Giants Causeway Tour from Belfast

Checkin for the Giant’s Causeway tour from Belfast is 8:30am at Donegall Square West, right beside Belfast City Hall. (Open in Google Maps)

Your Giant’s Causeway tour departs at 8:45am heading north along the scenic Antrim Coast. Leaving the city behind, the journey quickly transitions into one of the most beautiful coastal routes in Northern Ireland.

Our first visit of the day is to Carrickfergus Castle, one of Ireland’s best-preserved Norman castles. Built in 1177, this formidable structure has withstood sieges by the Scots, Irish, English, and French over its 800-year history. Explore its thick stone walls, ancient battlements, and learn about its storied past. You can also find the statue of King William III, commemorating his land at Carrickfergus on June 14, 1690.

You’ll have the option to pay for entry and explore the castle or for those who prefer to stay outside, the castle’s surroundings offer plenty of charm and photo opportunities, along with a chance to grab a coffee to start your journey.

Ballygally Castle is a historic 17th-century castle hotel set along the scenic Antrim Coast Road in Northern Ireland, overlooking Ballygally Bay. Originally built by James Shaw, this well-preserved landmark blends rich history with stunning coastal views. A popular stop on the route to the Giant’s Causeway, Ballygally Castle offers visitors a unique glimpse into the region’s heritage.

Glenarm Castle is one of the oldest continuously inhabited estates in Ireland, located in the picturesque village of Glenarm along the Antrim Coast Road. Dating back to the 17th century, the castle is the ancestral home of the Earls of Antrim and sits within a stunning walled estate overlooking the North Channel.

Visitors are drawn to Glenarm not only for its rich history, but also for its beautifully maintained gardens, scenic woodland walks, and peaceful coastal setting. As one of the highlights of the Antrim Coast, Glenarm Castle offers a unique glimpse into Northern Ireland’s heritage while providing a relaxing stop along the famous route to the Giant’s Causeway.

As we journey through the stunning Causeway Coast, we pass by the historic Bushmills Whiskey Distillery, renowned for crafting the ‘water of life’ since 1608. This makes it the oldest working distillery in Ireland, with a rich tradition of handcrafting small batches to create beautifully smooth whiskey.

While we don’t stop here, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to admire this iconic site and perhaps make a note for a future visit to experience its world-famous whiskeys firsthand!

As we journey through the stunning Causeway Coast, we pass by the historic Bushmills Whiskey Distillery, renowned for crafting the ‘water of life’ since 1608. This makes it the oldest working distillery in Ireland, with a rich tradition of handcrafting small batches to create beautifully smooth whiskey.

While we don’t stop here, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to admire this iconic site and perhaps make a note for a future visit to experience its world-famous whiskeys firsthand!

Enjoy a lunch stop in the charming coastal village of Cushendall, located in the heart of the Glens of Antrim. Guests have time to relax and enjoy food at a local restaurant such as Harry’s, or explore the village at their own pace.

Stop at the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, where you’ll enjoy a stunning viewpoint overlooking the 75-foot chasm that separates the mainland from Carrick Island.

While the bridge itself is not crossed on this tour, the viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the cliffs, the surrounding coastline, and the vibrant blue sea below. It’s a perfect spot for photography of the Northern Irish coastline.

Next, we visit The Dark Hedges, a tunnel of hauntingly beautiful beech trees planted over 300 years ago. Fans of HBO’s Game of Thrones will instantly recognize this as the Kingsroad, where Arya Stark made her daring escape from King’s Landing. Even if you’re not familiar with the show, the beautiful setting makes for an incredible photo opportunity.

While here, enjoy a delicious lunch at the nearby Hedges Hotel. Whether you’re fuelling up for the rest of the journey or simply relaxing, this stop combines great food with unforgettable scenery.

The Giant’s Causeway is the highlight of the tour and where you’ll spend time exploring on your own. Walk among the famous stone columns, follow the coastal paths, and enjoy sweeping views along the Antrim coastline.

The site offers a range of walking options, from easy access viewpoints to longer coastal routes, allowing you to explore at a pace that suits you. With plenty of time at the Causeway, you can focus on the areas that interest you most — whether that’s photography, walking, or simply taking in the scenery.

This medieval fortress perched on a cliff overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean is one of the most breathtaking views on the tour. Dunluce is also famously known to Game of Thrones fans as the House of Greyjoy. The castle has a history as wild and stormy as its setting. Tales of betrayal, intrigue, and tragedy surround this site, which has inspired countless legends and writers.

You’ll have the option to pay for entry and explore the castle or admire the ruins from the outside. Either way, this stop offers a spectacular backdrop for photos.

At the end of the tour, you will be returned to Belfast cruise port approximately one hour before your ship’s departure. This allows plenty of time for boarding and ensures a relaxed and stress-free end to your Giants Causeway tour from Belfast.