2-Day Northern Ireland Rail Tour: Belfast, Antrim Coast, and Giants Causeway

Embark on an unforgettable 2-day journey through the captivating landscapes of Northern Ireland. Discover the vibrant culture and rich history of Belfast, then venture along the breathtaking Antrim Coast to witness the natural wonders of the Giant’s Causeway and the thrilling Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. With a seamless rail and coach experience, you’ll learn about the region’s stunning scenery and gain insights from knowledgeable local guides. This immersive tour promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you eager to uncover more of Northern Ireland’s hidden gems.

This experience made our list of the 19 Best 2 Day Tours In Dublin.

Good To Know

• This 2-day rail tour from Dublin offers the opportunity to explore Belfast’s history and culture, and experience the natural wonders of the Antrim Coast.
• The tour includes a train journey to Belfast with free time for independent exploration, followed by a scenic coach tour along the Antrim Coastal Road.
• Key highlights of the tour are visiting the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway, crossing the thrilling Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and discovering the rugged coastal landscapes of Northern Ireland.
• The tour provides accommodation, breakfast, a local guide, and transportation via train and air-conditioned coach, with pricing starting at $418.77 per person.
• Travelers have praised the knowledgeable guides, breathtaking scenery, and cultural experiences, although some have noted timing and organization issues with the free time in Belfast.

Tour Overview

This 2-day rail tour from Dublin offers travelers an opportunity to explore the highlights of Northern Ireland, including the historic city of Belfast and the stunning natural wonders along the Antrim Coast.

The tour begins with a train journey from Dublin to Belfast, where participants have free time to independently discover the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

On the second day, a scenic coach tour along the Antrim Coastal Road takes visitors to the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway, as well as the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Carrickarede Island.

With a maximum group size of 30 travelers, this tour provides an intimate and immersive experience for those seeking to uncover the beauty and charm of Northern Ireland.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a train journey from Dublin to Belfast, where participants have free time to independently explore the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

On the second day, a scenic coach tour along the Antrim Coastal Road takes visitors to the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway, as well as the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Carrickarede Island.

At the Giant’s Causeway, guests can marvel at the unique basalt columns that have been shaped by nature over millions of years.

Later, they’ll have the chance to cross the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and discover the picturesque island on the other side.

This two-day adventure offers a diverse blend of history, natural wonders, and scenic coastal views.

Day 1 Itinerary

Departing from Dublin’s Connolly Station, the 2-Day Northern Ireland Rail Tour whisks participants by train to the vibrant city of Belfast, where they’re granted free time to independently explore its rich history and culture.

Travelers can wander the streets, taking in the city’s lively atmosphere and iconic landmarks, from the grand architecture of Belfast City Hall to the thought-provoking murals that dot the walls.

Whether visiting the acclaimed Titanic Belfast museum or simply savoring the local cuisine, this day allows guests to enjoy the unique character of Northern Ireland’s capital before continuing their journey the following day.

Day 2 Itinerary

On the second day, travelers embark on a scenic coach tour along the renowned Antrim Coastal Road, taking in the breathtaking vistas that line Northern Ireland’s northeastern shoreline.

The journey culminates at the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway, a mesmerizing geological phenomenon where 40,000 basalt columns rise from the sea.

Afterward, thrill-seekers cross the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, suspended 100 feet above the crashing waves, to explore the remote Carrickarede Island.

Throughout the day, travelers are treated to the region’s unparalleled natural beauty, from rugged cliffs and rocky headlands to pristine beaches and quaint seaside villages.

This immersive experience provides a taste of Northern Ireland’s quintessential coastal splendor.

Inclusions and Pricing

The tour package includes round-trip rail transport from Dublin, as well as one night’s accommodation.

Breakfast is provided, and additional meals are included as per the itinerary.

Travelers will also benefit from the expertise of a local guide and an air-conditioned vehicle for the scenic coach tour.

Entrance fees for the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (open March to October) are covered, and gratuities are included in the price.

The tour is priced from $418.77 per person, with the final cost varying based on group size.

With a maximum group size of 30 travelers, this Northern Ireland rail tour offers a comprehensive and hassle-free way to explore the stunning Antrim Coast and the iconic Giant’s Causeway.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Where travelers meet for the tour is Connolly Station in Dublin, located at 1 Amiens St, North Wall.

Tour representatives, easily identifiable in bright yellow jackets, will be on hand 20 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time to assist travelers with checking in.

It’s crucial that all participants arrive at the meeting point on time, as the tour will depart promptly and won’t wait for latecomers.

The representatives are there to ensure a smooth start to the journey, so travelers should feel free to approach them with any questions or concerns before setting off.

With the meeting logistics taken care of, the adventure in Northern Ireland can truly begin.

Important Information

With the meeting logistics taken care of, travelers should be aware of a few important details about the Northern Ireland Rail Tour.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and involves moderate physical activity, so those with mobility concerns should consult the operator beforehand.

Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and a valid passport is required on the travel day.

Lastly, the cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 6 days prior to the tour.

The tour promises an unforgettable experience, offering:

• Breathtaking coastal scenery along the Antrim Coast

• The opportunity to explore the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway

• A thrilling crossing of the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Traveler Reviews

Travelers have provided positive feedback on the Northern Ireland Rail Tour, praising the knowledgeable and friendly guides as well as the scenic experiences at the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede.

Many reviewers were impressed by the stunning coastal landscapes and the opportunity to cross the iconic Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.

However, some travelers noted issues with the timing and organization of the tour, particularly regarding the free time in Belfast and the inclusion of meals.

Several suggestions were made for providing more detailed information about the itinerary to help set appropriate expectations.

Despite these minor concerns, the tour seems to offer a well-rounded exploration of Northern Ireland’s natural wonders and cultural highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Typical Group Size for This Tour?

The typical group size for this tour is a maximum of 30 travelers. The tour operator limits the group size to provide a more personalized and intimate experience for participants.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated on This Tour?

The tour operator accommodates dietary restrictions upon request, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals. Travelers should notify the company of any special dietary needs when booking the tour to ensure their requirements are met.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Travel Dates?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 6 days before the departure date, allowing travelers to change their travel plans without penalty. This provides flexibility in case they need to modify their schedule.

Does the Tour Have Any Audio Guides or Language Translation Services?

The tour does not appear to include any audio guides or language translation services. The provided information indicates that the tour is led by a local guide, but does not mention any additional language support for travelers.

Can I Extend My Stay in Belfast or the Antrim Coast on My Own After the Tour?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Belfast or the Antrim Coast on their own after the tour. The tour only includes round-trip transportation from Dublin and 1 night’s accommodation, allowing flexibility for independent exploration before or after the scheduled itinerary.

Sum Up

The 2-Day Northern Ireland Rail Tour offers an immersive and scenic journey through Belfast and the Antrim Coast.

Travelers can explore the city’s rich history, marvel at the Giant’s Causeway, and experience the thrilling Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, all while enjoying the personalized attention of knowledgeable guides.

This captivating tour provides a memorable and unforgettable experience for those seeking to discover the natural wonders and cultural highlights of Northern Ireland.