolded, preserved exactly as they were when filming ended. Set within the authentic filming location of Linen Mill Studios in Banbridge—one of Northern Ireland’s premier filming locations for the globally acclaimed series. Begin your journey with a warm welcome from expert guides, who set the scene by providing fascinating insights into how the legendary series was brought to life. Walk through the iconic Great Hall of Winterfell, the setting of unforgettable moments such as Jon Snow being proclaimed 'King in the North', and marvel at the intricate detailing that defined this majestic set. Explore meticulously preserved, authentic sets that bring the series to life. Walk through Dragonstone's atmospheric chambers, where Daenerys plotted her conquest. Then, enter the iconic throne room of King's Landing, the epicentre of political drama. Discover the secrets behind the series and learn how visual effects artists and prop makers collaborated to bring epic moments vividly to the screen. You'll also get an up-close look at hundreds of original costumes worn by your favourite characters, from the exquisite gowns of Cersei Lannister to the rugged furs worn by the Night’s Watch. Interactive displays allow visitors to dive deeper into the creative process, showcasing detailed concept art, production sketches, and fascinating behind-the-scenes footage. Snap memorable photos in front of your favourite props and sets, or get hands-on and try out some of the visual effects techniques used by the show's creative team. Immerse yourself further with the chance to view original storyboards and scripts, gaining a deeper understanding of how George RR Martin’s rich storytelling was adapted into an iconic TV phenomenon. After your immersive experience, complete your visit by browsing the world's largest Game of Thrones shop, featuring exclusive merchandise, collectibles, and souvenirs unavailable elsewhere. Relax and reflect on your tour at the onsite café or restaurant, which offer unique themed dining experiences, including afternoon tea inspired by the series. Conveniently located just 30 minutes from Belfast and 90 minutes from Dublin, the Game of Thrones Studio Tour is easily accessible for both self-drive visitors and those opting for comfortable coach transfers from either city. Ideal for fans of the series, film and TV enthusiasts, or anyone intrigued by Ireland’s rich storytelling heritage, this is a must-see attraction that offers a captivating glimpse into the artistry behind the global phenomenon of Game of Thrones.

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What people are saying about Northern Ireland

Overall rating

4.7 out of 5 stars
4.7
4.7 out of 5 stars
(12 reviews)
5 out of 5 stars

What a road trip! I highly recommend this delightful tour of the beautiful Northern Irish coast to anyone looking to enjoy the lovely highlights and natural landscape of this gorgeous part of the world! If possible, try to get on Dave's bus! A historian and storyteller to the heart, Dave is the both BEST tour guide I've ever met and safest driver I've ever ridden with! He will make sure you have the time of your life on the A2! Thank you, City Tours Belfast! And Cheers! to you, Dave! Enjoy!

5 out of 5 stars

In the beginning, we were a bit upset since we did not stop at all the locations indicated in our itinerary. We were told that they merged different tour groups (focus: castles + Game of Thrones), but in general, we had an amazing day, exploring the region and visiting Giant's Causeway. Dave, our tour guide/driver, was fantastic! He performed a 9h stand-up comedy performance, and was very reliable, friendly and fun. I cannot recommend Dave and his tour provider enough. Good times!!

5 out of 5 stars

Dave was INCREDIBLE - we were honestly so hungover at the start of the day and it was practically therapy; unreal absolutely incred

5 out of 5 stars

very enjoyable day, driver was very informative, 9hour trip and told us so much, well worth the money. definitely recommend 👌

5 out of 5 stars

Very positive experience. Very well spent day. Super friendly and attentive guide. Poderosas Group