Giant's Causeway and Antrim Coast Tour

This nine-hour tour departs Belfast for the north Antrim coast, ending at Giant's Causeway - 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns formed 60 million years ago. The drive follows dramatic clifftop roads with stops for photos and coastal village exploration. The optional Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge adds £9 and crosses a chasm to a salmon island 66 feet above water. Strong walkers reach the causeway's stone columns on foot; less mobile visitors can view from accessible paths. Best for natural wonder seekers and photographers. This is a moderate activity lasting 9 hours. Group size: up to 50. You meet at Europa Hotel, Great Victoria Street. Key highlights: UNESCO World Heritage basalt columns (40,000 individual formations), Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge: 66-foot crossing above water, Dunluce Castle clifftop ruins.

Price: £45

Duration: 9 hours

Difficulty: moderate

Group size: up to 50

Minimum age: 4+

Best for: natural wonder seekers and photographers

Best time: May–September for dry weather and long daylight; avoid July–August for coach crowds; visit before 2pm to skip afternoon tour groups

Meeting point: Europa Hotel, Great Victoria Street

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

9:00am Pick up at Europa Hotel - Meet at the hotel entrance on Great Victoria Street; coach departs promptly at 9am.

10:30am–12:00pm Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge optional visit - Cross the swaying rope bridge for views of Rathlin Island; budget 90 minutes including walk-back time.

12:30pm–1:30pm Lunch stop in Bushmills village - Free time to eat; several pubs and cafes serve fish and chips or sandwiches for £7–12.

2:00pm–4:30pm Giant's Causeway exploration - Guided walk down basalt columns; geologist explains formation; accessible lower walkway available.

5:00pm–6:00pm Coastal drive back towards Belfast - Final photo stop at Dunluce Castle ruins overlooking the sea before returning.

The whole experience takes 9 hours. Difficulty: moderate. You meet at Europa Hotel, Great Victoria Street.

• UNESCO World Heritage basalt columns (40,000 individual formations)
• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge: 66-foot crossing above water
• Dunluce Castle clifftop ruins
• Bushmills village lunch stop with local food
• Photographer-friendly golden-hour coastal light (afternoon timing)
• Accessibility: Accessible visitor centre with ramps; lower causeway path suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs; rope bridge not accessible

What is included: Coach transport from Europa Hotel, Guide commentary on geology and history, Admission to Giant's Causeway visitor centre, Parking fees at all attractions.

Not included: Rope bridge entry (£9 optional extra), Meals and drinks, Souvenirs or gift shop purchases. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Waterproof jacket (coastal wind and spray), Sturdy walking shoes (uneven stone surfaces), Sunscreen and hat (no shade on columns), Camera with charged battery. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: May–September for dry weather and long daylight; avoid July–August for coach crowds; visit before 2pm to skip afternoon tour groups.

Accessibility: Accessible visitor centre with ramps; lower causeway path suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs; rope bridge not accessible.

Operator: Irish Tour Tickets

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Crown Liquor Saloon (15 min from Europa Hotel walk)

This activity is run by Irish Tour Tickets.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation 24 hours before departure; non-refundable within 24 hours.

Accessibility: Accessible visitor centre with ramps; lower causeway path suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs; rope bridge not accessible.

Best time to go: May–September for dry weather and long daylight; avoid July–August for coach crowds; visit before 2pm to skip afternoon tour groups.

Do I need hiking boots for Giant's Causeway?

No. Most visitors manage in regular trainers or comfortable shoes. The lower accessible path is paved. If you plan the optional Rope Bridge, wear closed-toe shoes with good grip - the steps are steep and rope is wet.

Is the rope bridge scary?

It sways and bounces with movement, but safety cables prevent falls. The 300-metre walk crosses a 66-foot drop. First crossing takes 5 minutes; nervous visitors cross slowly or don't cross at all.

Can children do this tour?

Yes, children from 4+ are welcome. Rope bridge is safe for ages 6+. Causeway paths have no barriers, so supervise younger children closely. Stroller-age toddlers manage the visitor centre area and lower path.