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

History

The Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a geological marvel formed over 60 million years ago by volcanic eruptions that created its iconic hexagonal basalt columns. Local legend tells of Finn MacCool, a mythical giant who built the causeway to cross to Scotland for a showdown with a rival giant, weaving a rich tapestry of folklore that captivates visitors to this day.

The Antrim Coast, a highlight of this tour, is renowned for its dramatic cliffs and charming villages, but it gained global fame as a filming location for HBO’s Game of Thrones. Sites like the Dark Hedges and Magheramorne Quarry brought Westeros to life, blending Northern Ireland’s natural splendor with cinematic history, making this tour a must for fans and nature lovers alike.

Highlights

• Explore the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway and its unique basalt columns.
• Visit the Dark Hedges, the eerie Kingsroad from Game of Thrones.
• Take in breathtaking views at Portaneevy View Point near Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.
• Journey along the scenic Antrim Coast Road through the Glens of Antrim.
• Discover Game of Thrones filming locations like Magheramorne Quarry and Carnlough Harbour.

Full Description

This unforgettable day tour from Belfast takes you to the Giant’s Causeway and iconic Game of Thrones filming locations along the stunning Antrim Coast. Your adventure begins at Carrickfergus Castle, a 12th-century Norman fortress, where you can wander, take photos, and admire the harbor views. The journey continues along the Antrim Coast Road, winding through the nine Glens of Antrim, where you’ll hear tales of fairies, leprechauns, and local history from your expert guide.

As you pass picturesque spots like Glenarm Castle, Carnlough Harbour, and the Waterfoot Caves, the tour stops at Portaneevy View Point to marvel at the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and catch glimpses of Scotland’s Mull of Kintyre. Next, visit the Dark Hedges, the haunting tree-lined avenue featured as the Kingsroad in Game of Thrones, followed by a lunch break at a traditional pub (at your own expense) and a whiskey tasting at Old Bushmills Distillery.

The tour’s highlight is the Giant’s Causeway, where you’ll have ample time to walk among the 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, explore the visitor center, and learn about Finn MacCool’s legendary exploits. A final photo stop at Dunluce Castle’s dramatic ruins caps the day before you return to Belfast via an inland route, with drop-off in the city center or at the tour office in Queen’s Quarter.

Why Choose This Experience?

This 8.5-hour tour combines Northern Ireland’s natural wonders, rich history, and Game of Thrones fame into a seamless adventure. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable air-conditioned bus, and a mix of guided and self-guided stops, it caters to history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and pop culture fans alike. The flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve-now-pay-later options ensures stress-free planning.

Beyond the iconic Giant’s Causeway, the tour’s curated stops, like the Dark Hedges and Carrickfergus Castle, offer unique photo opportunities and cultural insights. The blend of scenic drives, engaging storytelling, and ample time to explore makes this experience a standout, delivering memories that resonate long after you return to Belfast.

What’s Included

• Transportation by air-conditioned bus.
• Professional live tour guide (English-speaking).
• Entry to the Giant’s Causeway.
• Entry to the Dark Hedges.
• Whiskey tasting at Old Bushmills Distillery.

Itinerary

• Depart from 27 Donegall Rd, Belfast.
• Visit Carrickfergus Castle (20 minutes: sightseeing, free time, photos).
• Drive along Antrim Coast Road, passing Magheramorne, Larne, Ballygally Castle, Glenarm, Carnlough Harbour, Waterfoot, Glendun Viaduct, Loughareema, and Ballycastle.
• Stop at Portaneevy View Point for Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge views.
• Explore the Dark Hedges (1 hour: sightseeing, lunch break, self-guided).
• Visit Old Bushmills Distillery (30 minutes: whiskey tasting, shopping).
• Discover Giant’s Causeway (105 minutes: walk, sightseeing, self-guided).
• Photo stop at Dunluce Castle (15 minutes).
• Return to 27 Donegall Rd, Belfast.

Pricing

From $26 per person.

Meeting Point

Start your tour at the Allens Tours office, 27 Donegall Rd, Belfast.

How to Get There

• By foot: The Allens Tours office is a 10-minute walk from Belfast City Centre, near Queen’s University in the Queen’s Quarter.
• By public transport: Take a bus to Botanic Avenue or University Road, both a 5-minute walk from the meeting point.
• By car: Limited parking is available near Donegall Road; consider nearby public car parks in Queen’s Quarter.
• By taxi: A short ride from Belfast City Centre to 27 Donegall Rd costs approximately £5-£7.

Good to Know

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain at Giant’s Causeway.
• Weather-appropriate clothing, as coastal areas can be windy and rainy.

Know Before You Go

• There is no restroom on the coach, but multiple stops include toilet facilities.
• Lunch is not included; bring cash for the pub stop.
• The tour involves moderate walking, especially at Giant’s Causeway and the Dark Hedges.
• Weather may affect visibility at coastal viewpoints; check forecasts.
• The itinerary is subject to change due to traffic or weather conditions.

Reviews

• The tour was fantastic! The guide’s storytelling brought the Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones sites to life, and the scenery was breathtaking, even in the rain. Highly recommend!
• Loved the mix of history, nature, and pop culture. Our guide was hilarious and knew so much about the area. The Dark Hedges and Causeway were highlights for me.
• A well-organized day with stunning views and just the right amount of free time. The guide’s knowledge of Game of Thrones locations added a fun twist to the trip.