Northern Ireland, United Kingdom: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know Northern Ireland is home to the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery? Established in 1608, Old Bushmills Distillery has been crafting smooth Irish whiskey for over 400 years, making it a testament to Northern Ireland’s rich heritage. This small but mighty region of the United Kingdom packs an incredible punch when it comes to breathtaking landscapes, fascinating history, and unforgettable experiences that will leave you planning your return visit before you’ve even left.

From the otherworldly hexagonal basalt columns of Giant’s Causeway to the immersive Titanic Belfast museum, Northern Ireland offers visitors a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and historical sites. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of giants along the Causeway Coast, exploring Game of Thrones filming locations, or savoring an Ulster Fry in a cozy Belfast café, this compact region delivers experiences that rival destinations many times its size.

This comprehensive Northern Ireland travel guide will help you plan every aspect of your journey, from the practical details of getting there and getting around to the unmissable attractions and hidden gems that make this destination so special. So pack your sense of adventure (and perhaps a raincoat) as we explore the best that Northern Ireland has to offer.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Northern Ireland is well-connected to the rest of the UK and Europe, with several options for travelers depending on your starting point and preferences.

By Air

The two main airports serving Northern Ireland are:

• Belfast International Airport (BFS) – Located about 30 km (18.6 miles) northwest of Belfast, handling flights from major UK cities, Europe, and some North American destinations.
• George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD) – Just 5 km (3.1 miles) from the city center, primarily serving UK domestic routes and some European destinations.

If you’re coming from North America or other international locations, you might find more direct options to Dublin Airport in the Republic of Ireland, followed by a 2-hour drive or bus journey north to Belfast.

By Sea

Ferry services connect Northern Ireland to Scotland, England, and the Isle of Man:

• Belfast to Liverpool – Stena Line operates overnight crossings.
• Belfast to Cairnryan (Scotland) – Multiple daily sailings with P&O Ferries and Stena Line.
• Larne to Cairnryan – Regular crossings with P&O Ferries.

From the Republic of Ireland

If you’re already in the Republic of Ireland, crossing the border into Northern Ireland is seamless with no passport checks (though carrying ID is always recommended). Regular bus services connect Dublin to Belfast, with the journey taking approximately 2 hours.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Summer in the Mourne Mountains offers ideal hiking conditions with longer daylight hours

Northern Ireland experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild temperatures year-round, though rain is a frequent visitor no matter when you travel. Here’s a seasonal breakdown to help you plan:

Best Time to Visit Northern Ireland

Recommended Months to Visit

For the ideal balance of pleasant weather, reasonable crowds, and full access to attractions, the best months to visit Northern Ireland are May, June, and September. These months offer milder temperatures, relatively lower rainfall compared to other times of year, and longer daylight hours for exploring.

Months to Avoid

If possible, avoid visiting in November through February unless you specifically enjoy winter travel. These months see the shortest daylight hours (as little as 7-8 hours of daylight), the most rainfall, and some rural attractions may have limited opening hours or be closed entirely.

Weather Tips

• The weather in Northern Ireland can change rapidly – always pack layers, even in summer.
• A waterproof jacket is essential year-round.
• Coastal areas are often windier and cooler than inland locations.
• May and June typically offer the sunniest days of the year.
• Snow is relatively rare but can occur in winter, especially in mountainous areas.

Getting Around Locally

Northern Ireland’s compact size makes it relatively easy to explore, with Belfast to the Giant’s Causeway taking just over an hour by car. Here are your options for getting around:

Public Transport

Translink operates Northern Ireland’s public transport network, including:

• Trains – Connect Belfast to major towns including Derry/Londonderry, Portrush, Coleraine, Bangor, and Newry. The Belfast to Derry line is considered one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world.
• Buses – Ulsterbus services reach most towns and villages, while Metro buses cover Belfast.
• Integrated tickets – The iLink card offers unlimited travel across Northern Ireland for 1-7 days.

Rental Cars

For maximum flexibility, especially when exploring rural areas and the Causeway Coast, renting a car is highly recommended. Northern Ireland drives on the left, and roads are generally well-maintained. Most attractions outside Belfast have parking facilities, though city parking can be limited.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available in Belfast and other major towns. In Belfast, black cabs can be hailed on the street, while private taxis must be pre-booked. Many taxi companies offer tours of Belfast’s political murals and other attractions.

Cycling

Northern Ireland has developed several scenic cycling routes, particularly along the Causeway Coast. Belfast has a bike-sharing scheme called Belfast Bikes with docking stations throughout the city center.

Map of Northern Ireland showing major cities and attractions

Where to Stay

Belfast offers a range of accommodations from historic luxury hotels to modern boutique properties

Northern Ireland offers accommodations to suit every budget and travel style, from luxury castle hotels to cozy B&Bs and self-catering cottages.

Belfast

As the capital and largest city, Belfast has the widest range of accommodation options:

• Luxury: The Merchant Hotel, Titanic Hotel Belfast, and The Fitzwilliam offer five-star experiences.
• Mid-range: Bullitt Hotel, Malmaison Belfast, and Ten Square provide stylish stays at moderate prices.
• Budget: Premier Inn, Ibis, and various hostels offer affordable options.

Derry/Londonderry

Northern Ireland’s second city offers:

• Bishop’s Gate Hotel – Boutique hotel in a historic building within the city walls.
• Shipquay Hotel – Elegant hotel in the heart of the walled city.
• Maldron Hotel – Modern accommodation close to the Peace Bridge.

Causeway Coast

For exploring Giant’s Causeway and the northern coastline:

• Bushmills Inn – Historic coaching inn near Giant’s Causeway and the whiskey distillery.
• Bayview Hotel – Comfortable hotel in Portballintrae with sea views.
• Ballygally Castle – 17th-century castle hotel on the Antrim coast (reportedly haunted!).

Rural Retreats

For a quintessential Northern Irish experience:

• Belle Isle Castle – Historic castle accommodation in County Fermanagh.
• Finn Lough Resort – Unique bubble domes and lakeside lodges in Fermanagh.
• Galgorm Resort & Spa – Luxury spa resort set in parkland near Ballymena.

Dining & Local Cuisine

The Ulster Fry is Northern Ireland’s iconic breakfast dish

Northern Ireland’s food scene has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, with an emphasis on high-quality local ingredients and traditional recipes reimagined for modern palates.

Must-Try Northern Irish Dishes

• Ulster Fry – The ultimate breakfast featuring soda bread, potato bread, sausages, bacon, eggs, black pudding, and more.
• Soda Bread & Potato Bread – Traditional breads that accompany many meals.
• Irish Stew – Hearty lamb stew with potatoes, onions, and carrots.
• Dulse – Dried seaweed snack, particularly popular along the coast.
• Yellowman – Honeycomb toffee traditionally sold at the Ould Lammas Fair in Ballycastle.
• Belfast Bap – Large, floury bread roll often filled with bacon or sausage.

Where to Eat in Belfast

Belfast has evolved into a foodie destination with options for all budgets:

• St. George’s Market – Weekend food market perfect for sampling local specialties.
• Cathedral Quarter – Home to many of the city’s best restaurants and bars.
• OX and Eipic – Belfast’s Michelin-starred restaurants for special occasions.
• Mourne Seafood Bar – Fresh seafood in casual surroundings.
• Deanes – Local chef Michael Deane’s collection of restaurants catering to different tastes.

Coastal Dining

The Causeway Coast offers exceptional seafood:

• Harry’s Shack – Beach-front restaurant in Portstewart serving fresh fish.
• Ramore Complex – Collection of popular restaurants in Portrush.
• Native Seafood & Scran – Seafood specialists in Portstewart.

Drinks

Northern Ireland has a proud tradition of distilling and brewing:

• Bushmills Whiskey – Tour the world’s oldest licensed distillery.
• Craft Beer – Try local breweries like Whitewater, Hilden, and Belfast’s Boundary Brewing.
• Traditional Pubs – The Crown Liquor Saloon in Belfast and Peadar O’Donnell’s in Derry offer authentic pub experiences.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

The Dark Hedges, made famous as the Kingsroad in Game of Thrones

Natural Wonders

• Giant’s Causeway – UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of ancient volcanic activity (or, according to legend, built by the giant Finn McCool).
• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge – Suspended 30 m (98 ft) above the sea, this rope bridge was originally built by salmon fishermen.
• Mourne Mountains – Dramatic mountain range that inspired C.S. Lewis’s Narnia, offering excellent hiking opportunities.
• Glenariff Forest Park – Known as the “Queen of the Glens,” featuring spectacular waterfalls and walking trails.
• Marble Arch Caves – One of Europe’s finest show caves with underground rivers and waterfalls.

Historic Sites

• Dunluce Castle – Dramatic medieval castle ruins perched on coastal cliffs.
• Carrickfergus Castle – Well-preserved 12th-century Norman castle.
• Derry City Walls – The only completely walled city in Ireland, dating from the 17th century.
• Down Cathedral – Traditional burial place of St. Patrick.
• Ulster American Folk Park – Open-air museum telling the story of emigration from Ulster to America.

Game of Thrones Experiences

Northern Ireland served as a primary filming location for HBO’s Game of Thrones, with numerous sites that fans will recognize:

• Dark Hedges – The atmospheric tree-lined avenue that served as the Kingsroad.
• Castle Ward – The real-life Winterfell, offering archery experiences in the same spot where the Stark children practiced.
• Cushendun Caves – Where Melisandre gave birth to the shadow creature.
• Ballintoy Harbour – Served as the Iron Islands in the show.

Belfast Highlights

• Titanic Belfast – Award-winning interactive museum dedicated to the ill-fated ship built in Belfast’s shipyards.
• Political Murals – Take a black cab tour to see the powerful murals depicting Northern Ireland’s troubled past.
• Crumlin Road Gaol – Former prison offering tours of its 150-year history.
• Ulster Museum – Diverse collections covering art, history, and natural sciences.
• Botanic Gardens – Beautiful Victorian gardens and the Palm House.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

Titanic Belfast’s distinctive architecture pays homage to Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage

Top Museums

• Titanic Belfast – The world’s largest Titanic visitor experience, located where the ship was built.
• Ulster Museum – Belfast’s principal museum with diverse collections spanning art, history, and natural sciences.
• Ulster Folk Museum – Open-air museum showcasing life in early 20th century Ulster.
• Ulster Transport Museum – Collection of trains, trams, cars, and other vehicles.
• Museum of Free Derry – Tells the story of the civil rights movement and the Troubles in Derry.
• North Irish Museum of Modern Art – Contemporary art in beautiful surroundings.

Cultural Experiences

• Traditional Music Sessions – Experience live Irish music in pubs throughout Northern Ireland.
• Ulster-Scots Heritage – Explore this distinct cultural tradition, particularly in Counties Antrim and Down.
• Craft Villages – Visit places like The Craft Village in Derry to see traditional crafts being made.
• Literary Heritage – Northern Ireland has produced notable writers including Seamus Heaney, C.S. Lewis, and Samuel Beckett.

Major Festivals

• Belfast International Arts Festival (October) – Diverse program of theater, dance, music, and visual arts.
• Derry Halloween (October) – Europe’s largest Halloween festival.
• Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival (May) – Music, comedy, theater, and visual arts in Belfast.
• Open House Festival (August) – Music and arts festival in Bangor.
• Ould Lammas Fair (August) – Traditional fair in Ballycastle dating back over 400 years.
• Northwest 200 (May) – One of the world’s fastest road motorcycle races.

Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences

The Causeway Coast Way offers spectacular hiking with dramatic coastal views

Hiking & Walking

Northern Ireland offers exceptional walking opportunities:

• Causeway Coast Way – 53 km (33 mile) marked trail from Portstewart to Ballycastle.
• Mourne Mountains – Various routes including the ascent of Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland’s highest peak at 850 m (2,790 ft).
• Glenariff Forest Park – Waterfall Walk through spectacular gorges.
• Divis and Black Mountain – Panoramic views over Belfast.
• Gobbins Cliff Path – Dramatic coastal walk along steel bridges and paths cut into the cliff face.

Golf

Northern Ireland is a world-class golf destination:

• Royal Portrush – Host of The Open Championship and one of the world’s finest links courses.
• Royal County Down – Consistently ranked among the world’s top courses.
• Portstewart – Stunning links course with views over the Atlantic.
• Castlerock – Classic links course on the Causeway Coast.

Water Activities

• Surfing – The north coast, particularly around Portrush, offers excellent surfing conditions.
• Canoeing & Kayaking – Explore Strangford Lough or the Causeway Coast by paddle.
• Fishing – World-class angling in rivers, lakes, and coastal waters.
• Sailing – Strangford Lough and Belfast Lough are popular sailing destinations.

Cycling

• Causeway Coastal Route – Spectacular road cycling along the north coast.
• Comber Greenway – Traffic-free path from Belfast to Comber.
• Mountain Biking – Purpose-built trails at Rostrevor, Castlewellan, and Davagh Forest.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Traditional Irish pubs are central to Northern Ireland’s social culture

Safety

Northern Ireland is generally a very safe destination for travelers. The political violence that characterized the region during “The Troubles” (1968-1998) has largely disappeared following the Good Friday Agreement. Today, crime rates are low, and visitors typically experience a warm welcome.

Standard travel precautions apply:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
• In Belfast and Derry, some areas still have sectarian tensions – guided tours are the best way to explore political murals and historical sites related to The Troubles.
• When hiking in remote areas, ensure someone knows your route and expected return time.

Cultural Etiquette

Northern Ireland has a complex political and cultural identity. Some general guidelines:

• Avoid making assumptions about someone’s political or religious views based on their name or location.
• The terms “Northern Ireland” and “the North of Ireland” can have political connotations – “Northern Ireland” is generally neutral.
• Similarly, Derry/Londonderry is known by both names, with “Derry” generally preferred by nationalists and “Londonderry” by unionists. Many locals simply say “Derry” regardless of political views.
• Tipping is similar to the rest of the UK – 10-15% in restaurants if service isn’t included, and rounding up for taxi fares.

Local Customs

• Pub Culture – Pubs are central to social life. It’s common to buy rounds when drinking with locals.
• Craic – This Irish word (pronounced “crack”) refers to fun, entertainment, and good conversation.
• Weather Talk – As in the rest of the UK and Ireland, discussing the weather is a common conversation starter.
• Humor – Northern Irish humor often features self-deprecation and gentle teasing.

Visitor Comments About Northern Ireland

The dramatic ruins of Dunluce Castle perched on coastal cliffs

Practical Travel Tips

St. George’s Market in Belfast offers local produce, crafts, and street food

Money

• Northern Ireland uses the Pound Sterling (£), but Northern Irish banks issue their own banknotes.
• Northern Irish banknotes are legal tender in Northern Ireland but may not be readily accepted elsewhere in the UK (though they can be exchanged at banks).
• Credit cards are widely accepted, though it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas.
• ATMs are readily available in towns and cities.

Language

• English is the primary language spoken throughout Northern Ireland.
• Irish (Gaelic) and Ulster-Scots are recognized regional languages that you may see on some signs.
• Local accents can be strong, particularly in rural areas and Belfast.

Connectivity

• Mobile coverage is generally good in towns and cities but can be patchy in remote rural areas.
• Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes, and many public spaces in larger towns.
• If you’re also visiting the Republic of Ireland, be aware of potential roaming charges when crossing the border.

Border Crossing

• There are no physical border checks between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
• If you’re driving a rental car across the border, check with your rental company about any restrictions or additional insurance requirements.
• Different currencies are used (£ in Northern Ireland, € in the Republic).

Packing Essentials

• Waterproof jacket and layers (regardless of season)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• UK power adapters (3-pin, 230V)
• Camera for the spectacular landscapes

Conclusion

Northern Ireland may be small in size, but it delivers an outsized travel experience that combines dramatic landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and genuine hospitality. From the otherworldly basalt columns of Giant’s Causeway to the immersive Titanic Belfast, from the rugged Causeway Coast to the bustling streets of Belfast and Derry, this corner of the United Kingdom offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.

What makes Northern Ireland truly special is its ability to surprise visitors. Those who come expecting only Game of Thrones locations discover world-class restaurants and museums. Those seeking natural wonders find themselves equally captivated by the warmth and wit of the locals. And those interested in recent history are heartened by the region’s remarkable transformation and optimism for the future.

Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of giants along the Causeway Coast, savoring an Ulster Fry in a cozy café, or raising a glass of Bushmills in a traditional pub, Northern Ireland will capture your imagination and leave you planning your return visit. The land of myths, legends, and warm welcomes awaits your discovery.