Captivating Day Trips from Belfast
Ireland is truly an inspiring isle. A land of storytellers, talented musicians, and impassioned songwriters, inspired by breathtaking landscapes that are always worth exploring. iBestTravel is perfectly positioned to help you discover a host of captivating day trips from Belfast.
Make Like a Derry Girl on a Day Trip to Derry
Why go: Discover the real city behind the hit TV show
Northern Ireland’s second-largest city, Derry (Londonderry), has gained prominence as the backdrop for Channel 4’s hit series Derry Girls. Set in the 90s as The Troubles ended, the show reveals the charm, humor, and joy of a place often misunderstood, sparking a surge of interest in Northern Ireland’s intriguing second city.
Walk through history by ascending the impressively intact 17th-century city walls, which preserve important historical sites. Visit the neo-Gothic Guildhall to marvel at the stained glass and learn about the Ulster Plantation. Stop by The Walled City Brewery for delicious food and craft beers before returning to Belfast.
How to get to Derry from Belfast: Take the train from Great Victoria Street, which runs hourly most days and takes about 2.5 hours. Alternatively, the 212 Goldline Express bus connects Derry and Belfast, taking approximately two hours.
Drive the Epic Causeway Coast: A Scenic Day Out from Belfast
Why go: To enjoy some of Ireland’s most spectacular landscapes
A mythical tale tells of an ancient giant named Fionn MacCumhaill who created the cobbled pathway toward Scotland. In reality, the Giant’s Causeway is a natural wonder formed by cooling lava that created hexagonal basalt columns. This breathtaking site is one of Northern Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions.
While exploring the North Antrim coast, visit notable sites like Dunluce Castle and the Mussenden Temple. Enjoy delicious meals in picturesque settings like Harry’s Shack.
How to get from Belfast to the Causeway Coast: A rental car is ideal for this trip, allowing for stops at breathtaking vistas and fascinating sites. The Giant’s Causeway is located about 60 miles from Belfast, taking roughly one hour to drive there via the M2.
Visit Dublin: A City for All Senses
Why go: To soak in Dublin’s sights, sounds, flavors, and sensations
This day trip takes you to another capital city, just two hours away. While both cities are unique, they beautifully complement each other. Keep in mind that upon entering the Republic, you’ll need euros (€).
iBestTravel suggests experiencing Dublin through the senses: from the aroma of roasted barley at the Guinness Storehouse to the lively atmosphere in the Temple Bar cultural quarter. Don’t miss the tranquility of St Stephen’s Green and glimpses of deer in Phoenix Park.
Iconic experiences await, from the bustling crowds at Croke Park on match day to enjoying traditional Irish cuisine, including creamy pints of stout and fresh oysters.
How to get to Dublin from Belfast: The Belfast-Dublin Enterprise train service operates eight times daily, taking just over two hours. Alternatively, you can drive about 100 miles in under two hours via the M1/A1 motorways (tolls apply).
Discover Game of Thrones Locations Near Belfast
Why go: To explore the real Westeros
Game of Thrones has significantly impacted Northern Ireland tourism. Many filming locations can be discovered on a day trip from Belfast, from the caves of Cushendun to Ballintoy Harbour and the famous avenue of intertwined beech trees known as the Dark Hedges.
After Storm Gertrude damaged some of the iconic trees, intricate wooden doors were created to honor them. Fans can follow the trail to find these Game of Thrones doors spread across various locations in Northern Ireland.
How to explore Game of Thrones locations from Belfast: Several tour operators offer 8–9 hour coach tours with photo opportunities and live commentary. Alternatively, renting a car allows you to drive to many top filming sites at your own pace.
