From Belfast: Giant's Causeway Full-Day Guided Tour - Why the Dark Hedges Are a Must-Stop

Our Picks For The 6 Best Full-Day Tours In Belfast

Discover the best full-day tours in Belfast, from scenic coastlines and Giants Causeway to private experiences — perfect for every traveler’s interests.

Belfast is a fantastic base for exploring Northern Ireland’s rugged landscapes and storied past in just one day. Its proximity to iconic sights like the Giant’s Causeway and the Antrim Coast makes it ideal for full-day tours that cover both natural wonders and cultural highlights. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a hassle-free way to see the top sights, these tours offer something for all. For example, the Northern Highlights Full-Day Guided Tour in Northern Ireland makes it easy to experience both Belfast’s city scenes and the coast’s natural marvels without navigating yourself.

Some tours focus on the scenic beauty of the Causeway Coast, like the famous Giant’s Causeway Full-Day Guided Tour, while others provide personalized experiences, like the Private Giant’s Causeway Experience. As you’ll see, options vary from large group bus trips to intimate private adventures, and each offers a unique way to dive into Ireland’s landscape and legends. Let’s explore the top six full-day tours in Belfast and help you find the perfect fit for your trip.

1. Northern Highlights Full-Day Guided Tour in Northern Ireland

Northern Highlights Full-Day Guided Tour in Northern Ireland

This full-day tour is ideal for travelers with limited time who want to see Northern Ireland’s major sights with minimal hassle. Starting with a convenient Belfast city tour, you’ll visit landmarks like City Hall, the Stormont Estate, and the Titanic Quarter, gaining insight into Belfast’s maritime and political history. The highlight is traveling along the Causeway Coastal Route, which showcases some of Ireland’s most scenic landscapes.

What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive itinerary, including lesser-known sights such as Glenarm Castle, which is still lived in by the same family for hundreds of years. The tour’s flexibility and the expert guidance from guides like Fergal, who is praised for sharing fun facts and local stories, make it a top choice. The stops at Carrickfergus Castle and the Glenariff waterfalls add a variety of historical and natural sights. The round-trip transport from your hotel or Belfast port takes the stress out of navigation.

Guests consistently praise the personalized experience and the variety of stops. One review notes, “Fergal was an amazing guide,” highlighting how much travelers appreciate a knowledgeable guide who makes the day enjoyable. This tour is perfect for those who want a well-organized, scenic, and informative experience without the need to drive.

Bottom Line: A great all-in-one day tour for history lovers and scenic enthusiasts, especially if you want everything arranged for you.

2. From Belfast: Giant’s Causeway Full-Day Guided Tour

From Belfast: Giant's Causeway Full-Day Guided Tour

At number 2, this tour offers a classic experience—getting up close with the UNESCO Giant’s Causeway. It lasts about 7 hours and includes stops at some of Northern Ireland’s top landmarks like the Dark Hedges and Dunluce Castle, which was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones. The journey along the Causeway Coastal Route is as spectacular as the destinations themselves, with many stops for photos and exploration.

What makes this tour appealing is its balance of guided insight and free time at the Causeway. Guests often comment on the engaging commentary from guides like Dominic or Shay, who tell stories that bring the landscape to life. The inclusion of Dunluce Castle, with its dramatic ruins perched above the sea, and the walk under the Dark Hedges adds a cinematic touch. The tour also emphasizes the natural wonder of the Giant’s Causeway, giving ample time for self-guided exploration.

Price-wise, this tour offers good value considering the multiple stops and expert guiding. Reviewers mention that the tour was well-organized and informative, with one saying, “The Giant’s Causeway didn’t disappoint despite the weather.” It’s suited for travelers who want a classic, scenic day with plenty of photo opportunities and historical context.

Bottom Line: Perfect if you’re after iconic sights and engaging storytelling, with enough flexibility to explore the Causeway at your own pace.

3. From Belfast: Full-Day Giant’s Causeway Shore Excursion

From Belfast: Full-Day Giant's Causeway Shore Excursion

For cruise passengers or those short on time, this shore excursion combines logistical ease with a full day of sightseeing. Starting right from the cruise terminal, it covers the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and other scenic spots like the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. It’s designed to maximize limited time, with a carefully planned route that includes scenic drives and quick photo stops.

What sets this tour apart is its convenience for cruise travelers—no need to worry about logistics, as pickup and drop-off are included. The itinerary features a short stop at Dunluce Castle for photos, a visit to the Causeway with self-guided exploration, and additional stops like Carrick-a-Rede. Reviewers appreciate the seamless organization and the chance to see major sights in just one day. One traveler highlights that even with limited time, “we saw everything we wanted to see and learned a lot.”

This tour is best suited for those with tight schedules who still want a comprehensive experience. It’s particularly popular among first-time visitors who want to avoid missing the essentials.

Bottom Line: An efficient, worry-free way to experience Northern Ireland’s most famous coastal sights if your cruise or schedule is tight.

4. Full-Day Private Giant’s Causeway Experience

Full-Day Private Giant's Causeway Experience

If you prefer a personalized, luxury experience, the Private Giant’s Causeway Experience is unmatched. For up to six people, a private driver and guide take you on a custom journey, ensuring you spend as much time as you like at each stop. This trip is ideal for travelers seeking exclusivity, comfort, and flexibility.

The itinerary includes the Giant’s Causeway, the Glen of Antrim, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Bushmills Distillery, and Dunluce Castle. You’ll ride in a private air-conditioned vehicle, which means no waiting for other passengers or adhering to a rigid schedule. The guide shares detailed stories and local legends, making the experience more intimate.

Guests praise the comfort and tailored approach, and many reviewers highlight the guide’s knowledge—one notes, “Michael was very accommodating and made sure we saw everything we wanted.” The main drawback is the price—it’s significantly more expensive than group tours, but the personalized service makes it worth considering if your budget allows.

Bottom Line: Best suited for couples, families, or small groups who want a flexible, high-end experience tailored to their interests.

5. From Belfast: Full-Day Giants Causeway Land and Boat Tour

From Belfast: Full-Day Giants Causeway Land and Boat Tour

For travelers who love both land and sea, this land and boat combo offers a unique perspective. Over roughly nine hours, you explore the spectacular Giant’s Causeway on foot and enjoy a boat ride along the coast, giving you a different view of the cliffs and sea stacks.

The tour includes visits to Dunluce Castle, a scenic drive past the Ballycastle area, and a boat tour that enhances the storytelling of Ireland’s coastal legends. Travelers appreciate the diversity—seeing the coast from both land and water—and the guide Paddy, who is described as “fun and informative.” The boat adds a special touch for those interested in maritime views and local lore.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who want a more active and varied day. The reviews mention how the boat trip offers a fresh perspective, and many note how well the timing works for completing all the sights comfortably.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want a multi-dimensional experience combining scenic walking and boat riding.

6. From Dublin: All-Day Belfast Tour with Guide and Driver

From Dublin: All-Day Belfast Tour with Guide and Driver

Finally, this luxury full-day tour from Dublin makes exploring Belfast easy for those staying in the Irish capital. Using a premium Mercedes vehicle and an English-speaking driver, the trip combines sightseeing and comfort. It’s perfect for travelers who want a seamless, guided experience that covers both the city and the coast.

While pricing is higher—$1,757 per group—it includes a customized itinerary, pickup from your Dublin hotel, and an efficient day covering major sites like the Titanic Quarter, Belfast city center, and scenic stops along the way. This tour appeals to those interested in a hassle-free, all-in-one option that balances sightseeing with luxury and comfort.

Because it’s a private or small-group experience, the pace can be tailored. It’s ideal for those who prefer a more personalized touch, and the reviews praise the professionalism and flexibility of the driver.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a luxurious, all-in-one day trip from Dublin with customizable options.

How to Choose Your Belfast Full-Day Tour

When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you want a quick but rundown, the Northern Highlights Tour provides excellent value, especially if you appreciate guided storytelling. For iconic sights like the Giant’s Causeway, the Guided Tour or the land and boat combo offer a mix of natural wonder and adventure.

Travelers with a taste for luxury and privacy should consider the Private Experience, especially if celebrating a special occasion. Cruise passengers or those short on time will find the shore excursion perfect for maximizing sightseeing without logistical stress. Meanwhile, dublin-bound visitors seeking a comfortable, guided day can opt for the luxury Dublin to Belfast tour.

Booking early is always wise, especially in peak season, and consider your fitness level—some tours involve walking or a boat ride, while others are more relaxed.

Belfast’s variety of full-day tours means there’s something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re after the iconic Giant’s Causeway, a private luxury trip, or a scenic coastal drive, these options help you make the most of your time. For most travelers, combining a guided tour with spontaneous exploring and photography is the best way to enjoy Northern Ireland’s dramatic landscapes and colorful stories. Pick the tour that best fits your style, and don’t forget to book early for the best experience.