Shore Excursion from Belfast: How to Plan Your Tour

If you are visiting Belfast and looking for a hassle-free way to explore the Northern Ireland countryside, the Shore Excursion from Belfast is a fantastic option. This tour is offered by a third-party company and includes private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, and hassle-free round-trip transfers from your hotel or cruise ship. Here’s everything you need to know about how to plan your tour.

Overview of the Tour

The Shore Excursion from Belfast is about exploring the Northern Ireland countryside in a day-long tour. You get to visit the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, the Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills Whiskey Distillery, and other stops to enjoy the natural beauty and rich history of the region. The tour includes a private air-conditioned vehicle, a driver-guide, and tip for your guide.

What’s Included

The Shore Excursion from Belfast includes the following:

• Private and comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Hassle-free round trip transfer from your hotel or cruise ship in Belfast city centre
• Tip for your guide
• Tour to Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Giant’s Causeway, and Bushmills Whiskey Distillery

The Itinerary

The Shore Excursion from Belfast includes the following stops:

1. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge – this stop includes a 20-minute walk to the bridge, where you can cross the famous rope bridge and enjoy the view of the coast.
2. Giant’s Causeway – this stop includes a 1.5 hour visit to the famous geological wonder of Northern Ireland. You can hike around the causeway, view the basalt columns, and even wade in the sea.
3. Bushmills Whiskey Distillery – this stop includes a 1-hour tour or tasting session of the famous Irish whiskey.
4. Dark Hedges – this stop is a quick photo opportunity at one of the most photographed places in Northern Ireland, famous for its beautiful trees arching over the road.
5. Dunluce Castle – this stop is a quick photo opportunity at the famous ruins of the castle on the edge of the North Atlantic.
6. Cushendun Caves – this stop includes a visit to the famous caves used as a filming location for Game of Thrones.
7. Glenariff Forest Park – this stop includes a 20-minute walk to the beautiful waterfall.
8. Northern Irish Countryside – a drive through the beautiful countryside of Northern Ireland, with plenty of opportunity to take photos.
9. Carrickfergus Castle – a photo stop at one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Northern Ireland.

Meeting and Pickup

The Shore Excursion from Belfast offers pickup points from various locations in Belfast, including Belfast City Centre hotels and Airbnbs, and free cruise ship pickup and drop off. When booking the tour, you can select your preferred pickup point and add any special requests you may have.

What to Expect

The Shore Excursion from Belfast is a private tour and only your group will participate. The tour is not wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible. Infants must sit on laps, and most travelers can participate. The confirmation of the tour will be received at the time of booking. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. To receive a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time of the tour.

Book Your Tour Now

The Shore Excursion from Belfast is a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty and rich history of the Northern Ireland countryside. With the comfort of private transportation and hassle-free round-trip transfers, you can enjoy the trip while experiencing the iconic locations of the region. Book the tour here and enjoy exploring!

Frequently Asked Questions about Belfast

Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland and has a rich history that attracts visitors from all over the world. Before planning a trip to Belfast, it’s essential to know what to expect and what to prepare for. Here are the most frequently asked questions about Belfast:

1. What is the best time to visit Belfast?

Belfast has a temperate climate, and it can rain at any point during the year. The best time to visit is during the summer, which is from June to September. These months have longer days and more pleasant weather. However, summer is the peak tourist season, and you may have to plan your travel and accommodation well in advance to avoid disappointment.

2. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Belfast?

There are many things to see and do in Belfast, but some of the must-visit attractions include:

• The Titanic Belfast Museum: This museum tells the story of the ill-fated Titanic, which was built in Belfast.
• The Giant’s Causeway: It’s a natural wonder that’s located less than two hours from Belfast.
• The Ulster Museum: Exhibits include everything from art, history, and science to nature.
• St. George’s Market: This is the last surviving Victorian market in Belfast.
• The Crumlin Road Gaol: It’s a notorious prison that’s now a tourist attraction and museum.
• The Botanic Gardens: The gardens have a greenhouse called The Palm House, which was designed by Charles Lanyon.

3. What is the best way to get around Belfast?

Belfast has an excellent transportation system that includes trains, buses, taxis, and rental cars. However, the city center is relatively small, and most top tourist attractions are within walking distance. If you’re planning to travel beyond the city center, it’s best to use public transport or a taxi.

4. What is the currency used in Belfast?

Belfast is part of the United Kingdom, and the local currency is the pound sterling (£).

5. What language do people speak in Belfast?

English is the predominant language of Belfast. However, like the rest of Northern Ireland, Irish (Gaeilge) and Ulster-Scots are recognized as official languages, and street signs are written in both English and Irish.

6. How much should I budget for a trip to Belfast?

The cost of a trip to Belfast depends on your accommodation, dining, and activities choices. However, on average, a budget traveler can expect to spend around £50-£70 per day.

7. What is the food like in Belfast?

Belfast has a vibrant dining scene that serves local and international cuisine. Some of the iconic dishes you should try are:

• Ulster Fry: Similar to a traditional English breakfast, Ulster Fry includes eggs, bacon, sausage, black pudding, and white pudding.
• Irish Stew: A hearty stew made from lamb or mutton, potatoes, carrots, and onions.
• Champ: Mashed potatoes mixed with milk, butter, salt, and green onions.
• Tayto Crisps: Potato chips that are popular in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
• Farl: A type of flatbread that’s usually served with breakfast.

8. Can I use my credit card in Belfast?

Credit cards are widely accepted in Belfast, but it’s better to carry cash for small transactions or when visiting local markets.

9. Is Belfast safe to visit?

Belfast is a relatively safe city for tourists, but it’s essential to take precautions such as avoiding poorly-lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your valuables.

10. What is the history of Belfast?

Belfast has a tumultuous history that includes sectarian strife and political violence. The city is known for the Troubles, a decades-long conflict between unionists (mostly Protestant) and nationalists (mostly Catholic), which ended with the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998. Belfast is now a peaceful and welcoming city that celebrates its diversity and rich culture.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Belfast

Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, is a popular tourist destination known for its history, culture, and beautiful landscapes. With so many things to see and do, planning a trip to Belfast can be overwhelming. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make the most of your time in Belfast.

1. Visit the Titanic Belfast Museum

The Titanic Belfast Museum is a must-visit attraction in Belfast. It is located in the historic shipyard where the Titanic was built, and it tells the story of the ill-fated ship from its construction to its tragic end. The museum has interactive exhibits, replicas of the ship’s cabins and machinery, and even a ride that simulates the Titanic’s launch. You should plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the museum.

2. Take a Black Taxi Tour

A Black Taxi Tour is a unique way to explore Belfast’s history and culture. These tours are led by local taxi drivers who provide a personalized tour of the city’s famous murals and political sights, such as the peace walls that separate Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods. You can choose from different tour options, including a political tour or a tour that focuses on Belfast’s music scene.

3. Explore the Botanic Gardens and Ulster Museum

The Botanic Gardens in Belfast are a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. The gardens are home to a variety of plants, including a rose garden, a palm house, and a tropical ravine. Adjacent to the gardens is the Ulster Museum, which showcases the history, art, and natural sciences of Northern Ireland. The museum has collections that range from ancient artifacts to contemporary art, and there are interactive exhibits for kids.

4. Visit St. George’s Market

St. George’s Market is a historic and vibrant indoor market in Belfast’s city center. The market has been operating since 1896 and features over 250 local vendors selling fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs. You can also find a variety of street food vendors selling everything from fish and chips to Thai curries. The market is open Friday to Sunday, and it’s a great place to experience Belfast’s bustling atmosphere.

5. Walk Along the Peace Walls

Belfast’s peace walls were built in the 1970s to separate Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods during the Troubles. Today, the walls are a tourist attraction and a symbol of Belfast’s complicated history. You can take a guided tour of the peace walls or explore them on your own. Walking along the walls provides a unique perspective of the city and an opportunity to learn about Belfast’s past and present.

6. Check Out the Street Art

Belfast has a thriving street art scene, with murals and graffiti art that range from political statements to pop culture references. The city’s street art is especially concentrated in neighborhoods like the Cathedral Quarter and the Shankill Road. You can take a street art tour or explore the murals on your own. The street art adds a colorful and creative element to Belfast’s urban landscape.

7. Visit the Crumlin Road Gaol

The Crumlin Road Gaol is a former prison that has been converted into a museum. The prison operated for over 150 years and housed some of Northern Ireland’s most notorious criminals. The museum provides guided tours that take you through the prison’s cells, execution chamber, and tunnel system. The tour also provides a history of the prison and its role in Belfast’s past.

8. Enjoy Belfast’s Nightlife

Belfast has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs that cater to different tastes. You can check out traditional pubs like The Crown Liquor Saloon or try a trendy cocktail bar like the Merchant Hotel’s Cocktail Bar. If you’re in the mood to dance, you can check out nightclubs like Limelight or Lavery’s.

Book Your Tour Now

Belfast is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. By following this step-by-step guide, you can make the most of your time in Belfast and experience everything the city has to offer. Remember to visit the Titanic Belfast Museum, take a Black Taxi Tour, explore the Botanic Gardens and Ulster Museum, visit St. George’s Market, walk along the peace walls, check out the street art, visit the Crumlin Road Gaol, and enjoy Belfast’s nightlife.