From Belfast: Giants Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour
Traveling through Northern Ireland offers a perfect mix of dramatic scenery, legendary myths, and iconic TV locations. This guided day tour from Belfast promises to deliver all that — with the added bonus of learning about the stories behind each site. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning for hidden gems, this tour is designed to give you a taste of Northern Ireland’s natural beauty and cinematic history.
What we love about this experience is the way it combines stunning coastal drives, an in-depth look at Game of Thrones filming locations, and visits to world-famous landmarks like the Giants Causeway. The guides, often praised for their charm and knowledge, make each stop memorable, weaving in local legends and behind-the-scenes stories. The scenery along the Causeway Coastal Route is breathtaking, and the stops at castles, caves, and beaches make it perfect for photography, exploration, and a good dose of Irish mythology.
A small consideration is the 8.5-hour duration, which might feel long for some, especially if you’re not keen on coach travel or long walks. The itinerary includes quite a few stops, some with optional extra castles, so expect a busy but rewarding day. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural storytelling, nature, and film history, especially those eager to see the iconic filming locations from “Game of Thrones.”
If you’re after a well-organized, engaging, and value-packed day that offers both scenic beauty and pop culture, this experience is likely to be a hit. It’s especially great for fans of the show, history buffs, or anyone craving a comprehensive Northern Ireland adventure.
You can check if your dates are available here:Good To Know
- Well-organized itinerary covering major film locations and natural wonders
- Knowledgeable guides who mix storytelling with humor and local insight
- Stunning coastal views along the renowned Causeway Coastal Route
- Multiple photo opportunities at castles, caves, and the Giants Causeway
- Good value for money considering the number of sites visited
- Long but varied day with plenty of stops, some optional for extra castle visits
Exploring the Full Itinerary and Highlights
Starting Point in Belfast
The adventure begins early at Donegall Square West, where you check in promptly at 8:30 AM. The tour departs sharply at 9:00 AM, so punctuality is key. The coach itself is comfortable, and many reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Dave, who are praised for their humor and stories that keep the trip lively.
Carrickfergus Castle
Our first stop is Carrickfergus Castle, a striking 12th-century Norman fortress overlooking the harbor. Reviewers like Deepthi appreciated the opportunity to walk around the castle and take photos of the scenic harbor and historic walls. The 25-minute stop allows enough time to soak in the medieval atmosphere and get some memorable shots before heading further along the coast.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyScenic Drive through the Causeway Coastal Route
The drive from Carrickfergus to Carnlough Harbour takes around 55 minutes. This stretch of the trip is often highlighted as one of the best drives in the world — a true feast for the eyes with dramatic cliffs, rolling green hills, and small seaside villages. The guide shares stories and local legends, making the scenery even more engaging. As one reviewer noted, the guide’s commentary adds a layer of cultural depth that turns a scenic drive into an educational experience.
Carnlough Harbour and Game of Thrones Filming Locations
Carnlough is where the show’s Bravoos scenes were filmed, and it’s a favorite for fans. The site also serves as a refreshment stop, with options to purchase snacks and use restroom facilities. Visitors like WIDI HERMAN found it a bit rushed, but still enjoyed the authenticity of walking in the show’s footsteps and capturing photos of the charming harbor.
Cushendun Caves
Next, you’ll visit the Cushendun Caves, used multiple times in the series. These caves are atmospheric and add a sense of adventure. Reviewers mention how scenes such as Melisandre’s shadow baby and Jaime’s battle were filmed here, making it a must-see for fans. The walk around the caves offers an authentic feel, and guides often share behind-the-scenes stories, enriching the visit.
The Dark Hedges – Arya’s Escape Route
The Dark Hedges is probably the most iconic Instagram spot, lined with twisting, ancient beech trees. Many reviewers, including Gabriela and Jessica, loved walking along this “King’s Road,” imagining Arya’s daring escape. With an hour at this location, you get plenty of time for photos and soaking up the eerie, fairy-tale atmosphere. Some reviewers noted that the stop could benefit from more time to explore, but overall, it’s a highlight.
Lunch and Relaxation
Lunch isn’t included in the tour, giving you the flexibility to choose your own meal options. Many guests opt for nearby cafes or bring snacks, as recommended by seasoned travelers. Some reviews mentioned enjoying a delicious meal at the Hedges Hotel, where portions are generous, making it worth the expense.
Giants Causeway
The star of the tour and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Giants Causeway is a natural marvel of interlocked basalt columns. Visitors can walk freely across the stones, learning about Irish giant Finn MacCool’s legend from the guides. The 1.5-hour stop allows ample time for exploration and photos. Reviewers love the scenic views from every angle, and many appreciate that guides share stories about the formation and myths surrounding the site, adding a layer of cultural context.
Dunluce Castle and Nearby Views
Ending with Dunluce Castle, the iconic ruins perched dramatically on the coast, provides a perfect photo op. The castle also served as the Greyjoy seat in Game of Thrones, making it highly relevant for fans. The 20-minute stop includes a brief walk and scenic views, which many say are worth the visit despite the limited time.
Return Journey
The journey back to Belfast takes about 1.5 hours, winding inland through more scenic landscapes. Many guests remark on how the day felt packed yet manageable, thanks to the engaging commentary and variety of sites. The coach drops you off at the original meeting point, concluding a full day of adventure.
What Sets This Tour Apart?
Expert Guides with a Sense of Humor
Guests consistently mention guides like Dave and Hue, whose storytelling, humor, and local knowledge elevate the trip. As one reviewer put it, Hue made the day with his running commentary on myths and history, making each stop more memorable. The guides’ enthusiasm helps to keep the group engaged through long driving stretches and busy sightseeing.
Authentic Locations with Behind-the-Scenes Stories
From Cushendun to Dark Hedges, each site is visited with the context of its role in filming or local legend. Reviewers like Mark highlighted Hue’s storytelling, which combined the show’s details with Irish myths, creating a richer understanding of the landscape.
Stunning Coastal Drive
The Causeway Coastal Route is often cited as one of the world’s best drives, and for good reason. The views are breathtaking, with cliffs dropping to the sea, lush greenery, and picturesque villages. Sitting at the front of the coach during the drive helps maximize these views.
Flexibility and Optional Extras
While the main stops are well-timed, some reviews suggest that more time at certain sites—like the Giants Causeway—would be welcome. The tour also offers optional castle visits for small additional fees, which many find worthwhile for a deeper dive into history.
Food and Refreshment Breaks
The tour doesn’t include lunch, but this is a plus for those wanting to pick their own meal or enjoy local cafes. Several guests mention enjoying hearty portions and local specialties during their stop at Dark Hedges or nearby cafes.
Value for Money
Most reviews consider the price reasonable, especially given the number of sites visited and the quality of guides. The combination of natural wonders and TV locations makes it a compelling package for a full day’s worth of sightseeing.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Wear comfortable shoes, especially for walking around the Giants Causeway and Dunluce Castle. The terrain at the Causeway can be uneven.
- Bring a camera or smartphone with plenty of storage — the scenery and locations are extremely photogenic.
- Pack some snacks or buy them en route, since food isn’t included, and stops at cafes are brief.
- Arrive early at the meeting point—Donegall Square West—to ensure a smooth start.
- Be prepared for a long day. While the coach is comfortable, be ready for a busy schedule with plenty of sightseeing.
- Check the weather forecast and bring layers, as coastal weather can change quickly.
- Consider the optional castle visits if you want to explore more deeply; they cost a small entry fee but are often praised by visitors.
The Sum Up
This From Belfast: Giants Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour offers a comprehensive look at some of Northern Ireland’s most iconic sights, with the added bonus of TV history. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, cultural storytelling, and film locations makes it a smart choice for anyone wanting an enriching, scenic day out from Belfast.
The guides’ enthusiasm, the stunning coastal scenery, and the chance to walk on legendary sites like the Giants Causeway make this tour a good value for money, especially for fans of the show or lovers of nature. While it’s a full day and somewhat fast-paced, most reviewers agree that it’s worth the effort — and many leave eager to return.
Perfect for those who want an active, informative experience that hits all the highlights, this tour balances adventure with comfort and storytelling. Expect to leave feeling inspired, with plenty of photos and stories to tell.
FAQ
Is food included in the tour?
No, the tour does not include food or drinks, giving you the flexibility to choose your own meals at stops like Dark Hedges or nearby cafes.
How long are the stops at each location?
Most stops range from about 20 to 25 minutes, with longer time allocated at the Giants Causeway for exploration and photos. The Dark Hedges stop lasts approximately one hour.
Are the guides knowledgeable about Game of Thrones?
Yes, guides share behind-the-scenes stories and details about filming locations. Many reviews praise their storytelling and humor, especially guides like Dave and Hue.
Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While generally suitable, the long hours and walking at sites like the Giants Causeway might be challenging for some elderly travelers. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
What is the transportation like?
The tour uses a comfortable coach, with many reviewers noting the professionalism of the drivers and guides. Sitting at the front of the coach helps enjoy the scenic views.
Can I visit Dunluce Castle separately?
The tour includes a brief 20-minute stop for photos and views of Dunluce Castle, but visiting the interior requires an extra ticket.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential, and layers are recommended due to the coastal weather, which can be unpredictable.
Is this tour good value for money?
Most guests agree it is, considering the number of sites, scenic drives, and storytelling involved. Optional castle visits are modestly priced and add value for enthusiasts.
This guide should help you decide whether this day trip from Belfast is right for you. It offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and TV magic — making for a fulfilling and memorable adventure through Northern Ireland.
You can check if your dates are available here: