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Day Trips from County Antrim

Day Trips from County Antrim

County Antrim Northern Ireland, Ireland Travel Guide

Derry/Londonderry County Londonderry

Northern Ireland's second-largest city. It is famous for its intact 17th-century city walls, a rich history, and the political murals of the Bogside.

A guided walking tour of the city walls is recommended to comprehend the city's complex history.

Planning Your Visit

  • Direct train from Belfast (Lanyon Place) takes approximately 2 hours. Bus journey is about 1 hour 45 minutes.
  • Self-driving takes approximately 1.5-2 hours.
  • Both guided tours and independent travel are good choices.
  • Allow a full day for exploration.

Natural & Cultural Wonders

Explore diverse landscapes and explore rich cultural experiences beyond Belfast.

Mourne Mountains County Down

A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, popular for hiking and scenic drives. This range includes Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland's highest peak.

Visit Essentials

  • Best reached by car, approximately 1 hour south of Belfast.
  • A full day for serious hiking.
  • A half-day for a scenic drive and shorter walks.

Strangford Lough & Ards Peninsula County Down

A large sea lough with numerous islands, abundant wildlife, and picturesque villages. Explore Portaferry, home to the Exploris Aquarium, and Greyabbey, known for its historic abbey.

Visit Essentials

  • Best explored by car, approximately 30-60 minutes from Belfast.
  • Visit Exploris Aquarium in Portaferry.
  • Discover Greyabbey's historic abbey.

Cultural Highlights

Armagh City County Armagh

  • Ecclesiastical capital of Ireland.
  • Two impressive St. Patrick's Cathedrals.
  • Armagh Observatory and Planetarium.
  • Bus from Belfast takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.

Enniskillen & Fermanagh Lakelands

  • Stunning lakes, ancient island monasteries like Devenish Island.
  • Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark.
  • Best explored by car, approximately 2 hours from Belfast.
  • A rewarding but further afield excursion.

Seamless Connections for Extended Trips

  • Causeway Coastal RouteDedicate 2-3 days for in-depth exploration.
  • Republic of IrelandCombine with Dublin via convenient Enterprise train.
  • ScotlandFrequent ferry services from Belfast/Larne to Cairnryan.
  • Travel OptionsSeamless road and rail connections across borders.
  • West CoastExplore the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland.
  • Ancient HistoryDiscover Ireland's Ancient East, rich in heritage.
  • Overnight StaysConsider Portrush or Ballycastle for coastal lodging.
  • Broader AdventureCreates possibilities for a broader UK journey.

Tip for your travels

Consider a GetYourGuide Day Trip for convenience and expert insights into Northern Ireland's attractions. Book your next adventure via GetYourGuide Day Trips.

Beyond the Main Attractions

Discover hidden gems and cultural experiences.

North West Coastline

This coastline extends into County Londonderry. It includes Downhill Demesne, with its iconic Mussenden Temple perched on a cliff, and the vast Benone Beach.

Tollymore Forest Park

Northern Ireland's first state forest park, located near Newcastle. It features beautiful walking trails, an arboretum, and several Game of Thrones filming locations.

Castlewellan Forest Park

This park features a peace maze, a large lake, and an arboretum. It has a good option for families, with various activities.

Coastal Exploration

The North West Coastline extends into County Londonderry, offering diverse natural beauty and attractions like Roe Valley Country Park.

Getting There

  • Easily accessible by car from the Causeway Coast.
  • Train services go to Coleraine and Limavady.
  • Local buses or taxis from train stations.

Forest Park Adventures

Tollymore and Castlewellan Forest Parks offer tranquil settings for outdoor activities and family outings.

Park Features

  • Beautiful walking trails.
  • Game of Thrones filming locations (Tollymore).
  • Extensive arboretums in both parks.

Flexible Trip Planning

Extended CausewaySpend more days exploring the route.
Republic Add-onVisit Dublin or the Wild Atlantic Way.
Scottish LinkUtilize ferry services for combined travel.
Local TransportTrains and buses connect major cities.
Self-Drive OptionCar is best for remote natural sites.
Accommodation ChoicesCoastal towns or city bases available.

Insight

  • Plan based on personal interests.
  • Combine elements for a richer journey.
  • Focus on cultural depth.
  • Explore diverse landscapes.
  • Choose activity-based experiences.

Tailoring Your Trip

From short visits to extended explorations, Northern Ireland has many possibilities.

Belfast Layover 24 Hours

1

Morning

Visit Titanic Belfast, exploring the museum and the surrounding Titanic Quarter.

2

Lunch

Enjoy lunch at St. George's Market (open Fri-Sun) or a traditional pub in the city center.

3

Afternoon/Evening

Take a Black Taxi Tour of the Peace Walls and Murals. Dinner in Cathedral Quarter, traditional music.

Weekend Escape 2-3 Days

  • Day 1 (Belfast): City center, Titanic Quarter, Black Taxi Tour, evening in Cathedral Quarter.
  • Day 2 (Causeway Coast): Full day for Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle, Dark Hedges.
  • Day 3 (Belfast/Departure): Ulster Museum, Belfast City Hall, last-minute shopping.
  • Organized tours or self-drive options for coastal exploration.
  • Consider staying overnight in charming towns like Portrush or Ballycastle.
  • Explore GetYourGuide for bookable activities.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience

  • Days 1-3: Explore Belfast thoroughly (Titanic Belfast, Crumlin Road Gaol, Ulster Museum, St. George's Market, Black Taxi Tour).
  • Days 4-5: Causeway Coast & Glens (Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede, Dunluce Castle, Bushmills Distillery).
  • Day 6: Day trip to Derry/Londonderry or the Mourne Mountains/Strangford Lough.
  • Day 7: Last-minute shopping or revisit a favorite spot in Belfast before departure.
  • Rent a car or take guided tours for coastal exploration.
  • Spend a night or two in a coastal town like Portrush or Ballycastle.

Extended Visit Considerations

Two-Week In-Depth Exploration

Combine the one-week itinerary with more extensive exploration. Dedicate extra time to the Glens of Antrim for longer hikes. Plan a visit to Rathlin Island to see the puffins. Extend day trips further afield to locations like the Fermanagh Lakelands. Consider a longer visit to the Republic of Ireland, as connections are straightforward. This supports a dive into the region's refinements.

Long-Term Stay Accommodation

For longer stays, focus on self-catering apartments in Belfast. Alternatively, consider extended stays in B&Bs in smaller towns for a more immersive local experience.

Travel Tip

Plan your itinerary based on your trip length and interests. Explore booking options for experiences.
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