Northern Ireland Adventure | 9 Day Self-Drive

Capture the true essence of Northern Ireland, at your own pace, on this 9-day self-drive tour. Visit the very best Northern Ireland has to offer, from iconic landmarks and stunning landscapes to delectable cuisine and rich culture!

Experience the best of Northern Ireland with this captivating journey. Start in Dublin and travel to Belfast to explore its vibrant culture and history. Venture through the stunning Glens of Antrim to Bushmills, and discover the breathtaking Causeway Coast. Enjoy a ferry trip to either Rathlin Island or Donegal, then delve into Derry’s rich heritage. Finish your adventure with a scenic drive through the Fermanagh Lakelands, concluding with a memorable stay in either Malahide or Cabra Castle.

Day 1 | Arrival to Ireland

After landing in Dublin, embark on a scenic two-hour journey to Belfast, the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland, where your adventure truly begins. As you travel, the picturesque Irish countryside unfolds before you, offering a glimpse of the natural beauty that awaits.

Once in Belfast, check in to your hotel and take some time to relax and recharge, setting the perfect tone for the exciting week ahead.

Day 2 | Explore Belfast

Begin your exploration of Belfast with a ride on a famous Black Cab Tour, where knowledgeable local drivers share the city’s rich history, including its political past and vibrant street art.

Next, use the Hop-On Hop-Off bus to get a comprehensive overview of Belfast’s top attractions, from the Titanic Quarter to the Botanic Gardens. Spend the afternoon wandering through the lively city center, discovering shops, cafes, and historic sites.

As evening falls, make your way to the Cathedral Quarter, where you can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere filled with pubs, live music, and a taste of Belfast’s nightlife.

Day 3 | Belfast to Bushmills

Leave the hustle and bustle of Belfast behind as you journey north along the stunning Glens of Antrim. This scenic drive takes you through lush valleys and along rugged coastlines, offering breathtaking views at every turn.

Your destination is the charming Bushmills, where you’ll settle in for the next few nights. Nestled near the Causeway Coast, this is the perfect base to explore some of Northern Ireland’s most iconic landmarks.

For whiskey lovers, Bushmills is home to the renowned Bushmills Whiskey Distillery, the oldest licensed distillery in the world. During your visit, you may want to take a guided tour of the distillery, learning about the centuries-old craft of whiskey-making, and, of course, enjoy a tasting of their famous single malts.

Day 4 | Explore Causeway Coast

Start your exploration of the North Coast in Ballycastle, a perfect gateway to the region’s stunning landscapes. From here, embark on the Kintra Boat Tour, which offers a unique perspective of the coastline as you sail beneath the iconic Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. This thrilling experience provides breathtaking views of the cliffs and sea, giving you a true sense of the area’s rugged beauty.

After your boat tour, continue exploring the Causeway Coast. Visit the mystical Giant’s Causeway, cross the thrilling Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, or wander through the ruins of Dunluce Castle, each offering a unique glimpse into the region’s natural scenery and rich history.

Day 5 | Ferry to Rathlin Island

Today, continue your adventure by taking a ferry to discover more of Ireland’s hidden gems. You could sail to Rathlin Island, where you’ll find rugged coastlines, rare wildlife, and the island’s famous lighthouse, making it a haven for nature lovers.

Alternatively, hop on the Lough Foyle Ferry from Malligan Point to Greencastle in Donegal. This picturesque crossing opens the door to a day of exploration in Donegal, where you can wander through its dramatic landscapes, visit historic sites, and immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural heritage.

*Please be aware that the Lough Foyle ferry operates seasonally.

Day 6 | Bushmills to Derry City

Wrap up any coastal sightseeing or beach trips along the North Coast. Enjoy a final stroll along the beautiful sandy stretches, or perhaps visit one last coastal village for some last-minute exploration. Once you’ve soaked up the remaining coastal charm, make your way to Derry City.

There, you’ll have the opportunity to dive into the city’s rich history and strong culture, exploring its famous city walls, iconic murals, and historic sites.

Day 7 | Explore Derry

Dedicate the day to exploring Derry, where you can immerse yourself in the city’s rich past and lively culture.

Consider taking a guided walking tour to explore Derry’s famous city walls and key landmarks. Visit the Museum of Free Derry to learn about its role in the civil rights movement and history. Wander through the Craft Village to browse local shops and crafts. Enjoy a leisurely walk across the Peace Bridge, offering stunning views of the River Foyle and symbolizing the city’s journey toward reconciliation.

Finally, stop by the Walled City Brewery for a taste of locally brewed craft beers, and perhaps enjoy a tasty meal in their welcoming pub.

Day 8 | Fermanagh Lakelands & Dublin

Travel through Fermanagh and the Lakelands on your final journey from Derry to Dublin. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes and tranquil waters of the region, making stops to explore idyllic lakes, charming towns, and historic sites along the way. This scenic route provides a peaceful contrast to the urban bustle and offers a memorable farewell to the beauty of Northern Ireland’s countryside.

Arrive at either Malahide or Cabra Castle, depending on your choosing, and enjoy one final night of your unforgettable adventure.

Day 9 | Return Home

This morning, you’ll have one last breakfast at the hotel before bidding farewell to your time in Ireland. Make your way to Dublin airport for your flight home.

(For all Trans-Atlantic flights, we recommend arriving at the airport 3 hours before departure to ensure a smooth check-in process.)

Flights

We are more than happy to include a flight quote separately to your package so that you can decide if you would like to book with us or on your own.  While booking flights can seem straight-forward, there are often hidden fees or classes of service that do not include seat assignments, meals or checked bags. We have been booking flights since 1985 and know the best routings and have great contracts that mean we often have better prices than what you will see online.

Accommodation

In Ireland, we generally try to book hotels that are at a 4 star level or higher. In some situations, we will book some 3 star or B&B properties but we do require them to be at a certain standard. We try to ensure a member of the team have stayed at each property in recent years or that we have done a site inspection.

Planning Deposits

Your first vacation quote, and up to two revisions, for trips of 9 or fewer days, and 45 days in advance of travel, are complimentary. If an itinerary requires further revisions subsequent to this, we will require a non-refundable deposit of $75 per person in order to continue.

If you are requesting a quote for a vacation that is 10 days in length, or with travel dates within 45 days, or to a non-core destination, a deposit of $75 per person will be required in order for us to begin working on your proposal.

Planning deposits can then be put towards the cost of the trip should you decide to proceed with the booking.