10 Amazing Day Trips from Belfast: Complete Guide

10 Amazing Day Trips from Belfast: Explore Northern Ireland

Belfast's central location makes it the perfect base for exploring Northern Ireland's stunning coastlines, mountains, historic sites, and charming villages. Within 90 minutes of the city, you can stand at the edge of dramatic cliffs, walk through ancient forests featured in Game of Thrones, explore medieval castles, or hike Northern Ireland's highest peaks.

Having guided countless day trips from Belfast, I can tell you that Northern Ireland packs extraordinary diversity into a small area. You can literally go from city breakfast to coastal adventure to mountain sunset in a single day. The key is choosing trips that match your interests and allowing enough time to truly experience each destination rather than just ticking boxes.

This guide covers the 10 best day trips from Belfast, from the unmissable to the underrated, with practical information on transport, timing, and what to expect.

1. Giant's Causeway and the Causeway Coastal Route

Distance: 60 miles (97 km) north
Drive Time: 90 minutes
Time Needed: Full day (8-12 hours)
Best For: First-time visitors, nature lovers, photographers

Why Go

The Giant's Causeway is Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most famous natural attraction—40,000 hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity 60 million years ago. Combined with the spectacular coastal route, this is an unmissable day trip.

What to Include

• Giant's Causeway: 2-3 hours exploring the stones and coastal paths
• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge: Thrilling 30m-high rope bridge crossing (pre-book essential)
• Dark Hedges: Atmospheric beech tree avenue from Game of Thrones
• Dunluce Castle: Dramatic clifftop medieval castle ruins
• Bushmills: World's oldest whiskey distillery for tours and lunch
• Coastal Villages: Ballintoy, Ballycastle, Cushendun

Tour vs. Self-Drive: Our guided tour covers all highlights efficiently without navigation stress. Self-driving works but is a long day. Read our complete Causeway Coastal Route guide.

Insider Tip: Start early (leave Belfast by 8 AM) to beat crowds at the Giant's Causeway. Alternatively, join a tour where timing is optimized.

2. Game of Thrones Filming Locations Tour

Distance: 20-80 miles depending on locations
Drive Time: Varies
Time Needed: Full day
Best For: Game of Thrones fans, film tourism enthusiasts

Why Go

Over 40% of Game of Thrones was filmed in Northern Ireland. Visit Winterfell, the Kingsroad, locations beyond the Wall, and the Iron Islands—all within day-trip distance of Belfast.

Key Locations

• Castle Ward: Winterfell exteriors (45 mins from Belfast)
• Tollymore Forest: Beyond the Wall, White Walker scenes (45 mins)
• Dark Hedges: The Kingsroad where Arya escapes (90 mins)
• Cushendun Caves: Where Melisandre gave birth to the shadow (90 mins)
• Ballintoy Harbour: The Iron Islands/Pyke (90 mins)
• Inch Abbey: Robb Stark's camp in the Riverlands (30 mins)

Tour vs. Self-Drive: Guided GoT tour highly recommended. Guides provide behind-the-scenes insights and stories from locals who worked as extras. Self-driving is challenging due to location spread. Read our complete GoT locations guide.

Insider Tip: The Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge (30 mins from Belfast) features authentic sets, costumes, and props. Allow 2-3 hours. Book separately.

3. Mourne Mountains: Hiking and Scenic Beauty

Distance: 35 miles (56 km) south
Drive Time: 1 hour
Time Needed: Half to full day
Best For: Hikers, nature enthusiasts, CS Lewis fans

Why Go

"Where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea"—these granite peaks inspired CS Lewis's Narnia and offer Northern Ireland's best hiking. Dramatic landscapes, scenic drives, and charming villages.

What to Do

• Slieve Donard: Northern Ireland's highest peak (850m). Challenging 5-6 hour round-trip hike with stunning views.
• Tollymore Forest Park: Easier walks, beautiful woodland, stone bridges.
• Silent Valley Reservoir: Scenic drive, easy lakeside walks, visitor center. Built to supply Belfast's water.
• Newcastle: Seaside town, beach, cafes. Good base for exploring.
• Murlough Nature Reserve: Sand dunes, beach walks, boardwalks.

Fitness Level: Choose from easy (Tollymore/Silent Valley) to challenging (Slieve Donard summit). Something for everyone.

Insider Tip: The Mournes are magnificent in clear weather but can be dangerous in mist/rain. Check forecasts and be prepared with proper hiking gear if attempting summits.

4. Derry/Londonderry: Walled City

Distance: 70 miles (113 km) west
Drive Time: 90 minutes
Time Needed: Full day
Best For: History buffs, culture enthusiasts

Why Go

Ireland's only completely intact walled city offers fascinating history, vibrant culture, and has undergone a remarkable transformation similar to Belfast. Different atmosphere from Belfast—worth experiencing both.

What to See

• City Walls Walk: Complete circuit of 17th-century walls (1.5km). Free, best introduction to the city.
• Museum of Free Derry: Powerful exhibition about Bloody Sunday and civil rights movement.
• Bogside Murals: Including the famous "You Are Now Entering Free Derry" mural.
• Guild Hall: Stunning neo-Gothic building with stained glass. Often free exhibitions.
• Peace Bridge: Modern cycling/pedestrian bridge, symbol of reconciliation.
• Food Scene: Excellent restaurants—Walled City Brewery, Browns in Town.

Name Note: Called both Londonderry (official name, unionists) and Derry (nationalists, locals). Both acceptable—locals understand either.

Insider Tip: Combine with a stop at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Strand on the return journey—only 30 mins from Derry.

5. Carlingford and Cooley Peninsula

Distance: 60 miles (97 km) south
Drive Time: 90 minutes
Time Needed: Half to full day
Best For: Foodies, off-the-beaten-path explorers, romantic getaways

Why Go

This medieval village on the shores of Carlingford Lough (technically just across the border in County Louth, Republic of Ireland) is charming, scenic, and has a brilliant food scene. Beautiful mountains meet the sea.

What to Do

• Village Exploration: Medieval streets, King John's Castle ruins, Tholsel gate.
• Food: Famous for seafood, especially oysters. The Oystercatcher, Fitzpatrick's Bar, Kingfisher Bistro.
• Activities: Boat trips on the lough, coastal walks, Carlingford Adventure Centre (kayaking, coasteering).
• Scenic Drives: Cooley Peninsula loop offers mountain and coastal views.

Border Note: Carlingford is in the Republic of Ireland. Bring euros for purchases (though cards work everywhere). No border checks—seamless crossing.

6. Armagh: Ecclesiastical Capital

Distance: 40 miles (64 km) southwest
Drive Time: 1 hour
Time Needed: Half day
Best For: History enthusiasts, architecture lovers

Why Go

Ireland's ecclesiastical capital, Armagh has two cathedrals (one Catholic, one Church of Ireland) and rich history dating back to St. Patrick. Underrated gem that sees few tourists.

What to See

• Two Cathedrals: Both named St. Patrick's, both on hills overlooking the city. Beautiful architecture.
• Armagh Observatory & Planetarium: Interactive exhibits, planetarium shows.
• Navan Fort: Ancient ceremonial site, once seat of Irish kings.
• Palace Demesne Park: Lovely park, walking trails.
• Food: Uluru Bistro, Friar Tucks, 4 Vicars.

Insider Tip: Combine Armagh with a stop at the Craigavon or Portadown areas for shopping, or continue to Lough Neagh (UK's largest lake) for scenic views.

7. Strangford Lough and Ards Peninsula

Distance: 20-35 miles east
Drive Time: 30-60 minutes
Time Needed: Half to full day
Best For: Scenic drives, castle lovers, foodies

Why Go

Beautiful tidal lough surrounded by picturesque villages, castles, Mount Stewart House and Gardens, and the Ards Peninsula coastal road. Less dramatic than the north coast but quietly beautiful.

What to See

• Mount Stewart: Spectacular National Trust house and gardens (1.5 hours minimum).
• Castle Ward: If you haven't been for Game of Thrones (Winterfell).
• Exploris Aquarium: Portaferry—family-friendly, local marine life.
• Strangford & Portaferry: Charming villages, seafood restaurants. Car ferry connects them (5-min crossing).
• Ards Peninsula Coastal Drive: Quiet roads, sea views, villages.

Food Highlight: The Lobster Pot (Strangford) and Portaferry Hotel for fresh seafood.

8. Glens of Antrim: Glenariff Forest Park

Distance: 50 miles (80 km) north
Drive Time: 90 minutes
Time Needed: Half day
Best For: Waterfall enthusiasts, hikers, nature photographers

Why Go

The "Queen of the Glens" features spectacular waterfalls, woodland trails, and is less crowded than coastal attractions. Beautiful in all seasons.

What to Do

• Waterfall Walkway: 3-mile circular trail past multiple waterfalls. Moderately challenging, stunning scenery.
• Forest Trails: Various easier walks through ancient woodland.
• Viewpoint: Spectacular views over the glen from the top car park.
• Combine With: Cushendall village (lunch), Glens of Antrim scenic drive, coast road.

Entry Fee: £5 per vehicle.

Insider Tip: Visit after rain for the most impressive waterfalls. The glen can be muddy—wear proper footwear.

9. Bangor and Crawfordsburn

Distance: 13 miles (21 km) east
Drive Time: 25 minutes
Time Needed: Half day
Best For: Easy escape, coastal walks, CS Lewis fans

Why Go

Northern Ireland's oldest town, now a prosperous seaside resort. Easy access from Belfast makes it popular for half-day trips, coastal walks, and relaxation.

What to Do

• Bangor Marina: Promenade, cafes, sea views.
• North Down Museum: Free museum covering local history.
• CS Lewis Trail: The town inspired Narnia—follow the trail linking sites.
• Crawfordsburn Country Park: Beautiful coastal park, trails, beach, historic Old Inn pub (excellent food).
• Food: Boat House, Grace Neill's (oldest pub in Ireland), Jenny Watts.

Easy Train Access: Bangor line from Belfast is scenic and frequent (30 mins, £5-8 return). No car needed.

10. Rathlin Island: Puffins and Peace

Distance: Ferry from Ballycastle (70 miles from Belfast)
Total Time: Full day required
Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, those seeking remote beauty

Why Go

Northern Ireland's only inhabited offshore island (pop. ~150) offers dramatic cliffs, puffin colonies (summer), seals, and peaceful isolation. Unique day trip experience.

What to Do

• RSPB Seabird Centre: West Lighthouse viewpoint for puffins (May-July), guillemots, razorbills.
• Island Walks: Quiet roads, coastal paths, dramatic scenery.
• East Lighthouse: Recently renovated, visitor facilities.
• Robert the Bruce's Cave: Historic site where Scottish king allegedly gained inspiration from a spider.

Logistics: Ferry from Ballycastle (35-40 min crossing, book ahead: rathlinballycastleferry.com). Multiple sailings daily summer, fewer winter. Allow full day including drive to/from Belfast. Combine with some coastal stops on route.

Puffin Season: Late April to late July. Outside this period, fewer birds but island is beautifully peaceful.

Planning Your Day Trips

Guided Tour vs. Self-Drive?

Guided Tours Advantages:

• No navigation stress on unfamiliar roads
• Expert local commentary and stories
• Optimized timing and routing
• Meet other travelers
• All logistics handled
• Cost-effective for solo travelers

Self-Drive Advantages:

• Total flexibility on timing
• Stop wherever you want
• Better for couples/groups
• Can extend to overnight trips
• Visit off-route detours

Our Recommendation: For first-timers or those uncomfortable driving on left, join our guided tours. For return visitors or confident drivers with specific interests, self-drive offers flexibility.

Car Rental Tips

• Book in advance for best prices (£25-40/day typically)
• Full insurance recommended (roads can be narrow)
• Automatic transmission costs more but easier if you're not used to left-side driving
• GPS/sat-nav essential for rural areas
• Fill up in cities—rural fuel stations sparse

Recommended Timing by Season

Summer (June-Aug): Longest days, best weather, but busiest. Book everything in advance. Leave very early to beat crowds at popular sites like Giant's Causeway.

Spring/Autumn (Apr-May, Sep-Oct): Ideal. Good weather, manageable crowds, beautiful light. September often has surprisingly good weather.

Winter (Nov-Mar): Short daylight limits options, but you'll have places to yourself. Some attractions have reduced hours. Best for those prioritizing atmosphere over weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best day trip from Belfast for first-time visitors?

The Giant's Causeway and Causeway Coastal Route is unmissable—it's the most spectacular scenery and Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you only have time for one day trip, make it this one.

Can you do the Giant's Causeway and Game of Thrones locations in one day?

Partially. Some GoT locations (Dark Hedges, Ballintoy) are along the coastal route to the Causeway. However, seeing Winterfell (Castle Ward) requires going south rather than north. Tours combining both typically focus on coastal GoT locations. For comprehensive GoT touring, dedicate a separate day.

Are day trips from Belfast possible without a car?

Yes, but limited. Trains reach Bangor, Portrush, and Derry. Buses connect to some locations but take significantly longer. For attractions like Giant's Causeway, Mourne Mountains, or rural areas, joining a tour or renting a car is much more practical.

How much does a typical day trip from Belfast cost?

Self-drive: Car rental (£30-40/day) + fuel (£20-30) + attraction entry (£10-30) + meals (£20-30) = £80-130 for 2 people. Guided tours: £40-60 per person typically, often including all transport, guide, and some entries. Guided tours are often more cost-effective for solo travelers or couples.

Which day trip is best for families with children?

Mourne Mountains (Tollymore Forest), Bangor/Crawfordsburn, or Strangford Lough area. These offer manageable distances, child-friendly activities, and aren't as long/exhausting as the full Causeway coast drive. Giant's Causeway itself is great for kids, but it's a long day.

Can you visit the Republic of Ireland from Belfast as a day trip?

Yes, easily. Carlingford (90 mins) makes a nice day trip. Dublin is 2 hours south (consider overnight). The border is seamless—no checks, barely noticeable. Bring euros for purchases in the Republic.

Final Thoughts: Belfast as Your Base

One of Belfast's greatest advantages is its location—within 90 minutes you can access dramatic coastlines, ancient mountains, peaceful islands, and historic cities. Northern Ireland packs extraordinary diversity into a small area, making it perfect for travelers who want variety without constant hotel changes.

I've lived in Belfast my whole life, and I still regularly take these day trips. Each season reveals different beauty—spring wildflowers on coastal paths, summer sunshine on beaches, autumn colors in the Mournes, winter storm-watching at Dunluce. The landscapes never get old, and there's always something new to discover.

Don't try to do too many day trips or pack too much into each one. Quality over quantity always wins. Choose trips that match your interests, allow time to truly experience each place rather than just ticking boxes, and be flexible—sometimes the best moments come from unplanned stops at viewpoints or chatting with locals in village pubs.

Use Belfast as your base, spend evenings enjoying the city's restaurants and nightlife, and venture out during days to explore the remarkable landscapes and history that make Northern Ireland special. It's the perfect combination of urban energy and natural beauty, all within easy reach.

Ready to explore beyond Belfast? Browse our day tours or contact us for personalized itinearies based on your interests, time frame, and travel style. We'll help you make the most of every day in Northern Ireland!