Why Visit Giant's Causeway from Belfast?
The Giant's Causeway stands as Northern Ireland's most iconic natural wonder and only UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located on the dramatic Causeway Coast, approximately 60 miles north of Belfast, this geological marvel features approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that step down into the Atlantic Ocean like a giant's staircase.
Formed 60 million years ago by ancient volcanic activity, these perfectly hexagonal columns seem almost too geometric to be natural – which is precisely why legend attributes their creation to the Irish giant Finn MacCool, who supposedly built the causeway to reach Scotland and challenge his rival Benandonner.
For travelers based in Belfast, the Giant's Causeway represents the crown jewel of any Northern Ireland itinerary. The journey from Belfast takes you along one of the world's most scenic coastal routes, passing through charming villages, dramatic cliffs, and multiple filming locations from Game of Thrones. A day trip from Belfast to Giant's Causeway isn't just about the destination – the entire Causeway Coast journey is an unforgettable experience.
How to Get to Giant's Causeway from Belfast
Driving Route (Recommended)
The drive from Belfast to Giant's Causeway takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours (60 miles) via the A26 and Causeway Coastal Route. This is the most flexible option and allows you to stop at attractions along the way.
Scenic Route Directions:
- Leave Belfast via M2 motorway heading north
- Continue on A26 towards Ballymena and Ballymoney
- Join the famous Causeway Coastal Route (A2)
- Pass through Bushmills village (£5 million whiskey distillery worth visiting)
- Arrive at Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre with ample parking
Travel Time: 1 hour 45 minutes - 2 hours
Distance: 60 miles (97 km)
Parking: £12.50 per car (includes visitor centre access)
Guided Tour from Belfast (Most Popular)
The most stress-free and comprehensive way to experience Giant's Causeway from Belfast is with a professional guided tour. Our full-day tours include:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Belfast
- Expert local guide with insider knowledge and stories
- Comfortable Mercedes transportation
- Multiple stops at attractions beyond Giant's Causeway
- Flexible itinerary based on your interests
- No parking hassles or navigation stress
- Optimal timing to avoid crowds
Public Transport
Public transport from Belfast to Giant's Causeway is possible but complex, requiring multiple connections and taking 3-4 hours each way:
- Translink bus service from Belfast to Coleraine (1.5 hours)
- Transfer to Causeway Rambler seasonal bus (summer only)
- Or taxi from Coleraine to Giant's Causeway (15 minutes, £20-25)
- Not recommended due to limited schedule and long journey time
What to See and Do at Giant's Causeway
The Grand Causeway (Main Attraction)
The iconic hexagonal basalt columns are the star attraction. Walk among these 40,000 ancient stepping stones, many perfectly geometric. The largest columns reach heights of 12 meters. The columns extend under the sea to Scotland, where similar formations exist at Fingal's Cave, lending geological truth to the Finn MacCool legend.
Time needed: 1-1.5 hours | Difficulty: Easy, some uneven surfaces
The Organ (Columnar Formation)
These vertical basalt columns resemble the pipes of a church organ, reaching up to 12 meters high. This formation offers the best view of how the columns formed as the lava cooled and contracted. Photographers love this spot for its dramatic vertical lines against the sky.
Location: 5-minute walk from main causeway
Clifftop Walk
The clifftop trail offers spectacular views over the causeway and Antrim coast. On clear days, you can see Scotland's Mull of Kintyre, just 25 miles across the North Channel. This moderate walk takes 30-45 minutes and rewards with panoramic coastal photography opportunities.
Distance: 1 mile loop | Difficulty: Moderate with some hills
Giant's Boot & Wishing Chair
Look for formations that resemble a giant's boot (complete with laces!) and the "Wishing Chair" – a throne-like formation where legend says wishes come true. These whimsical formations showcase how erosion creates recognizable shapes from the geometric columns.
Location: Along the main causeway path
Visitor Centre & Exhibition
The award-winning visitor centre explains both the volcanic geology and Finn MacCool mythology through interactive exhibits. The building itself is an architectural marvel, designed to blend into the landscape. Includes café, shop, and facilities.
Entry: Included with parking | Time needed: 30-45 minutes
Best Times to Visit Giant's Causeway from Belfast
Time of Day
Early Morning (9:00-10:30 AM) - BEST
Arrive at opening to beat the crowds. Golden hour photography. Parking readily available. Most peaceful experience.
Late Afternoon (4:00-6:00 PM) - GOOD
Crowds thin out. Beautiful sunset light. Cooler temperatures. Tour buses have departed.
Midday (11:00 AM-3:00 PM) - AVOID
Peak crowds from tour buses. Harsh overhead sunlight for photos. Parking can be full. Long wait for shuttle bus.
Seasons
- Spring (April-May): Fewer crowds, wildflowers blooming, longer days. Can be rainy but authentic Irish weather adds atmosphere.
- Summer (June-August): Warmest weather, longest daylight hours, all facilities open. Most crowded season – book tours in advance.
- Autumn (September-October): Ideal balance of good weather and smaller crowds. Stunning coastal colors. My personal favorite season.
- Winter (November-March): Dramatic seas and stormy skies. Very few tourists. Reduced visitor centre hours. Authentic, moody photography opportunities.
Practical Information for Your Visit
Entry & Parking
- • Parking: £12.50 per car (includes visitor centre)
- • Walking to stones: FREE (from visitor centre)
- • Shuttle bus: £1 each way (optional, saves 10-min walk)
- • National Trust members: Free parking
- • Online booking: Can save time during peak season
What to Bring
- • Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes (surfaces are uneven)
- • Weather gear: Waterproof jacket (weather changes quickly)
- • Layers: It's always cooler and windier by the coast
- • Camera: You'll want photos of this!
- • Water & snacks: Café available but can be busy
Opening Hours
- • Site: Open year-round, dawn to dusk
- • Visitor Centre: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (winter)
- • Summer hours: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM (June-August)
- • Shuttle bus: Operates during visitor centre hours
- • Last admission: 45 minutes before closing
Accessibility
- • Visitor Centre: Fully wheelchair accessible
- • Accessible shuttle: Available on request
- • Lower causeway: Accessible path with assistance
- • Upper paths: Steep and uneven, not accessible
- • Wheelchairs: Available to borrow at visitor centre
What Else to See on Your Journey from Belfast
Our Giant's Causeway Classic Tour from Belfast includes these spectacular attractions along the Causeway Coast:
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Cross this thrilling rope bridge suspended 30 meters above the Atlantic Ocean. Originally built by salmon fishermen, it now offers heart-pounding views and Instagram-worthy moments. Pre-booking essential during summer.
Stop time: 45-60 minutes | Location: 10 minutes from Giant's Causeway
The Dark Hedges (Game of Thrones)
Walk beneath the magical beech tree tunnel used as the Kingsroad in Game of Thrones. Planted in 1775, these atmospheric trees create one of the world's most photographed natural phenomena. Early morning visits offer the best lighting and fewest crowds.
Stop time: 20-30 minutes | Location: En route to Giant's Causeway
Dunluce Castle
Perched dramatically on a clifftop headland, this medieval castle ruins inspired Game of Thrones' House Greyjoy. The kitchen collapsed into the sea in 1639 during a storm. Spectacular photo opportunities from the coastal path.
Stop time: 30 minutes | Location: 5 minutes from Giant's Causeway
Old Bushmills Distillery
The world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery (est. 1608) offers tours and tastings. Learn the art of triple-distillation and sample smooth Irish whiskey. Advance booking recommended for tours.
Stop time: 45-60 minutes (optional) | Location: 3 miles from Giant's Causeway
Ballintoy Harbour
This picturesque fishing harbour doubled as the Iron Islands in Game of Thrones. Dramatic limestone formations and turquoise waters make it one of the coast's most beautiful spots. Perfect for a scenic photo stop.
Stop time: 15-20 minutes | Location: Between Carrick-a-Rede and Giant's Causeway
💡 Local Tip: Trying to see all these attractions independently by car is challenging due to parking, timing, and navigation. Our guided tours optimize the route, handle all logistics, and ensure you don't miss the best photo opportunities and hidden viewpoints.
See Full Itinerary & Book TourFrequently Asked Questions
Is Giant's Causeway worth visiting from Belfast?
Absolutely! The Giant's Causeway is Northern Ireland's most iconic natural wonder and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The journey along the Causeway Coast is spectacular, and the geological formations are truly unique worldwide. It's Northern Ireland's must-see attraction.
How long does a Giant's Causeway day trip from Belfast take?
A comprehensive day trip takes 8-9 hours total. This includes 2 hours driving each way, 1.5-2 hours at the Giant's Causeway itself, and stops at other attractions like Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dark Hedges, and Dunluce Castle. Most tours depart Belfast at 9:00 AM and return around 6:00 PM.
Is it better to drive yourself or take a guided tour?
For first-time visitors, a guided tour is highly recommended. Benefits include: no navigation stress, expert local knowledge and stories, optimal timing to avoid crowds, access to hidden viewpoints, and the ability to relax and enjoy the scenery. Self-driving works well if you have multiple days and want complete flexibility.
Do I need to book Giant's Causeway tickets in advance?
During summer (June-August) and weekends, advance booking is strongly recommended to guarantee parking and entry. The site can reach capacity. Our guided tours include all entry fees and guaranteed access. If visiting independently in peak season, book parking online at least 24 hours ahead.
What should I wear to Giant's Causeway?
Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots – the basalt columns are uneven and can be slippery when wet. Bring waterproof jacket (Irish weather is unpredictable), layers for wind, and sun protection. Avoid flip-flops or open-toed shoes. It's always cooler and windier at the coast than in Belfast.
Is Giant's Causeway suitable for children and elderly visitors?
Yes, with considerations. The main causeway area is accessible via a gentle slope or shuttle bus. Walking on the columns themselves requires care due to uneven surfaces. The clifftop walk is more strenuous with hills and steps. Wheelchair-accessible paths exist for the lower areas. Strollers are not recommended on the stones.
Can you see Scotland from Giant's Causeway?
On clear days, yes! Scotland's Mull of Kintyre is visible just 25 miles across the North Channel from the clifftop viewpoints. The similar basalt formations at Scotland's Fingal's Cave are part of the same ancient lava flow, giving geological truth to the Finn MacCool legend about the causeway extending to Scotland.
What's the legend of Finn MacCool and the Giant's Causeway?
Irish legend tells that the giant Finn MacCool built the causeway to reach Scotland and challenge his rival Benandonner. When Finn saw how enormous Benandonner was, he fled home where his clever wife Oonagh disguised him as a baby. Seeing this "baby" and imagining how huge the father must be, Benandonner ran back to Scotland, destroying the causeway behind him. It's a charming tale that feels as believable as the geological truth!
Are there facilities (restrooms, café, etc.) at Giant's Causeway?
Yes, the award-winning Visitor Centre includes modern restrooms, a café serving hot meals and snacks, a gift shop, and baby changing facilities. Free WiFi is available. However, once you walk down to the causeway itself (10-minute walk), there are no facilities until you return to the visitor centre.
What time should I arrive to avoid crowds?
Arrive right at opening (9:00 AM) or after 4:00 PM to avoid the worst crowds. The peak rush is 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM when tour buses arrive. Early morning offers the additional benefit of better photography light and peaceful atmosphere. Our tours are timed specifically to beat the crowds.
What Our Guests Say About Their Giant's Causeway Tour
"Our full-day tour to Giant's Causeway from Belfast was absolutely incredible! Michael's knowledge of the area was outstanding – he knew exactly when and where to stop for the best photos. We avoided the crowds at Giant's Causeway by arriving early, and the Dark Hedges was magical. Worth every penny!"
- Sarah & James Thompson, California, USA
Giant's Causeway Classic Tour, September 2024
"As a Game of Thrones fan, I was thrilled to visit the Giant's Causeway and Dark Hedges in one day. Our guide shared behind-the-scenes filming stories and knew all the best viewpoints. The rope bridge was terrifying but amazing! The luxury Mercedes and small group size made it feel very personal. Highly recommend!"
- Emma Richardson, Manchester, UK
Game of Thrones Experience Tour, July 2024
"We had just one day in Belfast and wanted to see the Giant's Causeway. This tour was perfect! We saw so much more than just the causeway – Dunluce Castle, Carrick-a-Rede, the Dark Hedges, and the coast. Our guide's storytelling brought Irish history and mythology to life. An unforgettable day!"
- Michael & Lisa Chen, Sydney, Australia
Giant's Causeway Classic Tour, August 2024
"I was worried about driving on the left side of the road in a rental car, so we booked this tour instead – best decision! No stress, no navigation worries, just pure enjoyment. The Giant's Causeway exceeded my expectations, and the whole Causeway Coast is stunning. Michael even stopped at scenic spots not on the official itinerary!"
- Robert Anderson, Toronto, Canada
Giant's Causeway Classic Tour, October 2024
Ready to Experience Northern Ireland's Crown Jewel?
Join our award-winning Giant's Causeway tour from Belfast and discover why this UNESCO World Heritage Site captivates visitors from around the world.
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