Northern Ireland offers a mix of historic cities and coastal landscapes that are well-suited for those who prefer a relaxed pace. If you are planning your first visit, you might be looking for places to visit in Northern Ireland that provide a genuine look at the local history and culture without the rush of a crowded itinerary.
Most of the top things to do in Northern Ireland are located within a few hours’ drive of each other, making it easy to see the main sites while still having time for a quiet lunch or a walk along the coast. From the industrial heritage of Belfast to the natural formations on the Antrim coast, here are seven practical recommendations for what to do in Northern Ireland.
Table of Contents
- What Are The Best Things to do in Northern Ireland? A Brief Overview
- Top 7 Things to do in Northern Ireland
- Best Time To Visit Northern Ireland
- Ready to explore the North at your own pace?
- FAQs
- Do I need a different currency for Northern Ireland?
- Can I use my mobile phone plan across the border in Northern Ireland?
- Is it easy to travel between Belfast and Derry in Northern Ireland?
- Do I need a passport to cross the border into Northern Ireland from the South?
- Are the attractions in Northern Ireland open all year round?
What Are The Best Things to do in Northern Ireland? A Brief Overview
When deciding where to go in Northern Ireland, it helps to consider a variety of outdoor sites, museums, and historic landmarks. The following table provides a quick look at some of the most popular Northern Ireland attractions and who they are best suited for.
| Activity | Location | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Giant’s Causeway | North Coast | Thousands of interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. | Coastal walks & geology |
| Titanic Belfast | Belfast | An interactive museum located where the famous ship was originally built. | Maritime history & interactive exhibits |
| Derry City Walls | Derry/Londonderry | Defensive 17th-century walls that offer an elevated walking route around the city. | History & walking tours |
| The Gobbins | Islandmagee | A dramatic cliff-face path featuring bridges, tunnels, and caves. | Guided cliff walks |
| Mount Stewart | Ards Peninsula | A neo-classical house set within world-renowned botanical gardens. | Botanical gardens & historic houses |
| The Dark Hedges | Stranocum | A scenic avenue of atmospheric beech trees planted in the 18th century. | Photography & folklore |
| Dunluce Castle | Bushmills | The iconic ruins of a medieval castle are perched on a steep coastal cliff. | Medieval ruins & coastal views |
Top 7 Things to do in Northern Ireland
1. The Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim
The Giant’s Causeway consists of approximately 40,000 basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. It is the only UNESCO World Heritage site in the region and is consistently rated as one of the best things to do in Northern Ireland.
- Location: 44 Causeway Rd, Bushmills BT57 8SU.
- Visitor Experience: Visitors can walk across the unique rock formations, explore various coastal trails, and learn about the site’s geology and mythology at the visitor centre.
- Insider Note: A low-floor shuttle bus runs regularly between the visitor centre and the stones for a small fee, which is helpful for those who want to skip the steep walk back up.
While the visitor centre provides detailed geological information, many visitors also enjoy the local folklore regarding the giant Finn MacCool. The site features several walking trails, including the Blue Trail, which leads directly to the stones, and the Red Trail which follows the cliff edge for higher vantage points. If you are booking tours from Dublin, this site is usually one of the primary places to see in Northern Ireland on the northern route.
2. Titanic Belfast, Belfast City
Titanic Belfast is an interactive monument and museum located on the site of the former Harland & Wolff shipyard where the RMS Titanic was built. The museum is a major cultural landmark and is frequently cited as one of the essential things to do in Belfast.
- Location: 1 Olympic Way, Queen’s Road, Belfast BT3 9EP.
- Visitor Experience: The museum features nine galleries that cover everything from the ship’s construction to its maiden voyage and eventual discovery on the seabed.
- Insider Note: The building is fully accessible with lifts to all floors, and it is best to book your timed entry slot online in advance to avoid long waits.
A visit here typically takes between 2 to 3 hours. It is an ideal option for indoor things to do in Northern Ireland, especially on a rainy day. If you prefer starting your journey in the city, many Ireland tours from Belfast begin in this historic Quarter.
3. The Walled City of Derry, County Londonderry
Derry is the only city in Ireland where the 17th-century defensive walls remain completely intact, and they are recognised as some of the best-preserved examples in Europe. Exploring the elevated walkway of the walls is one of the best things to do in Northern Ireland to understand the city’s historic origins.
- Location: City Centre, Derry/Londonderry.
- Visitor Experience: The walls are approximately 1.5km in circumference and offer a unique elevated walkway around the inner city with views of the Bogside and the Guildhall.
- Insider Note: For the best context, join a guided walking tour; the local guides are famous for their storytelling and can point out historical details you might otherwise miss.
For those looking for free things to do in Northern Ireland, walking the ramparts yourself is an excellent way to see the city’s four original gates and the historic cannons.
4. The Gobbins Cliff Path, County Antrim
For those seeking fun things to do in Northern Ireland that involve the outdoors, The Gobbins offers a dramatic guided walk along the cliff face.
- Location: Islandmagee, County Antrim.
- Visitor Experience: This guided path involves crossing tubular bridges, traversing tunnels, and climbing steps carved directly into the basalt rock, all while observing local marine life and seabirds.
- Insider Note: Helmets are provided and mandatory; also, ensure you wear sturdy boots with good grip as the path can be slippery even on dry days.
This is a guided-only experience, so booking in advance is essential. It is a fantastic example of a soft adventure that provides a close-up look at the rugged coastline.
5. Mount Stewart House and Gardens, County Down
If you are looking for romantic things to do in Northern Ireland, the gardens at Mount Stewart are often cited as some of the best in the UK.
- Location: Portaferry Rd, Newtownards BT22 2AD.
- Visitor Experience: Guests can explore diverse gardens, including the Italian and Sunken gardens, walk the trails around the lake, and take a tour of the 19th-century neo-classical mansion.
- Insider Note: The microclimate on the Ards Peninsula allows for many rare and exotic plants to thrive here that you won’t see elsewhere in Ireland.
The house itself features a significant collection of art and furniture. It is one of the more relaxed places to visit in Northern Ireland, where you can easily spend half a day.
6. The Dark Hedges, County Antrim
The Dark Hedges is an avenue of beech trees planted by the Stuart family in the 18th century. It has recently become famous globally as the filming location for the “Kingsroad” in Game of Thrones.
- Location: Bregagh Rd, Stranocum, Ballymoney BT53 8PX.
- Visitor Experience: Visitors can walk beneath the atmospheric canopy of twisted beech trees, making it a popular spot for photography and fans of local folklore.
- Insider Note: Look out for the door of the Gracehill House at the end of the road; it was carved from one of the trees that fell during a storm and is part of a series of intricate doors found across Northern Ireland that tell the story of the region’s folklore.
This is one of the most photographed Northern Ireland attractions, but it is a short stop. It is best combined with a trip to the nearby Giant’s Causeway or Dunluce Castle.
7. Dunluce Castle, County Antrim
Dunluce Castle is a picturesque medieval ruin located on the edge of a basalt outcropping. It is often included in lists of what to see in Northern Ireland due to its dramatic setting and long history of feuding clans.
- Location: 87 Dunluce Rd, Bushmills BT57 8UY.
- Visitor Experience: Visitors can explore the extensive ruins of the castle and its surrounding merchant town, while learning about the legends of the MacDonnell clan via the onsite exhibition.
- Insider Note: Take a moment to look down into the “Mermaid’s Cave” beneath the castle, which can be reached via a steep path from the main ruins.
For families, it is one of the great things to do in Northern Ireland with kids, as the ruins are safe to explore and provide a real sense of history.
Best Time To Visit Northern Ireland
The best time to visit Northern Ireland is generally between May and September. During these months, the weather is milder, and the days are longer, allowing more time for outdoor activities and coastal drives.
- Spring (March–May): Temperatures range from 8°C to 13°C. It is a quieter time to visit, and you can see the landscape in bloom.
- Summer (June–August): This is the warmest period, with average highs of 18°C–19°C. It is the peak tourist season, so expect more people at major sites.
- Autumn (September–November): A good time for those who prefer fewer crowds. The weather remains relatively mild in September before cooling down in October.
- Winter (December–February): Temperatures average around 8°C. While it is the wettest season, it is a great time to enjoy indoor things to do in Northern Ireland like museums and traditional pubs.
Packing Tips
When preparing for a trip to Northern Ireland, the key is to be ready for variable weather. Even in summer, rain is a possibility, so taking a practical approach when deciding what to pack for your tour to Ireland is the best way to stay comfortable.
- Layers: Pack lightweight layers like merino wool or fleece that can be added or removed as the temperature changes.
- Waterproofs: A high-quality, breathable waterproof jacket is essential for any coastal walks.
- Footwear: Comfortable, waterproof walking shoes or boots with good grip are necessary for sites like the Giant’s Causeway or The Gobbins.
- Power Adapters: Northern Ireland uses the Type G three-prong plug (same as the UK).
- Smart Casual: Dress codes in Northern Ireland are generally relaxed. “Smart casual” is appropriate for almost all restaurants and hotels.
Ready to explore the North at your own pace?
If you are looking to see the best things to do in Northern Ireland without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads or keeping up with a strict, fast-paced schedule, a small group tour might be the right fit. Our itineraries are designed around the concept of slow travel, focusing on the real stories, the local people, and the hidden corners of the island that larger groups often overlook. You can explore our full range of small group tours to find a journey that allows you to experience the real Ireland at a relaxed and comfortable pace.
FAQs
Do I need a different currency for Northern Ireland?
Yes, Northern Ireland uses the British Pound (GBP), unlike the Republic of Ireland, which uses the Euro (EUR). While many places near the border may accept both, it is best to have Pounds on hand or use a card for transactions when visiting Northern Ireland.
Can I use my mobile phone plan across the border in Northern Ireland?
Most UK and Irish mobile providers include roaming between the North and South at no extra cost, but it is important to check with your specific provider before you travel to Northern Ireland to avoid unexpected charges.
Is it easy to travel between Belfast and Derry in Northern Ireland?
The two cities are well-connected by both road and rail within Northern Ireland. The drive takes about an hour and a half, while the train journey is roughly two hours and is widely considered one of the most scenic rail routes in Northern Ireland and the wider UK.
Do I need a passport to cross the border into Northern Ireland from the South?
There are no physical border controls between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. However, you should always carry valid identification when entering Northern Ireland, and if you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, you should check if your visa requirements differ for the UK.
Are the attractions in Northern Ireland open all year round?
Most major Northern Ireland attractions like Titanic Belfast and the Giant’s Causeway visitor centre are open year-round, except for Christmas Day and occasionally Boxing Day. Outdoor sites in Northern Ireland, like The Gobbins, may have seasonal closures for safety during the winter months.
Got more questions about visiting Ireland? Check out our main FAQs page for answers, tips, and advice about visiting Ireland.