Belfast: Giant’s Causeway Tour and 2-Day Open Top-Bus Tour

Traveling to Northern Ireland? This combo experience offers an excellent way to see some of the most iconic sights and get a real feel for Belfast’s charm. From the breathtaking coastline to lively city streets, this tour blends natural wonders with urban exploration, all in a manageable and well-structured package.

What we love about this experience is the balance of immersive sightseeing, expert guides, and flexible access to Belfast’s top attractions. You’ll enjoy scenic stops, informative commentary, and the convenience of a 2-day hop-on hop-off bus pass. The only thing to keep in mind is that some stops may have limited access or require quick timings, so planning ahead helps.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Northern Ireland’s highlights without feeling rushed. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic drives, charming villages, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. If you’re a fan of natural wonders or want an easy way to discover Belfast, this experience is worth considering.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenery along the Causeway Coastal Route, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Expert guides who share engaging anecdotes and local insights.
• Flexible city exploration with a 2-day hop-on hop-off bus pass.
• Authentic stops including Carrickfergus Castle, Dark Hedges, and Dunluce Castle.
• Cost-effective value with discounted attraction entries and extra perks.
• Suitable for diverse travelers, including those with reduced mobility and families.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

The Full Day of Coastal Wonders

The first day kicks off early at Donegall Square West, right outside Belfast’s City Hall, where you meet your guide in the recognizable “Big White Bus.” Departing at 9 AM sharp, the journey promises a well-paced day filled with scenic stops and fascinating stops.

The first stop is Carrickfergus Castle, built in 1177 AD. This well-preserved Norman fortress offers a glimpse into medieval Ireland, and visitors often appreciate the opportunity to snap photos of its impressive structure. A common review mentions how this stop sets the tone for the day’s historical and architectural insights.

Next, the route leads along the coast to Carnlough Harbour, a picture-perfect fishing village that feels frozen in time. For TV fans, it’s also known as Braavos from Game of Thrones, adding that extra layer of interest. The charm of Carnlough is accentuated by its quaint harbor and local color, making it a worthwhile stop—though some reviews mention a brief time here, so be prepared for a quick visit if you want to explore more.

Panoramic Views at Portaneevy Viewpoint

One of the tour’s highlights is Portaneevy Viewpoint, offering sweeping views of the coastline and nearby landmarks like the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. While the bridge itself isn’t accessible during coach tours, the vantage point is perfect for photos and soaking in the rugged beauty of the North Coast.

The Dark Hedges: A Natural Wonder and Movie Star

The Dark Hedges is arguably the most Instagram-worthy stop. These 300-year-old beech trees create a hauntingly beautiful tunnel, famously used as the Kingsroad in Game of Thrones. Reviewers rave about the atmosphere here, with one noting, “It’s a magical setting for that perfect shot.” It’s also the main lunch stop, where you can enjoy your own packed meal or choose from the menu at The Hedges Hotel.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Bushmills and Dunluce Castle: Medieval Charm Meets Legendary Ruins

After lunch, you’ll visit Bushmills, a village famed for its whiskey and history. While the tour doesn’t include a distillery visit, the village itself offers scenic views and a chance to walk through a location that’s steeped in legend.

A quick stop at Dunluce Castle ruins offers dramatic photo opportunities. Built in the 13th century and perched on a cliffside, it’s recognized as the Great Castle of Pyke from Game of Thrones. Reviewers highlight the stunning setting and historical intrigue, even if access inside might be limited.

The Main Event: The Giants Causeway

The tour’s crown jewel is, of course, the Giants Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Around 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns form this geological marvel, created by volcanic activity 60 million years ago. The legend adds to the enchantment, telling how Finn McCool built the causeway to fight a giant.

While the tour can’t access the actual bridge due to current restrictions, the visitor center offers an informative walk and beautiful views from afar. Many reviewers mention the walk along the basalt formations as a highlight, with some noting that a small fee (£1) for the shuttle bus from the visitor center makes the experience more comfortable.

Returning to Belfast

By around 6 PM, you’ll head back to Belfast with plenty of memories. The day is long but well-paced, giving everyone a chance to appreciate the scenery and history without feeling rushed.

The Two-Day Belfast Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Experience

The second and third days extend your exploration with a comprehensive hop-on hop-off bus tour around Belfast. With 19 stops, you have the freedom to visit attractions like Titanic Belfast, Crumlin Road Jail, HMS Caroline, Queen’s University, and the Botanic Gardens.

The tour lasts around 1 hour and 30 minutes if you stay on the full route, but most travelers prefer to hop off at sites they’re interested in. The flexibility means you can tailor your sightseeing, whether it’s exploring the Titanic Quarter or wandering through political murals downtown.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many reviewers appreciated guides like Louis, Paul, and Stuart for their lively commentary and storytelling. One noted that Louis felt like an old friend, making the tour feel personal. Another praised Stuart’s knowledge and humor, which kept the city tour engaging.

The discounts at attractions, especially Titanic Belfast, are a bonus, making entry more affordable. Some reviews mention enjoying the delicious seafood chowder during lunch stops, highlighting the tour’s added value.

Practical Aspects

The bus tour operates seven days a week, with your ticket valid for two full days. Meeting points are flexible—you can start at Donegall Square West or hop on at other stops along the route. The buses are wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for a variety of travelers.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This experience offers a lot for the price: professional guides, transportation, and discounted attraction entries. However, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase meals at stops.

The tour also features audio guides in multiple languages, making it accessible for international visitors. The extra value ticket ensures you get the most out of your time in Belfast without feeling rushed.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

Based on reviews, guides like Stuart, Louis, and Paul are praised for their enthusiasm and storytelling. One traveler mentioned that the coach driver Stuart “really seems to love his job,” which adds a genuine warmth to the experience.

The commentary on the stunning scenery and historical sites is consistent—many appreciate the scenic stops like Carrickfergus Castle and the Dark Hedges, with some reviewers noting that the walks at the Giants Causeway are enjoyable but may be limited if accessibility is a concern.

A few travelers mentioned that some stops had brief visits, like at Carnlough Harbour, or that certain attractions were only visible from a distance, but overall, the experience delivers great value for the cost, especially when considering the discounts and extra perks.

The Sum Up

This combined tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Northern Ireland, blending natural beauty with historical charm and city life. The full-day Giants Causeway trip is packed with iconic sights, while the 2-day hop-on hop-off allows you to explore Belfast at your own pace.

Value for money is a strong point, especially with the included discounts and flexible itinerary. The highlights—such as the Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle, and the Causeway itself—are truly unforgettable. If you’re looking for an easy, engaging way to experience Northern Ireland’s highlights without feeling overwhelmed, this tour ticks all the boxes.

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural stops, and the flexibility to explore at their own pace. Families, history buffs, and Game of Thrones fans will find plenty to love, while even casual travelers will appreciate the overall value and ease.

FAQs

How early do I need to arrive for the tour?
You should arrive at 8:30 AM at the meeting point on Day 1, ready for departure at 9:00 AM.

Is the coach accessible for travelers with reduced mobility?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for everyone to enjoy the stops.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable clothes are recommended, along with any snacks or drinks since food is not included.

Can I bring my own packed lunch?
Absolutely. The Dark Hedges stop is the main lunch area, where you can enjoy your own meal or buy from the nearby hotel.

Will I get to walk around at the Giants Causeway?
Yes, there’s an opportunity to walk along the basalt formations and explore the area, though some reviews note the walk is manageable and enjoyable.

Are there guided walks at the Causeway?
Yes, the tour includes a guided walk at the Giants Causeway, providing insight into the geology and legends.

What are the main attractions I’ll see in Belfast with the bus tour?
Key stops include Titanic Belfast, Crumlin Road Jail, Queen’s University, Botanic Gardens, and political murals.

Is food and drinks included in the tour?
No, meals and beverages are on your own, but there are plenty of options at stops and on the bus.

Whether you’re after dramatic coastline vistas or a glimpse of Belfast’s lively streets, this tour offers a compelling mix of experiences designed to make your trip memorable.

You can check if your dates are available here: