County Antrim Travel Guide

Legends, Landscapes & Titanic Tales
County Antrim blends storybook scenery with deep-rooted history – from the basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway to Belfast city, where creation and conflict once walked side by side.

Antrim Top 5 Accommodations County Antrim Tours More Antrim Tips

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Elite Irish Transfers | Chauffeured Touring from Belfast & Beyond
Travel in comfort with a professional driver who knows Ireland inside and out. Elite Irish Transfers offers custom private tours, airport transfers, and local excursions – including political tours of Belfast and day trips along the Causeway Coast. Luxury Mercedes vans accommodate up to 6 passengers in style.

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Top 5 Things to Do in County Antrim

The Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland stretches to Scotland

The Causeway Coast

Self-drive or guided tour
This scenic route delivers the best of Northern Ireland’s coastline – from the hexagonal stones of the Giant’s Causeway to the dramatic ruins of Dunluce Castle and the daring Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. When touring, take your time. The views (and photo stops) come fast and often.
TIP: Visit the Giant's Causeway before or after the tour buses (it's an open site).

SS Nomadic, the only remaining White Star Line ship, sits in drydock near Titanic Belfast. The guided tour here is easily one of the best in Belfast. Irealnd vacation | Ireland travel tips | Northern Ireland | IrelandFamilyVacations.com

A Day in Belfast

Northern Ireland’s capital
Belfast is gritty, creative, and compelling. Dive into the Titanic’s story at the world-class museum, take a Black Cab Tour to understand the Troubles, or explore street art, lively pubs, and Victorian architecture in the Cathedral Quarter. It’s a city with layers – and worth a full day (or two).
Tip: Visit Friday – Sunday to add a visit to the iconic St. George's Market

Carrickfergus Castle

Norman stronghold
Built in the 12th century, Carrickfergus Castle has defended this corner of Belfast Lough for over 800 years. Its sturdy walls, walkable ramparts, and compact grounds make it an easy stop that still feels impressive. Great for history lovers, families, and anyone chasing castle vibes.
Tip: Visit in the morning for better light and fewer crowds.

Waterfall in Glenariff Forest Park in the Glens of Antrim, a short detour from Northern Ireland's Causeway Coastal Route. Ireland travel tips | Ireland vacation | IrelandFamilyVacations.com

The Glens of Antrim

Waterfalls & wooded walks
The nine Glens of Antrim stretch from coast to countryside, filled with wooded trails, scenic lookouts, and slow-paced towns. Glenariff Forest Park is the best-known, but smaller glens like Glenarm and Glenballyeamon have charm too. This is a place to wander, not rush.
Tip: Keep an eye out for local festivals and craft markets, especially in summer.

Rathlin Island

A short ferry ride off the Causeway Coast
Just six miles from the mainland, Rathlin Island feels like a world away. With a tiny population, rugged cliffs, and seasonal puffin colonies, it’s a refreshing escape from the mainland crowds. Explore by bike or on foot but keep an eye on ferry times – miss the last one and you may be stuck without a place to stay, especially in high season.
Tip: Pack snacks and layers – weather shifts quickly and amenities are limited.

The Dark Hedges, Glens of Antrim, Northern Ireland. Ireland vacation | Ireland travel tips

Best Antrim Tours

Explore the best of County Antrim with a guide or fun activity – these tours are top-rated and easy to fit into your itinerary.

Hop on Hop off bus tour – visit the highlights of Belfast. Audio guides available in 6 languages.

eBike tours or rental in Belfast

Afternoon Tea in an iconic Belfast location: The Europe Hotel, The Observatory, Culloden Estate

Afternoon Teat at Ballygally Castle – on the Causeway Coast

Coiste Irish Political Tours in Belfast – from the perspective of political prisoners

DC Walking Tours – multiple tours for ages 12+

Belfast Walking Tours offers private guided tours throughout the city

Belfast Hidden Tours feature The Belfast Story (food, music & dancing) as well as a whiskey experience

​Belfast Music Walking Tour – discover why Belfast is a UNESCO City of Music

Belfast Pub Crawl – a guided exploration of the city's historic pubs

Giants Causeway Tour Company– private tours in Belfast & along the Causeway Coast

Kayaking on the Causeway Coast from Ballycastle

Surf or Paddleboard on the North Atlantic from Portrush (they also offer e-bike tours!)

Derry Girls tour from Belfast

✨ Need help planning your time in Northern Ireland – or beyond?✨
Check out my free Ireland itineraries for inspiration, tips, and easy-to-follow routes.

Accommodations

titinic-hotel-belfast

Titanic Hotel

Former Harland & Wolff headquarters, across from Titanic Belfast.
Rooms reflect ‘ocean liner elegance', simple, practical, and refined.
Best for solo & couple stays.

causeway-hotel-UK

The Causeway Hotel

Located at the Giant's Causeway.
(Guests receive free entry)
Perfect base for exploring the Causeway Coast.
Variety of rooms = great stay for all.

Oceanview Pods

Glamping in Ballymena – family & pet friendly accommodations steps from the beach.
Ideally located for touring the Antrim coast and glens.

Barbican Gatelodge

‘Guard' Glenarm Castle in this Landmark Trust property.
Self-catering property includes rooftop dining and rolltop bath.
This is an adults only stay.

Top Antrim Tips

Arrival Tips

Transportation In Antrim

  • No car? Belfast has a Hop-on Hop-off bus for city touring
  • If you don't have a car (and don't wish to take group tours) you will need to hire a taxi, private driver, or use the local bus