GIANTS CAUSEWAY & BLACK TAXI TOUR

If you’re dreaming of uncovering the wild beauty and intriguing history of Northern Ireland, a private tour of the Giants Causeway and Belfast might be exactly what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who have, and I can tell you it’s packed with stunning scenery, fascinating stories, and authentic local experiences.

What I love about this tour is its combination of luxury transportation, expert guides, and the chance to see a mix of natural wonders and cultural landmarks in just one day. The itinerary covers iconic spots like the Dark Hedges and Dunluce Castle, plus a compelling Black Taxi tour of Belfast’s murals and peace walls. The only thing to consider? It’s a busy day with lots of ground to cover, so you’ll want to be ready for a full schedule.

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive, flexible, and immersive day out. It’s perfect if you prefer private groups, value insightful commentary, and love the idea of blending natural beauty with history and local stories.

Good To Know

• Private luxury vehicle ensures comfort and flexibility throughout the day.
• Local guides bring authentic insights, especially during the Belfast Black Taxi tour.
• The itinerary includes Game of Thrones filming locations, natural wonders, and historical sites.
• Tickets for major attractions like the Giants Causeway and Dunluce Castle are included.
• Visitors can customize the tour to focus on spots that interest them most.
• The tour’s 8-hour duration balances sightseeing with manageable pacing.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Belfast’s Central Location

The tour begins with a pickup from Belfast, a city brimming with character and history. The convenience of a private pickup means you can start your adventure relaxed and ready, without worrying about public transport or group departures. The luxury vehicle—which can accommodate up to seven travelers—ensures everyone can spread out and enjoy the scenic drive.

Scenic Drive Through the Glens of Antrim

As you leave Belfast, the journey takes you through the stunning Glens of Antrim, a series of lush, green valleys carved by ancient volcanic activity. The panoramic views alone make this one of the best ways to get a feel for Ireland’s raw landscape. Our guides often point out local stories and geology that add context to the scenery, making the drive not just beautiful but educational.

Dark Hedges: A Game of Thrones Filming Marvel

The first stop is the Dark Hedges, a captivating avenue of intertwining beech trees famous for their appearance in Game of Thrones. Travelers consistently mention the short walk through the towering trees as a highlight, perfect for photos. One reviewer said, “The beech trees are even more impressive in person, with the light filtering through the canopy—an Instagram paradise.”

It’s a quick, manageable walk, and the guide often shares fun facts about how this location has become a magnet for fans and photographers alike. Plus, it provides a fantastic warm-up for the day’s adventure.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Ballintoy Harbour: A Coastal Gem with GOT Roots

Next, you visit Ballintoy Harbour, another Game of Thrones filming site. The scenery here is rugged and dramatic, with stunning beaches and caves to explore. Many travelers comment on the peaceful yet striking environment, which feels like stepping into a different world. Here, you can stroll along the coast, take photos, or just soak in the atmosphere that inspired many scenes in the series.

Carick-a-Rede Rope Bridge: A Thrilling Historic Landmark

The Carick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a highlight for many visitors, especially those seeking a bit of adventure. The steep descent and the swaying bridge offer both fantastic views and a sense of daring. Built centuries ago for salmon fishing, this rope bridge connects the mainland to a tiny island, and crossing it gives you a real sense of history and scale.

A reviewer noted, “It’s not for the faint-hearted, but the views and sense of accomplishment make it totally worth it.” Be aware that tickets are required for this stop, so it’s good to check availability beforehand.

Giants Causeway: Nature’s Masterpiece

Arguably the main event, the Giants Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that never fails to impress. The unique hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago create a landscape that feels almost otherworldly.

Guides like Niall, a local with a passion for geology and local legends, often share stories about Fionn Mac Cool and the myths surrounding the causeway. We loved the way he explained how these formations came to be, making the scenery both awe-inspiring and meaningful.

Since the tour includes tickets, you can spend as much time as you like wandering among the stones, taking photos, or simply marveling at the natural artistry. Travelers frequently describe this as “one of the most surreal landscapes I’ve ever seen,” and it’s easy to see why.

Dunluce Castle: A Medieval Clifftop Fortress

Your last stop on the north coast is Dunluce Castle, a centuries-old castle perched dramatically on the edge of a cliff. The castle’s ruins are both photogenic and evocative, especially against a backdrop of the Atlantic waves. If the weather is clear, you might even spot Scotland across the water, adding a touch of international flavor to the scenery.

Fans of Game of Thrones will recognize the castle from various scenes. Reviewers mention it as a “must-see” spot for history and series fans alike, with plenty of photo opportunities at every turn.

Authentic Irish Food Options

After a day of sightseeing, travelers can enjoy a traditional Irish meal at a local hotel or café bar, like The Knook, or go for classic fish & chips. This is a chance to relax, refuel, and discuss the highlights of your day with your group or guide.

Belfast Black Taxi Tour: The Final Chapter

Back in Belfast, the tour wraps up with the famous Black Taxi Tour. This experience allows you to explore the peace walls and murals with a local guide who has first-hand knowledge of Belfast’s divided history.

Many reviews highlight the informative and respectful nature of the guide, who shares personal stories and insights about Belfast’s complex past. The murals are vibrant and powerful, and the taxi allows you to get close to these open-air artworks that tell a story of resilience and hope.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Luxury vehicle for 8 hours, suitable for up to 7 travelers
• All site entry tickets for Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and Carick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
• Flexibility to tailor the stops to your interests
• Knowledgeable local guides

Not Included:

• Rope bridge tickets are required (but included, as per the info)
• Food and drinks (though options are available at locations)

Extras worth noting:

• The tour offers pick-up and drop-off in Belfast, making it convenient for travelers staying in the city.
• You can reserve without paying upfront, providing flexibility in planning.

The Practicalities and Value

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, history, and scenic beauty in a manageable 8-hour window. The luxury vehicle makes the long drives comfortable, especially for those who prefer to relax rather than endure a crowded bus. The personalized touch—being a private tour—allows for adjustments based on your interests and pace.

The inclusion of major attractions like the Giants Causeway and Dunluce Castle, with tickets already covered, makes it a cost-effective choice compared to paying separately for each site. Plus, the added insights from guides who are both knowledgeable and passionate make the experience richer.

Travelers consistently mention the quality of the guides, often citing their local knowledge and ability to weave stories that bring the sites alive. The combination of stunning scenery, cultural depth, and authentic storytelling makes this a standout option for those eager to experience Ireland’s North Coast at a relaxed but comprehensive pace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for history buffs, Game of Thrones fans, and nature lovers alike. If you’re someone who prefers private, flexible experiences over large group tours, you’ll appreciate the customization options and intimate atmosphere. It’s also perfect if you want a day that combines iconic sights with local stories, all while traveling in comfort.

Travelers who enjoy photography will find plenty of photo-worthy moments, from the basalt columns to the cliffside castles. And those keen to learn about Belfast’s troubled yet resilient history will find the Black Taxi tour both enlightening and moving.

Overall, it’s a well-rounded, value-packed experience that offers a taste of everything—natural beauty, local culture, and legendary stories—in one memorable day.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the itinerary is designed for a range of travelers, though some stops like Carick-a-Rede Rope Bridge may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Tickets for the Rope Bridge, Giants Causeway, and Dunluce Castle are included in the tour, so you don’t need to worry about those. However, booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility to tailor the itinerary to your interests, making it easier to focus on the sites you care most about.

What is the transportation like?
Travel is in a fully insured, luxurious vehicle with a capacity of up to 7 travelers, providing comfort and space for everyone.

How long is the Black Taxi tour?
The Black Taxi Tour takes place after returning to Belfast, providing insights into the city’s history, murals, and peace walls in a private taxi with a local guide.

Is food included?
No, food is not included, but there are options available at local cafes and pubs, which you can choose to enjoy after the sightseeing.

In summary, the GIANTS CAUSEWAY & BLACK TAXI TOUR offers a thoughtfully curated day combining Ireland’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. It’s perfect for those who want a private, flexible, and immersive experience, with the added benefit of expert local guides and included tickets to major sites. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or Game of Thrones fan, this tour promises a memorable slice of Ireland’s north coast.

You can check if your dates are available here: