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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.

The Causeway Coast

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.

Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge

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.

Belfast City Hall

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.

The Titanic Belfast

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!

The Giant's Causeway

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.

Portrush

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.

The Dark Hedges

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.

Peace Bridge in Derry

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.

Views from the Inishowen Peninsula

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!

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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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Things to Do in Belfast

Best Museums

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Top Restaurants

Best Time to Visit

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Belfast International Airport Guide

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48-Hour Itinerary

One Week in Northern Ireland

Touring Northern Ireland in a Week

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Feifei Cui-Paoluzzo / Getty Images

Northern Ireland has a turbulent political history and incredibly beautiful scenery. So beautiful, in fact, that there are several "Game of Thrones" filming locations across the region. Whether you want to see what Belfast has to offer, or if you're interested in gorgeous views, Northern Ireland delivers.

If you only have a week to explore the best of Northern Ireland, fear not. This complete itinerary will guide you around the area with suggestions for where to go and what to do.

Day 1 - Arriving in Belfast

The best way to arrive in Northern Ireland for your week-long vacation is to fly directly into Belfast International Airport . Most flights arrive during the day, meaning you will have enough time to pick up your rental car and make your way to Northern Ireland's capital city, Belfast . The airport is actually located near Lough Neagh and you should expect at least 30 minutes drive to the city. Have a look around the city center and maybe enjoy a drink in style at the historic Crown Liquor Saloon. Plan for an early night in order to rest up for the true Irish vacation to come.

Day 2 - Drive the Coast Road to the Giant's Causeway

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Start early from Belfast and take the winding coastal road up north. You will soon reach Carrickfergus with its magnificent medieval castle. Carry on northwards via Larne, following the A2 to Bushmills and the Giant's Causeway , one of Ireland's most important sights . When you arrive it is time to stretch your legs. You have the option to take the Cliff Walk and enjoy the view of the Causeway and (if you are lucky) the Scottish coast to the Northwest. Or stroll down to the Causeway proper, a bus will take you back up again to the visitor center if you can't face the steep road back up or (even worse) the hundreds of steps up to the Cliff Walk. If you have some time drive to the Old Bushmills Distillery, tours are offered every day. Spend the night in or near Bushmills in a B&B or book ahead to stay at the classic Causeway Hotel, overlooking the 40,000 basalt columns that make up this must-see natural wonder.

Day 3 - Tour the Antrim Coast to Derry

The next day, leave the village of Bushmills and take the coastal road westwards, staying on the A2 all the time. You will soon pass Carrick-a-Rede with its incredible rope bridge, Dunluce Castle, the famous white rocks, some pretty seaside resorts, and the huge Downhill Estate with its precariously located Mussenden Temple (" Game of Thrones " fans take note—this was one of the Irish filming locations). With only a week to see Northern Ireland, keep driving on to Derry and have a walk on Derry City's historic walls . An overnight stay in or near Derry will give you an opportunity to recover.

Day 4 - Down to Omagh and Enniskillen

Alain Le Garsmeur / Getty Images

Midway through your one week in Northern Ireland, take the road south via Strabane, the A5 will bring you to Omagh. Here you can visit the quirky Ulster American Folk Park with its Irish and American homesteads and the truly impressive recreation of an emigrant ship. Then take the N32 to Enniskillen and enjoy the Lough Erne scenery, maybe taking in a boat trip to Devenish Island as well. Enniskillen usually has some lively evening entertainment in the pubs, making it a good place for an overnight stay.

Day 5 - Via Armagh to Belfast

Shaun Egan / Getty Images

With a few days left to finish your road trip tour of Northern Ireland, you might decide to visit the Marble Arch Caves or Florence Court in the morning or drive straight on. Take the N34 south and cross the border into the Republic of Ireland. A look at the round tower in Clones and at the market town of Monaghan are a good idea—as is stocking up on petrol for the lower price. From Monaghan take the N12/A3 to Armagh, the "Cathedral City". After visiting one (or indeed both) cathedrals hit the A3 and then the M1 to bring you back to Belfast. Note that the next day is optional depending on your schedule—you might want to take the A26 straight to Belfast International Airport and stay nearby if you are short on vacation time.

Day 6 - Belfast

Reading Tom / Flickr / CC BY 2.0

Unless you are already flying out today you should take a closer look at the City of Belfast and its attractions—including the celebrated Titanic museum . Or drive out to Holywood and visit the huge Ulster Folk and Transport Museum , stepping back in time. In the evening drive out towards Belfast International Airport and stay nearby to save yourself the trouble of having to make the traffic-prone drive the next day.

Day 7 - Flying Home

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Seven days in Ireland go too quickly! Today you will be heading back on a flight out of Belfast International Airport—have a last look at the huge Lough Neagh when taking off, with a little luck and a bit of sunny weather, you might also get splendid views of the Irish coastline, any which direction you are going!

Your Trip to Ireland: The Complete Guide

A Guide to Airports in Ireland

The 7 Best Day Trips from Belfast

The Top 10 Things to Do in County Antrim

Ireland's 20 Largest Towns and Cities

The Complete Guide to the Giant's Causeway

Dunluce Castle: The Complete Guide

Carrick-a-Rede: Ireland's Exhilarating Rope Bridge

The Top 20 Places to See in Ireland

10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Plan Your UK Trip

Belfast Guide: Planning Your Trip

Northern Ireland's Mourne Mountains: The Complete Guide

The Top 22 Things to Do in Ireland

Getting Around Belfast: Guide to Public Transportation

The Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Ireland

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  • Northern Ireland

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Northern Ireland Trip Planner

Top destinations in northern ireland.

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Top attractions in Northern Ireland

Titanic Belfast

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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

Leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Northern Ireland. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND - FEB 9, 2014: The Titanic visitor attraction and a monument in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Opened in 2012, this is the Titanic sign in front of the entrance.

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…

August 7, 2017: Cliffs of Northern Ireland and the ruins of Dunluce Castle Magheracross.

Dunluce Castle

This medieval castle ruin is perched on top of a dramatic cliffside overlooking the glorious Causeway Coast.

Ulster American Folk Park

Ulster American Folk Park

Counties Fermanagh & Tyrone

In the 18th and 19th centuries more than two million Ulster people left their homes to forge a new life across the Atlantic. Their story is told here at…

Setting sun over the The Giants Causeway, County Antrim, Northern Ireland.

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…

City Hall

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…

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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…

Interior of the Crown Liquor Saloon bar area which features ornate glass, tile and wooden decoration and furnishings, Belfast.

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…

Downtown Belfast from Cave Hill, Northern Ireland

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…

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10 top things to do in mythical northern ireland.

Dark Hedges

Dark Hedges

Planted by the Stuart family in the 18th century as the formal entrance to their property, these shadowy, gnarled, entwined beech trees are now among…

Glenarm Castle & Walled Garden

Glenarm Castle & Walled Garden

Glens of Antrim

Since 1750, Glenarm has been the family seat of the McDonnell family, earls of Antrim; it's currently the home of Lord and Lady Dunluce. The castle itself…

People's Gallery Murals

People's Gallery Murals

Derry (Londonderry)

The 12 murals that decorate the gable ends of houses along Rossville St, near Free Derry Corner, are popularly referred to as the People's Gallery. They…

Castlewellan Forest Park

Castlewellan Forest Park

County Down

Castlewellan Forest Park offers gentle walks around the castle grounds, one of the world's largest hedge mazes, the Peace Maze (entry free), and, from…

Free Derry Corner

Free Derry Corner

The Free Derry Corner, where the gable end of a house painted with the famous slogan 'You are Now Entering Free Derry' still stands, is all that remains…

Old Bushmills Distillery

Old Bushmills Distillery

Bushmills is the world's oldest licensed distillery, having been given permission to produce whiskey by King James I in 1608. The whiskey is made with…

Bloody Sunday Memorial

Bloody Sunday Memorial

A simple granite obelisk that commemorates the 14 civilians who were shot dead by the British Army on Bloody Sunday, 30 January 1972.

Carrickfergus Castle

Carrickfergus Castle

The central keep of Ireland's first and finest Norman fortress was built by John de Courcy soon after his 1177 invasion of Ulster. The massive walls of…

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Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

This 20m-long, 1m-wide bridge of wire rope spans the chasm between the sea cliffs and the little island of Carrick-a-Rede, swaying 30m above the rock…

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athalie Emmanuel (“Missandei”) and Isaac Hempstead Wright (“Bran Stark”) inside the brand new Game of Thrones Studio Tour located in Northern Ireland.

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Northern Ireland and beyond

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Wanderlust & Life

A 2 day Northern Ireland road trip itinerary – how to make the most of a short trip along the coastal road

When it came time to plan our Northern Ireland itinerary, there was so much we wanted to see and do. We have always dreamt of visiting the sights and admiring the incredible scenery. But nothing prepared us for how beautiful it really was. From the castles, to the green open spaces, and the crashing waves along the stunning Northern Ireland coast road, we loved every minute. Our guide includes some of the must see sites in the country, as well as including a drive along the Causeway Coastal Route. Here is our guide to planning a perfect 2 day Northern Ireland road trip.

When is the best time to plan your Northern Ireland and Causeway coastal route trip

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You might be wondering when the best time to plan your 2 days in Northern Ireland. We learnt the hard way that June-August is peak season. Schools tend to be on summer holiday in between this time, and there are a lot of tourists about. Accommodation is harder to come by and a lot more expensive. An ideal time to plan your road trip is in the spring or around April- May. The weather is warm, and the days are getting brighter. Winter is still doable, but especially when travelling on the Causeway coastal route, you do need to be aware that the driving conditions are not always ideal.

Country: Northern Ireland (United Kingdom)

Currency: British Pound (GBP)

Famous for: A turbulent history, beautiful scenery, and some game of thrones filming locations

Visit if you like: Beautiful walks, road trips, nature

Northern Ireland is located in the northeast of the island of Ireland, however is actually part of the United Kingdom. It covers a total of 5,459 square miles, which is about a sixth of the islands total land mass.

It is probably best that you avoid discussing politics or religion when you visit Northern Ireland as this is such a sensitive subject.

To begin our 2 days in Northern Ireland road trip we flew into Belfast and rented our car from here. Our flight from Manchester landed at about 9.30am which essentially gave us the whole day to explore. There are quite a few car rental companies you can choose from at the airport and this really is the best way to see the sights particularly along the Causeway Coastal route.

Belfast is the second busiest airport on the island of Ireland after Dublin. There are regular flights here from most European destinations, and a few international destinations. Although if you are flying from the US there are more flight options if you go to Dublin Airport.

Pin This: Northern Ireland Coastal Road itinerary/  2 day Northern Ireland itinerary

  In all honesty 2 days in Northern Ireland is nowhere near enough to explore all the beauty and hidden gems on offer. It will however give you the opportunity to see some of the main sights, eat some incredible food, and have a really memorable trip. We only had 2 days in Northern Ireland and we did get to see a lot, although as usual there are always things we wish we could have seen as well, but I guess that is what return trips are for. Also because we desperately wanted to explore the Causeway Coastal Route, having our own car meant that we could see more than on an organised tour.

If you are planning a longer trip here is some more information on fun things to do in Northern Ireland including Belfast.

As mentioned above, to make the most of your 2 days in Northern Ireland we highly recommend renting a car. It will make getting around so much easier and you can stop wherever you want along the way. If you do decide to rent a car, here are a couple of tips to help you make it much smoother. Definitely book the car in advance to guarantee the cheapest price. If you decide to return your car at a different location like we did, there is a whopping £175 fee to do so. As we were flying out of a different airport we really had no choice.

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Also if you plan to drive in both Northern Ireland and the Republic then be aware that the North uses miles whilst the Republic uses kilometres. The frustrating thing for us was that our car didn’t have miles and so we had to convert the speed limits in our head when driving.  Luckily Dave being Irish is used to this, but if this is something you are uncomfortable with, let the rental company know.

Below are some of the important things we think you definitely need to know before renting your car, and setting off on your Causeway coastal route road trip.

Check your license is valid and can be used abroad

Confirm if you want an automatic or manual car (the majority of cars in Northern Ireland tend to be manual so if you want an automatic then specify)

Order any extras like a Satnav or baby seat to ensure these are there for your arrival

Research general road rules i.e the UK uses a national speed limit and you won’t see speed signs a whole lot

  Take the time to check things over particularly if you have not gone for full insurance coverage

Take photos and record any damage before leaving and let staff know

Check the fuel and make sure you understand the fuel policy

Know where your indicators and wipers are

Get to grips with how tolls work in Ireland

Check if the the car showing miles or kilometres and you happy with this

Be aware of any emergency numbers you may need

  Aim to arrive about 30 minutes before you are scheduled to, to avoid late charges

Make sure the fuel is full or left at the same level you found it or as per your agreement

Ensure all your personal belongings are with you and double check the glove compartment

Because it was school holidays when we planned our Northern Ireland coastal road trip a lot of accommodation had already been booked. We decided to stay at The Hedges Hotel, a three star hotel located right next to the Dark Hedges. The hotel was comfortable and the rooms were clean. And for us the location was perfect in relation to all the things we wanted to see. There was a restaurant in the hotel which was convenient and was where we had breakfast which was included in our booking. There isn’t a lot of nightlife around here though, which in fairness was fine because with all the driving we didn’t want to be out late anyway. But if this is something you are bothered about perhaps look to stay somewhere else.

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Before planning your Northern Ireland road trip you might be wondering how much money you will need. Northern Ireland can be expensive depending on where you visit. Also the time of year you visit will have a bearing on costs as well.

If you visit in the summer months for instance hotel costs can be quite high. So make sure you book in advance.

Make sure you budget for things like

Car Rentals: £100 per day on average (depending on car type, what insurance you want to purchase, and any extras)

Petrol: £100 to fill the tank (this will vary depending on the type of car)

Accommodation: A minimum of £100 per night for something mid-range (depending on location, time of year, and amenities)

Attractions: £20 per person per day although this is probably on the high side

Food & Drink: £60 per person per day for standard pub style meals and a few drinks

We would recommend budgeting about £100-£150 per person per day. Costs can be brought down especially if you opt for cheaper accommodation and meals.

Here is a rough itinerary for your visit to Northern Ireland which includes a good section of the Causeway Coastal Route.

Fly into Belfast and drive to the Dark Hedges

Lunch in Ballycastle

Dunluce Castle

The Giants Causeway

Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge

Ballintoy harbour.

Portstewart for lunch

Mussenden Temple & Downhill Demise

Return Car in Belfast

Because we only had 2 days in Northern Ireland, we decided to skip Belfast and head north to see some of the sights Northern Ireland is famous for. These are our recommendations on the best things to see and do along the Causeway Coastal route and beyond.

The Dark Hedges

The Dark Hedges are a row of picturesque beech trees made famous by Game of Thrones. Even if you don’t watch the show though it is still worth a visit. Located along Bregagh Road, which is now pedestrianised (though some visitors didn’t realise this), the trees create an ethereal tunnel that you can stroll through. If you are trying to get an Instagram perfect photo you probably want to try and get there very early in the morning, as it can get really busy with tourists.

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It does make for a beautiful walk and as you look up at the trees with the sun peeking through you can hear them creaking in the wind. The tress originated in around 1755 when James Stuart built a house and wanted to create an interesting approach. So over 150 beech trees were planted.

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According to folklore the hedges are visited by a ghost called the Grey Lady, who is said to be the spirit of either James Stuart’s daughter, or one of the house maids who died mysteriously, or a spirit from an abandoned graveyard beneath the fields. Thankfully though we didn’t see any ghosts.

In terms of parking it is important to be aware that Bregagh Road itself is pedestrianised. Parking is available at The Hedges Hotel which is only a couple minutes’ walk away. By parking here you can visit the staffed visitor centre and enjoy the forest walkway which will take you to the Dark Hedges themselves. It is important to make sure you park at this designated area as parking near the hedges can lead to potential car accidents as well as causing conservation issues.

Ballycastle

After visiting the Dark Hedges we made our way to Ballycastle, a small but beautiful town in County Antrim. If you get the chance to explore the town centre do. It is very colourful with some quaint shops and some really amazing pubs too.

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We ended up having lunch at O’Connors Bar and the food was incredible. It is a traditional Irish bar, and the food is designed to cater to all tastes. They also do some pretty amazing seafood. Dave ordered Gambas and was practically drinking the sauce they came with, whereas I ordered the crab claws. Despite having to work hard for my meal it was absolutely delicious and we certainly recommend adding this to your Northern Ireland road trip itinerary.

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Eventually we made it onto the Causeway Coastal route and our first stop was Dunluce Castle. Parking around here can be a bit tricky as the car park can fill up quickly. So you do need to be patient, but it is worth it. Set on some dramatic coastal cliffs this castle is stunning.

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The Castle was built by the MacQuillan family in around 1500.  But has had a turbulent history and was seized by the MacDonnell clan in the 1550’s. These days however it is a popular and picturesque tourist attraction.

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You probably need about an hour to explore the ruins. Entry is £5.50 for adults and it really is worth it as the views are amazing. We loved exploring the nooks and crannies with views of the sea crashing below. This is a beautiful stop along the Causeway Coastal route and the scenery alone will make you glad you visited.

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The Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway is made up of around 40,000 connecting basalt columns caused by an ancient volcanic eruption. And by ancient we mean something like 60 million years ago! It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is currently run by the National Trust. It is also one of Northern Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions. If you want to get photos without hundreds of other people photobombing you, then come early.

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We should also add that visiting the stones of the Causeway is absolutely free. The signs really don’t make it all that clear when you go, and we purchased tickets not realising. The tickets are actually only for entry into the Causeway visitors centre, a space we only walked in to for the bathroom. If you are parking outside the visitor centre you do need to buy a ticket, but if you park offsite you shouldn’t have to pay.

The perks of buying a ticket though, aside from gaining entry to the visitors centre, is also the option to have an audio guide, or even better a guided tour. We chose to go with the audio guide though because we take ages photographing everything and tend to slow everyone else down.

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When you leave the visitors centre there is a downhill walk that takes you to the Causeway. It is really scenic and it is a lovely feeling having the wind in your hair as you take it the scenic Causeway Coastal route.

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If you struggle with walking then there is a bus, which you do have to pay but it is only £1 each way. We decided to get the bus on the way back up to the visitors centre but chose to walk down on the way to the Causeway.

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Once you reach the smooth stones you can climb up them and take lots of pictures. There are also a number of walks you can do around here. Our biggest bit of advice is to wear decent shoes as the rocks can get slippery. Also bring a bottle of water with you because once you are on the Causeway you have to trek back to the visitors centre for a drink.

If you want to do a guided tour you will need to book this online in advance.

So this was both our favourite and scariest part of our Northern Ireland road trip. The Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge is a bridge that is 20 meters long and 30 meters high. 30 meters might not sound really high but when you look down at the waves crashing below you it suddenly feels so much higher.

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The bridge was first erected by fishermen in 1755 and links the mainland to the very small island of Carrickarede. These days the bridge is maintained by the National Trust, and you do have to pay £8 to cross. There is a timed ticketing system so you purchase tickets for an hour time slot. The bridge opens at 9.30 am and we really do recommend getting there early.

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Considering that we were both so apprehensive about crossing the bridge we made sure we were there for 9.30 am as we didn’t want to feel pressured by huge crowds to cross. It also gave us the opportunity to explore and take in the scenery without bus loads of tourists.

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The walk to the bridge is gorgeous. You have incredible views of the rugged cliffs that form part of the landscape in this area and you can see it all in your own time.

Once you get to the bridge you may have to wait to cross. Only 8 people are allowed on it at any one time for safety reasons. Dave went first and I have never seen him walk across a bridge so fast.

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Then came my turn. I couldn’t look out and enjoy the view from the bridge I just put my head down and walked. It was a proud moment for the both of us realising we had done it. But there is of course the little matter of crossing back over!

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After exploring the island we made our way back across. I think we both agreed that crossing over the second time was scarier because you know what is coming! As you walk back to the entrance there is a spot where you can take some great pictures of the bridge and you actually get to see how high it is. This is definitely something we will always remember.

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If you want to skip the queue then you can book a private tour of the rope bridge , and learn all about the history.

When we stopped shaking and the adrenaline had died down we made our way over to Ballintoy Harbour. It is really close to the Rope Bridge and is another location where episodes of Game of Thrones were filmed.

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It really is worth the stop to admire the views and take a walk around the quiet harbour. There is a cafe here as well if you do need refreshments. We didn’t spend a lot of time here but the little time we did spend really was beautiful.

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Portstewart

A lot of people we spoke to recommended visiting the small seaside town of Portstewart. There is a beautiful sandy beach popular with surfers and swimmers alike. We visited Portstewart Strand, a 2 mile long beach popular with families. Parking was £6.50 which admittedly was a little steep but we really wanted to explore.

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The beach is lovely, and because the water was a little cold when we visited we didn’t go in. Instead we dipped our toes in and took in the sea air. There are walking paths around if you have the time, otherwise the beach itself is the perfect place to relax.

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If you are looking for a bite to eat Harry’s Shack is perfect. We sat outside enjoying views of the beach and ate calamari and mussels. It is worth visiting just for Harry’s Shack alone! Booking is recommended as it does get really busy, although we arrived around 12pm and managed to get a seat outside without a reservation.

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Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne

This was our final stop on the Causeway Coastal route and Northern Ireland before heading to the Republic to see Dave’s parents. And it really was a nice place to end our trip. The temple is located in the picturesque surroundings of Downhill Demesne. It sits on the top of a cliff top which is about 120 feet above the Atlantic Ocean.

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It is a great place to go for a leisurely stroll and you can also explore Downhill House, the dramatic remains of a mansion built in the late 18th century. This is a great place to explore and take photos and if you have the opportunity, bring a picnic as it is the perfect location to relax.

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This is another National Trust site so you do have to pay for entry which is just under £5 per adult. There are also some gardens you can explore before making your way up to the temple.

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Northern Ireland Road trip itinerary map

  Here is a map to help you plan your 2 day Northern Ireland road trip itinerary based on the route we took. We ended up staying near the Dark Hedges in the nearby hotel so we did end up backtracking slightly on our route. If you don’t want to do that you can alter the itinerary slightly. The map is divided up to cover our 2 days in Northern Ireland.

Day 1 Northern Ireland Road Trip Map

Day 2 Northern Ireland Road Trip Map

Here is our full trip map including the Causeway Coastal Route that we drove through

  • Things are a bit politically sensitive in Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland is part of the UK whilst the remainder of the Island of Ireland is part of the Republic. Try to avoid talking about politics but be sensitive if you do.
  • Northern Ireland uses the British Pound for currency. If you are visiting the Republic of Ireland be aware that they use Euros.

We really loved this trip and will be thinking about it for years to come. It is such a beautiful picturesque place and with so much to see and do we really felt like 2 days in Northern Ireland was not enough. That being said we really did get to see a lot of this beautiful place and we felt so lucky to have experienced it. You can see and do a lot in 2 days so if you do only have a short time here don’t panic. We hope our Northern Ireland itinerary gives you some inspiration to book your own trip and explore this incredible landscape.

Pin This: Causeway Coastal Road and Northern Ireland Road trip

If you are feeling inspired by our Northern Ireland road trip itinerary then check out some more Irish content below:

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Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days

8 Days in Ireland

Cork Itinerary

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Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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I saw most of these places on a day trip to Belfast, all so beautiful and magical!

It’s crazy how close they are to Belfast too. Such a lovely place.

All those places look amazing! Northern Ireland is so stunning, I love the lush scenery. I need to go asap!

It really was amazing. I honestly didn’t even know how beautiful it would be until we got there. Certainly a very pleasant surprise!

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Why Now Is the Time to Visit Northern Ireland — Plus Where to Eat, What Do, and Places to Stay

Nearly 25 years after the Troubles, Northern Ireland’s scars are finally beginning to heal. Here's a guide to the best of the country right now.

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Northern Ireland. What do those words bring to mind? Recently, I put the question to two American friends. “The Troubles,” said the first. “The Troubles,” said the other.

They were referring to the sectarian violence between largely pro-Britain, Protestant Unionists and largely pro-Ireland, Catholic Republicans that made Belfast a deadly place from the 1960s to the 90s. Riots, bombings, clashes between paramilitary forces, and attacks by the British army killed more than 3,500 before the 1998 Good Friday Agreement brought a tentative peace. 

Having been born in the former Soviet Union, I’ve always been drawn to places known more for political headlines than for tourism. There, I’ve often discovered underappreciated destinations rather than security problems. Over the past few years, I had been hearing that things were changing in Ulster. I began to wonder if Northern Ireland was another of these secret marvels, waiting for the world to notice how outdated our assumptions about it had become. So I decided to plan a trip.

Simon Watson

My first stop in Belfast was the resplendently Victorian Merchant Hotel , a former bank with a soaring lobby that now survives as the Great Room, the restaurant where my eggs and croissants vanished under the beatific gaze of golden-faced cherubs mounted on colonnades. The Merchant’s conversion, in 2006, into a world-class hotel epitomizes the transformation of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, the elegant, cobblestoned heart of downtown. During the Troubles — when the threat of bombing, particularly in densely populated areas, was constant — the Quarter was all but deserted, a testament to former glory. Today, it is an international destination for dining and design. 

As I met artists, farmers, lords, chefs, and Troubles survivors, the Northern Irish character came to feel like a glorious paradox: the warmest and least sentimental people I’d ever met. 

But this cosmopolitanism hasn’t rubbed the edge off what makes the Quarter so different. The poetry, surely, is part of it. Northern Ireland gave the world the poets Seamus Heaney, Paul Muldoon, and Louis MacNeice, and I navigated the Quarter’s uneven stones surrounded not by international retailers, as in so many other European capitals, but by doorways and railings adorned with poems stenciled onto metal panels. The unsanitized view of the Troubles presented in the ubiquitous political murals — interrogations, protest marches, the bloody aftermath of a bombing — amplifies the sense of having wandered into a tourist district from a very different kind of brochure.

As I walked around, I came to a wall emblazoned with a poem by the early-20th-century Northern Irish writer Raymond Calvert, about a gentleman driven to such insanity by his “curse” of a wife that he slashes her throat, but then, in remorse, hangs himself with a sheet. “But the strangest turn to the whole concern/Is only just beginning,” the last stanza declares. “He went to Hell but his wife got well/And she’s still alive and sinning./For the razor blade was German made/But the sheet was Belfast linen.” 

A Northern Irish accent, during the Troubles, “would make people edge away from you on the London Tube,” Kieran Gilmore, a cultural organizer, told me. That sense of inferiority has given way to the unapologetic pride, leavened by gallows humor, epitomized by Calvert’s comic poem. As I met artists, farmers, lords, chefs, and Troubles survivors, the Northern Irish character came to feel like a glorious paradox: the warmest and least sentimental people I’d ever met. 

Belfast is small, and visitors don’t have to walk far for the Quarter and its polish to give way to areas with less evolved views on the Troubles. I took that walk with a guide named Colm McBrierty . As a musician during the Troubles, McBrierty, who has a recognizably Catholic surname, listed himself as Colin Smith so he could play in bars in Protestant areas. In 1972, his mother missed a weekly lunch date at the Abercorn Restaurant in the city center and, by doing so, avoided a bomb that killed two and injured 130.

More Trip Ideas : 8 Most Scenic Train Rides In the U.K.

A walk through West Belfast, where you need the eyes of a native to understand that you’ve crossed from a Unionist street to a Republican one, is a bracing reminder of how intimate the sense of violence must have been. McBrierty and I stopped by a “peace wall” set up by the British government — a euphemism for a barrier between the communities. The Unionist side features quotes by the Dalai Lama and work by local artists. The Republican side has nothing but barracks-green paint. In both Unionist and Republican areas, we saw murals commemorating victims, but also murderers. (In one, thanks to a chilling visual effect, the muzzles of rifles held by two painted men in balaclavas seemed to follow us as we drove past.) But we saw just as many murals by community groups urging reconciliation.

McBrierty suggested that neither side had sole claim to the truth. “There are two cultures on this island, and both have to be respected — that’s the short of it,” he said. He was both clear-eyed and optimistic. “These disagreements won’t end for a couple of generations,” he said. “People died too recently. But we’ve come a very long way.” McBrierty and his wife, a Protestant, sent their children to an “integrated” school. “People say, ‘Are you Catholic or Protestant?’ ” McBrierty said. “I say I’m an Ulster man.”

I thought of McBrierty’s unvarnished eloquence when I had dinner at Wine & Brine , in the village of Moira, in County Armagh, a 20-minute drive southwest of Belfast. Chris McGowan, the chef, cooked in London for 20 years before deciding to return to Northern Ireland with his family in 2014. “We came back for the people,” McGowan said. “People here are so genuine. They’ve gone through so much. And it’s such an exciting food scene at the moment.”

Wine & Brine is a family affair in multiple ways: McGowan’s wife, Davina, manages the front of the house, and the restaurant draws as many couples on dates as multigenerational family outings and retirees on weekly lunch engagements, giving the place an easygoing quality that belies the ambition of the cooking. (That day, the chef was serving pig’s-head doughnuts with malt vinegar and smoked eel from Lough Neagh, just west of Moira.)

The feeling is similar at Noble , a dark-walled 26-seat restaurant with a kitchen the size of a phone booth, in Holywood, just outside Belfast. Chef Pearson Morris raids the fields and waters that make the Northern Irish larder so bountiful: I had a tartare of local beef with gribiche sauce; lamb shoulder with curry oil and mint raita; and a weightless halibut with chanterelles in a roasted-bone sauce. But it was co-owner Saul McConnell’s service — warm and unobtrusive, but with a sense of occasion — that made the evening. Noble was the recipient of the Michelin Guide’s 2021 Welcome & Service Award. Belfast has three Michelin-starred restaurants, but the best meals I had were at restaurants like Wine & Brine and Noble, which cook for the neighborhood as if it were a global stage. 

McGowan and McConnell are part of a growing number of entrepreneurs creating things the country hasn’t seen before. For instance, the creative director Ryan Crown had a thriving career in Brooklyn when he came home for a visit at the start of the pandemic. He encountered a Belfast transformed, with so much demand in his field that he stayed. One of his earliest endeavors was Hill Street Hatch, a Cathedral Quarter incubator that was set up to help local entrepreneurs with marketing and branding. Its first project was the Toast Office , a grilled-cheese shop whimsically designed to resemble an old British post office. It became an Instagram sensation. 

A deep feeling for the land is, perhaps, one of the few things that unites virtually every soul in the country. No trip to the countryside would be complete without a glimpse of the legendarily beautiful North Coast .

Around the corner on Donegall Street, Richie Stokes and Gareth Young run Never Never , a shop for skater fashions created on the counterintuitive premise that the city’s young people prefer to buy their hoodies from human beings instead of algorithms. On Little Donegall Street, Mike Thomson slings farmstead cheese from small Irish and Northern Irish producers at a shop whose name, Mike’s Fancy Cheese, sends up in classic Irish fashion the solemnity with which certain shops sell artisanal goods. 

To experience the unassuming creativity of Belfast’s young entrepreneurs is to rediscover some of the wonder we’ve lost in places where creativity has become commodified. That they live in a city that remains affordable enough for them to lease commercial spaces downtown is essential to that ferment. So is the fact that they borrow equally from British and Irish influence. As Colm McBrierty suggested, perhaps the right answer to the question “Britain or Ireland?” is: “Both.” 

Midway through my stay in town, I relocated to the Titanic Hotel Belfast , a 25-minute walk east of downtown. Against all odds, this theme hotel is a thoughtful, stylish place of pewter accents and floor-to-ceiling windows that give out onto the shipyard where the Titanic was built. The hotel is next to the Titanic Belfast museum , opened in 2012, whose striking exterior of massive shimmering panels is home to impressively curated, immersive exhibits that manage to reclaim the story from Hollywood. But perhaps my favorite thing about the Titanic Quarter was the walk it required from the action downtown, across the river Lagan, which bisects the city before emptying into the Belfast Lough and the Irish Sea. Belfast’s intimate size and mash-up of Victorian and postindustrial spaces make it a flaneur’s delight. The British side of its charm includes Black English taxis. I never took one.

Related : The Best Time to Visit Ireland

Unlike those places where the capital city siphons off the best of the provinces, Northern Ireland’s transformation has also reached deep into the countryside. In the seaside town of Bangor, a half-hour’s drive east of the city, I met the cultural organizers Alison Gordon and Kieran Gilmore. The couple returned home from London after the Good Friday Agreement because they wanted to use the arts to help create a “new, shared Northern Ireland,” Gilmore told me. As they walked me around, sea brine in our lungs, they showed me what two decades of peace had allowed them to achieve.

Gordon and Gilmore pointed out murals by artists they’ve hosted (in one, the London artist Irony had given a crab the chef’s knife), performance spaces for a music festival they organize every year, and an abandoned courthouse that they are transforming into an arts center. “Dereliction is an opportunity,” Gordon said. “It’s not the end — it’s the beginning.”

If towns like Bangor have looked to the arts, the Northern Irish countryside owes its revival to the same elements that have sustained it since the beginning of time: rain and soil. In County Armagh, southwest of Belfast, entrepreneur Susie Hamilton Stubber of Burren Balsamics welcomed me into the country kitchen of my dreams, where the air was thick with the smell of the wheaten bread, a type of soda bread, that she had baked for our lunch. Here, Stubber and her business partner, the chef Bob McDonald, infuse vinegars, chutneys, marmalades, and piccalillis with local bounty as well as imports from Britain’s erstwhile empire: beets and cocoa nibs, Irish cherry, blood orange and cardamom.

The encounter of the Irish Sea and the North Atlantic nearby, Woods said, made for some of the best waves in Europe, still a relative secret among the Continent’s surfers.

McDonald spent 45 years cooking for the officers’ mess in the British army. (British officers eat well, he said — the cuisine was fit for a Michelin-starred restaurant.) For lunch, he finished a saddle of local venison, cooked sous-vide, by searing it in butter and some of Stubber’s garden thyme, as well as a stock of Pinot Noir reduced with a vinegar infused with blackberry and thyme. This arrived alongside a miniature lamb pie, foraged blackberries, white-currant jelly, and root vegetables. “It took some time,” McDonald said. “But people are beginning to realize that what we have is as good as anywhere.”

Even peers of the realm get in on the act, as I learned when I visited Ballywalter Park , a 270-acre estate where the unpretentious Lord and Lady Dunleath welcome visitors for tours. A lunch of local cheeses and Lord Dunleath’s own beet chutney culminated in a walk through the massive walled garden, which supplies some of Belfast’s best restaurants. “These are the pearly gates,” Lady Dunleath said as we approached the entrance, pheasants clearing out of our path, adding that paradise is Pashtun for walled garden. The couple grow edible calendula, black sunflowers, pinto peaches, gooseberries, Jerusalem artichokes, and more. “This was the 18th century’s supermarket,” she said. “When the newspapers are saying what they’re saying about climate change, you must look to your doorstep. The Irish Sea is 500 meters from here. I can have lobster from June to New Year’s Eve.” Ballywalter is in the process of going entirely off the grid, she told me.

A deep feeling for the land is, perhaps, one of the few things that unites virtually every soul in the country. No trip to the countryside would be complete without a glimpse of the legendarily beautiful North Coast . I explored it with the entrepreneur Portia Woods, who has turned her love of the region into a tour called Toast the Coast . As we drove along the craggy shoreline, the roar of the surf seemed to intensify instead of becoming familiar. On the sweep of Benone Strand Beach, Woods set up a picnic of soda-bread crostini, apple butter, and kelp pesto. Under a cold sun, we listened to the thundering waves on repeat: crash, hiss, repeat. The encounter of the Irish Sea and the North Atlantic nearby, Woods said, made for some of the best waves in Europe, still a relative secret among the Continent’s surfers.

Our most moving stop was the speck-sized town of Portstewart, where Woods introduced me to Stevie McCarry, who runs Native Seafood & Scran with his wife, Rebekah. Like so many in Northern Ireland, McCarry grew up without pride in the natural riches around him. “Back in the day, if you came to school with lobster in your lunch, another kid would give you their milk because they felt bad for you,” he said. As a young man, he moved to Thailand. “We all went to the far side.” 

But at some point, McCarry started to understand what he’d left behind. He and Rebekah opened Native out of a frustration that Northern Ireland’s best catch was going to France rather than staying at home. Their offerings are so fresh that the shop has no microwave or freezer. As an experiment, I ordered the plainest-seeming thing on the menu: a roasted-salmon salad. Decorated by nothing save lightly dressed greens, the salmon was elementally, profoundly flavorful. 

“We’re all starting to understand what we have,” McCarry said. 

A Northern Irish Journey

Where to stay.

Culloden Estate & Spa : Located just outside the capital, this former bishop’s palace has views of Belfast Lough and an unmissable afternoon tea.

Galgorm : This resort, in the town of Ballymena, is home to a spa “village” with so many steam rooms, waterfalls, plunge pools, and hot tubs that it’s almost impossible not to get blissfully lost.

The Merchant Hotel : A prime example of Belfast’s Victorian splendor enlivened by a bit of contemporary style. Don’t skip its cocktail bar.

Titanic Hotel Belfast : Located by the Titanic museum and the shipyard where the ocean liner was built, this elegant hotel evokes the high style of the Gilded Age.

Where to Eat and Drink

The Duke of York: The flagship of the pubs owned by entrepreneur Willie Jack; he’ll give you a proper pint and a monologue for the ages. Stop by his whiskey shop, the Friend at Hand, around the corner.

Home : Situated on an ordinary Belfast block, Home is one of those unicorn restaurants of wild imagination and flawless technique that still manages to feel like your neighborhood bistro.

Noble: Electric cooking from a tiny kitchen and unfussy, festive service are the highlights of this low-lit restaurant in Holywood, just outside Belfast.

Wine & Brine : Chris McGowan cooked in London for 20 years before returning home to Belfast to take advantage of the glory of his native fields and waters, which can include smoked eel or turbot caught that morning.

Ballywalter Park: When they’re not lending their 270-acre estate out to film crews, Lord and Lady Dunleath host tours of their property, with its endless fields, 18th-century walled garden, and epic solarium.

Spectrum Cars: This chauffeur company offers a tour of Belfast’s Troubles that’s anything but canned, especially if Colm McBrierty is your guide.  

Titanic Belfast: This immersive, informative museum in a gorgeous Modernist building provides a clear-eyed look at the famous ship’s tragic history.

Toast the Coast: The entrepreneur Portia Woods has turned her love of the North Coast into an exhilarating tour of spectacular landscapes and innovative projects by local proprietors.

Where to Shop

Armagh Cider: The only blossom-to-bottle cider operation in Northern Ireland. A three-course lunch is served to those who book a tasting of ciders, vinegars, and tonics.

Bound: A home-décor store in Belfast that showcases boundary-breaking Northern Irish and European designers.

The Bureau Belfast: Cool menswear from such indie brands as Engineered Garments and Arpenteur.

Burren Balsamics: In County Armagh, the entrepreneur Susie Hamilton Stubber and former military chef Bob McDonald infuse high-end Italian vinegars with Bramley apples, cocoa nibs, and other surprises. See if you can score a peek inside Stubber’s country kitchen.

Never Never: Undeterred by a recent fire, this skater-style shop is selling its wares online while it prepares to reopen.

How to Book

Siobhan Byrne Learat , a member of T+L’s A-List of top travel advisors, can orchestrate a journey across Northern Ireland that encompasses five-star hotels, walking tours of Belfast, and visits to the artisanal producers who are transforming the country’s culinary scene. Email: siobhan@adams​and​butler.com.

A version of this story first appeared in the December 2022/January 2023 issue of  Travel + Leisure  under the headline "Come One, Come All ."

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Home » Itineraries » Northern Ireland and Ireland Driving Itinerary

Northern Ireland and Ireland Driving Itinerary

Basalt rocks jutting into the ocean

Ireland is a magical place full of striking landscapes, beautiful coastline, and the nicest people we’ve met anywhere in the world. There’s a reason it’s on so many people’s bucket lists. During our first Ireland trip, we hadn’t even left before we began talking about when we could return to see other parts of the country plus Northern Ireland, too. We finally had the opportunity to make our 11-day trip to the Emerald Isle a reality. Here’s our Northern Ireland and Ireland road trip itinerary to help you plan your travels.

An important note for drivers: a good GPS that allows you to input coordinates will go a long way with this route.

Driving Tour of Ireland and Northern Ireland

Day 1: celtic ruins west of dublin, day 2: the countryside, day 3: dublin, day 4: powerscourt and dublin distilleries, day 5: belfast, day 6: belfast and portrush, day 7: drive the antrim coast, day 8: derry, day 9: donegal and lough eske, day 10: slieve league and sligo, day 11: back to dublin, ireland travel recommendations.

Stone building at the base of a hill beside a stream

Arriving in Dublin, we immediately rented a car to head around Dublin on the M50 beltway and then the R115 (the Old Military Road) up over Sally Gap and into the Wicklow Mountains in the direction of Kilkenny. The landscape in this part of the country is beautiful, as you pass mountain streams and wind through patches of forest and up and down the undulating hills. Everything is just so green.

We stopped in the mountains to explore the Celtic ruins in the Irish countryside . Glendalough, known for its round tower, was a monastic settlement founded in the 6th century. Although it is a popular place, we were nearly alone as we explored the grounds of Glendalough, marveling at its old tombstones and Celtic crosses.

Our next stop was Baltinglass Abbey, a 12th century ruin which was once one of the richest churches in Europe. The first night was in the medieval city of Kilkenny at the Alcantra B&B.

Stone tower and chapel ruins

Our Irish road trip continued as we headed out on the scenic R697 to the Priory of Kells. The 12th-century ruin—one of our favorites—was the largest and most important Augustinian monastic site in Ireland . Currently undergoing restoration, it’s a magnificent sight to see.

After a stop at Knockdrinna cheese shop in Stoneyford to pick up a picnic, we were off to our next destination on our Ireland itinerary. We took the picnic over to Jerpoint Abbey, eating under the majestic tower.

In the afternoon, our destination was the Rock of Cashel. We took the scenic drive R691 over to the ancient hilltop site where we walked the grounds for about an hour, seeing the Round Tower, the Romanesque Chapel, and other important ruins along the way. In the afternoon, we took the M8 back to Dublin.

Cakes for sale

With two tours and a an awesome dinner show, we squeezed every moment out of the third day of our Ireland travel itinerary.

The day began with a walking tour of some cool, unexpected sights in Dublin with Le Cool Dublin. The beauty of this tour is that it changes every time. Its goal is to show visitors what’s hip and now in the city, so you may meet artists, visit markets, and see street art like we did, or you may see something completely different. A Le Cool tour is an awesome way to experience the city.

Red exterior of The Temple Bar

Because we hadn’t gotten enough steps in yet, we set out on an informative historical walking tour of Dublin in the afternoon. We saw Dublin Castle, Christ Church Cathedral, and many of the other can’t-miss Dublin sights. It was a perfect complement to our morning of more local Dublin experiences.

In the evening, we finished up our day of walking with entertainment. The Dublin House Party is a unique combination of a hearty Irish dinner and a show featuring some of the best Irish musicians and dancers in the city. What could be a cheesy experience is instead very well-done, showing visitors the importance of Irish music and the fun that goes along with it. The Dublin House Party is great for couples and families.

Fountain in a pond as seen through a tunnel

Our day began at the peaceful Powerscourt Estate and Gardens . About an hour south of Dublin, the sprawling estate is a brilliant place to enjoy nature. It tops National Geographic’s list of the world’s best gardens.

Punctuated by fountains, ponds, and an endless number of trees and flowers, the 47 acres of gardens at Powerscourt are a lovely place to wander. Amidst a setting of 200-year-old trees, you’ll even find Ireland’s highest waterfall.

In the afternoon, we returned to Dublin to imbibe at The Jameson Distillery Bow St. and the Guinness Storehouse …because that’s what you do in Ireland.

Stone exterior and sign for the Old Jameson Distillery in Dublin

At Jameson Distillery, begun on Bow Street in 1780, we got a sense for the history of the place and what was required when John Jameson started distilling here over 200 years ago. It was a great crash course in making one of the whiskeys that Ireland is so famous for. Plus, we got to do a comparative tasting of their wares.

The Guinness Storehouse is the most popular tourist attraction in Dublin for good reason. This seven-floor experience takes you through all the steps of brewing Ireland’s iconic dark beer. We saw displays about all of its ingredients and the history of the beverage, culminating in the opportunity to pour our own pint on the top floor, which has a great view over the city.

People eating at picnic tables in a market

We woke up early and set out driving from Dublin to Belfast on the M1. As soon as we arrived in Northern Ireland, we got busy sightseeing.

It was lunch time, so it was a perfect excuse for one of our favorite activities–visiting local markets around the world. St. George’s Market in Belfast has operated at the same site for an incredible 400 years. One of Belfast’s oldest attractions, St. George’s showcases the best in Northern Irish products. From food stands to fresh produce, the market has a little bit of everything delicious with a heavy dose of national pride thrown in.

Exterior of a large building with silver-colored and glass walls

The second stop on our Northern Ireland trip was Titanic Belfast. The leading tourist attraction in the world, the Titanic Museum tells the story of the ill-fated ship on the site of the former Harland & Wolff shipyard (its builder). The fascinating museum has exhibits about the building and launch of the Titanic as well as vivid accounts of its sinking and the aftermath of the disaster.

Street art mural with the label

Day six began with our highly-anticipated Black Cab Tour of the Troubles murals of Belfast with Paddy Campbell. Driving along the Shankill Road and other areas of Belfast, we saw mural after mural commemorating historical figures and participants in the decades of conflict that ripped apart communities in Northern Ireland.

Paddy presented an unbiased look at the issues on both sides–the mostly Protestant Unionists who wanted Northern Ireland to remain part of the United Kingdom, and the mostly Catholic Republicans who wanted Northern Ireland to become part of a united Ireland–which is a hard thing to do in a place that was as politically charged as Belfast. At the end, we got to guess his affiliation. We guessed wrong. We couldn’t recommend this eye-opening tour more.

Trees intertwined over a road

After lunch, we left Belfast headed north on the M2/A26 in the general direction of the Antrim Coast. We took a brief detour to the Dark Hedges to take some photos in this spot made famous thanks to its haunting beauty and its cameo as the Kings Road in the Game of Thrones .

We arrived in Portrush for the evening.

Rocks jutting into the ocean

We left Portrush heading even further north on the Causeway Road to Giant’s Causeway. In the drizzle, the spectacular basalt columns of the Causeway took on a moody feeling as we watched the waves crash nearby. We spent at least an hour just climbing up and down the unique formation. Giant’s Causeway is not to be missed on any trip to Northern Ireland.

People crossing a rope bridge above the ocean

Nearby, we visited the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. First erected by salmon fishermen in 1755, the bridge hangs (apparently precariously) between rocky outcroppings in the north Atlantic. Crossing is an adventure and not for the faint-hearted, but if the winds are calm, it’s not as scary as it looks.

After spending much of the rainy day outside, we visited The Old Bushmills distillery to warm up in the late afternoon. Unlike Jameson, which we visited in Dublin, Old Bushmills is also a working distillery, so the smell of sweet mash hung in the air as we toured the factory. We saw the whole distillation and bottling process and ended with a perfect hot toddy in their tasting room.

It was a long, windy, wet day of amazing sights, culminating at a night at the charming Caw Cottage.

Mural showing man wearing gas mask

We woke up in Derry and actually stayed there for the full day – one of the only nights on our whole trip that we spent two nights in the same town.

We began the day with a rainy but thought-provoking tour of the Troubles Murals of the town. As in Belfast, Derry is filled with murals depicting imagery from both sides of the conflict. There are the Union Jacks of the Unionists and murals showing Republicans alongside civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr.

Many of the murals in Derry are in the Bogside neighborhood where a group of artworks is dedicated to protesters who were killed on what is known as Bloody Sunday. British soldiers killed 14 people that day and wounded another 12—the incident is the subject of U2’s “Sunday, Bloody Sunday.”

Panoramic view of homes in a city with a tall church tower

After seeing the murals, we joined in on a great historical tour of the city which took us by the top sights and allowed us to walk on part of the city’s 17th-century walls.

In the evening, we decided it was time for a bit of Irish music and made our way to Peadar O’Donnell’s bar.

Colorful hillsides of Donegal, Ireland

Leaving Derry (and beautiful Northern Ireland) on the N13/N56 road, we drove the rugged coast of the Donegal peninsula, part of the Wild Atlantic Way route . Our plan for the day was simply to drive and watch the landscape change, stopping in any village that caught our attention.

Along our drive, we encountered massive cliffs plunging into the ocean, small towns with picture-perfect harbors, and miles and miles of countryside turning from green to gold under the early autumn sun. It was absolutely gorgeous.

Boat on land with water and hill in the background

We spent the afternoon and night enjoying the luxurious Lough Eske Castle . This 5-star castle hotel, which traces its roots back to the 15th century, offers an immersive guest experience with an amazing spa, fabulous restaurant, and packages that include access to local parks and other castles. A night here is the height of luxury.

Cliffs plunging into the ocean

We spent the morning at Lough Eske Castle enjoying the sprawling grounds and their gourmet breakfast. Sooner than we were ready to leave (we would never have been ready), it was time to go again. This time, our destination was Slieve League.

Driving west along the N56/R263 road, we approached the giant cliffs of Slieve League (Sliabh Liag, in Gaelic), which are three times higher than their more well-known cousins at the Cliffs of Moher. From the top, there are magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Sligo Mountains, and Donegal Bay. It’s one of the must see places in Ireland .

Church sanctuary with colorful mosaic

Another beautiful drive south found us in county Sligo. It was already late afternoon by the time we arrived. We had planned to visit the ancient Sligo Abbey, but it was under construction, so we went to St. Columba’s Church in nearby Drumcliffe instead. The small church with the bright stained glass is the final resting place of literary giant W.B. Yeats.

Markree Castle Hotel, another brilliant, ancient castle, was our home for the night in Sligo.

Rock exterior of the megalithic cemetery at Carrowmore

In the morning, we visited Carrowmore, the largest cemetery of megalithic tombs in Ireland. All the monuments here are estimated to be at least 5000 years old, which is mind-blowing. We didn’t find them quite as impressive as the huge megalithic passage tomb at Newgrange, but they are certainly worth a visit if your Ireland travels take you through Sligo.

After our visit to Carrowmore , we turned back on the N4 road toward Dublin. We returned the rental car at the airport and spent our final night in the capital. The evening was spent at the Brazen Head, Dublin’s oldest pub, seeing a dinner show about the history, myths, and fairy tales of this beautiful island.

Fountain and pond

Hotels : Ireland is quite challenging in terms of accommodations. Unlike most countries, there are not a large number of big hotels. Instead, Ireland is full of a small, boutique hotels and B&Bs. We recommend looking at Booking.com for hotels, inns and B&Bs.

Rental Car : We recommend renting cars from brand name, larger international companies, or a comparison site like Auto Europe , which is known for its service. If you have a problem, they tend to be more reliable. Before you go, we recommend getting a copy of our book, The Essential Guide to Driving Abroad , which demystifies and simplifies the process of renting overseas.

Travel Insurance : Ireland is an amazing destination! While the country is extremely safe, car accidents are common. For this trip, we bought travel insurance from Travel Guard , which can provide you with coverage for unexpected medical expenses while on a trip because you never know what can happen.

Booking through these sites may earn us a few pennies, at no additional cost to you.

Map of our Ireland and Northern Ireland driving itinerary

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Karen Keene

Wednesday 31st of May 2023

Can you get around Ireland via train vs. renting a car to see the sights?

Lance Longwell

Thursday 1st of June 2023

Yes, but it really isn't recommended. The trains in Ireland connect most of the major cities and some spots in between. But they really don't service the countryside very well at all. If you want to see Ireland (AND you really don't want to drive), consider the bus. Bus travel in Ireland is efficient and inexpensive, and goes where the trains do not.

Abby Cooper

Sunday 15th of March 2020

This looks absolutely amazing! Very descriptive and your photos are beautiful. Giants Causeway is on my top ten list!

UK Travel Planning

Northern Ireland Travel Guide

Lets visit Northern Ireland.

Welcome to our  Northern Ireland Travel Guide  where you will find links to all the travel-related posts about Northern Ireland on the website. This includes articles about itineraries, where to visit, what to see and do, best day trips, tours and tickets, books to read and lots of practical tips, resources and inspiration for your trip.

Are you planning to visit Northern Ireland either from the UK or part of a longer trip from around the world?

On this page, you will find links to all my articles about Northern Ireland including where to visit, what to see and other information to help you make the most of your trip.

For practical travel advice for visitors to anywhere in UK you will find more information on my UK travel planning page.

With a population of nearly 2 million Northern Ireland is the smallest nation in the United Kingdom.

Northern Ireland was created in 1920 when the Government of Ireland Act divided the country into two separate units. Belfast is the capital of the north and Dublin of the south. In 1949 the Independent Republic of Ireland was established in the south.

Northern Ireland has been marked by sectarian violence over the years. In recent times the political parties have been working towards compromise and a power-sharing government now governs Northern Ireland.

For more information about the history of Northern Ireland see my recommended reading section at the bottom of this page.

ITINERARIES

Tours and tickets, accommodation in northern ireland, recommended reading.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosure for further information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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PLACES TO VISIT IN NORTHERN IRELAND

What features on your Northern Ireland bucket list?

Is it the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Giant’s Causeway or the Dark Hedges of Game of Thrones fame? Or perhaps you want to visit Belfast and the Titanic Museum?

Below you can find links to some of the top destinations to visit in Northern Ireland.

Start with my top 10 places to visit in Northern Ireland as a good introduction to the landmarks, places and sights to see during your visit.

Northern Ireland Giants Causeway

Coming soon

Read my month-by-month guide to visiting the UK which contains information about what to expect during the different seasons as well as shows/attractions and activities.

There are a number of day tours available with Get Your Guide as well as tickets to main attractions and sights. See below for further information

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Plan the Ultimate Road Trip Through Northern Ireland

The dramatic landscape of White Park Bay, near Ballintoy, featured in Game of Thrones

Bag a set of wheels – the coast of Northern Ireland is road-trip heaven. It’s reasonably sized, so your journeys are short, which means more time to stop and explore. Pack your swimmers and walking boots – there are beautiful beaches and nature reserves to explore – and don’t forget a smart outfit or two, the cities offer plenty of culture. To help you plan your next adventure, here is how to create the ultimate road trip in Northern Ireland.

Which route should i take.

Take the Causeway Coastal Route – the most exciting road trip in Northern Ireland – from Belfast to Derry/Londonderry. It hits many of the major coastal stop-offs, including National Trust sites and a handful of Game of Thrones filming locations. It’s also relatively short, meaning there’s flexibility should you wish to stay a day or two longer in a destination. The following five-day itinerary, though, will serve most road-trippers well.

Top tip: No matter when you plan to come – though you will aim for the summer months ideally – you’ll need to pack for a variety of weather conditions. Northern Ireland is famous for its unpredictable skies, so pack for light rain, afternoon heat, spring showers and wind.

Pootle down the Causeway Coastal Route and enjoy a road trip of seemingly endless natural beauty

Start your trip in Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the Cathedral Quarter and enjoy an Ulster fry-up in St George’s Market. Before you drive out of town, grab a picture of Samson and Goliath – two giant, yellow shipbuilding cranes that have become a quirky tourist attraction.

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A 30-minute ride will take you to Carrickfergus, the first stop of the tour and a town home to one of the best-preserved Norman castles in Ireland. Having survived 800 years – plus numerous assaults by the Scots, Irish, English and French – it now houses an interesting collection of historical artefacts and cannons.

Then head 20 minutes north to The Gobbins, a 2mi (3km) walk along the cliffs of Islandmagee. It’s a rather spectacular route carved into the cliffside more than a century ago for Edwardian tourists.

See the route for Day 1 .

Start your journey off right by picking up fresh produce at St George’s Market in Belfast

Day 2: Discover the Glens of Antrim

Day 2 starts at Glenarm Castle and Gardens , a horticulturist’s dream. You can explore the oldest walled gardens in Ireland and enjoy a 19th-century afternoon tea in the Mushroom House. Come in May to walk among thousands of tulips during the annual tulip festival.

Next, head to the Glens of Antrim. There are nine glens to explore; stop at Glenarm and tackle the walking trails of Glenarm Forest. If you stroll by the river, keep your eyes peeled for kingfishers and otters.

Then travel to Cushendun, a beautiful harbour town modelled on Cornish villages, to visit Glenmona House, a grand estate and home to the endangered red squirrel.

See the route for Day 2 , including several alternative routes through the Glens of Antrim.

The Glens of Antrim make a pretty pitstop on your road trip in Northern Ireland

Day 3: Head up North

Things are about to get windy as you head north up the coast. Your first stop of the day is at Torr Head, an enchanting cove only 13mi (18km) across the sea from Scotland. This was a lookout for Atlantic and transatlantic ships two centuries ago, and has fantastic views of Rathlin Island. Bring your binoculars to spot the puffin population on Rathlin and dolphins and porpoises in the water.

Your next destination, Ballintoy, the fictional capital of Pyke and (in real life) home to beautiful church buildings and a harbour, actually featured in a Game of Thrones episode. White Park Bay, a short walk from Ballintoy, has a sandy beach, rocky shores and views of the Causeway coast.

See the route for Day 3 .

You’ll need to cross a rope bridge to visit the pretty island of Carrick-a-Rede

Day 4: Explore myths and legends at the Giant’s Causeway

Day 4 will see the longest drive on the entire Causeway route, at just under four hours. However, you’ll also arrive at Unesco-listed heritage site the Giant’s Causeway, a phenomenal 40,000-basalt-rock formation. Legend says that it was created by Irish giant Finn MacCool (Fionn mac Cumhaill in Gaelic) to meet his Scottish enemy.

Top tip: park in the nearby town of Bushmills and take the shuttle bus – it will save time. Also remember, you don’t need to pay to visit the Giant’s Causeway. Enter via the alternative route by the Visitors Centre to avoid the fee.

When you have fully explored the site, drive to Dunluce Castle, another Game of Thrones location. Today it’s one of the most photographed ruins in Northern Ireland and a favourite for location scouts (it also hosted Jackie Chan’s 2003 film The Medallion ).

See the route for Day 4 .

The dramatic location of Dunluce Castle made it a perfect filming spot for ‘Game of Thrones’

Day 5: Finish the trip in Derry/Londonderry

First up today is Downhill Demesne, a National Trust site with the ruins of an 18th-century mansion, the cliffside Mussenden Temple (modelled on the Temple of Vesta in Rome) and a walled garden. From here, travel inland to Roe Valley Country Park, with more wildlife than you can count and more forest than you can hike. The park is on the outer region of Limavady, on the west coast.

The last stop is the border city of Derry/Londonderry. Explore the 400-year-old city walls and step across the S-shaped Peace Bridge (an acknowledgement that the road to peace is never a simple one).

See the route for Day 5 .

Visit Downhill Demesne to see Mussenden Temple, which was modelled on the Temple of Vesta in Rome

Where to stay on a road trip in Northern Ireland?

1. the fitzwilliam hotel, for a cosy start in belfast.

A driver starts their road trip in style, with a coffee in the lounge at the Fitzwilliam Hotel in Belfast

Upon entering the Fitzwilliam, you’ll be greeted by an open fire framed by tall bookshelves and beige sofas – it feels like a home from home. The location is perfect too; just a couple of steps from the grand Opera Hall and only five minutes to Donegall Place, the main shopping street in Belfast.

2. Slieve Donard Hotel and Spa, for countryside relaxation

The manor-like Slieve Donard Hotel and Spa with a red exterior and manicured gardens

The award-winning Slieve Donard Hotel and Spa, sat at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, is on 2.5ha (6 acres) of beautiful private gardens. If you can drag yourself from the hotel, you’ll find heaps of local attractions and nature spots showcasing the best of the Northern Irish countryside. After a day exploring, fuel up on grub from one of the many hotel restaurants.

Start planning your adventure in Ireland today.

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See & Do

Northern ireland's stunning global geopark gears up for international visitors.

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Places to Stay

Incredible places to stay in northern ireland.

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Slow Adventures on the Island of Ireland: the Best Bits

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Causeway Coastal Route Destinations

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The Best Day Trips in Northern Ireland

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The Best Coastal Walks in Northern Ireland

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Beaches Worth a Visit in Northern Ireland

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11 Hotels in Northern Ireland for a Summer Staycation

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The Story Behind Northern Ireland's Cuilcagh Legnabrocky Trail

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Games of Thrones Meets BMX in Phenomenal Photo Series

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Food & Drink

The dirty onion: the irish bar with a menu for dogs.

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Architecture

Scandi style comes to belfast with henning larsen's copenhagen-inspired waterfront plan, winter sale offers on our trips, incredible savings.

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Wander Around Ireland

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Destination Guides , Road Trips

13 incredible northern ireland road trip stops you won’t want to miss.

Northern Ireland road trip

Even though I’ve been all over Ireland, I especially like the northern part. I have a soft spot for that area because my grandfather is from there, but it’s also one of the most beautiful places in the country. Almost everywhere you drive, you can see the ocean on one side. A Northern Ireland road trip is something I always recommend that people add to their itinerary.

While the rest of Ireland has its share of beautiful sights, Northern Ireland has a special kind of charm that can’t be found anywhere else. A road trip around Northern Ireland is a must for any tourist because of the stunning scenery you’ll see along the way and all the charming towns you can explore.

I last visited the area in the fall time, and a drive along the coast of Northern Ireland during that season was incredible. I loved taking pictures of the leaves changing colors and the misty mornings and smelling the fresh ocean air. This article will give you helpful tips on how to take a Northern Ireland drive and where to stop during your journey.

This post was first written in 2021 and last updated in March 2023.

Table of Contents

Tips for Driving the Northern Ireland Coastal Route

If you’re driving yourself around your Northern Ireland itinerary map, be sure to read up on road rules to avoid getting into any sticky situations. I have some helpful tips on how to drive in Ireland if it’s your first time.

  • You’ll need a valid driver’s license to drive in the UK (but you don’t need any further permits besides that). You should also note that cell phone use while driving is not permitted, and you’ll be driving on the left-hand side of the road.
  • Some of the roads up here are pretty narrow, so make sure to take your time when going around the corner. Like most places in Ireland, livestock on the road is a real threat, so you don’t want to speed and hit any sheep!
  • You should also note that Northern Ireland is actually part of the United Kingdom, not Ireland . That means that if you’ve been driving around Ireland paying in euros, you’ll now be paying in pounds . The conversion is different, so take a minute to familiarize yourself with it before you buy something.

While I highly recommend renting a car so you can see all of these spots, there are plenty of tours in the area if you want someone else to drive you to a few of these destinations.

How many days do I need for Northern Ireland?

How long you spend on your Northern Ireland road trip depends on exactly how many activities you do, but I recommend spending at least three days in the area to fully explore it. That way, you can take your time at places you like on your road trip in Northern Ireland and not feel rushed driving around.

What’s the best time for a Northern Ireland road trip?

You can drive around Northern Ireland any time of the year – they don’t typically get snow, so you don’t need to worry about that. However, visiting Ireland during winter often brings windy, rainy days, so you’ll want to keep that in mind if you mainly plan on being outside.

I’ve been here in the dead of winter before, and it was manageable when I brought all my essentials from my list of things to pack for Ireland in winter (especially a warm coat, raincoat, and rain boots!). Also, there’s no better place to end a rainy day than in a cozy Irish pub, which you can find anywhere you look.

How long does it take to drive around Northern Ireland?

If you choose to stick to the Causeway Coastal Route and follow the roads down all the way past Belfast, it will take you about six hours . Keep in mind that this is only sticking to the roads by the ocean, so there are many ways to make this shorter if you get onto a main highway. This time also doesn’t include any stops, which you’ll want to do on your Northern Ireland driving tour.

Northern Ireland road trip map

I find it helpful to look at a map when planning out a trip, so here’s a map of all the stops you’ll make on a Northern Ireland coastal route. You can use this to help you plan out your Northern Ireland road trip itinerary and decide how many of these stops you want to make, whether you spend 7 days in Ireland or longer.

13 Fun Stops on a Northern Ireland Road Trip

While the drive through Northern Ireland is an experience in itself, there are so many amazing places to stop and explore as you pass them by. If you’re looking for where to visit in Northern Ireland, we’ve compiled a spectacular guide of Irish landmarks , viewpoints, and other important places to see. 

This is by no means the complete list, but you definitely should not miss the following places. 

1. Mussenden Temple

mussenden temple northern ireland coastal route

Location : Sea Coast Rd, Coleraine

Open : 10 am to 5 pm 

Cost : From £5.00 per person

This striking, dramatic structure on a 120 ft cliff top offers unbelievable views over the Atlantic Ocean and is the first stop on your Northern Ireland scenic drive. It’s a popular spot for weddings and a great place to do an impromptu vacation photoshoot when looking for picturesque places to visit in Northern Ireland.

You can browse inside the temple and Hezlett House or enjoy the outdoor space. Family picnics, dog walks, and an easy 2-hour walk down the Downhill Demesne Walking Trail are all possible activities here. You’ll love putting this on a trip for 6 days around Ireland .

2. Glens of Antrim

Glens of Antrim northern ireland road trip

Location : A region of County Antrim

Open : 24 hours

Cost : Free to explore

Found less than 50 kilometers north of Belfast and taking up around 130 kilometers of cliffs and open hills, the Glens of Antrim are a must-see on a North Ireland road trip.

This large area consists of 9 Glens, each with its own character and stand-out features. These include stunning beaches, miles of gorgeous hiking trails, and even a hotel that hosts a friendly ghost resident. 

The Glens and their name meanings are: 

  • Glenarm – valley of the army
  • Glencloy – valley of the dykes
  • Glenariff – valley of the plough
  • Glenballyemon – Edwardstown Glen
  • Glenaan – valley of the little fords
  • Glencorp – valley of the dead
  • Glendun – brown valley
  • Glenshesk – valley of the sedge
  • Glentaisie – named after Taisie, princess of Rathlin Island

3. The Dark Hedges

Dark Hedges

Location : Bregagh Rd, Stranocum

Cost : Free (public road)

Way back in the eighteenth century, the Stuart family in Ballymoney planted a row of beech trees on either side of the road leading to their home. They did this in an effort to impress their visitors (which I’m sure worked).

Now, everyone living in and visiting Northern Ireland enjoys and admires this stunning road. The trees make such a pretty sight that they’ve attracted Hollywood attention as well. The Dark Hedges was used as a filming location for an episode of HBO’s Game of Thrones , making it a bucket list item for fans of the show when on a Northern Ireland road trip.

You cannot drive through the hedges anymore, so you’ll need to find a parking spot to stop at to take photos. I saw multiple people make this mistake before they were waived off the road (make sure to know what not to do as a tourist in Ireland before visiting).

Or, if you have some spare time, book yourself into one of the nearby accommodations, such as an Irish country house hotel , and enjoy easy access and free parking. 

This is one of the most popular Northern Ireland road trips, so get here early. I recommend going during spring in Ireland to beat the crowds.

If you want more knowledgeable information during your visit when looking for what to do in Northern Ireland, consider booking a guided tour of the Dark Hedges . 

4. Glenarm Castle

glenarm castle

Location : 2 Castle Lane, Glenarm

Open : Every day, 9 am to 5 pm

Cost : £10 for adults for access to the garden

One of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful estates, Glenarm Castle, was first built in the seventeenth century by Randal McDonnell, 1st Earl of Antrim. The castle has been the ancestral seat of the McDonnell family ever since. 

Today, visitors can stop by and explore the castle and its brilliant walled garden. The Woodlands Walk also offers a birds-eye view of the garden and plenty of opportunities to view wildlife. Sneak a peek at the resident Shorthorn cows, squirrels, rabbits, and beautiful flowers and plants.

On the castle grounds is also a tea room, milk parlor, potting shed, and a castle gift shop, so I recommend stopping here when driving in Northern Ireland.

While you can’t stay here, there are plenty of castle hotels in Ireland where you can book a room at.

Make sure to book your car rental in advance! I love using Discover Cars when I travel.

5. The Gobbins Cliff Path

ni trip planner

Location : Turn off from Gobbins Road, Larne

Open : Tours available from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm

Cost : £20 for adults, £14.50 for children and seniors

The Gobbins Cliff Path is a stunning stop, providing unparalleled views and a slight sense of adventure, so you’ll want to stop here when touring Northern Ireland by car. You’ll park your car in one of the allocated parking spaces and then check-in for your tour, which you can reserve in advance . There are many steps and a steep incline at the end, so you’d need to be able to manage this. 

Do the walk with a tour guide, and you’ll get a detailed history and explanation of the area and its significance. If you’re an avid bird watcher, you’ll want to try and make this trip sometime between May and August in Ireland . This time of year is when you’ll be treated to a stunning sight of migrating birds. 

This is a popular day tour from Belfast that you can check out.

6. Carrick-a-Rede Bridge

Carrick A Rede

Location : Near Ballintoy in County Antrim

Cost : Adults £13.50, Children £6.75

One of my favorite Northern Ireland places to visit, Carrick-a-Rede Bridge is picturesque and fascinating. Brave this 20m-long rope bridge hanging 30m above the sea and discover what life was like for Northern Ireland fishermen many years ago (as well as learn other fun facts about Ireland ). You can still see the remains of an old cabin there, which I couldn’t fathom living at with how windy it was when I visited.

The bridge was built as a way for salmon fishers to get onto the small island of Carrick-a-Rede. It was quite rickety and undoubtedly a little dangerous when people first used it 350 years ago. However, it’s now been restored, and although it may still feel rocky, it’s safe for visitors to cross (and a fun kid activity in Ireland ). 

You can reach the bridge from the striking Northern Ireland coastal route, which is wheelchair accessible. However, the bridge itself is not as accessible. You’ll love adding this to your list as one of the most scenic drives around Northern Ireland.

Note – it’s important to pre-book your ticket if you want to cross the bridge.

7. Cushendun Village

Cushendun Village

Location : County Antrim

Open : 24 hours, but best to visit during the day

This area is one of the most stunning places to go in Northern Ireland. It’s a quaint little coastal village in County Antrim that you’ll want to stop at on your Northern Ireland road trip. The entire town is in a conservation area that the National Trust manages. 

Although it’s small, there are many shops and pubs in the village (perfect for trying a traditional Irish drink ), so you can easily spend a day here getting to know the locals. Visit the beachfront, stroll one of the scenic paths, and stop by the harbor.

There are also the Castle Carra ruins and Cushendun Caves to add to your itinerary. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you may recognize the Cushendun Caves as one of the GOT filming locations in Ireland . You’ll love putting this on your Northern Ireland driving itinerary.

Book a room at Glenn Eireann House to explore the town more if you feel like staying the night. 

8. Rathlin Island

Rathlin Island

Location : Off the coast of County Antrim

Open : Ferry times vary between 8:00 am – 12:00 pm & 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Cost : Ferry costs are £12 per adult return and £6 per child return (5-15); under 5 are free

Take a break from scenic drives in Northern Ireland and hop on a ferry to Rathlin Island. Here, you can park your car and discover the island home to a growing population of around 140 people. 

The island is small but offers visitors the chance to cycle, do bus and walking tours, visit the Seabird Center, and check out the Boathouse Visitor Centre. There is also an outdoor gym, a children’s playground, and shops and restaurants.

Discover the island’s beauty, happen upon the many shipwrecks, and admire the basking seals as you make your way around this 10-kilometer-long piece of green land. 

9. Dunluce Castle

Dunluce Castle

Location : 87 Dunluce Rd, Bushmills

Open : March to October daily from 9:30 am to 5 pm & November to February daily from 9:30 am to 4 pm

Cost : £6.00 per adult, £4 for kids 5-17 years old

A scenic and romantic Irish castle, Dunluce was built between the 1400s and 1600s. It was originally built by the most powerful earl of the time, Richard Od de Burgh. He selected a magnificent spot right on the cliff edge overlooking the striking Irish seas. 

The MacDonnell clan seized the castle and was also home to the McQuillans and a group of Scottish settlers throughout the years. History is abundant in these walls, and it’s like stepping through time when you visit here. 

The castle is mostly in ruins now, but there is still much left to admire and discover. It’s a great place to bring the family and spend a couple of hours soaking in the beauty. I loved walking through the ruins and trying to imagine what it was like living on this castle right on the cliff back in the day.

This is a good time in your trip to pull out your Irish voltage converter and charge your camera.

10. Roe Valley Country Park

Roe Valley Country Park

Location : 41 Dogleap Rd, Limavady

Open : Daily 9 am to 7 pm 

Cost : Free entrance

Step out of the car and stretch your legs with an outdoor experience at Roe Valley Country Park. This large and open woodland area offers so much green space and fresh air, so it’s a must on any Ireland road trip . 

The park is home to part of the Roe River, and visitors can enjoy a load of fun activities here. These include fishing, canoeing, rock climbing, orienteering, and viewing the many cute critters living in the park. 

There is Ritters Tea Room for refreshments and a museum and countryside center that details the area’s heritage. 

11. Giant’s Causeway

Giants Causeway

Location : 44 Causeway Road, Bushmills

Open : Dawn to dusk

Cost : Adult £13.50, Children £6.75 for parking and tour, free to walk down otherwise

Just a little way from Cushendun Village, Giant’s Causeway is a wonder in its own right on your Northern Ireland road trip. This spot draws in thousands of visitors every year, attracting them with its unique look and picturesque views. 

I wasn’t sure if I wanted to come here the first time I visited Ireland due to how touristy, but I do recommend it – this is definitely one of the more unique rock formations in the country. It was fun walking among the different rock columns, and I almost thought they didn’t look natural because they were so different.

Giant’s Causeway is an area made up of over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns created by the flow of balsamic lava around 6 million years ago. The hexagon shapes of these stone columns look almost other-worldly. It’s no wonder that the Irish know this as their own ‘8th World Wonder’.

To visit one of the best Northern Ireland scenic drives , you can park in one of the parking spots nearby and walk one of the three trails in the area. Stop to take in the scenery, snap photos, and fully absorb this wonder.  It’s also a fun thing to do with kids near Belfast.

If you’re visiting Ireland without a car during this trip (although I highly recommend it for this itinerary), there are plenty of tours from Belfast that will take you here.

This attraction is a popular place to go while on a guided tour .

12. Bushmills Village

bushmills driving around northern ireland

Location : On the north coast of County Antrim

Cost : Free

Another welcoming village to visit on your Northern Ireland road trip is Bushmills. You’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve driven into a time-traveling portal as you enter the village, as it hasn’t fully joined the 21st century yet. However, this is what gives it all of its charm. 

The town is home to around 1,295 inhabitants and is about 100 kilometers from Belfast. There’s a whiskey distillery, a war memorial named The Diamond, and the Bushmills Railway tram, which can take you right to Giant’s Causeway for the day. 

If you’re visiting during June in Ireland , be sure to check out the annual Bushmills Live event at the distillery. There are plenty of places to buy Irish souvenirs if you need something to take home.

This is one of the best places to visit in Ireland in November , so you can stay a bit drier.

Book one of the hotels in Bushmills and spend some time exploring the streets as well as the beauty surrounding the village when you’re there.

13. Belfast

Belfast

Location : County Antrim/County Down

A must-see is the Titanic Quarter, where you can stop at the very spot where the massive ship was built. There are also many shops, restaurants, and landmarks to be found – so a walking tour of the city is a great idea. You’ll love trying some of the traditional Irish foods you’ll find in the city, and you may want to know the difference between Dublin and Belfast before you go.

Stroll through the Botanical Gardens, see the Queen’s University, and go watch a Belfast Giant’s game at the SSE Arena. There are also many things to do with kids in Belfast that you’ll want to check out.

Spend more time exploring the area and stay the night at Radisson Blue Hotel Belfast , a modern hotel in the fun Gasworks neighborhood.

Whether you see all of these places or just some, you’ll remember your Northern Ireland road trip for a long time!

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Marissa became obsessed with Ireland when she first visited in 2015, and has been back numerous times since to explore more of the Emerald Isle. She started this site to help others plan their trip to Ireland based off her experiences.

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Translink NI 4+

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The Translink Journey Planner provides information about all scheduled Metro, Ulsterbus, Goldline, NIRailways and Enterprise services. The journey planner has been designed to make finding out about public transport as easy as possible. You can plan journeys to and from stations/ stops/ address or postcode/ neighbourhood or, point of interest as well as create bespoke timetables for your service or preferred stop. The app and mobile site enable you to plan journeys from your current location. Features include: - Interactive and fully integrated Trip Planner - Full coverage of N Ireland bus and rail services - Dynamic zoom and scroll mapping - GPS using “my location” - Departure board of services from your point of origin - Updating maps “on the go” - Saves favourite locations and recent journeys - Email and In-calendar functions

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Did not work on iphone..

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Worst travel APP i have ever used. Not user friendly.
Nicely done. Has everything I need for looking up Translink schedules in Northern Ireland. Also maps out the station locations. Nicely done.

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Northern Ireland Road Trip Itinerary: Unforgettable Adventures Await

Embarking on a Northern Ireland road trip is the perfect way to explore the captivating beauty of the British Isles. This region, steeped in rich history and culture, offers stunning landscapes, charming towns, and a plethora of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. With its unique blend of natural wonders, historical sites, and enchanting coastal views, a road trip through Northern Ireland promises an unforgettable adventure for travelers.

The Causeway Coastal Route is a popular starting point, taking travelers on a scenic journey from Belfast to Derry/Londonderry while showcasing major coastal attractions. Along the way, fans of the popular television series Game of Thrones can visit several iconic filming locations.

No matter which itinerary one chooses, a Northern Ireland road trip promises to captivate the senses and create lasting memories. As travelers journey through the miles of pristine landscapes and immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry, they’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the allure of this remarkable corner of the British Isles.

Northern Ireland Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: belfast.

Make your first stop in Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland. Take a Black Taxi tour and explore the city’s rich history and culture. A Blue Badge qualified driver/guide will show you around areas such as the Linen Quarter, Belfast Castle and the Queen’s Quarter. Our guide Dessie was a true mine of information about the city.

Next, have lunch at the Titanic Hotel in the Titanic Quarter. Visit the Titanic Belfast museum, the birthplace of the famous ship.

From here, it’s a short walk to SS Nomadic in Hamilton Dock. The tender ship for RMS Titanic, this fully restored vessel was built in 1911. She was also in service during two world wars and as a restaurant venue in Paris.

If you have time, visit HMS Caroline in Alexandra Dock, the last surviving ship from the Battle of Jutland. Afterwards, walk through the vibrant Cathedral Quarter . If you’re visiting on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, don’t forget to stop at St. George’s Market – it’s the perfect place for some local food and shopping.

SS Nomadic at Hamilton Dock, Belfast

Day 2: Antrim Coast

The second day takes you along the stunning Antrim Coast. Drive along the scenic coastal road, admiring the impressive cliffs, beautiful beaches and seaside towns.

Carrickfergus Castle on Belfast Lough is one of the best preserved medieval buildings in Ireland. This Norman castle was built in 1177 by John de Courcy.

Take a stroll along Whiterocks Beach in Portrush, and explore Ballycastle Beach with its views of Rathlin Island. Wrap up your day with a visit to the iconic Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge near Ballintoy.

Day 3: Causeway Coastal Route

Continue your Northern Irish road trip through the breathtaking Causeway Coastal Route. Marvel at the geological wonder of Giant’s Causeway and explore the ruins of the medieval Dunluce Castle.

Fans of Game of Thrones can also visit several filming locations situated along this route. Stop by the pretty village of Bushmills, where the main attraction is the famous whiskey distillery.

The Causeway Coastal Route near Carrick-a-Rede

Day 4: Derry and County Down

Head to the historic city of Derry on the fourth day. Walk around the ancient city walls and explore the streets lined with Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian buildings.

Later on, drive to County Down and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Mourne Mountains. The best way to see the area is to hike or bike through the trails to take in the stunning landscapes.

Day 5: Return to Belfast

On your final day, make your way back to Belfast. If time permits, visit County Armagh, also known as the Orchard of Ireland. Stop by Long Meadow Farm , a family-run orchard growing apples for three generations. Taste their delectable ciders before heading back to Belfast to complete your memorable Northern Ireland road trip.

Long Meadow Cider Farm

Top Attractions and Activities in Northern Ireland

Giant’s causeway.

The Giant’s Causeway , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit destination on a Northern Ireland road trip. This natural wonder is comprised of over 40,000 basalt columns, formed by cooling lava more than 60 million years ago. It has created an impressive stepped landscape.

The Giant’s Causeway Visitor Experience includes an audio guide available in 11 languages, an interactive exhibition, guided tour, a gift shop and cafe and onsite parking. There’s a bus taking you right to the Giant’s Causeway for those who have mobility issues, costing £1 for a one-way ticket or £2 return.

Walking on the Giant's Causeway

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is an exhilarating experience along the Causeway Coastal Route. Suspended 30 meters above the sea, this rope bridge connects the mainland to the small island of Carrick-a-Rede. It was erected by salmon fishermen more than 200 years ago.

Crossing the bridge offers breathtaking views and a bit of an adrenaline rush. Allow a couple of hours to visit this site, as it takes around 15-20 minutes to walk to the bridge itself from the car park.

You may also need to wait a few minutes to cross the bridge itself at peak times. For safety, the crossing is controlled by a guard and limited to one or two people at any time. We suggest that you book your ticket in advance to avoid disappointment at busy times.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Dunluce Castle

Dunluce Castle is a stunning medieval ruin perched on the edge of a cliff, surrounded by dramatic coastal scenery. Constructed in the 13th century, this beautiful place has a rich history dating back to the reign of both the McQuillan and MacDonnell clans. They fought fiercely for control over the castle throughout the centuries.

Located near Bushmills, Dunluce Castle attracts visitors from all over who come to marvel at its majestic setting. As well as self-guiding, there are guided tours available that offer an insightful glimpse into the castle’s past and the exciting stories that it holds.

Dunluce Castle

Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

Hillsborough Castle is a stunning example of the elegant Georgian architectural style that can be found throughout Northern Ireland. Built in the 1770s by Wills Hill, 1st Marquess of Downshire, it is the official residence of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, as well as a royal residence.

Although it’s still used for official purposes, the castle is open for tours with an informative guide, who will take visitors through the elegant halls. This stunning castle can also be rented for corporate events, weddings and dinners.

Highlights of a tour include the State Rooms , which have hosted many historic events over the years, as well as the beautiful gardens spread over 100 acres. Highlights include Yew Tree Walk, the recently restored Walled Garden and Lady Alice’s Temple.

Just 20 minutes from Belfast, a visit to Hillsborough Castle is a must for anyone interested in Northern Ireland’s rich history and architecture.

Hillsborough Castle - a must-see on a Northern Ireland road trip itinerary

Titanic Belfast

The Titanic Belfast museum is an essential stop for history enthusiasts. Located within the Titanic Quarter, this contemporary museum reveals the rich maritime history of the city and tells the story of the ill-fated Titanic, which was built in Belfast.

The museum offers a unique and engaging experience, featuring nine interactive galleries and restored shipyard installations.

The exterior of the Titanic Belfast museum

Dark Hedges

The Dark Hedges, a long avenue of twisted beech trees, is a popular destination for Game of Thrones fans, as it was featured in the popular TV series. This enchanting tree-lined road in Ballymoney creates an eerie and photogenic atmosphere, perfect for a memorable road trip stop.

This section of Bregagh Road is pedestrianized, however there is a paid parking lot a 10 minute walk away.

The Dark Hedges

Game of Thrones Filming Locations

For fans of the hit TV show, a road trip through Northern Ireland is the perfect opportunity to visit various Game of Thrones filming locations. In addition to the Dark Hedges, spots such as Ballintoy Harbour, Loch Neagh, Tollymore Forest Park, and Downhill Beach were all used during the show’s production.

You can also take a Game of Thrones Studio Tour at Linen Mills Studio in Banbridge. Just 30 minutes from Belfast, this immersive experience gives visitors the chance to sit on the Iron Throne and see the props from the iconic TV series.

Loch Neagh was a Game of Thrones filming location

Walking Tours and Boat Trips

Northern Ireland offers a range of walking tours and boat trips to further explore its captivating landscapes. Coastal walks, such as the Causeway Coastal Path, provide stunning vistas, while guided walking tours are an opportunity to learn about the region’s history.

Boat trips offer a different perspective of the coastline, with opportunities to spot marine wildlife and explore hidden gems like The Gobbins Cliff Path .

The Gobbins Cliff Path

Northern Ireland Scenic Landscapes and Coastal Drives

Causeway coast.

The Causeway Coast, stretching 120 miles from Belfast to Lough Foyle, is a world-famous scenic driving route, showcasing some of the best landscapes and coastline in Northern Ireland. As you drive along this picturesque route, you’ll be captivated by the stunning scenery, which includes the iconic Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site .

Along the coast, other must-see stops include the haunting outline of Dunluce Castle on a rocky Atlantic Ocean outcrop, and the thrilling Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, which suspends visitors above the crashing waves below. The Causeway Coast offers more than just breathtaking landscapes; it also immerses visitors in rich history and geological wonders.

Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre

Antrim Coast

The Antrim Coast Road, a 195-mile route, is another fantastic journey to experience the charm of Northern Ireland’s coastline. This area is known for its dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and charming villages.

One of the highlights along the Antrim Coast Road is the quaint Glenarm Castle, with its meticulously maintained walled garden, offering a perfect spot to relax and take in the views.

While driving along the Antrim Coast, it’s hard not to be in awe of the majestic backdrop of the Mourne Mountains . These peaks are not only visually stunning but also provide ample opportunities for hiking and exploring.

As you continue your journey, be sure to stop by Lough Neagh , the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles, where visitors can enjoy leisurely boat rides or a serene walk along its shores.

The Protector of the Lough sculpture at Lough Neagh

Glenariff Forest Park

This 1185 hectare forest in County Antrim is a paradise for nature lovers. The park boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, featuring rolling hills, lush forests, and breathtaking waterfalls.

The visitor centre is the perfect starting point for exploring the park’s many walking trails and learning about the area’s rich heritage.

Cascades in Glenariff Forest Park

The Coast Road is a shorter, yet equally scenic drive focused on Northern Ireland’s northern coastline. Winding through picturesque landscapes, this route presents an ever-changing panorama of rugged cliffs, unspoiled beaches, idyllic harbors, and charming towns.

Whether you choose to explore the Causeway Coast, Antrim Coast, or the Coast Road, each journey offers an unforgettable experience of Northern Ireland’s breathtaking landscapes and captivating coastline.

Northern Ireland Towns and Cities to Explore

Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland and a great starting point for your road trip. The city is a hub of culture, history, and modern attractions.

Visit the Titanic Belfast museum to learn about the iconic ship’s history, or explore the beautiful architecture at Belfast City Hall . Don’t forget to take a stroll through the vibrant St. George’s Market , where you can find local crafts and delicious food.

Belfast Castle grounds

Derry, also known as Londonderry, is the second-largest city in Northern Ireland and is known for its well-preserved city walls. Walk along the walls to see stunning views of the city and delve into its rich history.

The Peace Bridge , an iconic symbol of unity between communities, and the Tower Museum that showcases the city’s past are both worth seeing.

Bushmills is a cute town in County Antrim, famous for its whiskey production. The Old Bushmills Distillery offers guided tours where you can learn about the process, as well as whiskey tastings where you can try their renowned products.

Bushmills Tour and Whisky tasting

Ballintoy is a picturesque village along the Causeway Coastal Route. It offers stunning sea views and a charming harbor, where you can enjoy a traditional seafood lunch.

The village is also a popular destination for Game of Thrones fans, as it was used as a filming location for the Iron Islands. Close to Ballintoy, you can visit the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, an adrenaline-pumping attraction that provides breathtaking views of the coastline.

Paul crossing Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge

Armagh is a city steeped in history and considered the spiritual capital of Ireland. The city is home to two stunning cathedrals that honor St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland.

Visit the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium for an educational and entertaining experience. The Navan Centre & Fort is a popular spot offering an interactive journey through the city’s ancient history.

While exploring these towns and cities, consider making a detour to Newcastle, a coastal resort town in County Down. Enjoy the gorgeous beaches or take a scenic walk through the Mourne Mountains, which inspired CS Lewis’ Narnia.

Ardglass Golf Course in County Down

Northern Ireland Accommodation Options

Northern Ireland boasts numerous hotels catering to different budgets and preferences. One upscale option in the area is Galgorm , a luxury spa and golf resort that offers exceptional amenities and services. Guests can relax in the Thermal Village overlooking a cascade, indulge in treatments at the world-class spa, play golf at a championship course, and enjoy delicious food and drink at the resort’s multiple dining venues.

The estate boasts beautiful grounds, providing ample opportunity for reflection amidst the peaceful surroundings. We stayed in a spacious shepherd’s hut, complete with a firepit and outdoor bath on the terrace. There’s also a shower room and well equipped kitchen inside the luxurious hut.

There’s a good range of dining options, including Gillies Grill, which we really enjoyed, Fratelli Ristorante, afternoon tea in the Conservatory, and Castle Kitchen + Bar at Galgorm Castle Golf Club, as well as several bars.

An outdoor bathtub at Galgorm

Another popular Northern Ireland destination is The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat . Known for its stylish, contemporary design, this boutique hotel provides outstanding accommodation and a relaxing atmosphere for guests to unwind.

Its prime location in Templepatrick ensures easy access to Belfast and County Antrim. Take a dip in the outdoor pool with its glittering mirror ball, have a relaxing spa treatment or enjoy a cocktail at the Beach Bar. Grab a bite to eat at The Rabbit restaurant, or cosy up in front of the fire in Hunter’s Bar.

Dinner at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat in Templepatrick

Northern Ireland also offers a range of charming bed and breakfast accommodations that provide a cozy and comfortable stay. A good option is Millbrae Lodges , a charming B&B in Crumlin. Expect a hearty breakfast along with personalized, warm hospitality.

There are also many Portstewart holiday homes to rent. In summary, Northern Ireland offers a diverse selection of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether choosing a cozy B&B or a luxurious hotel, visitors can expect warm hospitality, excellent service, and easy access to the region’s stunning attractions.

Breakfast at Millbrae Lodges

Northern Ireland Food and Drink Recommendations

During your Northern Ireland road trip, you’ll want to make sure to indulge in the local flavors and dining experiences.

In County Antrim you’ll find the charming Glenarm Castle Tea Rooms . Located in the old Mushroom House, this is a great place to enjoy a selection of homemade savories and cakes. Try the award-winningShorthorn Beef from Glenarm Estate, or head to The Milk Parlour for gelato from the Shorthorn herd milk.

Another good stop for your itinerary is Harry’s Shack . This popular beachside eatery in Portstewart offers a spectacular view of the coast and serves up fresh seafood dishes like fish and chips, oysters, and crab. Their menu is seasonal and locally sourced, ensuring the freshest and most delicious ingredients.

Harry's Shack overlooks the beach in Portstewart

If you’re visiting Hillsborough Castle , leave some time for lunch in either the Weston Pavilion Café or the Stable Yard Café. The Weston Pavilion is open April through September, from Wednesday to Sunday and the Stable Yard Café is open from June to September, also from Wednesday to Sunday.

When in Belfast, lunch at the Titanic Hotel is a must. This historic building was the former headquarters of Titanic shipbuilders Harland & Wolff, and it still retains many original features. Dine in Drawing Office Two , where RMS Titanic was designed, or the Wolff Grill, and enjoy a blend of classic and contemporary dishes.

A visit to Northern Ireland would be incomplete without trying the local gin. Many restaurants and bars offer a variety of artisan gins, such as Shortcross Gin and Belfast Artisan Distillery Gin . They are often infused with orchard fruits or other locally sourced flavors.

By experiencing these food and drink recommendations, you’ll gain a taste of the vibrant culinary culture that Northern Ireland has to offer while enjoying your scenic road trip.

Drawing Office Two at The Titanic Hotel Belfast

Spas in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is not only known for its stunning landscapes and rich history but also for its luxurious spas that cater to those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Among the top spas in the region, Galgorm and The Rabbit Hotel stand out as popular destinations for travelers and locals alike.

Galgorm is one of the most renowned spas in Northern Ireland. Located just 30 minutes from Belfast, this premier luxury hotel and spa offers a range of facilities and treatments that cater to all preferences.

With an indoor pool, a beautiful outdoor Thermal Village , and a variety of indulgent treatments, guests can find relaxation and well-being in a serene environment. Try the Celtic Sauna Infusion , or the OTO Quartz treatment.

The Celtic Sauna Infusion is included in Shepherd’s Hut stays at Galgorm, and for those staying in other types of accommodation it can be added on at £15 per person. Guests staying in a Deluxe room or Suite have a private spa experience included in their stay – a private bathing experience, Galgorm detox therapy or mud rasul.

One of the many cute saunas at Galgorm!

Another notable spa destination is The Rabbit Hotel in Templepatrick. This boutique hotel is nestled within lush gardens and offers a tranquil escape from daily life.

The Rabbit Hotel’s spa has a focus on holistic well-being, providing therapeutic treatments and rejuvenating experiences. The private Duo Clay Experience , which is included for all hotel guests, is great fun. The cabins overlook the river, and the combination of mud and steam left our skin feeling super smooth.

While embarking on a Northern Ireland road trip, don’t miss the opportunity to pamper yourself with a visit to one of these luxurious spas. Whether you’re looking for pure relaxation, holistic healing, or a connection to historical elegance, you’re sure to find the perfect spa experience in Northern Ireland.

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How to Get around Northern Ireland

When planning a Northern Ireland road trip itinerary, there are several transportation options to consider. This section will cover two of the main options: rental cars and buses, as well as the alternative option of trains.

Rental Cars

A rental car is often the most convenient and flexible choice for a road trip. You can rent cars from various providers, with Discover Cars being a popular option. Renting a car makes it easy to explore Northern Ireland on your own schedule, stopping at the many sights and attractions along the way. While driving in a foreign country can be a bit daunting, roads in Northern Ireland are well-maintained, and driving is on the left-hand side of the road.

Some things to consider when renting a car include:

  • Insurance coverage
  • Type of car (automatic or manual transmission)
  • Rental location and drop-off point

The beach car park at Portstewart

Buses are a budget-friendly option, and the public transport system in Northern Ireland is reasonably reliable. You can travel by bus between major cities like Belfast and Derry/Londonderry, as well as to some of the smaller towns and attractions. However, this option may be less convenient for those looking to stop at multiple locations along the way.

When using buses for your road trip, remember to:

  • Plan your route in advance
  • Check bus timetables
  • Purchase tickets ahead of time if possible

Trains in Northern Ireland are another option for traveling between major destinations. While the train network is limited compared to countries like England or France, there are services between larger cities like Belfast and Derry/Londonderry, as well as to smaller towns in the region.

Trains can be more comfortable and faster than buses, but they may not service all the points along your chosen itinerary.

Here are a few tips for traveling by train in Northern Ireland:

  • Check train schedules and purchase tickets in advance
  • Be aware of the limited train network
  • Consider combining train travel with one of the other transport options such as renting a car, for greater flexibility

Car rental in Northern Ireland

How to Get to Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland, a land of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, attracts visitors from all over the world. When it comes to getting here, there are a few options to consider.

The region is well-served by three airports – Belfast International Airport, George Best Belfast City Airport and City of Derry Airport. They offer a range of direct flights from cities across Europe and beyond. We flew in and out of George Best Belfast City Airport and rented a car from there. It was a really quick and pain-free experience, being just 3 miles from the city center. You could also fly to Dublin airport in the Republic of Ireland.

If you’re looking for a particularly scenic route, the ferry is a popular choice for those traveling from Scotland, England, and Wales. Sailings depart regularly from ports in Liverpool, Cairnryan, and Holyhead, and arrive at Belfast or Larne. Whichever way you choose to embark upon your Northern Ireland adventure, you are guaranteed a warm welcome upon arrival.

City of Derry airport lit up green for St Patrick's Day

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days are needed for a northern ireland road trip itinerary.

A road trip in Northern Ireland can vary in duration depending on your interests and time constraints. A 2-day itinerary is possible, but to fully experience the region’s beauty and historical sites, a 5-day trip is recommended.

Best time to visit?

The best time to visit Northern Ireland for a road trip is during the spring and summer months. In this period, the weather is more favorable, and you can truly appreciate the lush landscapes and stunning coastline.

Recommended itineraries?

There are several road trip itineraries in Northern Ireland to choose from. Some popular attractions and landscapes to visit include the Causeway Coastal Route, Giant’s Causeway, Glens of Antrim, Lough Neagh, Game of Thrones filming locations, Whiterocks Beach, and Ballycastle Beach.

Travel without a car?

While a car is the most convenient mode of transportation for a road trip, it’s not the only option. Northern Ireland’s public transport system, including buses and trains, can allow travelers to visit key attractions. However, it may limit your flexibility and spontaneity during the trip.

Ireland combined trip?

Combining a trip to Northern Ireland with a visit to the Republic of Ireland is an excellent idea. This way, you can experience both countries’ unique cultural and natural beauty. Be sure to allocate enough time for both countries, as there is much to discover.

Driving duration?

Driving duration during a Northern Ireland road trip will vary depending on your chosen routes and stops. Generally, Northern Ireland’s size allows for manageable driving distances, and many attractions are within 2-3 hours of each other.

One of the ornate rooms in Hillsborough Castle

Final Thoughts on this Northern Ireland Trip Itinerary

If you’re looking for a truly mesmerizing holiday, look no further than Northern Ireland. And with all the incredible sights to see, there will be plenty of places to save for round two.

You can make it as big or as small of an adventure as you like; with this road trip itinerary, your holiday has limitless possibilities. Whether you’re in Northern Ireland for a day, a week or more, you’ll find that this beautiful province will provide endless opportunities for fun and exploration.

If you’re ready for some moody landscape and beautiful sights, pack up your car and get ready to go. Take this ultimate guide to the best places in Northern Ireland with you! Make sure to check out our other travel articles if you want some more inspiration – we’ve got something for every kind of traveler.

  • 9 Great Things to Do in West Ireland

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COMMENTS

  1. Plan a trip to Northern Ireland

    Plan your Trip. Northern Ireland is a compact place which manages to pack a lot in. A little forward planning will help you get the most out of your visit to Northern Ireland. Our advice, articles and directory will help you plan a trip that will deliver a lifetime's worth of memorable experiences.

  2. Plan Your Trip

    Whether you are traveling for work, leisure, or any other purpose, NJ Transit can help you plan your trip with its online trip planner tool. You can enter your origin, destination, date, and time of travel, and get the best routes, schedules, fares, and accessibility options for your journey. You can also explore the stations, parking, and alerts information on the NJ Transit website.

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

    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 ...

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    27. 28. 29. Start planning your short break to Northern Ireland with the help of the official tourist board website. We've lots of resources online to help plan your visit to NI, including information on how to get to Northern Ireland, things to do in Northern Ireland, ideas on where to stay in Northern Ireland and more.

  5. Northern Ireland Week-Long Tour Itinerary

    surangaw / Getty Images. The best way to arrive in Northern Ireland for your week-long vacation is to fly directly into Belfast International Airport.Most flights arrive during the day, meaning you will have enough time to pick up your rental car and make your way to Northern Ireland's capital city, Belfast.The airport is actually located near Lough Neagh and you should expect at least 30 ...

  6. Plan a trip to Northern Ireland

    Plan your Trip. We've lots of resources to help plan your next short break, including maps of Northern Ireland, information on getting here as well as advice on travelling around. This is a compact place which manages to pack a lot in, and planning in advance can help you make the most of your time here. Explore.

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    Northern Ireland is one of the most beautiful parts of the United Kingdom. In addition to its beautiful landscapes, Northern Ireland offers a unique cultural experience. Prominent among Northern Ireland's tourist attractions are the Giant's Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, both on UNESCO's list of World Heritage sites.

  8. Northern Ireland in six days (AMAZING ROAD TRIP itinerary)

    Everyone needs to do a road trip around Northern Ireland at least once! Day one - experience what Belfast has to offer. Day two - County Antrim along the Causeway Coastal Route. Day three - Derry and Tyrone. Day four - explore Fermanagh. Day five - Armagh and Down. Day six - South Down to North Down.

  9. Northern Ireland Travel Guide Resources & Trip Planning Info by Rick Steves

    Northern Ireland is an underrated and often overlooked region that surprises visitors with its striking scenery and urban vitality. While it shares an island with the Republic of Ireland, when you cross into Northern Ireland, you're crossing an international border into the United Kingdom (where you change stamps, phone cards, and money). Its coast boasts the alligator-skin volcanic geology of ...

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    Northern Ireland. Europe. 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.

  11. A 2 day Northern Ireland road trip itinerary

    If you are planning a longer trip here is some more information on fun things to do in Northern Ireland including Belfast. Northern Ireland Road trip - Renting a car As mentioned above, to make the most of your 2 days in Northern Ireland we highly recommend renting a car.

  12. How to Plan a Trip to Northern Ireland, From Belfast to the ...

    How to Book. Siobhan Byrne Learat, a member of T+L's A-List of top travel advisors, can orchestrate a journey across Northern Ireland that encompasses five-star hotels, walking tours of Belfast ...

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    Day 2: The countryside. Our Irish road trip continued as we headed out on the scenic R697 to the Priory of Kells. The 12th-century ruin—one of our favorites—was the largest and most important Augustinian monastic site in Ireland. Currently undergoing restoration, it's a magnificent sight to see.

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    The app and mobile site enable you to plan journeys from your current location. Features include: - Interactive and fully integrated Trip Planner. - Full coverage of N Ireland bus and rail services. - Dynamic zoom and scroll mapping. - GPS using "my location". - Departure board of services from your point of origin.

  15. Northern Ireland Travel Guide

    Welcome to our Northern Ireland Travel Guide where you will find links to all the travel-related posts about Northern Ireland on the website.This includes articles about itineraries, where to visit, what to see and do, best day trips, tours and tickets, books to read and lots of practical tips, resources and inspiration for your trip.

  16. Plan The Ultimate Road Trip Through Northern Ireland

    Take the Causeway Coastal Route - the most exciting road trip in Northern Ireland - from Belfast to Derry/Londonderry. It hits many of the major coastal stop-offs, including National Trust sites and a handful of Game of Thrones filming locations. It's also relatively short, meaning there's flexibility should you wish to stay a day or ...

  17. 13 Incredible Northern Ireland Road Trip Stops You Won't Want to Miss

    Location: Turn off from Gobbins Road, Larne. Open: Tours available from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm. Cost: £20 for adults, £14.50 for children and seniors. The Gobbins Cliff Path is a stunning stop, providing unparalleled views and a slight sense of adventure, so you'll want to stop here when touring Northern Ireland by car.

  18. ‎Translink NI on the App Store

    The app and mobile site enable you to plan journeys from your current location. Features include: - Interactive and fully integrated Trip Planner. - Full coverage of N Ireland bus and rail services. - Dynamic zoom and scroll mapping. - GPS using "my location". - Departure board of services from your point of origin. - Updating maps "on ...

  19. Northern Ireland Road Trip Itinerary: Unforgettable Adventures Await

    Long Meadow Cider Farm - courtesy of Tourism Northern Ireland Top Attractions and Activities in Northern Ireland Giant's Causeway. The Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit destination on a Northern Ireland road trip.This natural wonder is comprised of over 40,000 basalt columns, formed by cooling lava more than 60 million years ago.

  20. Journey Planner App

    Full coverage journey planning of Northern Ireland bus and rail services. Live travel information (NI Railways / Metro only) Latest updates on service delays. GPS using 'My Location'. Saves favourite locations and recent journeys. Next Departure from your point of origin. Interactive mapping.

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    Tickets and Travel Cards Tickets and travel cards for any journey. Enterprise. Airport Services. Event Travel. Contactless Payment. Line Improvement Works. CHAT NOW. Bus and rail services across Northern Ireland. Find a timetable or plan a journey.

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