Giant's Causeway Tours
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Belfast Attractions
4.3(442)

Giant's Causeway Day Trips

Handpicked tours
Handpicked tours
Effortless planning
Effortless planning
Expert guides. Unique insights
Expert guides. Unique insights
Giant's Causeway
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From happy customers

Loved by 45 million+
Tobias

Tobias

Sep 2025
4/5
Went solo! The bus was comfy, and the driver (Mostafa?) was really chill. Quiggs the guide was a riot, he even played a tune for us on his little whistle thing. Giant's Causeway = super busy but still really impressive. I got a bit lost at Dunluce Castle (oops) but staff helped. Maybe a bit rushed at some stops but fits a ton in. FYI bring snacks—food options are kinda meh.
Saskia

Saskia

Sep 2025
4/5
Nice day out with the family. The kids loved climbing the rocks at Giant’s Causeway. Bit of a long bus ride, but the guide made it interesting.
Marina

Marina

Aug 2025
4/5
Went with my mum and had a great time! The group was a bit big but our guide handled it well. Would have liked more time at each stop, especially the Causeway. Wear comfy shoes—some paths are slippery if it rains.
Aiden

Aiden

Aug 2025
5/5
Had SUCH a good time!! Went with friends and our guide, Michelle, was incredible—she even remembered everyone's names. The driver was a wizard on those tiny roads. Only thing was, the lunch break was super short (barely had time to finish my sandwich). But the laughs and views made up for it.
Marcel

Marcel

Sep 2025
5/5
Went solo and honestly, had a blast! The guide cracked so many jokes, even the dad ones landed. Learned waaay more about shipbuilding than I thought possible. Didn’t expect to get emotional about Titanic’s stories but I totally did. Place was busy but not crazy. Just a heads up—the gift shop is PRICEY, but I caved for a little ship magnet anyway.
Tariq

Tariq

Jul 2025
4/5
Booked last minute for my solo trip. Instructions for the meeting point were a bit off (walked in circles for ten mins), but once I found the group it was smooth. Loved the Titanic stop, but the crowds were real. Guide was friendly and even shared some personal stories about Belfast. Would recommend, just double-check where you’re meeting.
Lukas

Lukas

Jul 2025
4/5
Went with my gf and we both thought the Causeway was EPIC!! The rocks, the wind, the ocean…soooo dramatic. We felt a bit rushed at the Titanic stop, wish there was more time to see all the exhibits. Staff was cooool tho. Btw, can’t really take food onto the bus, so eat before. Overall, def worth it.
Anna

Anna

Jul 2025
4/5
Went with my sister and her bf. Tour was v well organized, but we almost missed the bus back after the Causeway—don’t lose track of time!! The Dark Hedges stop was quick but spooky in a good way. Only downside: seats on the bus not super comfy.

Created millions of years ago by volcanic eruptions, the Giant’s Causeway showcases about 40,000 basalt columns and holds UNESCO status. Most day tours also cover scenic coastal stretches, Dunluce Castle, the Dark Hedges, and Titanic locations, offering an organised, easygoing schedule.

Overview of the day trip

  • Distance from Belfast: Around 95 to 100 kilometres, taking roughly 1.5 to 2 hours by coach.
  • Distance from Dublin: Approximately 260 to 265 kilometres, usually 3 to 4 hours by coach each way.
  • On-site visit duration: Allow 1.5 to 2 hours at the Causeway for walking, photographs and visitor centre exhibits.
  • Trip duration: Belfast departures run about 8 to 9 hours, while Dublin departures last around 12 to 13 hours.
  • Best season/time of year: Spring or early autumn for lighter crowds, summer for longer daylight and warmer conditions.

Best ways to do a day trip to the Giant’s Causeway

Guided day tour

Pros

  • Easy logistics: All transport, timings and entry arrangements are handled, whether your tour includes Titanic Belfast, Titanic Distillers, or Game of Thrones filming sites.
  • Expert insight: Guides explain geology, history, local stories and filming-location trivia that add meaning to each stop.
  • High value in one day: You visit the Causeway plus nearby highlights such as the Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle viewpoint and Ballintoy Harbour.

Cons

  • Fixed schedule: You follow pre-set timings, which may limit how long you can stay at a stop you love.
  • Group dynamics: Large coach groups can feel crowded and may reduce the time spent at each attraction.

DIY trip

Pros

  • Complete flexibility: You decide how long to spend at the Causeway, how many coastal detours to add and which photo stops to include.
  • Custom itinerary: You can design a route focused on scenery, food stops, hiking or quieter viewpoints not included on group tours.

Cons

  • Heavy planning: You must book parking, organise car hire, understand toll roads and plan timings for each location.
  • Longer travel time: Public transport involves multiple connections and can add several extra hours compared to a direct coach transfer.

Things to know before booking your Giant’ Causeway day tour

  • Advance booking: Book early, especially during summer months, as departures from Dublin or Belfast, including tours with Titanic Museum, Titanic Distillers, or Game of Thrones stops, often sell out quickly.
  • Weather preparation: Northern Ireland’s coastal weather can change suddenly. Pack layered clothing, waterproof jackets, windproof outerwear, and sturdy shoes to stay comfortable at the Causeway, Dunluce Castle, or Dark Hedges.
  • Border requirements: Tours from Dublin enter Northern Ireland. Carry valid identification and check with your operator regarding documentation requirements to avoid delays or complications at the border.
  • Ticket inclusions: Check your tour itinerary carefully, as experiences vary. Some include Titanic Museum entry, Titanic Distillers tasting, front-row seating, or guided Game of Thrones location stops.
  • Child seats: If traveling with children requiring safety seats, bring your own. Most coach operators for full-day Causeway tours cannot provide child seats for young passengers.
  • Weather adjustments: Tours rarely cancel for light rain or fog. Stop durations, routes, or outdoor access at sites like Dunluce Castle or the Causeway may be modified for safety.
  • Mobility suitability: Not all tours are suitable for limited mobility. Walking distances vary, and some attractions such as Giant’s Causeway stones or Titanic Distillers require moderate physical effort.
  • Practical tips: Bring water and snacks, keep Pounds Sterling for purchases, and have your booking confirmation or e-ticket ready to ensure smooth check-in and seamless tour experience.

Your Giant’s Causeway tickets & tours explained

Starting pointExperiences coveredDurationTransfersMode of transferUpgrades

From Dublin

Giant’s Causeway Dark Hedges Dunluce Castle Belfast city highlights

12–13 hours

From Dublin city centre

AC coach

Front-row coach seats, Titanic Museum entry, Titanic Distillers visit with whiskey tasting, Glens of Antrim scenic drive

From Belfast

Giant’s Causeway Dunluce Castle Dark Hedges

8–8.5 hours

From Belfast city centre

AC coach

Game of Thrones filming locations, Titanic Museum entry, Front-row coach seats

Belfast vs Dublin: Which starting point is right for you?

Belfast

  • Duration: Half to full day, roughly 8 to 8.5 hours depending on the tour. 
  • Travel time: About 1.5 to 2 hours each way to Giant’s Causeway.
  • What to expect: Shorter coach journeys give more time to explore Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Dark Hedges, and optional stops like Titanic Museum or Game of Thrones filming locations.
  • Typical stops: Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle, Giant’s Causeway, Titanic Belfast, Titanic Distillers, Carrickfergus Castle, Carnlough Harbour, Cushendun Caves.
  • Best for: Visitors based in Belfast or Northern Ireland who prefer relaxed travel and longer on-site exploration.

Dublin

  • Duration: Full day, roughly 12 to 13 hours depending on the tour and chosen options.
  • Travel time: About 3 to 4 hours each way along the scenic Antrim Coast and Irish Midlands.
  • What to expect: A longer but picturesque journey with a mix of coastal landscapes and historic stops. Tours can include Giant’s Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle, Belfast city, Titanic Museum, or Titanic Distillers.
  • Typical stops: Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle, Giant’s Causeway, Belfast city, Titanic Museum, Titanic Distillers, and sometimes Glens of Antrim en route.
  • Best for: Visitors staying in Dublin who want to see Northern Ireland highlights in a single, well-organized day.

How to get to the Giant’s Causeway from Belfast or Dublin

  • Time and cost: From Belfast, expect 1.5 to 2 hours each way; from Dublin, 3 to 4 hours. Prices vary depending on inclusions such as Titanic Museum, Titanic Distillers, or Game of Thrones stops.
  • Pros: You can relax without driving while an expert guide shares stories, local legends, and history. Multi-stop itineraries include Giant’s Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle, and optional attractions, all in one booking.
  • Cons: Dublin departures make for a long day with fixed schedules and limited flexibility at each stop.
  • Time and cost: Travel requires trains or buses to Coleraine, then a local shuttle or bus to the Giant’s Causeway visitor centre. Total travel is longer and involves several transfers.
  • Pros: Generally cheaper than coach tours and allows flexibility if planning overnight stays or combining other destinations in Northern Ireland.
  • Cons: Multiple transfers can be complicated. Timetables are limited, especially on weekends, and coordination between connections is required.
  • Time and cost: Driving takes about 1.5 to 2 hours from Belfast or 3 to 4 hours from Dublin. Costs include fuel, possible tolls, and parking fees at key attractions.
  • Pros: Complete flexibility to choose your route, stop at scenic viewpoints, and adjust your schedule according to weather or personal preference.
  • Cons: Driving on unfamiliar, narrow coastal roads can be challenging. Parking at the Giant’s Causeway and nearby attractions can be limited during peak season.

Add-ons & nearby stops

Dark Hedges

Wander down this twisting avenue of 18th-century beech trees, whose branches meet overhead to create a leafy tunnel. It’s a photographer’s dream and became iconic as a Game of Thrones filming location, full of eerie, storybook vibes.

Titanic Distillers

Located at historic Thompson Dock, this distillery combines maritime history with craft production. Take a guided tour to learn about heritage whiskey-making techniques, explore the production spaces, and soak in stories linking Belfast’s shipbuilding legacy to modern craftsmanship.

Dunluce Castle

Perched dramatically on a cliff edge, this 16th-century ruin offers jaw-dropping coastal views and centuries of history. Explore the crumbling walls, imagine clan battles, and spot nearby shipwrecks while taking in the rugged Atlantic scenery.

Titanic Experience Museum

Step into Belfast’s interactive museum that brings the RMS Titanic to life. Explore full-scale recreations, archival materials, and immersive exhibits tracing the ship’s design, construction, and lasting legacy while learning about Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage.

Ballintoy Harbour

A picturesque fishing village with rugged coastal cliffs, famously appearing in Game of Thrones. Stroll along the harbor, watch waves crash over the rocks, and capture dramatic coastal photographs before heading to the Causeway.

Carrickfergus Castle

A Norman fortress overlooking Belfast Lough, steeped in history from medieval sieges to royal visits. Walk its towers, soak in the views, and hear tales that connect the castle to Game of Thrones filming locations nearby.

Carnlough Harbour

A serene coastal village tucked between cliffs, offering calm waters and colorful harborside scenery. Perfect for quick photos or a short break, it also featured in Game of Thrones as part of Arya Stark’s journey.

Cushendun Caves

Dramatic limestone caves along the Antrim coast, shaped by nature and local myths. These rugged formations were used in Game of Thrones and are ideal for atmospheric photos, giving a sense of wild, untamed Northern Ireland beauty.

Visitor tips

  • Start on the lower coastal path: Begin your walk along the lower Blue Trail for jaw-dropping sea-level views of waves crashing against basalt, building anticipation before you reach the main hexagonal columns.
  • Spot the Organ Pipes formation: Don’t miss the cliffside Organ, where tall vertical basalt columns rise like giant pipes. Many visitors rush past, but it’s a stunning, lesser-seen geological feature worth lingering for photos.
  • Visit at low tide for unique patterns: Check the tide schedule. At low tide, more basalt formations and tidal pools appear, offering unusual photo angles and revealing details of the Causeway you won’t see at high tide.
  • Bring gloves for climbing safely: If you plan to climb or scramble on the basalt columns, thin gloves improve grip on damp surfaces, especially in cooler months when the stones can become slick and slippery underfoot.
  • Walk the Shepherd’s Steps for panoramic views: This steep staircase links the lower Causeway to cliff-top trails. Few visitors take it, but it rewards you with stunning coastal vistas and a sense of Northern Ireland’s wild ruggedness.
  • Use the free shuttle if short on time: A shuttle runs between the Visitor Centre and the stones. Perfect if you want to save energy for cliff walks or spend more time photographing the main formations.
  • Photograph from the east side: The eastern flank catches soft late afternoon light, reducing glare on wet basalt and highlighting the geometric hexagonal shapes, making your photos look dramatic and true to the Causeway’s texture.
  • Listen for the wind’s eerie hum: On blustery days, the wind passing through cliff gaps can produce a low, haunting hum. Pause and listen; it’s a quirky, natural soundtrack that adds to the Causeway’s atmosphere.

Frequently asked questions about Giant’s Causeway day trips

How long is a Giant’s Causeway day trip from Dublin?

Typically 12–13 hours including travel, stops at Dunluce Castle, Dark Hedges, and optional visits to Belfast or Titanic Distillers.

How long is a day trip from Belfast?

Around 8–9 hours, with shorter travel times and more time exploring Giant’s Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle, or Titanic Belfast.

Are guided tours or self-guided trips better?

Guided tours handle transport, timings, and commentary. DIY offers flexibility but requires more planning and navigation.

Can I visit Titanic Distillers or Titanic Museum on the same trip?

Yes, several day tours include these add-ons, depending on your chosen itinerary and departure point.

Are tours suitable for children and infants?

Yes, but bring child seats if needed. Check age restrictions and tour operator rules before booking.

Can I walk the entire Giant’s Causeway independently?

Absolutely. Most visitors explore the basalt columns, Shepherd’s Steps, and cliff paths at their own pace.

Are the Dark Hedges included on every tour?

Most tours include a stop at Dark Hedges, but check your specific itinerary for confirmation.

Is the site wheelchair accessible?

The Visitor Centre and some paths are accessible. Shuttle buses provide easier access to the main stones.

Can I hike along the cliffs safely?

Yes, but stick to marked paths and wear suitable footwear; weather can make rocks slippery.

Do tours operate in all weather conditions?

Yes, light rain or fog rarely cancels tours, though schedules and stop durations may be adjusted.