Tour guides Northern Ireland

5 ideas for guided tours in Northern Ireland

• Belfast

  

  Belfast’s history dates back over 1,000 years, with Viking roots and a strong Scottish influence. The city enjoyed a period of great prosperity in the 19th century thanks to the textile industry, and then was the scene of a bloody political conflict that lasted for decades.

  Today, Belfast is a city in the midst of a renaissance, with a vibrant arts and culture scene, numerous urban development projects and a warm and welcoming population.

  The Titanic Belfast is a must-see in the city, offering an immersive experience to discover the history of the famous ocean liner built in the Belfast shipyards. The Belfast Botanic Gardens, meanwhile, is a relaxing and tranquil place in the city center, with a tropical greenhouse, formal gardens and an impressive collection of rare plants.

  Belfast is also famous for its political murals, which represent the complex history of the city. Some are related to the political conflict that tore Northern Ireland apart, while others are tributes to local personalities or Irish culture. A guided walking tour of the most beautiful street art spots is an ideal way to discover the history of Belfast.

• Portrush

  

  Located on the north coast of Ireland, Portrush is a picturesque seaside town with plenty of activities and sites to discover. This town is best known for its pristine beaches, such as White Rocks Beach and Portstewart Beach, which are perfect for walking, swimming and water sports.

  In addition to the beaches, Portrush also offers many dining options, from the famous fish and chips to fresh local seafood. Local restaurants, like The Ramore, are known for their delicious food and spectacular ocean views.

  For history buffs, the seaside town is also home to several cultural and historical sites, such as Dunluce Castle, a ruined castle overlooking the sea, as well as the ruins of the medieval Bonamargy Monastery.
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• Giant’s Causeway

  

  The Giant’s Causeway Coastal Drive is a natural wonder, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and coastal scenery.

  The name of the road comes from the basalt causeway formed about 50 million years ago, when lava flows cooled and hardened, forming hexagonal columns that stretch for miles along the coast. This unique geological formation is considered one of the most beautiful and mysterious in the world.

  The Causeway Coastal Route begins in Belfast and runs for 120 kilometers to the city of Derry-Londonderry. Along the way, you’ll see incredible sights like Dunluce and Carrickfergus castles, the quaint fishing villages of Ballintoy and Portbradden, and the white sandy beaches of Portstewart Beach and Portrush Beach.

  Don’t hesitate to take the time to discover the magic of this breathtaking route, it is recommended to plan a full day to fully enjoy it.

• Gobbins Marine Pathway

  

  The Gobbins Cliff path is a unique experience not to be missed when visiting Northern Ireland. Located on the Antrim coast, about 30 km north of Belfast, this trail is considered one of the most spectacular walks in Europe. The 2.5 mile long trail follows the steep cliffs and rocks of the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Irish Sea.

  The Gobbins Trail was designed in the early 20th century and was recently renovated in 2015, offering a safe and exciting experience. Throughout your walk, you will pass through various stages that include a series of suspension bridges, tunnels, and stairs that wind along the cliffs, offering incredible views of the sea and marine wildlife.

  During the hike, you will see fascinating geological formations such as sea caves, tunnels and natural bridges that have been shaped by the ocean waves over time.

• The rope bridge of Carrick-a-Rede

  

  Discover the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, a unique attraction that offers a spectacular view of the rugged coastline. This rope bridge connects the island territory to the northeast coast of Northern Ireland, about 30 meters above the sea.

  The history of the bridge dates back to the 17th century, when local fishermen began building bridges to access the island of Carrick-a-Rede. Over time, the bridge grew and became a vital passage for fishermen. Today, the bridge is primarily used by tourists seeking adventure and spectacular views.

  Beware, climbing on a 30-meter high suspension bridge is not without danger. That’s why strict safety measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of visitors. They are equipped with a safety harness, which prevents them from falling into the void.