tourist attraction northern ireland

29 Best Things to do in Northern Ireland in 2024

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

There are heaps of things to do in Northern Ireland, yet many never look beyond Belfast and the Causeway Coast.

Which is a shame, as many of the best places to visit in Northern Ireland rarely make it onto the cover of shiny tourist guidebooks!

In this guide, we’ve packed in a mix of off-the-beaten-track hidden gems (like Torr Head) along with the attractions in Northern Ireland that tourists love (like the Antrim Glens ). Dive on in!

Table of Contents

The best things to do in Northern Ireland

Photos via Shutterstock

The six counties of Northern Ireland (Antrim, Armagh, Down, Derry, Tyrone and Fermanagh) are an explorers paradise – here’s our favourite attractions!

Note: There’s some key differences between Northern Ireland vs Ireland for those of you that have never visited before (currency, metric system, road signs, etc.).

1. The Causeway Coastal Route

The Causeway Coastal Route is a 120-mile drive between Belfast and Derry. It’s an incredibly scenic drive that takes you past many of the best things to do in Northern Ireland ( here’s a map ).

Although you can drive it in one day, we recommend giving yourself at least two to three days to take in the sights, ramble around some quaint villages, and tackle some of the various hikes and walks.

Popular sights along the way include the Giant’s Causeway , Dunluce Castle , and the Carrick-a-rede rope bridge and much, much more! 

2. Tollymore Forest Park

Tollymore Forest Park sits at the foot of the Mourne Mountains. It spans over 1,500 acres, with amazing views of the surrounding mountains and the Irish Sea.

The park is packed with things to do and see, with four way-marked trails, and several interesting buildings and historical features. 

For a short easy walk, choose the Blue Arboretum Path, a 0.8km trail that wanders through one of Ireland’s oldest arboretums (a botanical garden exclusively for trees).

Make time to visit the Barbican Gate, and admire the ornate Stone Bridges, and the mystical Hermitage. This is one of the best places to visit in Northern Ireland for good reason!

3. The mighty Mourne Mountains

The Mourne Mountains are Northern Ireland’s most impressive mountain range, and they’re home to NI’s tallest peak, Slieve Donard , which rises 850 metres tall.

The range’s raw beauty and dramatic landscapes were an inspiration for C.S. Lewis’s Chronicles of Narnia, and are a walker’s paradise!

There’s a clatter of trails on offer here from Slieve Doan  and Slieve Binnian to the mighty Slieve Bearnagh . The trails vary in length and difficulty (find an overview of each in our Mourne Mountains walks guide).

If you’re looking for active things to do in Northern Ireland, you could easily spend a weekend in Newcastle and tackle several of the walks over the course of a few days.

4. Belfast Black Cab Tours

If you’re wondering what to do in Northern Ireland that’ll give you a good insight into its turbulent past, look no further than the Belfast Black Cab Tours .

This is an incredibly unique way to explore the city and a must for anyone visiting Belfast! It’s no secret that Belfast has had a turbulent past, and the Black Cab Tours (which are given by long-term residents) can give you an in-depth understanding of what it was like to live in the city during those times. 

There are several companies offering Black Cab tours ( see them here ), and depending on which you choose, they may have slightly different tours/routes on offer.

The tours take you past the Belfast murals , along the Falls Road and the Shankill Road and past many of the more notable places to visit in Northern Ireland’s capital.

5. Castles galore

There are endless castles in Northern Ireland for those of you looking to step-back-in-time for a bit.

Some of the more notable castles are Dunluce Castle , Belfast Castle , Kinbane Castle , Carrickfergus Castle , Castle Ward , and Dunseverick Castle .

Carrickfergus Castle is arguably Northern Ireland’s most famous castle. Dating back to 1177, the castle is in pristine condition and it boasts a postcard-worthy location right on the water. 

If you’re looking for a castle fit for a Disney Princess, then Belfast Castle is a must. With beautiful turrets and lovely grounds, it’s definitely one of the most picturesque castles in Ireland !

6. The Torr Head Scenic Route

Photo left: Shutterstock. right: Google Maps

One of the more unique things to do in Northern Ireland is the mighty Torr Head Scenic Route (a slight detour off the Causeway Coast).

The route, which takes you between Cushendun and Ballycastle , is not for the faint-hearted, with 23km of narrow roads, bendy turns, and endless blind spots.

However, if you’re up for the challenge, you’ll be rewarded with breath-takings vistas. On a clear day, you’ll see Scotland off in the distance!

From start to finish, it takes around 40-minutes without stops, but we recommend making a few detours to see Murlough Bay , the Fair Head Cliffs , and of course, Torr Head. 

7. The Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway is one of the most popular places to visit in Northern Ireland and, while it’s well worth a visit, large crowds, pricy parking and bad weather can make or break your experience. 

The Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage site that was formed between 50 and 60 million years ago due to volcanic activity.

Although, according to the legend of the Giant’s Causeway , it was built by giant Fionn mac Cumhaill , so that he could cross the Irish Sea and duel Benandonner, a Scottish giant!

We recommend parking in the Causeway Coast Way Car Park, a 10-minute walk from the site. It costs £10 per car, but it’s miles cheaper than buying “Visitor Experience” tickets which include parking at the visitor centre. 

8. Kodak Corner

A ramble up to Kodak Corner at sunrise is another of the top things to do in Northern Ireland. This is a glorious spot with breathtaking views over Carlingford Lough and you’ll find it in Kilbroney Forest Park  in Down.

There’s a lovely 4.1km looped walk to reach the viewpoint known as the Cloughmore Trail via Fiddler’s Green. 

Start the walk in the Kilbroney upper car park. From there, follow the trail to the “Big Stone”, which according to Irish folklore, was thrown from across the lough by giant Fionn mac Cumhail.

After the stone make a detour down along the dip to the left of the stone, and follow the trail to Kodak Corner! Afterward, you can either go back to the stone and follow the rest of the loop or walk back to the car park. 

9. Glenariff Forest Park

Glenariff Forest Park boasts over 247 acres of woodland, lakes, and waterfalls. It’s a great spot for a short ramble or a longer walk with several scenic trails on offer.

The park is fantastic for a group or family day out, with a tea house, picnic area, and barbecue facilities. For first-time visitors, the 3km waterfall walk is a must.

For something easier, try the 1km Viewpoint Trail which passes through the ornamental gardens and has lovely views.

A visit here during the off-season when crowds are smaller is one of the best things to do in Northern Ireland, in our opinion, as there’s a surprise around every corner.

10. The Game of Thrones filming locations

Northern Ireland played a big role in the filming of HBO’s Game of Thrones, and all in all, a whopping 25 locations were used! The Dark Hedges is one of the more iconic locations, used for the road from King’s Landing. 

But, if you’re firmly team Stark, you may be more interested in Castle Ward which was used to film Winterfell, and Tollymore Forest Park, used for the Wolfswood near Winterfell, the Haunted Forest North of the Wall, and more.

The Game of Thrones Studio opened recently in Banbridge, but if you’d rather see the natural settings, hop into our guide to the various Game of Thrones filming locations in Ireland .

11. Crumlin Road Gaol

The Crumlin Road Gaol is an old jail in Belfast that dates back to 1846. It was a fully operating jail for 150 years before closing in 1996. During its time, the jail was home to a wide range of prisoners from suffragettes, to republicans and loyalists. 

The gaol is not only open for tours but it’s also a concert venue and has a licensed restaurant, the Cuffs Bar & Grill. To get a real insight, either take a self-guided tour (usually 60 – 90 minutes) or a fully guided tour (90 minutes).

Attractions include the tunnel from the goal to the courthouse, the holding cells, and the chilling Hangman’s Cell. If you’re wondering what to do in Northern Ireland when it’s raining, this is a great shout.

12. The Slieve Gullion Scenic Drive

The Slieve Gullion Scenic Drive is a gorgeous 10km drive through winding mountain roads and forests. Start in the Slieve Gullion Lower Car Park, and follow the one-way tarmacked road around the southern and western border of the mountain back to the car park.

At the top of the drive, there’s a parking area where you can enjoy the views and stop for a picnic, or hike to Slieve Gullion’s summit (the highest point in County Armagh at 576 metres). The Peak has two Bronze Age cairns and spectacular views. It’s 1.5km back and forth from the upper car park. 

This is another good option if you’re looking for the best things to do in Northern Ireland when it’s raining, as you can enjoy the views from the comfort of your car.

13. Cuilcagh (Ireland’s Stairway to Heaven)

Photo left: Irish Road Trip. Right: Joseph Molloy (shutterstock)

The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (nicknamed Ireland’s Stairway to Heaven) is an 11km walk in County Fermanagh that weaves its way through Northern Ireland’s largest patch of blanket bog. 

You can either park in the Cuilcagh Boardwalk car park (it costs £6 and should be pre-booked) at the entrance to the trail, or at Killykeegan Nature Reserve car park (free) 1km past the trail entrance.

The walk is moderately tough, taking most people between two and three hours to complete, but you’ll be rewarded with the most stunning views of the bog and of the boardwalk meandering out of sight!

As this is one of the more popular active things to do in Northern Ireland, it can get  very  busy at the weekends!

14. The Old Bushmills Distillery

The Old Bushmills Distillery is the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery. Few tourists attractions in Northern Ireland draw thirsty crowds like this place!

It’s been operating for over 400 years producing triple-distilled single malt whiskey using 100% malted barley. Located just off the Causeway Coastal Route, it’s a great little detour and the chance to tour a working distillery!

Tours are around one hour long, with the chance to learn about the distilling process and see the copper stills, barrels, and casks. The tour ends in the 1608 bar, where you’ll get to taste one of the most iconic Irish whiskey brands .

15. The Sperrins

The Sperrins are one of the most overlooked places to visit in Northern Ireland, but they’re well worth considering during your visit.

Located on the border of counties Tyrone and Derry, the Sperrins are a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and one of the country’s largest upland areas.

In the southeast of the Sperrin Mountain range, you’ll find the Beaghmore Stone Circles, a circle of seven stones that date back to the Bronze Age.

For a truly unique experience, head to the Dark Sky Observatory in Davagh Forest. The lack of light pollution makes it perfect for stargazing and there’s an outdoor viewing platform. 

16. The Cave Hill hike

The Cave Hill hike is arguably one of our favourite things to do in Belfast . The hike takes you through the Cave Hill Country Park, although it’s not for the faint-hearted. 

A challenging 7.2km loop, people usually start at Belfast Castle and follow the green way-marked arrows.

Start by climbing the path from the car park, when you reach the top, turn right and continue through the woodland. Go up through the trees to the plateau for some amazing views of Belfast!

Highlights along the way are McArt’s Fort, the Devil’s Punchbowl, and of course, more magnificent views. 

17. Titanic Belfast

Titanic Belfast is the world’s biggest Titanic visitor experience, with nine interactive galleries. There are two tours available, the self-guided Titanic Experience and the guided Discovery Tour. 

During the Titanic Experience, you’ll be able to wander the galleries such as the Shipyard Ride, The Maiden Voyage, and The Sinking.

It also includes admission onto the SS Nomadic , the ship that ferried first and second-class passengers to the Titanic from Cherbourg. 

The Discovery Tour is a one-hour walk outdoors with a tour guide and roaming headset. During the tour, you’ll learn about building the ship, its last hours, and the “easter eggs” in the Titanic Belfast building. 

18. The Marble Arch Caves

The Marble Arch Caves are a series of limestone caves and underground rivers at the foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain. Although only 1.5km are accessible during tours, the cave and river system extends 11km underground. 

A visit to the caves is the ultimate subterranean adventure, with a 60-minute guided tour on offer. On the Owenbrean River – Walking Cave Tour, you’ll discover pools, and hidden tunnels, and follow the river’s journey as it carves a path through the stone. 

Those lucky enough to visit when the underground water levels are high enough will be automatically upgraded to the Martel Tour (an extra 15 minutes), which adds a short boat ride!

If you’re wondering what to do in Northern Ireland this weekend, tackle the Cuilcagh hike, first, and then explore the caves after!

19. Portstewart Strand

Portstewart Strand is an gorgeous Blue Flag beach managed by the National Trust. Stretching for 3.2km, the beaches’ fine golden sand and abundant wildlife make it extremely popular. 

The beach is backed by 6,000-year-old sand dunes which are home to native wildflowers and butterflies, with some dunes reaching a whopping 30 metres high!

The Portstewart Strand – Sand Dune & Estuary Trail is the perfect way to stretch your legs, with lovely coastal views during the easy 5.6km trail. 

A part of the Causeway Coast, Portstewart Strand is another G.O.T filming location, and a great spot for a swim, a surf, or a family picnic. 

20. Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge

Few places to visit in Northern Ireland are as photographed as our next attraction. The Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge dates back to 1755 when salmon fishermen built the bridge to connect Carrick-a-Rede to the mainland.

Luckily, over the years it’s been upgraded, and today, it’s a thrilling (yet sturdy) 20-metre walk across, suspended 30-metres above the water!

Once you’re on the island, take time to admire the lonely white-washed cottage, a reminder of the island’s fishing legacy which came to an end in 2002.

21. The Ards Peninsula

The Ards Peninsula in County Down is a lovely corner of Northern Ireland full of interesting attractions and rolling green hills. There are several towns and villages on the peninsula, including Donaghadee, Newtownards, and Ballywalter. 

The peninsula borders Strangford Lough , a highly biodiverse area, and the largest sea lough in the United Kingdom. The lough is a fantastic for birdwatching, with three-quarters of the worldwide Brent Geese population migrating there over winter. 

Some must-sees on the Ards Peninsula are Scrabo Tower in Newtownards, Grey Abbey, a 12th-century Cisterian abbey ruin, and Portaferry, a quaint harbour village.

22. Murlough Beach

Murlough Beach is an expansive 6.4km-long beach in County Down that sits in the shadow of the mighty Mourne Mountains. The Blue Flag beach is managed by the National Trust, with a summer lifeguard service and on-site parking, although it’s a short walk over the dunes.

The extensive dune system behind the beach, Murlough Nature Reserve dates back 6,000 years! It is home to a diverse range of animals and plants and became Ireland’s first nature reserve in 1967. 

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Northern Ireland this weekend, hike Slieve Donard , first, and then grab food in Newcastle followed up with a ramble on the sand!

23. St. Patrick’s Cathedral(s)

There are two St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Armagh, one for the Roman Catholic Church and one for the Church of Ireland. Both are beautifully built and whilst they’re not to be confused, they are interlinked.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral (Church of Ireland) is built on a site that dates back to a stone monastery founded by St. Patrick in the 5th century.

The church played a significant role in the Catholic Church of Ireland until the 16th century when it was taken over by the Church of Ireland during the Irish Reformation. 

This led to the founding of the other St. Patrick’s (Roman Catholic), which was built between 1840 and 1904, a historically and politically important venture. 

24. The Divis Summit Trail

Photos by Art Ward via Ireland’s Content Pool

The Divis Summit Trail is a 4.5km loop walk across Divis Mountain. It has magnificent views of Belfast, Lough Neagh and the Irish Sea.

It’s a moderate walk up to the 478-metre summit where you’ll be able to enjoy the panoramic views of the city and beyond.

The red way-marked trail starts at the upper car park, although there is a lower car park a short stroll away.

Both are managed by the National Trust and can get crowded on nice days (see parking here and here on Google Maps).

25. Mussenden Temple

Mussenden Temple in County Derry is one of the more picture-perfect places to go in Northern Ireland.

This is a scenic spot in the Downhill Demesne. The temple sits on the edge of a tall cliff, with amazing views of the ocean and Downhill Strand. 

The circular building dates back to 1785, and although it sits on a cliff today, it used to be possible to drive a carriage all the way around it! 

We recommend taking a stroll along the Downhill Demesne Walking Trail, an easy 3.2 km dog-friendly trail that passes through a pretty walled garden, along cliff edges, and by the Mussenden Temple. 

26. The Gobbins

The Gobbins is a thrilling coastal walk that’s unlike any other in the country! A word of warning, it’s a long and challenging 5km walk with lots of stairs, and a height restriction of four feet. The walk takes most people two and a half hours. 

The cliff path opened in 1902 and was an immediate hit. It’s easy to see why, with its dramatic cliff-side bridges, exciting walkways, and tunnels.

The Gobbins has opened and closed several times, but last opened in 2016, with an ambitious addition of 12 new bridges and six paths.

It’s one of endless things to do in Northern Ireland along the Antrim Coast, but maybe save a visit for when the weather’s good!

27. The Binevenagh hike

The Binevenagh Hike is a 4.5km loop through the Binevenagh forest and up to the Binevenagh summit. From the summit, there are spectacular views of the Roe Valley, Lough Foyle, and even Scotland’s west coast! 

The route passes by Binevenagh Lake, an artificial lake that is popular with anglers. It’s worth taking a detour from the main route to the Devil’s Thumb, an incredible rock formation with breathtaking vistas over the lough. 

Start the hike on Leighery Road, where there’s a small parking area just before the trailhead (see parking here on Google Maps).

28. Colin Glen

Photos via Colin Glen Forest Park on Facebook

Colin Glen is one of the most popular things to do in Belfast with kids ! This a family-friendly adventure park right just outside of the city!

It’s home to the country’s first Alpine Coaster, longest zipline, and heaps of other attractions. The 200-acre park is full of trees, has a river flowing through, and even a 9-hole golf course. 

Some must-try activities are the Black Bull Run, a 565-metre roller coaster through the Colin Glen Forest, the Gruffalo & Stickman Guided Walk (great for young kids!), and the SKYTrek ropes course, a 50ft high course with a 90-metre zipline.

Colin Glen is widely regarded as one of the best things to do in Northern Ireland with kids for good reason.

29. Belfast (and the benefit of the doubt)

Belfast gets a bad rep. Usually from people that have never visited (or from those who visited for a weekend on the beer and who never took the time to explore).

However, once you have a decent itinerary, the NI’s capital is a fine spot to spend a weekend. For beautiful architecture, a visit to the Cathedral Quarter is a must.

It’s full of charm, character, and lots of great restaurants and pubs. Belfast City Hall (especially when the Belfast Christmas markets are on!) is also well worth rambling around.

There’s also some excellent  restaurants in Belfast to kick-back in after a long day of exploring).

What places to visit in Northern Ireland have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out some brilliant things to do in Northern Ireland from the guide above.

If you have a place that you’d like to recommend, let me know in the comments below and I’ll check it out!

FAQs about what to do in Northern Ireland

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What Northern Ireland tourist attractions are good for families?’ to ‘What things to do in NI are good for a date?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best things to do in Northern Ireland?

In our opinion, some of the best tourist attractions in Northern Ireland are the Mournes, the Antrim Coast, Tollymore Forest, Glenariff Park and the Belfast Black Cab Tours.

What are some unique places to visit in Northern Ireland?

The Gobbins, Carrick-a-rede, Torr Head, Rathlin Island, the Marble Arch Caves and Mussenden Temple are some very unique things to do in Northern Ireland.

I’m wondering what to do in Northern Ireland when it rains?

Some good rainy day attractions in Northern Ireland are Crumlin Road Gaol, The Old Bushmills Distillery, the GoT Studio and the Marble Arch Caves.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Tuesday 9th of April 2024

How can the city walls of Derry/Londonderry not be on this?

The only remaining completely walled city in Ireland and one of the best examples of a walled city in Europe.

Incredible history, from medieval to modern; and there are walking tours of the walls and other areas.

Tuesday 25th of July 2023

Ulster Transport Museum and Folk Park is a lovely place to visit and a great day out. Belfast zoo is also worth a visit and Aunt Sandra's Candy Factory.

Wednesday 1st of March 2023

This website is amazing. The amount of tips and resources is incredible. Well done and thank you for taking the time and effort to create this!

Brendan Duignan

Friday 12th of August 2022

Ulster Transport Museum in Belfast is outstanding. It has two DeLoren cars! A brilliant day out.

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Amazing cliff-walks, Game of Thrones® adventures, Titanic attractions – let Northern Ireland stir your soul.

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Northern Ireland: embrace a giant spirit

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A Northern Ireland adventure

When it comes to accolades, Northern Ireland has it covered. Come here and you can experience what's been called "one of the greatest drives on earth" (The Causeway Coastal Route), "the best place to spend Halloween" (Derry~Londonderry), and Golf Digest's number one golf course in the world (Royal County Down). But there's more to Northern Ireland than epic sights and world-class experiences – there's a spirit. This is a land that resounds with myths from the Sperrin Mountains to the Giant's Causeway. It's a place of unbridled creativity, from the music scene in Belfast to literary greats both, past and present. And it's hub of great food, with cutting-edge restaurants and cosy old pubs.

Blackhead Lighthouse, County Antrim

Embrace a giant spirit

In Northern Ireland, you're never far from a memory in the making. Walk the 16th century walls of Derry~Londonderry. Paddle through the inky waters of Lough Erne, studded with islands where Celts, Vikings and Christian monks have all left their mark. Or discover Westeros on a Game of Thrones® tour of iconic filming locations. But, remember, for every showstopping sight, there's a quiet moment that will stay with you forever. If you're looking for somewhere to nourish your spirit, Northern Ireland is it.

Dunluce Castle

“The dramatic ruin of Dunluce Castle, perched on a rocky cliff above the Atlantic and accessed by a dizzying bridge, looks like the site of a fantasy novel.” – National Geographic

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“With its peat fires, cosy snugs and heavenly food, the Causeway Coast’s historic coaching inn is the perfect winter retreat.” – The Guardian

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Enniskillen Castle

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Belfast’s state-of-the-art museum tells the compelling story of HMS Titanic, from the triumph of her construction to the tragedy of her maiden voyage

Clifftop Experience (Away A Wee Walk)

Cavehill Walking Tours

Celtic Pendant Woodturning Experience

Derrie Danders Walking and Audio Tours

OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory

Davagh Forest

Xhale: Awaken Your Senses

Belfast Traditional Music Trail

Ballycastle Traditional Music Trail

Ballycastle

Irish FA Tours

Bike Mourne

Following Seas

Carrickfergus

Waterman House Cookery School

Coast & Country Foodie Tour Experience

Wild Atlantic Distillery Gin School & Distillery Tour

The Saint Patrick Centre

Ulster Museum

Montalto Estate

Hillsborough Castle

A hidden gem at the heart of Northern Ireland, Hillsborough Castle provides both historical and natural wonders in abundance

Royal Hillsborough

Ulster American Folk Park

Ulster Folk Museum

Lough Foyle Trail

Giant Tours Ireland

NearyNogs Chocolate

Explore the Marble Arch Caves

Beneath the tranquil County Fermanagh countryside, lies a shadow world of caves, passages and subterranean rivers...

Feel the stresses and strains of daily life vanish in the presence of beautiful animals and majestic scenery of the Mourne Mountains.

Explore the beauty of the rugged Causeway Coast and Glens on horseback, where the Binevenagh mountains sweep down to the sea. Crindle Stables overlook stunning scenery along a world-famous coastline, and this is where your experience will unfold. Prepare for a visit that centres around creating once-in-a-lifetime memories in an unforgettable setting.

Dive into a new and exciting world with Aquaholics. Hop aboard the Aquaholics dive vessel for a unique, world-class experience along the coastline to Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Here you’ll be briefed, kitted-up and then jumping overboard for an exciting scuba dive in the stunningly clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean below the rope bridge.

Enjoy the multi award-winning Belfast Food Tour or choose from a variety of other tours including Sensorium, an interactive sensory cocktail experience, as well as bespoke private tours and corporate experiences.

See Lough Erne your way with Erne Water Taxi's chauffeur driven boats. Travel in the comfort of our covered 8- seater boat, complete with cab, without having to worry about the driving. Your tour guide will help you explore the history of Lough Erne.

Far and Wild is the leading eco-adventure company in the North West of Ireland, bringing you activities including Moonlight Kayaking, Coasteering, and Stand Up Paddle Board tours.

Experience the massive range of fun activities on offer with Mobile Team Adventure which includes paddling, canoeing or kayaking. Try out one of their bespoke guided day trips on the river or sea - the choice is yours.

Strangford Lough Activity Centre offer a variety of land and water activities throughout Northern Ireland. Whatever your adventure, we’ll help you realise it. We are run by a team of qualified experienced instructors & guides.

White River Charters offers a choice of relaxing river cruises on the River Bann in the Causeway Coast and Glens on board a vintage vessel. Explore the river at a slow and gentle pace, enjoy scenery, views of the wildlife and hear about the local heritage in comfort and style.

Truly immerse yourself at The Copeland Distillery, where you’ll hear tales of secret smugglers, savage battles and remarkable voyages, all while soaking up our coastal spirits of whiskey, gin, and rum.

On your foraging walk through the woods with our resident expert Bushman Rob, you will be safely guided through identifying and collecting seasonal wild edibles of greens, herbs, vegetables, fungi and berries. With Rob's expert eye you will explore, taste and nibble your way through the woods.

Taste the best of Fermanagh’s local produce.

Immerse yourself in the natural sights, sounds and tastes of the beautiful Causeway Coast. In the shadow of the beautiful Mussenden Temple, you'll be welcomed by Claire from Mussenden Sea Salt to an experience that marries the ancient with the modern, and which promotes reconnection with nature, awakening your senses and offering a sense of wellbeing.

A tour at Hinch Distillery is not just an exploration of history, production and their bold range of triple distilled whiskeys; it’s an invitation to sit and learn from the characters that bring it to life through an immersive sensory journey.

Pay a visit to the family run Long Meadow Cider orchard and learn how they make their award-winning apple cider, from plant to pour.

On the banks of Lough Erne just outside Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, you’ll find the Boatyard Distillery, a distillery focused on producing pure spirits with a sustainable and organic approach.

Chocolate is lovely to eat but it’s also great fun to make too! Chocolate Manor offer a range of sc...

The Echlinville Distillery – at the forefront of Ireland’s spirits renaissance. The Echlinville ...

In Tracey’s Kitchen, people make friends as well as bread. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and start mixing and kneading dough for the soda and wheaten breads you'll be learning to make - and then eating! - all in the comfort of Tracey's delightful farmhouse.

Wee Buns offers a range of cooking and baking classes in a small purpose built kitchen for adults and children. Our classes focus on using the best quality ingredients, making the most of local and seasonal produce.

The gin school at Woodlab Distillery is a unique experience in the science of harnessing nature to extract the flavour profiles present in their gin. Using a little bit of science they source the flavours of exotic botanicals and much more in the flora found within a radius of just a couple of miles around their Distillery.

Located in the heart of the Mourne Mountains, Killowen Distillery has a ‘Kult’ following and an epic history, due in no small part to its great whiskeys and gins.

Bakehouse NI is a small cookery school set in the countryside near the village of Bellaghy. It provides “at home” cookery experiences based around traditional Irish cookery using local ingredients.

When you step into the world of Belleek Pottery you enter one of Northern Ireland’s oldest and most fascinating attractions. Unique pieces are made using traditional methods passed down from generation to generation.

The Walled City Brewery craft uniquely local, premium quality, fabulously flavoursome food and beer in their multi-award winning brewhouse and restaurant. If you truly want a flavour of the North-West it is a must-visit.

Belfast has a rich, storied tradition in both music-making and playing, and was designated a UNESCO City of Music in 2021. Your guide around this musical city is Dolores Vischer of Creative Tours Belfast, who will accompany you to sites of musical significance across this compact city.

DC Tours run scheduled, private and group walking tours. Their flagship tour ‘A History of Terror’ is an award-winning and politically neutral city centre walking tour explaining the history of the Troubles and the path to peace and reconciliation.

Artist Audrey Kyle works from a converted barn called Gobbins Studio Économusée, nestled on top of the Gobbins Cliffs on a working family farm. She displays her original unique watercolour paintings, cards and prints in her studio/gallery and runs watercolour experience workshops.

Part city-centre walking tour, part guided tour of the Hill of Armagh, Unearthing Macha is an exciting three hour fusion of history, storytelling, and food, following in the footsteps of a legendary figure from Northern Ireland’s past

Brook Hall Estate & Gardens lies on the banks of the River Foyle on the edge of Derry~Londonderry. Unique in its heritage, sustainability, gardens, and exclusivity, our guided tours are not something to be missed.

Be it a day trip to explore the historic house and garden or an overnight stay with stunning sea views, you’ll be charmed at Glenarm

Enjoy an entertaining couple of hours discovering the secrets behind some of the buildings of Belfast, from a man who used to build them.

Based in County Antrim, Roots Revealed specialises in ancestral research within the nine Counties of Ulster, i.e. Northern Ireland plus Counties Donegal, Monaghan and Cavan, although work can be undertaken throughout the island of Ireland.

Belfast’s state-of-the-art museum tells the compelling story of HMS Titanic, from the triumph of her construction to the tragedy of her maiden voyage

The best way to avoid the crowds and get under the skin of a place is to explore it with a local fr...

Stone age warriors, ancient kings and quite a few cats. This is a tour packed with surprises. Situated high above Belfast, Cave Hill is visible across the city. Named for the five caves located on the side of the cliffs, it is rich in natural, archaeological and historical features.

Expert woodturner and storyteller Padraig Carragher is ready to welcome you to his private woodland forest for an exciting and memorable experience teaching you the ways of an ancient Irish craft.

Please take time to "Linger longer in Londonderry" and enjoy a "Dander around Derry". We can arrange a private or group tour to meet your needs and also many add-on visits to other local attractions.

Take a journey through time and space with a visitor experience that’s out of this world. Book your visit to Northern Ireland’s only International Dark Sky Park.

Belfast Traditional Music Trail is a unique way to experience Irish music. With two musicians as your guides, at each stop you will be treated to a performance of traditional tunes, songs and stories which make up your own personal ‘session’.

Put yourself in the capable hands of two very skilled local trad musicians on a musical journey from the seafront up into the heart of Ballycastle. Visit the pubs where music has been kept alive through generations and at each stop experience live music in your own personal ‘session’.

Irish FA Tours offer a special treat for all football fans with a behind-the-scenes visit to the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park. Relive great football memories at Windsor Park and remember the drama, both on and off the pitch, before heading out through the tunnel and on to the pitch for the players' perspective. This is a once in a lifetime experience which brings it all home.

Experience the Mournes by bike on road, track and trail with the guided and self-guided bike and electric bike tours or do it yourself with bike and electric bike hire. Explore the majestic mountains, dramatic coasts, stunning landscapes, enchanting forests, award winning mountain bike trails and endless year-round cycle adventures.

Depart Carrickfergus & enjoy sailing a modern, luxury yacht; be as active or leisurely as you want. Harness wind power to get close to nature, discover hidden talents, work as a team or choose to just relax and enjoy the coastal scenery.

Waterman House Cookery school is one of Irelands leading cooking schools, offering a range of day and evening classes for all ages and abilities. We aim to enable you to prepare delicious dishes to be enjoyed with family and friends at home.

Savour the fresh, fabulous tastes of the spectacular Causeway Coastal Route. Get a taste for all things local, artisan and foodie as you drink in the scenery on a six-hour guided mini coach tour of the best local farm to fork produce the Causeway Coast has to offer.

The Saint Patrick Centre is the only permanent exhibition in the World about Ireland’s Patron Saint. The History of Ireland starts here in Patrick’s words, which guide you through our amazing multimedia exhibition. Located 2 Hours north of Dublin and 35 minutes south of Belfast beside Saint Patrick’s Grave with a fantastic Craft Store and incredible Garden Cafe. This needs to be your first stop in Ireland.

Ulster Museum is home to treasures past and present. There’s something for art lovers, history buffs, inquisitive kids and the culturally curious! Come face to face with dinosaurs and for a fun family day out dive into the Discovery Zones of art, history and science where you can try on costumes from the past, explore the tree of life and create your own art to take home.

Montalto Estate in Ballynahinch is a mystical and enchanting estate, set in magnificent natural surroundings. Visitor experience includes access to the estate's beautiful gardens; historic walks and trails and an exciting play area where children can engage, explore and learn.

Journey back in time at the Ulster American Folk Park, from the Old World of Ulster to the New World of America. Learn what life was like in rural Ulster, step on board the full-scale emigrant ship and enjoy craft demonstrations performed by guides in traditional costumes.

Refresh the connection at Ulster Folk Museum, a place where traditions and heritage skills are preserved and celebrated to help shape future generations.

Visit off-the-beaten-track filming locations from Game of Thrones® in the company of a real expert.

Visit Northern Ireland’s most delicious and first bean-to-bar chocolate maker and learn all about their chocolate-making process. Set amongst the beautiful countryside of County Down, overlooking the coast, sits NearyNogs Stoneground Chocolate, a family business making unforgettable chocolate since 2011. Their small team of chocolate makers produces incredibly delicious, considered chocolate every single day.

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Getting to Northern Ireland

Fly to either of Belfast's two airports or City of Derry Airport and you're right there. Or head to Dublin and take the scenic route northward. Coming by ferry? Belfast and Larne are your closest ports. But Dublin is a pretty easy distance, too.

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

The 25 Best Things to See and Do in Northern Ireland

Although it’s a small country, Northern Ireland certainly isn’t lacking in things to see and do. From stunning coastal landscapes like the Giant’s Causeway to city attractions like Titanic Belfast, here’s our pick of the best sights to see on your Northern Irish journey.

Titanic belfast.

Museum, Shop, Store

The Giant's Causeway

Ulster museum.

Exploris Aquarium

Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough, Exploris is currently Northern Ireland’s only aquarium. Recently refurbished, the centre retains its original aquarium and seal preservation effort, but it also gained a reptile room that not only houses a handful of new and scaly residents, but also allows visitors to view the centre’s fish and otter population via a platform.

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Mussenden Temple

Ulster American Folk Park

Museum, Park

Crumlin Road Gaol

The peace bridge.

Architectural Landmark

Constructed to literally bridge the gap between the unionist Waterside and nationalist Cityside areas, the Peace Bridge is the newest of Derry’s three bridges. At over 200ft (61m) long, it is not only an impressive feat of engineering and design, but it also acts as a stage for some of the city’s events, including New Year’s celebrations and even Radio 1’s Big Weekend.

Derry City Walls

Building, Ruins

Tayto factory in Tandragee Castle

Ulster folk and transport museum, carrick-a-rede rope bridge.

Bridge, Building

Old Bushmills Distillery

As the oldest working distillery on the island of Ireland, the Old Bushmills Distillery is both a functioning distillery and a visitor’s centre detailing the area’s history of whiskey . A walking tour through the distillery will showcase the copper pot stills used in the production of Ireland’s only triple-distilled, single-malt whiskey. Tasting events are also available for anyone looking for a more hands-on approach.

St George's Market

St George’s is a large indoor market just outside Belfast city centre. Open from Friday to Sunday, the market offers a different choice of stalls depending on the day. Fridays are the Variety Market, with fresh fruit and vegetables standing alongside antique dealers, booksellers and clothes stalls. On Saturdays, food and crafts take centre stage, with live music to entertain visitors and stallholders alike. Sunday is a mixture of the two days, with the musicians returning and a special emphasis on local artisanal products.

Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail

Hiking Trail

The Cuilcagh Boardwalk is a one-mile (1.6km) stretch of raised platform over scenic bogland, situated on a stretch of the Cuilcagh Way walking path. The boardwalk was constructed to protect the blanket bog habitat underfoot, and the trail extends up Cuilcagh Mountain and ends at the summit of the mountain, coming to a stop at an ancient Bronze Age cairn and offering exceptional views of Lough Erne and the surrounding countryside.

The five Ws of this title stand for who, what, where, when and why – the important questions that science asks. W5 is an interactive discovery centre focused on engagingly exploring science. The centre prides itself on getting visitors of all ages involved, with permanent exhibits and an ever-changing variety of temporary exhibitions and events.

The Dark Hedges

Seamus heaney homeplace, belfast botanic gardens.

At over 150 years old, the Botanic Gardens is one of the must-visit spots in the city of Belfast. Featuring exotic plant life from all over the southern hemisphere, the gardens are a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Be sure to check out the tropical ravine, which has recently had a £3.5 million investment to bring the section back to its former Victorian glory.

HMS Caroline

Marble arch caves.

Natural Feature

Carrickfergus Castle

Historical Landmark, Building

Glenariff Forest Park

Forest, Park

SSE Arena Belfast

Music Venue

Just a short walk out of the Belfast city centre, the SSE Arena is one of the top entertainment venues in Northern Ireland. Hosting a variety of acts, from live music to comedy, it is also home to the famous Belfast Giants ice hockey team; catching a game is one of the best nights out in the city and a must when visiting the area.

The Gobbins Cliff Path

Additional reporting by Nicholas Grantham

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Northern Ireland

An exploding food scene, hip cities and the stunning Causeway Coast: there's plenty to pull visitors to the North. When you cross from the Republic into Northern Ireland you'll notice a couple of changes: the road signs are in miles and the prices are in pounds sterling – you're in the UK. At the time of research, there was no border checkpoint and not even a sign to mark the crossing point.

Best Things to Do

Attractions, must-see attractions.

Titanic Belfast

The stunning, star-shaped Titanic Belfast is the city's number-one tourist draw. Standing majestically at the head of the slipway where the Titanic was…

Giant’s Causeway

County Antrim

This spectacular rock formation – Northern Ireland's only Unesco World Heritage site – is one of Ireland's most impressive and atmospheric landscape…

Belfast's classical Renaissance-style City Hall was built in fine, white Portland stone in 1906. Highlights of the free, 45-minute guided tour include the…

Ulster Museum

You could spend hours browsing this state-of-the-art museum, but if you're pressed for time don't miss the Armada Room, with artefacts retrieved from the…

Crown Liquor Saloon

There are not many historical monuments that you can enjoy while savouring a pint of Guinness, but the National Trust's Crown Liquor Saloon is one of them…

Cave Hill Country Park

The view from the summit of Cave Hill (368m) takes in the whole sprawl of the city, the docks, Belfast Lough and the Mourne Mountains – on a clear day you…

Botanic Gardens

The showpiece of Belfast's green oasis is Charles Lanyon's beautiful Palm House, built in 1839 and completed in 1852, with its birdcage dome, a…

Crumlin Road Gaol

Guided tours of Belfast's notorious Crumlin Road Gaol take you from the tunnel beneath Crumlin Rd, built in 1850 to convey prisoners from the courthouse…

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Visit Belfast | Official Belfast Tourist Information | Trips to Belfast UK

For Belfast 2024, we’re embracing our creativity. So, come and enjoy special moments, performances and celebrations in the city. Stroll through urban street art, relax in city gardens and discover Belfast’s vibrant neighbourhoods. Then take in the sounds of the city with live music at bustling trad pubs and cool rooftop bars. Well, what are you waiting for?

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Belfast 2024.

Belfast 2024 celebrates the culture of our city with a wide-range of local projects, events and city initiatives.

Top 10 Family Fun Attractions in Belfast

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Titanic Belfast

Titanic Belfast is the world's largest Titanic visitor experience and a must-see on any visit to Belfast and…

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Visit Hillsborough Castle and Gardens and discover Northern Ireland’s royal residence.

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48 Hours in Belfast

Experience the best things to do in Belfast in 48 hours.

You’ve come to the right place to start planning your next trip to Belfast – we’ve lots of ideas to inspire your travels for when you are able to get in the car, bus, coach train, plane or ferry to get here.

Here, you can search for things to do and find out what’s on in Belfast and across Northern Ireland. Get information about Belfast hotels , accommodation , attractions , sightseeing tours , restaurants and bars , and be inspired by our Titanic heritage and Game of Thrones territory.

Find out about getting here and download Belfast tourist maps . Or find out about the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre  where you can pick up visitor guides and book tours and events tickets.

Get the latest scoop on concerts and gigs, festivals, family events and everything else that’s happening in Belfast. Browse our events guide to discover what’s on today, what’s on this weekend, and more things to do this month.

Here in Belfast, you’ll find fascinating walking, bus and taxi tours, cultural escapes, scientific exhibitions and literary inspirations. Not to mention the superb shopping, beautiful landmarks and top class entertainment.

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Eating out is one of the great pleasures in life. There’s nothing like a new city, new restaurants and new culinary experiences. For a city the size of Belfast the choice of places to eat is surprising. We offer everything from fine dining, brasseries and bistros to gastro pubs, cafes, coffee shops and some of the best fish & chips around.

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The Perfect 3, 4 or 5 Days in Northern Ireland Itinerary

Last Updated on February 12, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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Planning out a Northern Ireland itinerary is an excellent option for those who want to see more of this area than a simple day trip along the Causeway Coastal Route or a day or two exploring Belfast.

If you have 3, 4 or 5 days to dedicate to exploring Northern Ireland, you can see a lot of the country and experience some of the island of Ireland’s most incredible scenery and learn about the heartbreaking recent history.

If you’re planning on visiting Northern Ireland and are curious about what to see and do here, this route will help you map out up to five days of exploring this corner of the United Kingdom.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Northern Ireland?

Before jumping into this route, you’re likely wondering how many days to spend in Northern Ireland. This can really depend on what kind of trip you’re after, however, if you’re interested in spending time in the city along with seeing the iconic natural sites, then plan to spend at least 3 days in Northern Ireland.

With 3 days, you will have the time to explore Belfast and learn about that city while also having time to get to take in the basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway and some of the other highlights of the Antrim Coast.

However, if you have 4 days in Northern Ireland, you will have more time to take your time on the Causeway Coast and to spend time at attractions other than the Giant’s Causeway.

For those who want quite a holistic experience, then plan to spend 5 days. This will allow you to add on a visit to the city of Derry and learn about the history here.

Getting To & Around Northern Ireland

There are a range of options available for you when it comes to arriving in Northern Ireland. First and foremost, Belfast is home to its own international airport that connects it to a number of destinations within the UK, Europe and further afield.

Though flying into Belfast is certainly an option, you will find that there are far more flight options going into Dublin airport. Dublin is located only about a 2-hour drive from Belfast and there are also lots of stops along the way . The two cities are also well-connected by bus or train.

It’s worth noting that there is no hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland and it is likely you won’t even notice that you’ve crossed. However, if you are driving, keep in mind that speed limits in Northern Ireland are listed in miles per hour while they’re listed in kilometres per hour in the republic.

It’s also possible to arrive into Belfast via ferry from Liverpool in England and from the village of Cairnryan in Scotland.

Once in Northern Ireland, you’ll be wondering how to get around whilst there. In Belfast and Derry, you can certainly plan to get around on foot and via public transport – in fact, it’s probably easier than planning on driving.

Those venturing outside of the cities have a couple of options. The easiest and most convenient option to get around is by having your own vehicle as it will give you the flexibility to visit where you want when you want without having to reckon with bus timetables and routes. Doing a Northern Ireland road trip is easygoing, fun and incredibly scenic and generally the most recommended option.

And if you’ve decided that a Northern Ireland road trip itinerary is the choice for you, you can browse car hire options on Rentalcars.com to compare prices across major companies.

However, you can also get around regional Northern Ireland by bus and train, where applicable. For instance, there is a regional bus system connecting the sites along the coastline so it is possible to travel independently in this area even if you don’t drive.

3, 4 or 5 Days in Northern Ireland Itinerary

Without further ado, here is how to spend 3 to 5 days exploring Northern Ireland. This route is meant to be built upon each day so if you’re only seeing Northern Ireland in 3 days, then plan to spend the first 2 in Belfast before heading onto the Causeway Coast. And if you’re spending 4 days, it’s best to leave a visit to Derry for another time.

Day 1 – Belfast

Begin your time in Northern Ireland in the capital city of Belfast . Though this city has a bit of a dark reputation and something of a rough-around-the-edges vibe, it’s very much worth exploring and it has a lot to offer visitors – especially for those interested in learning more about its recent history.

On your first day in Belfast, make sure to learn as much about the history of the city as possible by embarking on a black cab tour . On these tours, you can learn about the Troubles from knowledgeable guides and also get a good feel for the geography of this divided city.

After your tour, head to Belfast City Hall and then visit the historic Crumlin Road Gaol before rounding out your day.

Where to Stay in Belfast

The Warren Belfast – Those looking for luxury will love this plush, centrally-located hotel in the heart of Belfast. They have several luxe rooms to choose from, great amenities, breakfast each morning and an unbeatable location in the Queen’s Quarter

Central Belfast Apartments: Citygate – If you’re looking for a self-catering option while visiting Belfast, then these apartments are the perfect choice. Centrally located, they have many fully-furnished flats available along with free parking for guests.

Vagabonds – Budget and solo travellers will love this cool, highly-rated hostel in Belfast. Offering both private rooms and dorms, there are also clean facilities and great common areas making it easy to meet other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Belfast hotels!

Day 2 – Belfast

On day 2, it’s time to visit one of the Northern Irish capital’s top museums – the Titanic Belfast. The infamous ocean liner was actually constructed in Belfast before it embarked on its fateful 1912 journey across the Atlantic.

This iceberg-shaped museum will take you through a range of exhibits explaining all there is to know about the Titanic and the history surrounding both the construction of the ship itself and also some information about the crash and its repercussions. It’s truly a great experience to have while in Belfast. You can book tickets in advance here.

Spend the rest of your day in Belfast exploring some of the sites that you didn’t make it to the first day. For instance, you can grab a bit to eat at St George’s Market, get the views from the Victoria Square Dome or even head to CS Lewis Square to take in some statues dedicated to the late children’s author and theologian.

Day 3 – Causeway Coast

On day 3 of this trip, it’s time to head out of the city and make your way to the north of the country – to the iconic Causeway Coast. We highly recommend leaving Belfast as early as possible to make it to the Giant’s Causeway before the tour buses arrive – it takes about an hour to drive here from the capital.

If you don’t have a car, there are a number of guided tour options such as this full-day tour or this full-day tour that will pick you up from Belfast in the morning.

The Giant’s Causeway is the name for a collection of roughly 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns that were likely formed as part of an ancient volcanic eruption.

However, in Irish myth, it is said to have been formed when an Irish giant built a causeway in order to fight a Scottish giant — there are similar rock formations on the island of Staffa just off the Hebridean Isle of Mull in Scotland.

Note that the Causeway is free to enter, however, it is not free to park at the visitor’s centre or go inside unless you’ve paid for that. If you’re up for a bit of a (beautiful) walk, we recommend parking at the Salmon Rock Beach car park in the town of Portballintrae and walking to the Giant’s Causeway – that way you can visit entirely for free!

Plan to spend a couple of hours at the Giant’s Causeway as there is more here than just the rock formations. Take the time to walk on all of the trails and really take in the views of this gorgeous place. It’s a truly spectacular experience and an essential inclusion on any Northern Ireland road trip itinerary.

After visiting the Giant’s Causeway, you can take the time to take in some other sites on the Northern Ireland Coast. Head over to the town of Bushmills and tour the Bushmills distillery. You can also make your way over to some viewpoints and maybe even go on a few more walks.

If you’re only spending 3 days in Northern Ireland and want to maximise your time here, you can take in some of the other sites in this area, such as the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, Dunluce Castle and the Dark Hedges. However, if you are planning a 4- or 5-day itinerary, then you can take your time more at go at a slower pace.

End your day in the town of Portrush. This makes a great base in the area and the town itself is a popular seaside resort complete with its own amusement park and lovely beach. There are also plenty of pubs and restaurants to unwind in at the end of the day with a pint of Guinness and a good meal.

Where to Stay on the Causeway Coast

Anvershiel House – Located in the town of Portrush, this bed and breakfast is an excellent mid-range option for those exploring this part of Northern Ireland. They offer several clean and bright rooms, an excellent breakfast available in the mornings, and a location within walking distance of the beach and town centre.

Elephant Rock Hotel – Those looking for a luxury hotel while on the Causeway Coast will love this chic hotel in Portrush. Centrally located, they have a range of lovely rooms to choose from, an on-site restaurant and bar along with plenty of other great amenities.

Causeway Hotel – If you’d like to stay within a stone’s throw of the Giant’s Causeway and see it without the tour buses, then this hotel is a great option. Located adjacent to the visitor’s centre, booking a night here will also grant you free entry to the centre along with plenty of other perks.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Causeway Coast hotels!

Day 4 – Causeway Coast

Those who have more time to devote to the Causeway Coast will be energised to hit the road early and start exploring again.

Start your day by touring the lovely and striking Dunluce Castle. This ruined castle is perched on striking cliffs not far at all from the town of Portrush and it makes for an excellent place to visit.

Next, you can make your way over to the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. This place was used as a filming location for the HBO series Game of Thrones and it is now very popular amongst visitors – so make sure to book your tickets online in advance and also to arrive relatively early if you want to beat the crowds.

You can spend a fair amount of time hiking around here and it’s worth doing this on your second day so that you don’t feel rushed.

Of course, no visit to this area of Northern Ireland is complete without heading to the Dark Hedges. Again, this was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones and it is an incredibly popular tourist attraction. It’s simply a country laneway that is lined with intertwining trees.

Keep in mind that it is definitely a lot more beautiful in the late spring and summertime when there are leaves on the trees and it can seem a bit lacklustre in the winter to about mid-May.

Day 5 – Derry

If you’ve got five days to devote to your Northern Ireland road trip, then make sure not to miss the city of Derry (Londonderry). As Northern Ireland’s second-largest city, Derry can be overlooked by visitors here, however, it has a lot to offer visitors and can provide important cultural context.

Though the city has been popularised as a destination because of the sitcom Derry Girls (you can even tour filming locations ), it doesn’t get the same amount of attention as Belfast.

Derry is a small city and you can certainly take in the majority of the sites and points of interest within the confines of a day. Take the time to walk the city walls – Derry is, in fact, the only walled city in Ireland and this is a great thing to do here.

Of course, no visit to Derry is really complete without taking the time to learn about the city’s more recent history and what life was like during the Troubles. You can visit the Bloody Sunday memorial to learn more about the 1972 massacre and you can also opt to take a walking tour of the Bogside murals with a knowledgeable local guide.

Those who want to learn even more about the city’s history will also find the Free Derry Museum interesting.

Another top Derry attraction is the Peace Bridge. The pedestrianised bridge connects the majority Unionist east side of the city to the majority Republican west side of the city and was meant to be an emblem of bridging the gap of a centuries-long political divide.

Have More Time?

If you have more time after this Northern Ireland itinerary, why not continue on from Derry into the Republic and visit County Donegal ?

If you’re coming from Northern Ireland and only have a day, then driving the Inishowen 100 is an excellent way to explore this part of northwestern Ireland. However, you could easily spend more time exploring this area, as well.

You can reach the town of Muff in County Donegal in about 15 minutes or you can drive north and take the ferry across Lough Foyle to the town of Greencastle. The latter option would also give you the opportunity to make a stop at Mussenden Temple.

For those who want to tour more of the Emerald Isle, then consider heading further south and enjoying some of (or the entirety of) the Wild Atlantic Wa y. County Donegal is absolutely gorgeous, but other highlights include Benbulben in County Sligo, Achill Island in County Mayo, Connemara in County Galway and more.

When planning a trip to Northern Ireland, you may not realise just how much this small country has to offer visitors. From vibrant and historic cities to some of the most spectacular natural scenery there is to offer in this world, spending a few days exploring Northern Ireland is never a bad idea.

Are you planning to visit Northern Ireland? Have any questions about this route? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Ultimate Giant’s Causeway Day Trip from Belfast

The Perfect 1, 2, or 3 Days in Belfast Itinerary

Dublin or Belfast: Which Irish City to Visit?

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi, I enjoy reading your travel blogs and find them informative. Living in Northern Ireland I’d like to let you know that not only do we have an airport some 20 miles away from the city centre but there is also George Best Airport less than 2 miles from the City Centre and is great for those arriving to the city for its convenience. Also please note that St George’s market is only open from Friday to Sunday . I have seen many disappointed tourists arrive to the market on other days only to find it closed. Finally if you are travelling from Britain and have a National Trust membership this will allow free entry at the Causeway centre and other attractions – their website would provide more detail.

Thanks for those insights, Barbara!

Thank you so much Barbara Would not have thought about our N T membership. We are thinking about driving, any suggestions??

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14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Belfast

Written by Andrew Birbeck and Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Once a powerful ship-building center, bustling Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland and the birthplace of the infamous doomed ocean liner, RMS Titanic . Mention Belfast, and, to a certain generation, images of conflict may spring to mind. It would be wrong, however, to jump to such conclusions these days.

Visit Belfast and evidence of this dramatic rebirth and remarkable transformation is everywhere evident, and visitor numbers continue to increase year-on-year, with good reason. You can expect a warm welcome, a wicked sense of humor, and an enthralling history.

Highlights of a visit include the impressive must-see Titanic Quarter , along with a variety of other points of interest associated with the ill-fated vessel. Excellent shopping experiences can be enjoyed at Victoria and Donegal Squares , along with a variety of restaurants and dining opportunities.

Other fun things to see include discovering the city's superb Victorian architecture and visiting its many noteworthy museums. Be sure to also check out the famous Albert Memorial Clock in Queen's Square.

Whether you're to explore the city or to use it as a base for some fun day trips , be sure to consult our list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Belfast to help you make the most of your time.

See also: Where to Stay in Belfast

Immerse Yourself in Maritime History at Titanic Belfast

Take in a concert at waterfront hall, explore northern ireland's history at the ulster museum, take a free tour of belfast city hall, explore the botanic gardens, climb aboard hms caroline, pay a visit to belfast cathedral: st. anne's, spend a night at the grand opera house, take a tour of crumlin road gaol, pop into belfast castle, see the animals at belfast zoo, visit stormont, the parliament buildings, shop at st. george's market, take the family to the w5 interactive discovery centre, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to belfast, where to stay in belfast for sightseeing.

Billed as "the world's largest Titanic visitor attraction," the distinctive-looking Titanic Belfast opened in 2012 and is a landmark building that pays tribute to the story of the city's rich maritime history. Fresh from a major refurbishment, this distinctive building houses nine interactive exhibitions that show how Belfast has developed from a city that once boasted the most powerful shipbuilding industry in the world into a reborn visitor destination.

More than a century ago, the infamous and ill-fated ocean liner, Titanic , was built at this precise spot. There are guided tours around the slipway and gigantic dry-dock, once the heart of the Harland & Wolff shipyards. The building, which is star-shaped to represent the logo of the White Star Line, houses a number of fascinating artifacts related to the ship, including letters, brochures, and menus.

A particular treat is visiting the fully restored tender to the Titanic , the SS Nomadic , which visitors can board and explore for an additional charge. In fact, a great way to learn more about both vessels is by purchasing a Titanic Belfast admission package that includes the SS Nomadic . In addition to having access to the Titanic exhibition, you'll get complimentary access to the Ocean Exploration Center and the SS Nomadic .

For a special treat, why not consider a stay at the Titanic Hotel Belfast ? Set in a former shipyard building right next to the main attraction, your accommodations feature period-style furnishings and decor and offer a taste of the opulence those traveling aboard the Titanic would have experienced.

Address: 1 Olympic Way, Queen's Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Just over a mile from the Titanic Quarter and overlooking the River Lagan in central Belfast, the Waterfront Hall is a world-class entertainment and conference venue that, in no uncertain terms, reflects the regeneration of the city. Since opening in 1997, the center attracts close to 400,000 concertgoers each year and attracts top musicians and performers from around the world.

When lit up at night, the building is particularly impressive. In fact, many will visit not only for the world-class concerts held here, ranging in style from pop to symphony and opera, but also to dine at the attraction's on-site restaurant, The Arc Brasserie . Somehow, a meal here is all the more magical for the superb panoramic views over the river and beyond.

This world-class venue also hosts an eclectic range of temporary visiting exhibitions, too.

Address: 2 Lanyon Place, Belfast, Northern Ireland

A five-minute drive from the Waterfront Hall will bring you to The Ulster Museum . Having undergone a major refurbishment in recent years, it's now one of Belfast's must-see attractions. This impressive national museum should be high on the list for any visitor for a number of reasons, not least of all that it doesn't shy away from the city's recent troubled past.

Exhibits include a 2,500-year-old Egyptian mummy, Princess Takabuti, who was unwrapped in Belfast in 1835; the Armada Room; and an impressive gallery of modern art masterpieces. Other highlights include collections of ancient relics, a richly diverse collection of art, history, and natural science exhibits spread over several floors.

Two other excellent attractions fall under the Ulster Museum umbrella and are well worth a visit. The Ulster Folk Museum features fascinating displays and interactive exhibits related to regional traditions and culture, including craft demonstrations. The Ulster Transport Museum features vehicles and other machines with a connection to Northern Ireland and is suitable for all ages.

Address: Botanic Court, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast City Hall is another important government building that should be included on your Northern Ireland travel itinerary. Located in the city center, this handsome structure was built in 1906 and remains one of the most distinctive landmarks in Belfast's downtown core.

Tourists are welcome to explore the building as part of a guided tour, so popular that they've become one of the top free things to do in Belfast. Please note, though, that tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so allow plenty of time in your schedule.

Highlights of these one-hour experiences include seeing a good-sized art display and historic stained-glass windows and an exhibit outlining the city's history. Afterward, you can browse the gift shop or visit the café.

Be sure to also visit the grounds of the City Hall, with its Titanic Memorial Gardens and vast lawns. And pack a picnic or grab a takeout from a nearby eatery as there's plenty of room to spread out for an impromptu lunch. A fun free thing to do at night in Belfast is to walk the grounds, as the building is colorfully illuminated.

Address: Donegall Square N, Belfast, Northern Ireland

A pleasant way to relax for a few hours, the Botanic Gardens was established in 1828 and has been owned by Belfast City Council since 1895 when it became a public park set on 28 acres.

One of the star attractions here is the elegant Palm House . Designed by Sir Charles Lanyon and containing a diversity of tropical plants, it also includes birds of paradise and lush hanging baskets. Comprised of curved iron and glass, the structure is one of the earliest examples of a glasshouse made in this way and demonstrates how advances in technology at the time allowed horticulturists to grow exotic plants.

The Tropical Ravine was built in 1889 and houses exotic delights such as bromeliad, banana, orchids, and cinnamon, and protects some of the world's oldest seed plants. The gardens are also a popular venue for concerts and festivals, and once hosted a concert by the famed Irish band, U2.

Just north of the gardens is Queen's University with its fine Tudor-style buildings.

Address: College Park, Botanic Avenue, Belfast, Northern Ireland

A newer addition to the already excellent collection of attractions in Belfast's Titanic Quarter, HMS Caroline is one of the last surviving vessels to have seen service in both world wars. Recently refurbished, the ship was commissioned in 1914 and patrolled the North Sea, as well as participating in the pivotal Battle of Jutland.

Opened in her present location to the public in 2016, a tour of this floating museum and its visitor center provides a great deal of fascinating information about WW1 and the ship's history.

Highlights include audio-visual displays, tours of the fully-restored sections of the ship, plus educational opportunities that give kids the chance to have some hands-on fun. In addition to a café and gift shop, there's a playground and picnic area on-shore.

Address: Alexandra Dock, Queens Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Designed by architect Sir Thomas Drew and begun in 1898, St. Anne's Cathedral is the main church of the Anglican Church of Ireland. Also often referred to as "Belfast Cathedral," it was built in the neo-Romanesque style of the basilican type and has three west doorways adorned with sculpture.

The baptismal chapel features an exquisite mosaic ceiling. Further points of interest are the carved stonework, many fine stained-glass windows, marble tiles on the floor and walls, and delicate woodwork. In the chapel, you'll find the tomb of Sir Edward Carson, leader of the Ulster Unionists, who died in 1935.

Those interested in the Titanic's history will be interested to see the cathedral's own commemoration of the lives lost when the ship sank. Known as the "Titanic Pall," this large indigo-colored tapestry hangs on the cathedral's interior walls. Audio tours are available with admission, and an on-site gift shop sells interesting books related to the cathedral's history.

Address: Donegall Street, Belfast, Northern Ireland

West of the City Hall on Great Victoria Street, the highly ornate Grand Opera House is well worth visiting to take in a show or concert. Dating from 1895, it has seen its share of troubles over the years. In 1972, at the height of the conflict in Northern Ireland, the building was sold to property developers and nearly demolished. Thankfully, due to a campaign, this didn't happen.

Between 1976 and 1980, the structure was extensively restored, including the restoration of the ceiling panels in the main auditorium. A large extension was added in 2006, and these days it hosts musicals, operas, and live performances and is one of the city's true landmarks. Guided tours are available.

Address: 2-4 Great Victoria Street, Belfast, Northern Ireland

When it closed in 1996, many believed the infamous Crumlin Road prison would never reopen. How wrong they were.

The once notorious jail has quickly become one of Belfast's premier visitor attractions since reopening in 2012. It's now one of the best places to visit to learn about Northern Ireland's history. Fascinating guided tours tell of the women and children who were incarcerated here, as well as the segregation of republican and loyalist prisoners.

You can wander through the underground tunnel that used to connect the jail to the courthouse, sit in the Governor's chair and, rather gruesomely, pay a visit to the condemned men's cell. Guided tours are available, including special themed affairs that even include a show and dinner (Jailhouse Rock, anyone?).

Address: 53-55 Crumlin Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Around six kilometers from the city center along the A2/A6-Antrim Road stands Belfast Castle . There are plenty of events here year-round, and it's a popular wedding venue due to its picturesque location and beautiful historic building.

A castle has existed on this site since the 12th century in many different incarnations. The current structure dates from 1870, although additions and embellishments have taken place since then.

There's a restaurant on-site, along with Cave Hill Visitor Centre. Cave Hill Country Park and the Adventure Playground are well worth exploring, and the grounds are particularly popular for picnics during summer months.

Address: Antrim Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Around three minutes' drive from Belfast Castle, Belfast Zoo is set on 55 acres with views over Belfast Lough. Home to more than 140 species of animals, this fun family destination was opened in 1934 and is one of the oldest tourist attractions in Northern Ireland. It was extensively upgraded in recent years, and nowadays in excess of 300,000 people visit the zoo annually.

Highlights of a visit include seeing a wide array of animals including ring-tailed lemurs, Asian elephants, monkeys, Malayan sun bears, Sumatran tigers, and Barbary lions. A must-see here is the rainforest exhibit, which brings together tropical plants with fascinating animals such as sloths and fruit bats.

Check the zoo's website for details of its daily animal talks and feeding schedule.

No visit to Belfast, or indeed Northern Ireland, would be complete without at least seeing this grandiose and often controversial building. Known as Stormont, this is the home of the "Power Sharing Executive," or Northern Ireland Assembly . It's also the place where former foes sit down together and carry out the day-to-day business and politics of running the state.

Dating from 1921, it was built to house the then-newly formed government of the Province. It's impossible to miss the statue of Unionist Sir Edward Carson on the front lawn. Despite its controversial legacy, the scenic grounds are popular with day-trippers, joggers, and those simply wishing to escape the city for a while.

The building is open on weekdays for interesting tours of its interior.

Address: 587 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland

No Belfast itinerary is complete without allocating time to do a little shopping, especially if it includes St. George's Market . The oldest covered market in the city, St. George's Market was completed in 1896 and now provides a place to do business for some 300 vendors selling everything from food to art and crafts.

It has also become an important venue for activities other than shopping, including food festivals, art shows, dance events, and even pop and rock concerts. In addition to its regular market hours, there are a number of special events such as the frequent "Twilight Market," popular for its extended evening hours and entertainment.

Address: 12-20 East Bridge Street, Belfast, Northern Ireland

One of the top things to do in Belfast for families is to spend time exploring the W5 Interactive Discovery Centre ; it's also another great excuse to visit the Titanic Quarter.

This state-of-the-art science center consists of over 250 hands-on exhibits, encouraging kids to explore a variety of areas of learning spread across four large areas, including displays related to technology and biology, as well as educational programs, events, and workshops.

Star attractions here are "Climbit," a massive multi-story 3D climbing structure; "RoboThespian," a large robotic character that can be controlled by visitors; and "MED-Lab", a fascinating look inside the human body. A café and gift shop are located on-site.

Address: 2 Queens Quay, Belfast, Northern Ireland

• Tour the Best of Northern Ireland : With Dublin as your base, it's pretty easy to travel into Ireland in order to see the rest of this beautiful island. A great way to catch the region's top attractions, including the spectacular Giant's Causeway, is by joining a Northern Ireland Highlights Day Trip . After departing Dublin in your luxury coach (with Wi-Fi) you'll be whisked to destinations including Belfast, with time allocated to explore the Titanic Quarters; the Giant's Causeway on the Antrim Coast; and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, with its incredible views.
• Game of Thrones Highlights : For fans of the hit TV show and novels, the Game of Thrones and Giant's Causeway Full-Day Tour from Belfast is a great way to see some of the series' best film locations. In addition to the remarkable Giant's Causeway, highlights include a guide who's well-versed in the show and the region, on-hand to answer your questions and share the low-down on attractions, including Dark Hedges Road and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, to name but two. Plenty of time is allocated at each stop for photos and exploring, and hotel pickup is provided.

Looking for a top-notch place to rest your head in central Belfast? We recommend these great hotels in the center of Belfast, close to the top attractions and points of interest.

Luxury Hotels :

• When it comes to choosing a luxury hotel in Belfast, be sure to include the Merchant Hotel on your list. This exquisite heritage hotel offers sophisticated styling, an Art Deco wing, a rooftop gym, an upscale restaurant, a pampering spa, and an evening turndown service.
• Also worth considering, The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast is close to all the action and comes with classy rooms, a great breakfast, on-site dining, and valet parking.
• And check out (or into) the extremely elegant Malmaison Belfast , featuring quality rooms and suites (some with separate living rooms, and even snooker tables), and a fine-dining restaurant.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• The Europa Hotel - Belfast is a great mid-range priced hotel featuring well-appointed rooms, a piano lounge, and a modern bistro.
• Consider yourself a hipster (even moderately so)? Then the centrally located Bullitt Hotel is for you. It features bright rooms with rainfall showers, a free breakfast (bagged), a coffee shop, and a great rooftop patio with superb city views.
• Also trendy, the House Belfast offers comfortable rooms and casual on-site dining.

Budget Hotels :

• Those seeking a good quality yet affordable stay might want to book into the Holiday Inn Belfast City Centre , popular for its great rates, on-site mini gym, ample breakfast buffet, and friendly multilingual staff.
• Also popular is the Premier Inn Belfast City Centre (Alfred Street) Hotel , a budget hotel in a great central location on a quiet street that's spotlessly clean.
• Those comfortable in a hostel-style environment with shared amenities should consider the John Bell House - City Centre (Campus Accommodation) , a seasonal offering that offers great clean rooms at a very reasonable rate.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Day Trips from Belfast : Belfast makes for a great jumping-off point for those wanting to explore some of the top attractions in Northern Ireland , as well as Ireland itself. In addition to the spectacular Giants Causeway, great day trip destinations from Belfast also include Carrick-A-Rede Bridge and Dunluce Castle.

Ireland Vacation Ideas : Given its location at the top end of the island, Belfast makes a great location from which to explore the top attractions in Ireland , most of which are within easy reach. Must-sees within an easy drive include the Irish capital of Dublin with its many museums and parks. The much smaller community of Sligo is also a great drive, and boasts stunning coastal scenery. Also worth a visit, historic Galway is popular for its large public squares and medieval architecture.

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Northern Ireland Visitor's Guide Visitor's Guide

In peace, Northern Ireland has staked its rightful claim as one of the most beautiful, memorable and cultural regions to be found anywhere on the island of Ireland. Nowhere is Ireland's recent history more strongly felt than in the North, and any visit would be incomplete without uncovering this rich and vibrant culture.

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Top Attractions in Northern Ireland

Natural wonders and centuries of innovation and enterprise mean today's visitors to Northern Ireland are greeted with some of the island of Ireland's most unique attractions. Until recently, years of political unrest and uncertainty saw visitor numbers to Northern Ireland fail to grow at the same rate as the rest of Ireland.

After years of peace and relative calm, the people of Northern Ireland are proud to be given the chance to show off their top attractions. Below we have created a list of the top attractions in Northern Ireland, both man-made and natural.

For more ideas on things to do in Ireland, take a look at this great website: Ireland Before You Die .

Check out Belfast hop on hop off bus tours.

1 Belfast City

Since peace returned to Belfast in the late 1990s, Northern Ireland's capital has undergone an astonishing transformation. Once tied in with sectarian violence and, perhaps cruelly, lumped in with Bosnia, Beiruit and Baghdad on the list of places for globe-trotting tourists to avoid, the city is now a modern, thriving and cosmopolitan hub of hotels, restaurants and family-friendly attractions.

This transformation is made all the more evident in cultural representations of the region, which have at last moved beyond the all-too-predictable film and TV depictions of The Troubles with which the city become all but synonymous.

Just as Northern Ireland has garnered attention as the eye-catching backdrop to Game of Thrones, creating a sub-industry of its own comparable to "Tolkien Tourism", Belfast has gained added prominence as the location of the hit BBC drama series The Fall starring Gillian Anderson (The X Files, Hannibal) and Jamie Dornan (50 Shades of Grey).

For the best way to see Belfast City on foot, check out our Belfast City Walking Tour page .

Insider Tips

Right across the street, outside City Hall, you will find the meeting point for a free walking tour of the city which departs every day at 11:00 and 14:30.

2 The Giant's Causeway

According to Gaelic mythology, the causeway was built by the giant Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn MacCool) so that he could reach Scotland and fight with his Scottish rival, Benandonner. As with all great rivalries, the outcome varies depending on whose version is being recounted.

More scientific data suggests that the spectacular formation is a result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption around 50 to 60 million years ago. The 40,000 interlocking basalt columns were formed through the cooling and contracting of the resultant lava.

In 1693, the causeway began to enjoy international acclaim; Sir Richard Bulkeley, of Trinity College, mentioned the phenomenon in a paper presented to the Royal Society of London. In 1739, Susanna Drury really kick-started the global love affair with Giant's Causeway through her watercolour paintings, which were later engraved in 1743.

One legendary status which is not disputed, though, is the Causeway's immense pulling power as a tourist destination, with 750,000 visitors making the trip annually. Here, tourists can enjoy not only the geological feature itself, but also the modern and impressive Giant's Causeway Visitor Experience .

The walk to the Causeway itself can be a bit strenuous for those with lower mobility. Some stretches are steep and rocky. Sturdy shoes and some drinking water are recommended.

3 Derry / Londonderry

Although Derry's recent transformation is perhaps less dramatic than that of Belfast, visitors who come to Derry expecting a city still darkened by the long shadows of The Troubles will almost certainly be pleasantly surprised. In anticipation of the city's status as UK City of Culture 2013, Derry received considerable investment and underwent a rejuvenating makeover.

Visitors and locals alike can look to the Peace Bridge, Ebrington Square, the redeveloped waterfront and the Guildhall area as examples of a city which has shaken off its outdated stereotype, under whose weight Derry had unfairly served as a metaphor for Ulster's violent past. In the city which greets tourists so warmly today, visitors will find plenty of enjoyable diversions.

Visitors who wish to gain the fullest appreciation of this side of Derry should make time for Free Derry Corner , the Bloody Sunday Memorial , the People's Gallery Murals and the Museum of Free Derry . View the Visit Derry website for more information .

If you'd like to to see how best to explore Derry City on foot, take a look at our Derry City Walking Tour page .

If you're visiting in October, be sure to stick around for Halloween which is a major event in the city and culminates in the largest street party in Europe. Just remember to wrap up warm!

4 Titanic Belfast

The angular edifice which houses The Titanic Experience is so evocative of the transformation which Belfast has undergone in recent years that it has become almost as iconic as the ill-fated ship to whose short history this attraction is dedicated.

An extensive multimedia tribute to the world's most famous ocean liner, The Titanic Experience is located at the top of the slipway from which the ship made its first and only descent into the Belfast Lough and the waters of the Irish Sea beyond. Opened in 2012 for the centenary of the ship's launch and tragic demise, the museum has rapidly become Ulster's most visited tourist destination, outstripping even The Giant's Causeway .

Cleverly put together, the attraction encapsulates more than simply the scale of the ship, more even than the scale of the disaster which befell it; drawing on all the sights, sounds and smells of the age, the museum recreates all facets of this most fascinating period of history, bringing to life the experiences not only of the passengers but also of the ship workers who realized this vision of early twentieth century engineering.

While you are encouraged to take the tour of Titanic Belfast at your own pace, it is common for people to feel a bit rushed by the end. THis is mainly due to the fascinating opening section of the tour which outlines the history of Belfast City during the time the Titanic was built. Some of the best bits, like the "Shipyard Ride" and the light shows, are located towards the end of the tour.

Practical information

Tours typically last between 1.5 and 2.5 hours. You can access the Titanic Belfast in its entirety via wheelchair, with ramps and elevators located throughout. Assistance dogs are welcome and staff members are available to aid anyone with any special assistance.

Opening Hours

Titanic Belfast is open daily from 9.00am to 6pm , with final entry at 4.20pm

Admission fee

Titanic Belfast ticket prices range from £24.95 for adults and £11 for children .

5 Murals of Belfast

Although their history spans over a century, and although they began as a unionist motif, it was in the early 1980s that Belfast's iconic murals would gain the prominence that now draws tourists, when Republican depictions of the infamous hunger strike of Bobby Sands and his follow prisoners began to spread across Republican districts of the city.

For two decades, murals on both sides of the city voiced the deep divisions between communities whose differences seemed insurmountable. On the Unionist side, the imagery was chiefly militaristic, with slogans like "No Surrender" a near-constant refrain. In Republican communities, depictions drew on a more diverse palette of cultural and historical symbolism, but their message was no less clear and no less divisive.

To get the most out of a trip to Belfast and its rich history, a local tour guide is recommended.

6 Guildhall

Lording it over an open expanse of fountains and marbled stone, Guildhall rises to majestic heights to take its place on the Derry skyline. A £10m renovation in 2013 has brought the very best out of what was already a magnificent structure of stone and stained-glass. As well serving an important civic function for the city (it was the seat of the historic Bloody Sunday Inquiry headed by Lord Saville from 2000 to 2005), Guildhall has become a nexus for Derry tourism and a focal point for most visits here. View the Visit Derry website for more information .

If you're are heading to Derry specifically to see the Guildhall, then be sure to call ahead and check what times are best to visit. Some days, areas of the building are closed for private functions.

7 Walled City

Ireland's first attempt at town planning, modelled in 1545 on the French town of Vitry-le-François. Visit derrywalls.com for further information. Those interested in architecture should allow time to visit St Columb's Cathedral, situated within the city walls.

A good local tour guide is recommended to get the most of this historic city and its iconic fortifications.

8 Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

A handy stop-off point between The Giant's Causeway and Ballycastle, the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge is a dizzying experience to be enjoyed or studiously avoided, depending on your head for heights. Looking like something from an Indiana Jones movie, the rope bridge conveys locals and tourists alike across the 20-metre chasm between the sea cliffs and the island of Carrick-a-Rede.

The bridge which draws visitors today is actually a stronger and safer version of the original which was put up every spring by fishermen whose nets, cast from the island's northern cliffs, would intercept migrating salmon. Today, there is a small visitor centre, a café and a car park.

The bridge itself is very sturdy and only bounces if people jump while crossing it. Take a deep breath and go for it!

9 Glenariff Waterfall Walk

Glenariff Waterfall Walk is one of a series of walks in the Glenariff Forest Park, County Antrim. The forest is laid out with pathways and steps for people to explore. It might take up to 2 hours walking to reach the payoff, the waterfall, but it is well worth the wait. The walk which leads to the waterfall is a little strenuous and is not advisable for everyone. The steps are steeper and can become slippery on approach.

All trails are well-signposted and have clearly defined pathways. Bring sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure.

10 Ballymacdermott Court Tomb

Ballymacdermott Court Tomb, located on Ballymacdermott Mountain in County Armagh, is a megalith portal tomb. It dates from between 4000 and 2500 B.C. The tomb was excavated twice, in 1816 and 1962. The first excavation unearthed pulverised human bones in an urn while the second discovered human cremations. During the second excavation, archaeologists found that some of the stones in the tomb had been recently disturbed, locals informed them that this was caused by an American tank during World War II.

A beautiful spot but fairly exposed so be sure to wrap up on a blustery day.

11 Stairway to Heaven

The Stairway to Heaven, officially known as the Cuilcagh Mountain Trail, is a 4 and a half-mile walkway through bogland in County Fermanagh. The walkway was constructed to protect the rare blanket bog that was being eroded by walkers in the area. The walkway ascends to over 550 metres to the Cuilcagh Mountain face.

Bring cash for the carpark and a flask of something that warms the cockles while you take in the amazing views.

Getting to Northern Ireland

The easiest way to travel into Northern Ireland, if it is possible, is to aim for Belfast City. It is the capital city of Northern Ireland and is the area that all roads in the north eventually lead to. For simplicity, the following section will be mainly focusing on getting in and out of here. Think of Belfast City as the base of Northern Ireland, from there you can explore the smaller towns and villages of the region.

Arriving by Plane

From the uk and europe.

There are 3 International airports in Northern Ireland. In Londonderry, there is the City of Derry Airport and in Belfast City, there is George Best Belfast City Airport (Named after former Northern Ireland and Manchester United soccer player) and Belfast International Airport. These airports operate flights from the UK as well as Holland, Spain and Portugal.

From North America

Dublin Airport is the most convenient airport for visitors to Northern Ireland coming from the United States and Canada. You can travel to and from Dublin Airport to Belfast City in a number of ways. If you are renting a car in Dublin Airport be sure to book a Sat-Nav as well. This will come in handy to find your way out of Dublin city more than anything else. Once you find your way onto the M1 motorway the rest of the journey is pretty much plain sailing. Just remember that once you cross the border into Northern Ireland that the speed limit is read in miles per hour, whereas in the Republic it is in kilometres per hour. You can also avail of the direct bus from Dublin Airport to Belfast City via Aircoach and Expressway , this journey takes, on average, 2 hours and costs around 13 euro one-way.

Arriving by Bus

The main bus station in Belfast City is Europa Buscentre. Based in the city centre and servicing both Belfast airports and Dublin Airport. Europa Buscentre also has a route to Dublin City, which in turn connects you with the other cities in the Republic of Ireland. There is also a bus route running from Londonderry to Dublin , this route can have as much as three change overs and takes 4 hours 20 minutes.

Arriving by Train

The best way to enter Northern Ireland via train is also via Belfast City. The Dublin train runs from Connolly Station to Lanyon Place in Belfast. There is an average of eight trains per day, leaving every hour and 40 minutes, starting at 7:35 am and finishing at 8:45 pm. The quickest of these routes takes two hours and five-minutes. Dublin also acts as the change over point if you are taking the train to or from Belfast to any other city in Ireland.

Arriving by Car

If you have gotten to grips with driving in the Republic of Ireland and are crossing the border into Northern Ireland there are a few things to look out for. The roads of Northern Ireland are categorised the same as all other countries in the UK. The letter 'M' stands for motorway, the next most important roads are classed with the letter 'A', the next with the letter 'B' and so on. Both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland drive on the left-hand side of the road and both use the 'Roundabout' system. The only real difference to keep in mind is that the measurement of speed in Northern Ireland is miles per hour while in the Republic it's kilometres per hour. To make it a little more tricky, the speed limit often appears on road signs as just a number in both countries.

Arriving by Ferry

There is a ferry route running between Larne, County Antrim in Northern Ireland to Cairnryan in Scotland and from Belfast City to Liverpool in England.

Getting around in Northern Ireland

Rail & Bus Services

One of the most cost-effective ways to travel around Northern Ireland is by bus. Translink is the main bus and train operator in Northern Ireland. They offer a great range of combo deal tickets and Smartcards which help lower your day to day travel cost.

Visitors can avail of the Ramblers Bus Service which is designed to make the more remote areas of Northern Ireland more accessible. If you are planning to travel around Belfast on public transport then the Belfast Visitor Pass from Translink is definitely worth a look. This gives you unlimited travel on all Metro, NI Railways and Ulsterbus services for £6.50 per day.

Just-Eat Bikes (Belfast only)

Belfast City runs a bike hire scheme, sponsored by the food delivery company Just Eat. It is a cost effective and quick way to get around the city. There are around 40 stations in total, each within close proximity to another.

A user must first create an account on the website , there is a £5 sign up fee which then goes towards your account as credit. You can choose from three different pricing options.

• Pay as you go: 30 minutes for £1
• Casual: 3 days for £6
• Annual: £25 per year

Taxis in Northern Ireland are broken down by classes A,B,C and D. Class A and B taxis are regular taxi cabs that can be hailed on the street or phoned from a base.

These class of taxis have an initial charge (up to 0.5 miles of £3). One mile is £3.80 and every additional mile is £1.60. Class C taxis are ones that are used chauffeur services, weddings and funerals, the above maximum fare structure does not apply to Class C taxis. Class D is Taxi Buses and again the maximum fare structure does not apply to these.

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Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

About Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.

Explore Adare Village along the Wild Atlantic Way .

Black Taxi Tour Belfast

About Black Taxi Tour Belfast

Take a journey through this once troubled city. See the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road & Nationalist Falls Road. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past ten years of peace have returned much prosperity while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.

Blarney Woollen Mills

About Blarney Woollen Mills

Originally built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was mainly used for the spinning and weaving of wool. After it closed in 1973, it reopened in 1975 — as an Irish heritage shop.

Visit their website...

Culloden Battlefield

About Culloden Battlefield

The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.

Glenveagh Castle

About Glenveagh Castle

Located within Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle was built by Captain John George Adair between 1870 and 1873. Having made his fortune through land speculation in America, Adair return to Ireland and began large amounts of land in County Donegal. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by a garden and commands stunning views of the nearby mountains, lakes, woodlands and valleys.

Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air attraction located in the Scottish Highlands. It is designed to showcase the domestic and working lives of the early highland people.

King John's Castle

About King John's Castle

Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.

About Moriarty's

Located close to the Killarney National Park, Moriarty's is an Authentic Irish Gift Store and Restaurant. Hand crafted Irish jewellery, Waterford Crystal and classic and modern tweed fashions and furnishings are all on offer at the gift store. The restaurant is an 85 seater offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Mount Congreve Gardens

About Mount Congreve Gardens

Mount Congreve Gardens. Located in Kilmeaden, County Waterford, Mount Congreve Gardens is an 18th century Georgian estate and mansion. It was designed by the same architect that created both of Waterford's cathedrals, John Roberts.

Mount Stewart House & Gardens

About Mount Stewart House & Gardens

Recently recognised as being one of the top 10 gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is a rich tapestry of planting plant life and stunning walking trails. The house dates back to the 19th century, and was the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family.

Muckross House

About Muckross House

Located on the grounds of the expansive and idyllic Killarney National Park. Muckross House, and its 11,000-acre grounds, was donated to the Irish state in 1932.

Muckross House Traditional Farms

About Muckross House Traditional Farms

Located on the grounds of the picturesque Muckross House and its impeccable gardens. Take a step back in time and see the Irish farming lifestyle of the 1930s and '40s. A time when the horse was responsible for much of the labour and the weather was the be all and end all in terms of production.

The Quiet Man Museum

About The Quiet Man Museum

The Quiet Man Museum. A reproduction of the quaint thatched cottage from the John Wayne starring, John Ford directed movie of the same name. all costumes, artefacts and furnishings have been recreated in precise detail, to reflect the setting of the 1952 classic. Located in the picturesque village of Cong, County Mayo.

Ireland Travel Guide

As a local Irish company, we at My Ireland Tour are passionate about our country and our local community. We're thrilled that you're interested in visiting the place we call home. That's why we put together this definitive travel guide for anyone who wants to come to Ireland and discover this amazing place for themselves.

This is a completely free resource covering everything from top tourist attractions to the nearest yoga centre. We hope it helps!

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Tourism Ireland

Ireland is a dream destination for travelers, offering breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality. From the lush green hills of the countryside to the dramatic cliffs of Moher, its natural beauty is awe-inspiring. Visitors can explore ancient castles, enjoy lively music in cozy pubs, and walk through charming cities, full of cultural treasures.

Whether you’re captivated by the folklore, fascinated by the history, or drawn in by the stunning coastlines, Ireland provides a magical experience that blends adventure with a deep sense of tradition.

Our visit last April 2023 resulted in multiple editorial pieces and extensive social media coverage on our channels. 

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From cliffs to castles: northern ireland’s coastal causeway route itinerary & stops.

10 day Ireland Road Trip Itinerary: Suggested Route & Stops

In this article, we have documented exploring both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, suggesting plenty of stops in both regions along the way. Regardless of how much time you plan to spend in Ireland, we highly recommend that you make time to visit both parts of the island to compare and contrast and see the best this region has to offer.

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Whether it’s amusements at Portrush, boat trips on Lough Erne or giant swan pedalos in Bangor , Northern Ireland is bursting with places which spark nostalgia and memories of childhood short breaks and days out. From popular visitor attractions to hidden gems, most of us have special memories of enjoying one giant adventure after another at our favourite places across Northern Ireland.

Even today, the sights, sounds and smells of these special places have the power to transport us back to those fun-filled, carefree days of our youth. Discover Northern Ireland has spoken to a number of young people to find out how they enjoy spending their days out and short breaks - with some world-class timeless favourites and new attractions making the list.

Vogue Best, 10, from Bangor in Co Down , is a huge fan of Curry’s Fun Park in Portrush and spent her 10th birthday there recently. She said: “Curry’s is definitely my favourite place to go on the Causeway Coast. We were there in July when my brother, Jackson, was playing football at the Foyle Cup.

Read more: We explored the magnificent Mournes area and it's the perfect family staycation

Read more: We visited Ireland's only theme park and Zoo and it's not for the faint-hearted

“On my birthday we all went to Curry’s, and I loved going on the crazy frog ride as well as the ghost train and the water ride which left me absolutely soaked. Oh, and of course we went on the 2p machines so we could collect tickets for prizes.

“When we came out of Curry’s we went for a chippy, and we all sat together outside looking over the beach as we ate our dinner. It was brilliant.

“I also love to visit the Ulster Museum in Belfast. There are great history displays and Jackson enjoys learning about the World Wars. The last time we visited we took a picnic with us to eat in Botanic Gardens before visiting the Palm House, which was really interesting – although it’s roasting in there and you definitely don’t need a coat.”

Jack Hooks, 13, from Markethill, Co Armagh loves visiting Newcastle especially Tollymore Forest Park and Bloody Bridge where he enjoys jumping in at the rock pools…if the weather is warm. He said: “Tollymore is a great place to go cycling but it’s always good fun to jump into the pools after bouldering up through Bloody Bridge with my family. If you’re jumping in, definitely take a helmet with you and make sure someone is with you.

“After drying off I enjoy walking through Newcastle and stopping at the amusements before going for some food and sitting on the beach to enjoy it. In Markethill I love racing my dad and my brother at Gosford Karting. This place is great fun and I am the reigning champion after winning the race the last time we visited – I even lapped my dad.”

Six-year-old Annie McFrederick from Maguiresbridge, Co Fermanagh is a connoisseur of play parks in Erne East with the new one at the Castle Park Leisure Centre in Lisnaskea getting a big thumbs up. Whether going for walks or exploring the area via the Geocaching app on her mum’s phone, she loves this part of Fermanagh, which has so much to do right on her doorstep.

Annie said: “I love going to Crom Estate with my family to walk in the grounds and climb trees – this is one of my favourite places. I go to the Share Discovery Village for my swimming class, but I also enjoy camping here because there’s so much fun stuff to do.

“My dad takes me to the Lakeland Forum and the Round O at Enniskillen sometimes to feed the ducks which I also really enjoy doing. One day we all want to go on the Wee Red Boats to explore all around this part of Lough Erne – but as my little sister, Maisie is only three, we have to wait until she gets a little older.”

Tommy, 10, and six-year-old Blake Reilly from Donaghmore, Co Tyrone love the outdoors, especially play parks, and have been known to travel all around Northern Ireland with their mum and dad to visit their favourites.

Tommy said: “Our favourite place to visit is Pomeroy Forest Park with their huge sculpture trails and zip line which Blake and I both love. Parkanaur Forest Park is also great fun as we can bring our puppy, Oreo on walks and we can ride our bikes. We also love visiting Navan Fort outside Armagh as we can pretend to be Vikings and even play hurling, and at An Creagán near Omagh there’s a brilliant treehouse to play in.

“OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory is another great place to visit and it’s not all about looking at stars as there are great cycling trails here also.”

Blake said: “One of my favourite days out was our trip to the Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh as we were walking around the old shops and came across the Reilly shop which is our family name.

“Some of the other places we love to visit are Gosford Forest Park and Slieve Gullion Forest Park in County Armagh. At Gosford we love the new biking routes and the pump track, while in Slieve Gullion we love the fairy and giant trails and on the Causeway Coast we love Benone Beach – although the water can be too cold for me sometimes.”

Fionn, 13, Odhran, 12, and Molly, 11, O’Neill and pals Ailish McKenna, 11, and Ciaran Dillon from Belfast enjoy getting outside, with hikes up Cavehill always a popular choice.

Molly and Ailish said: “We also love getting the bus into the centre of Belfast for a day’s shopping, especially in Victoria Square, before going for some lovely food in somewhere like Cosmo. " Belfast Zoo i s also great fun as they have a brilliant play park and the ice-cream is lovely. If it’s a special occasion we love to go to places like We Are Vertigo, Airtastic and ice-skating at Dundonald Ice Bowl. The escape rooms at Prison Island are great fun for groups and birthday parties – you have to complete tasks and solve problems in each room before gaining access to the next one.”

Fionn, Odhran and Ciaran love nothing more than kicking a ball around, especially at Girdwood Community Hub. They said: “We love playing indoor football at Girdwood and we’ve also recently started playing pickle ball which is great fun.

“We all love going to W5 as well, especially the big climbing frame in the middle which is always good craic. Outside Belfast we love to visit Hillsborough Forest. We have friends who live close by and it’s always good fun to go to that park as they have sculptures all the way around the lake for you to find and there’s also a castle.”

And 13-year-old Samantha Doherty from Derry~Londonderry loves shopping in the city centre with her friends. She said: “It’s a really great city to go shopping in and we love to spend our free time going round all the shops. We really love the little shops in the Craft Village with our favourite being Sacred Tree.

“At the weekends we really enjoy going to the Brunswick Movie Bowl to see the latest film – Derry is such a great city and it’s easy to move around it, there’s always something going on to keep us entertained.

“We are only a couple of months away from Derry Halloween . The festival is such brilliant fun and there’s always loads of things going on right across the city such as concerts, performances, markets and of course the Halloween parade.

“We also love to head out of the city to visit The Lake Kilrea which is just 45 minutes away. They have so much to do there like canoeing, kayaking and SUP but the inflatable course and slides are just the best fun.”

To plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, go here

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Northern Ireland 3-Day Tour From Dublin

Discovering the captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Northern Ireland can be a truly immersive experience. This 3-day tour from Dublin promises to whisk travelers away on an unforgettable journey, unveiling iconic landmarks , charming towns, and breathtaking natural wonders . From the ancient monastic ruins of Monasterboice to the awe-inspiring Giants Causeway, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the region’s storied past. While the tour’s inclusions ensure a comfortable and guided exploration, the opportunities for independent discovery in places like Sligo and Galway suggest there’s much more to uncover beyond the itinerary.

• This 3-day tour from Dublin explores Northern Ireland’s top attractions, including Belfast, Giant’s Causeway, Derry, and Galway.
• Prices start from $435.86 per person and include transportation, accommodation with breakfast, guide, and entrance fees.
• The itinerary features historical landmarks, cultural experiences, and scenic landscapes, with flexibility to adapt to group needs.
• Customers rate the tour’s transportation and value for money positively, but express concerns about customer service and organization.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and comfortable shoes are recommended for the walking tours and site explorations.

More tours and experiences nearby.

• Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City From Dublin
• Dublin to Cliffs of Moher, Burren, Wild Atlantic and Galway Tour
• Dublin to Northern Ireland Incl. Dunluce Castle, Giants Causeway
• Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, Sheep Dog Trials, Day Trip From Dublin

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a 3-day excursion from Dublin to Northern Ireland, with prices starting from $435.86 per person.

Customers have the option to reserve the tour now and pay later, and can also benefit from a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes transportation, accommodation with breakfast, a guide, and entrance fees.

Lunch and dinner aren’t included, and the cost of the optional Black Taxi Tour must be paid directly to the driver/guide.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and comfortable shoes are recommended.

Itinerary Highlights

On the first day, the tour takes participants from Dublin to Belfast , where they visit the monastic settlement of Monasterboice , founded in 501 AD.

Travelers then explore the highlights of Belfast, including the City Hall, Queen’s University, Albert’s Clock, and the Botanic Gardens. Plus, an optional ‘Black Taxi’ tour is available to view the Peace Wall and political murals.

The second day begins with a visit to the iconic Dark Hedges , a Game of Thrones filming location, followed by an exploration of the UNESCO-listed Giants Causeway .

Afterward, the group travels to Derry, where they take a walking tour of the historic city walls and the Bogside district.

On the final day, the tour makes a stop in Sligo before arriving in Galway for free time to enjoy the local seafood and pubs.

Day 1: Dublin to Belfast

The tour begins with a departure from Dublin, heading north towards the city of Belfast. Participants first visit the ancient monastic settlement of Monasterboice, founded in 501 AD, to explore its historic high crosses and round tower. Afterwards, the group arrives in Belfast, where they discover the city’s key landmarks, including the grand Belfast City Hall, the prestigious Queen’s University, the iconic Albert’s Clock, and the picturesque Botanic Gardens. Plus, an optional ‘Black Taxi’ tour is available for those interested in viewing the Peace Wall and prominent political murals.

Day 2: Belfast to Giants Causeway and Derry

Departing from Belfast, the tour ventures towards the iconic Giants Causeway , a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique basalt columns.

Along the way, visitors make a stop at the renowned Dark Hedges , a location made famous by the HBO series Game of Thrones.

Continuing the journey, the group explores the intriguing ruins of Dunluce Castle before arriving in the historic city of Derry .

In Derry, they embark on a walking tour to discover the city’s ancient walls and the Bogside district.

The day culminates with an overnight stay in Derry, allowing travelers to enjoy the rich cultural heritage and history of this captivating region.

Day 3: Derry to Sligo and Galway

From Derry, the tour ventures westward toward the coastal town of Sligo , where travelers enjoy leisure time at the scenic Strandhill , a renowned surfing venue.

Afterward, the group continues on to the vibrant city of Galway , where they’re free to explore the lively pubs and sample the local seafood specialties .

The scenic drive ultimately returns the group to Dublin, arriving around 7:00 PM to conclude the comprehensive 3-day exploration of Northern Ireland.

Guests are given ample time to soak in the unique charm and beauty of these final destinations, capping off a well-rounded journey through Northern Ireland’s most captivating landscapes and cultural hubs.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes the transportation, accommodation with breakfast based on the selected option, a guide, and entrance fees, while lunch and dinner aren’t included.

Travelers will need to cover the cost of the optional Black Taxi Tour directly with the driver/guide.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. Comfortable shoes are recommended for the duration of the trip.

Plus, the tour may operate in reverse order, with the first night in Derry and the second in Belfast, if necessary.

The key inclusions and exclusions are:

Includes: Transportation, accommodation with breakfast, guide, entrance fees

Excludes: Lunch, dinner, cost of Black Taxi Tour

Not suitable for: Wheelchair users

Recommendation: Comfortable shoes

Itinerary flexibility: Tour may operate in reverse order

Important Information

The tour departs at 08:00 from Paddys Palace on Lower Gardiner Street in Dublin. Comfortable shoes are recommended for the duration of the 3-day journey , as the itinerary includes walking tours and explorations of historic sites.

Travelers should also be aware that the tour order may be reversed, with the first night in Derry and the second in Belfast, if necessary. This is to ensure the smooth operation of the tour and to accommodate any unforeseen circumstances.

Participants should be prepared for a dynamic and flexible itinerary that may adapt to the needs of the group or unexpected events. The tour is designed to provide a comprehensive experience of Northern Ireland’s rich history and cultural attractions.

Customer Reviews Summary

Travelers have provided an overall rating of 3.8 out of 5 based on 12 reviews for this Northern Ireland tour. The feedback suggests there’s room for improvement in certain areas:

Transportation received a 4 out of 5 rating, indicating it met expectations.

Value for money was rated 3.6 out of 5, suggesting the tour could provide better value.

Service received a 2.8 out of 5 rating, the lowest among the categories, highlighting a need for better customer service .

Organization was rated 3.5 out of 5, suggesting some logistical issues that could be addressed.

Accommodation details and meal information were noted as areas requiring clearer communication .

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour’s maximum group size is not specified in the knowledge provided. The information focuses on the tour overview, itinerary, inclusions, and customer reviews, but does not mention the group capacity.

Are Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour does not explicitly mention any discounts for students or seniors. However, some tour providers may offer reduced pricing for certain groups, so it’s recommended to inquire about any available discounts when booking the tour.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?

The tour can be customized to include additional activities, though this may incur additional costs. Travelers should inquire with the tour provider about the availability and pricing of any customized options to meet their specific interests or needs.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Considerations for the Included Meals?

Unfortunately, the tour does not provide information about dietary restrictions or considerations for the included meals. Travelers with special dietary needs should contact the tour operator directly to inquire about accommodating their requirements.

What Is the Typical Ratio of Tour Guide to Group Size?

The typical tour guide to group size ratio for such tours is around 1 guide for every 15-25 participants. This allows the guide to provide personalized attention and effectively manage the group throughout the tour’s activities and logistics.

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This Northern Ireland tour from Dublin offers an immersive experience, showcasing the region’s captivating landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage.

Travelers can explore iconic sites like the Giants Causeway , Derry’s ancient walls , and enjoy leisure time in charming towns.

With comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and scenic transportation, this 3-day journey provides an affordable and comprehensive way to discover the beauty and wonder of Northern Ireland.

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Minister Murphy addresses first meeting of Tourism Partnership Board

Date published: 12 September 2024

The first meeting of a Tourism Partnership Board, established by Economy Minister Conor Murphy to grow our tourism offering, has been held in Belfast.

The Board brings together representatives from tourism and hospitality, Executive Departments, and local government. It is chaired by Stephen McNally, who has over 40 years’ experience in the hotel industry.

The purpose of the Board is to develop and oversee a Tourism Action Plan that will be co-designed and co-delivered with the industry in order to further grow tourism and maximise its contribution to the Minister’s Economic Vision

Addressing the members at its first meeting, the Minister said: “Collaboration and co-design are the basis upon which my economic vision will become a reality. I want this group to bring the real issues which are important to the sector to the fore, and to work together to continue to grow our tourism offering.  “It has an important role to play in supporting the development and refinement of an innovative Tourism Action Plan. The collective knowledge, experience and expertise on this Board will be invaluable as a source of counsel for me, for my department, and for our delivery partners.”

The Minister concluded: “The outlook for local tourism is very positive. I welcome the latest tourism statistics which have pushed us past the £1.2billion mark in terms of tourism expenditure. These figures show a sector that is thriving. We must seek to grow this figure is a sustainable way.”

Notes to editors: 

• More information on the Tourism Partnership Board, including its membership, is available on the Tourism Partnership Board page of the DfE website.   
• The Department has published its response to its public consultation on a draft Tourism Strategy for Northern Ireland which outlined a 10-year plan to increase the value of tourism here.   
• A key industry priority identified from the consultation was for an Action Plan to be put in place which will bring forward initiatives to grow the sector. This Tourism Partnership Board has been established by the Minister to help take this forward.  
• To keep up to date with news from the Department for the Economy you can follow us on the following social media channels:

X – @Economy_NI Facebook – @DeptEconomyNI Instagram – economy_ni LinkedIn – Department for the Economy NI  

For media enquiries contact the Department for the Economy Press Office at [email protected]  

• The Executive Information Service operates an out of hours service for media enquiries only between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The duty press officer can be contacted on 028 9037 8110.

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