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Northern Ireland Castle & palace tours

Our most recommended Northern Ireland Castle & palace tours

From Belfast: Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour

1. From Belfast: Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour

Discover the beauty of Northern Ireland and the world-famous Giant’s Causeway on a tour from Belfast. Visit the Giants Causeway, Carrickfergus Castle, Glenarm Castle, Carnlough Harbour, Waterfoot Caves, Cushendun Curfew House, Rope Bridge, and The Dark Hedges while navigating the Antrim Coast Road. After leaving Belfast in the morning, a short journey will take you to the first stop of the day at Carrickfergus Castle, a 12th-century Norman castle. Walk around and take photographs of the castle and the harbor. Continue the drive along the Antrim Coast Road, traveling through some of the nine Glens of Antrim. Wind through small towns and villages, hearing the myths and legends of the fairies and leprechauns that reside in these Glens. Driving through Glenarm, pass Carnlough Harbour, the Waterfoot Caves, and Cushendun Curfew house. Travel up through Glencorp and Glendunn, passing the coastal town of Ballycastle before arriving at the Portaneevy View Point to see Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge.  Stop to admire views at the rope bridge and look across to the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland and Rathlin Island. Listen to the stories behind these sights before stopping next at the Dark Hedges, known as the Kingsroad in the Game of Thrones HBO series. Walk among the trees made famous by the Game of Thrones followed by a lunch stop at a traditional pub (costs not included).  Later, visit more locations from the Game of Thrones. Travel by Carnlough Harbour where Arya Stark swam and pass by Magharmorne Quarry where Castle Black was located. The finale of the day is a stop at the Giant’s Causeway where you can explore, walk across the historic stones, and learn about the legend of the Giant Finn MacCool. Discover how and why he built the Causeway.  After your day of exploring is done, travel directly back to Belfast via the inland route and get dropped off back in the city center or at the activity provider's office in Queen's Quarter.

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

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

On this full-day excursion to the Giant’s Causeway you’ll leave Belfast in the morning with your Irish guide and fellow travel partners for a drive through the rolling farmland of County Antrim to the northern coast of Ireland – an area of outstanding natural beauty. Dark Hedges (photos) Stop for photos and fresh air at one of the most amazing natural phenomena in Northern Ireland, the Dark Hedges. The trees were planted centuries ago by the Stuart family to make an impression upon guests visiting their estate. Many guests will recognize Dark Hedges as the King's Road from HBO's Game of Thrones. Carrick-a-Rede (photos) Enjoy amazing views overlooking the rope bridge. Traditionally fishermen erected the bridge to Carrick-a-Rede Island over a chasm of 23m-deep and 20m-wide, to harvest salmon from their nets. Enjoy views of the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland and Rathlin Island. Unesco Giants Causeway The Giant's Causeway has often been described as the 8th wonder of the world, and once you have visited the site you’ll quickly see why. The area consists of around 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns formed during a volcano eruption 60 million years ago. This is one of the world’s great natural attractions although many Irish passionately believe the causeway was built by the Celtic warrior hero Finn McCool. You’re guaranteed 2 hours at the Giant's Causeway on this tour before returning to Belfast. The entrance fee for the visitor center is not included as the Unesco World Heritage Site is actually completely free of charge to the public. Based on years of guest feedback guests prefer to have the best possible value price for the overall tour and then can make individual decisions locally as to whether they wish to access the adjacent visitor center for a fee at the door. Dunluce Castle (The House of Greyjoy) Make a photo stop at the incredible ruins of Dunluce Castle (entry not included), home to the McQuillan family who built the fortress around 500 years ago. Game of Thrones fans will immediately recognize the House of Greyjoy. One of the most spectacular castle ruins anywhere in the world, Dunluce Castle is located on top of cliffs that collapse into the North Atlantic below. The Castle’s dramatic history of violence, intrigue and rebellion is matched by the scandal and betrayal committed by the Greyjoys in Game of Thrones. Enjoy paid admission and approx 60 minutes to explore these most romantic ruins, grounds, and surrounds. Arrive Belfast The tour ends in Belfast in the late afternoon, which allows plenty of time for refreshments, rest, evening dinner, and entertainment options.

Belfast: Giant's Causeway, Dark Hedges, and Dunluce Castle

3. Belfast: Giant's Causeway, Dark Hedges, and Dunluce Castle

Discover the famous Giant's Causeway on a guided tour from Belfast. Visit the Dark Hedges, made famous in Game of Thrones, and admire the scenic views around Dunluce Castle. Depart Belfast and travel by coach to The Dark Hedges, a beautiful avenue of beech trees planted by the Stuart family in the 18th century as an impressive feature of the driveway to their Gracehill Manor. Continue to the Giant's Causeway to marvel at 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. Learn about the legend of Finn, said to have built the causeway to cross the Irish Sea to fight a Scottish giant known as Benandonner. Enjoy impressive views of Sheep Island and the Mull of Kintyre. Take around 2 hours to explore and look around. Stop for a picture at Dunluce Castle, a now-ruined medieval castle. Capture this photogenic castle built in the 13th century and hear how it has inspired many TV programs, poems, and songs.

From Galway: Cliffs of Moher and The Burren Full Day Tour

4. From Galway: Cliffs of Moher and The Burren Full Day Tour

Get back to nature on a day trip by bus from Galway to the Burren and Cliffs of Moher. Listen to your driver-guide share the history of Galway and the surrounding areas, as you journey through the infamous lunar-like landscapes of the Burren and its iconic limestone terrain. Depart from Galway and set out to visit Dunguaire Castle and see the former residence of the King of Connacht. Grab a photo with an Irish castle and take a tour through the underground cave at Aillwee Cave or relax and grab a coffee at the café.   Continue over Corkscrew Hill to arrive at the Cliffs of Moher, where you will have 1.5 hours to explore at your leisure. Experience a moment of magic as you stand atop the Cliffs of Moher facing the full force of the Wild Atlantic Way.   After visiting the cliffs, make your way to Doolin for a lunch stop before heading north up the Wild Atlantic Way coastal route back to Galway, offering a number of photo opportunities along the way.

Dublin: Giant's Causeway & Belfast (Titanic or Black Taxi)

5. Dublin: Giant's Causeway & Belfast (Titanic or Black Taxi)

Travel through the Boyne Valley on a full-day scenic tour from Dublin, and discover the home of the 5,000-year-old Hill of Tara, the ancient capital of the High Kings of Ireland. Upon arrival in Belfast you have the option to take a political sightseeing tour in an iconic black cab (taxi) or visit the Titanic Experience (the museum will be closed from 2nd January - 28th February 2023) For the black cab tour you will see sites that have played a key role in the city’s political history, such as the Falls and Shankill neighborhoods. Learn about the industrial roots of Belfast, and the 4 decades of civil unrest in the late 20th century. Sign the peace line, the towering wall that divides the communities, and read the political murals. A guide will relate their own family experiences to give your tour a more personal touch. Alternatively, go to the world’s largest state-of-the-art Titanic experience in Belfast’s new Titanic Quarter, located in the former shipyards of Harland and Wolf. This option is unavailable in january and february 2023 Relive the liner’s tragic voyage, sinking, and eventful discovery on the seabed, via exhibits that explain her construction, launch and history in 9 different galleries. Typically the tour would visit the Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge. However, it is currently closed for tour operators and it is not yet clear as to when it will reopen. As an alternative attraction, visit the very popular Dun Luce Castle. Enjoy this historic castle that dates back over 500 years and which is dramatically positioned on the edge of a cliff over the Atlantic. Discover this castle which has been used to film things like Game of Thrones. Visit and peruse the castle and grounds for 45 minutes. Arrive at the UNESCO World Heritage Giant’s Causeway, formed over 60 million years ago by volcanic eruptions. Admire its distinctive rock formations that span nearly 18 miles of coastline. Hike to the formations known as “The Wishing Chair”, “Giant's Boot”, and “Giant's Organ.” Learn the legend of the Irish giant Finn McCool, said to be the Causeway's creator. This is where you have the option to have lunch in a number of venues located at the Causeway. With 2 hours there is ample time to lunch and walk this fabulous coastal landscape. Continue along the Antrim Coastal, driving past spectacular scenery of stony shores, wooded glens and sheltered harbors. See the remains of Dunseverick Castle, and admire views of the Mull of Kintyre. On a clear day, see Scotland in the distance. The route back to Dublin is different than the route taken to the Causeway earlier in the day, giving you different scenery to enjoy. Arrive back in Dublin City Center at 20.30 and enjoy the rest of your evening. The tour guide will be on hand to help you with any directions or information you need.

From Belfast: Giants Causeway Full-Day Private Guided Tour

6. From Belfast: Giants Causeway Full-Day Private Guided Tour

The Giants causeway is the only unesco world heritage site in Northern Ireland. Situated on the beautiful North coast in an area of outstanding natural beauty with breathtaking views, this is a must see for anyone traveling to our wonderful country. Often called the eighth wonder of the world, the Giants causeway is a magical, mythical and mysterious place to visit. Made up of over 40 thousand polygonal columns. These stones were created more than 60 million years ago. Was it volcanic activity or a dispute between two giants?? Let us take you there and you can decide for yourself when you see it firsthand. Travel in comfort in your own private vehicle, along with a professional local guide and enjoy some Irish craic (fun) at no extra cost!! Itinerary: Arrange pickup time and location. Travel to the Giants causeway taking in the breathtaking scenery of Ireland's North coast. Visit many areas of interest for example: Carrick-a-rede rope bridge (viewing point only) Ballintoy harbour The Giants causeway Dunluce Castle Bushmills Distillery (optional) Dark hedges The above itinerary is a template and can be tailored to suit if requested. The Giants causeway tour is an all day adventure lasting approximately 8hrs, although this can change in certain circumstances for example cruise ship schedule etc.....

Hillsborough Castle Gardens Entrance Ticket

7. Hillsborough Castle Gardens Entrance Ticket

Wander through 100 acres of beautiful gardens which have been developed from the 1780. Discover the contrast of ornamental grounds and peaceful woodland, meandering waterways and trimmed lawns. Explore the Lime Tree Walk, Granville Garden, the Lady Alice Temple, the Quaker Burial ground and an Ice House. Imagine the gardens in different times as you walk through the Walled Garden, dating back to the 18th Century. This is a large, four-acre site historically used to produce fruit, vegetables and flowers for the house. As part of the Hillsborough Castle Project in 2018, the gardens have been restored to create a beautiful working and productive garden. See the renovations  complete with dipping pond, crop rotations, seasonal produce, potting sheds, herbaceous borders and an apple orchard. From 12 December – 3 January 2021. Enjoy a wintery stroll in the open air and take in the acres of breath-taking gardens, before cozying up with a nice cup of something warm and a slice of cake from the café. Watch out for magical elves and fairies hiding in the enchanted gardens and discover the folklore surrounding Christmas.

From Belfast: Private Giant's Causeway County Antrim Tour

8. From Belfast: Private Giant's Causeway County Antrim Tour

Launching our new VIP Luxury Private Tour for this Summer Season. We value our guest experience, putting you at the heart of everything we do, and this summer we aim to go that extra furlong for your comfort and style. Offering esteemed guests the new Luxury VIP Private Tour to The Giant’s Causeway. Exclusively bringing you a combination tour that encompasses the essence of quality and comfort to your most desired locations. Luxury Giant’s Causeway Tour brings you the ultimate experience, on this full-day tour Experience a jam-packed day filled with Northern Ireland's top attractions, including the Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Old Bushmills Distillery, Dunluce castles. This tour lasts from the time you wish to start until you are finished - no rush it's Ireland! Cruise ship visitors are time-sensitive and must be returned on time, so we are flexible with our timings to suit you, so you can spend as long as you want at any venue. Your tour will begin from your pickup location, where you will meet your driver/guide for the day. There we will begin our journey to the north coast traveling through the rolling farmland of County Antrim. Antrim Coast Road: The Antrim Coast Road is widely agreed to be one of the finest stretches of road anywhere in the world. The road hugs the coastline giving incredible seaside views, passing unspoiled beaches, and sheltering under rugged cliffs. You may even see Scotland on a good day! Carnlough Village: Our first stop of the day takes us into the amazing picturesque fishing village of Carnlough for a quick comfort break. Carrick a Rede Rope Bridge: Next stop we visit one of the most visited places in Northern Ireland amazing Carrick-a-Rede Rope bridge where you can, of course, cross the bridge which spans a chasm over 75ft in height. The lovely coastal path provides a spectacular walk with stunning sea and cliff views. Next stop Giants Causeway, Commonly called ‘the 8th wonder of the world’, is the only World Heritage site in Ireland. During our stop here you can spend time climbing over the ancient stones, snapping photos, and reflecting on the myths and legends of this very unique area. Lunch Stop: we can stop for lunch in a nice Irish pub to sample our good food and maybe a cheeky pint of Guinness. Or you can sample some locally caught fish in one of the best fish and chips shops and of course not forgetting the mushy peas. Old Bushmills Whiskey Distillery: Our next stop of the day is at Bushmills Whiskey Distillery which has been creating beautiful ‘water of life ‘since 1608 making this the oldest working distillery in Ireland. Dunluce Castle: We continue a wonderful day with a photo stop at Dunluce Castle. We arrive at one of the most dramatic castle ruins in the world. Prepare to be amazed at the way this old castle hangs over the edge of the cliffs. The Dark Hedges: last stop is one of the most popular natural phenomena in Northern Ireland, the Dark Hedges.

Dublin: Giants Causeway Tour in Spanish

9. Dublin: Giants Causeway Tour in Spanish

Travel to the Giant's Causeway along the coastal drive with fantastic views of Whitepark Bay and Portbradden. You will visit the 37,000 basalt columns whose tops form “stepping stones” leading from the cliff foot and disappearing under the sea. They reappear in the island of Straffe, hence the legend that this was a road built by the giant Finn McCool to enable him to cross over to Scotland. Following the steps, you will experience one of the most popular natural phenomena in Northern Ireland, the Dark Hedges, which were used as a set for the hit TV series Game of Thrones. The hedges were planted by the Stuart family in the eighteenth century, with the intention of impressing visitors as they approached the entrance to their home, Gracehill House. Two centuries later, the trees remain a magnificent sight and have become known as the Dark Hedges. Next on your tour, you will travel to the small picturesque village of Ballintoy, another famous location for several Game of Thrones sets. You will recognize the landscapes here from season 2, in which they were used in some of the most crucial scenes in the series. You will then travel along the Causeway Coastal route between Ballycastle and Dunluce to experience one of the most dramatic drives in the world, now rated as one of the world's best road journeys. You will travel by windswept cliffs, spectacular scenery, and fabulous unspoiled beaches before reaching your next port of call, Dunluce Castle, which was home to the McDonnell Clan for many years and considered the most romantic castle in Ireland. En-route you will pass through Bushmills, famed for its fantastic whiskey, which is enjoyed all over the world. Your final stop will be at the Belfast City Center, where you will have approximately 60-minutes free time to enjoy and explore Northern Ireland's capital before returning to Dublin at approximately 8:30PM.

Belfast: North Irish Coast and Giant's Causeway Private Tour

10. Belfast: North Irish Coast and Giant's Causeway Private Tour

Drive the North Antrim Coast to Carnlough harbor, most famous for the Game of Thrones, then through the nine Glens of Antrim. You will be passing through Glendun, the smallest of the nine glens but by far the most beautiful. Arrive at the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge where you can brave the bridge if you dare, followed by some well-earned lunch. After this, you travel along the Causeway Coast and arrive at the Giants Causeway, famous for the legend of Finn McCool and a must-see world heritage site. After leaving the Causeway you will visit the world-famous Bushmills Distillery where you will taste the oldest whiskey in the world in their 1608 bar. You’ll visit the majestic Dunluce Castle before starting your return journey to Belfast. Finally, as you journey back towards Belfast you will take in the Dark Hedges made famous as the ‘Kings Road’ in the Game of Thrones.

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What people are saying about Northern Ireland

Overall rating

4.2 / 5

based on 387 reviews

The tour was perfect especially to those who are fans of Game of Thrones. I commend our tour guide who gave fun facts about each towns that we passed through. The journey towards every destination was breathtaking as we traverse through seaside roads and valleys. My favorite part was the Giant's Causeway because of the amazing rock formations and beautiful scenery. Good thing we can bring water and something to eat inside the bus. Also, dress appropriately as the weather is unpredictable.

It was a great trip. I loved visiting the locations, and the tour staff was awesome. It was definitely worth the money and will consider booking tours with Finn McCools Tours in the future.

Excellent experience. We saw all the sites and our driver come guide Lindsey was very knowledgeable with a great humour. Would definitely recommend.

Fantastic day our driver/guide John was an absolute star very entertaining guy ,with songs and jokes aswell as information and folklore stories.

This was fantastic, it is truly a unique experience. We were lucky to have excellent weather.