Belfast is a city made for short visits. Its compact size means you can see the main sights comfortably in two days, and the variety of tours available makes it easy to tailor your visit. Whether you like getting a broad overview from a lively hop-on hop-off bus or prefer a private, customized experience, Belfast has options that suit different interests and budgets. We especially enjoy the opportunity to see Titanic Belfast on a city tour or explore the stunning Giant’s Causeway on a full-day adventure—both included in some of these itineraries. These tours show off the city’s lively character and dramatic landscapes, making every trip memorable.
Quick Overview
This guide highlights three options: a flexible hop-on hop-off bus tour perfect for those who want to see many sights at their own pace, a more immersive Giant’s Causeway day trip combined with a city hop-on hop-off, and a private, tailored Northern Ireland tour ideal for travelers seeking a personalized experience. Each offers a different way to enjoy Belfast and beyond, so you’ll find something for every style of travel. For more details, visit the respective tour pages linked above.
1. Belfast: 1 or 2-Day Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
Starting with the most flexible option, the Belfast hop-on hop-off bus tour provides a rundown of the city with 360-degree panoramic views from open-top buses. You can choose between a 1- or 2-day ticket, depending on how much of Belfast you want to explore at your own pace. The real benefit here is the live guides—not canned audio—who share stories with passion and local humor, making the touring experience engaging and authentic.
Stops include major sights like Donegall Square and Titanic Belfast, with easy access to the city’s key attractions. A highlight is visiting Titanic Belfast, where you can learn about its historic shipbuilding industry and the tragic sinking. Reviews praise guides like Brian and Dave for their humor and knowledge, turning what could be a typical city tour into a lively act. The bus also takes you through former no-go areas, giving insight into Belfast’s complex history in a safe environment.
Bottom line: Perfect for first-timers or travelers with limited time who want a flexible, fun overview of Belfast. While the guides get high marks, the quality can vary depending on the driver and guide of the day, so be prepared for some variability.
2. Belfast: Giant’s Causeway Tour and 2-Day Open Top-Bus Tour
For those who want to combine coastal scenery with city sightseeing, this full-day Giant’s Causeway trip paired with a 2-day hop-on hop-off bus pass offers excellent value. The first day, you’ll head along the scenic Causeway Coastal Route, stopping at iconic spots like the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its hexagonal basalt columns and mythic stories. The tour is led by passionate guides like Dave and Louis, who keep the commentary lively and informative. Guests mention that the tour includes a guided walk at the Causeway and a chance to enjoy local seafood, like chowder at the Fullerton Arms.
On the following days, the two-day bus pass lets you explore Belfast at your own pace, visiting areas like the Shankill Road murals or the Peace Wall. This combo makes for a well-rounded experience, especially since the bus pass is valid for two days, giving you time to revisit favorite spots or explore at leisure. Reviewers love the value, noting that the driver Stuart’s commentary is both funny and insightful.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers eager to see Northern Ireland’s natural wonders and still enjoy Belfast’s city sights. The added flexibility of the bus pass makes it a very economical choice, especially if you’re interested in exploring beyond the city.
3. 2-Day Private Northern Ireland Tour
If you prefer a tailored experience, the 2-Day Private Northern Ireland Tour is hard to beat. For around $2,479.40 per group, this tour offers personalized service, with a driver-guide who can customize your itinerary based on your interests. The first day focuses on Belfast’s iconic landmarks, including the Murals of Falls Road, the Crumlin Road Gaol, and the Peace Wall—perfect for understanding Belfast’s layered past and present.
The second day heads out to County Antrim’s coast, where you’ll visit the Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones filming locations. The reviews emphasize the guide’s knowledge and flexibility, making this a great choice for travelers who want to see specific sites or have special interests. The private tour allows for stops at less touristy spots and a more relaxed pace—ideal if you’re traveling with family or a small group.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who want a fully customizable experience and are comfortable with a higher price tag. The private guide ensures a deeply personal visit, but it’s best booked early to secure dates.
How to Choose
Choosing between these options depends on your priorities. If you’ll enjoy a flexible, guided city overview, the Belfast hop-on hop-off tour offers fun and ease. For more in-depth exploration that combines city highlights and stunning coastlines, the Giant’s Causeway plus bus pass is a smart pick—and offers great value. If you’re traveling with a small group or want a completely personalized experience, the private tour fits well, especially if you’re short on time or have specific sites in mind.
Consider your budget—the private tour is more expensive but tailored—and your interests, whether it’s Belfast’s history, natural scenery, or a mix. Also, think about logistics: the hop-on hop-off options are easiest if you prefer spontaneous exploring, while private tours require early booking but offer maximum flexibility.
Final Thoughts
Belfast’s diversity of tours makes it easy to craft a 2-day itinerary that fits your style. For a quick overview of the city, the hop-on hop-off bus is a reliable choice; if you want to see the Giant’s Causeway in detail, the full-day trip with the coastal route is unbeatable. For those seeking a personalized experience or traveling with family, the private tour can be customized to your interests and pace. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred dates.
No matter which option you choose, Belfast offers plenty to discover in a short amount of time. With a little planning, your visit will be packed with memorable moments—from exploring Belfast’s lively streets to marveling at the dramatic coast.