With only a short train ride between them, discover two of Ireland’s top cities. With Dublin you can visit Trinity College, the Guinness Storehouse, or relax in one of the many gorgeous parks or gardens throughout the city. Belfast is packed with history, culture, exciting events, great food, and super shopping. You’ll also find some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. Whether it’s following in the footsteps of your favorite characters from Game of Thrones, or tracing the story of the Titanic right to its source, there’s something for everyone!
On arrival in Dublin, you will be met at the airport for a private transfer to your centrally located hotel. Begin using your 48-hour Hop-On Hop-Off pass, the perfect way to discover Dublin at your own pace. A highlight of the day will be a visit to the iconic Guinness Storehouse, where you will learn about the brewing process before enjoying a pint in the Gravity Bar with panoramic city views. Don’t miss the chance to try the fun “Stoutie” – a selfie printed on the head of a Guinness pint. That evening, head to the cobbled streets of Temple Bar, Dublin’s cultural quarter, famous for its pubs, live traditional music and buzzing atmosphere. For dinner, we recommend Gallagher’s Boxty House, renowned for its authentic Irish potato pancakes and modern takes on Irish classics.
Continue making use of your Hop-On Hop-Off pass to visit more of Dublin’s cultural attractions. We suggest a visit to EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, an award-winning interactive experience that tells the moving story of the Irish diaspora. In the afternoon, choose between two iconic sites: The Book of Kells at Trinity College, one of the world’s most famous illuminated manuscripts housed in the magnificent Long Room library, or Kilmainham Gaol, the historic former prison central to Ireland’s struggle for independence. Please note that both attractions are extremely popular and advance booking is highly recommended. This evening, enjoy a memorable dining experience at The Church Café Bar & Restaurant, set in a beautifully restored 17th-century church with excellent food and atmosphere.
Your journey begins with a return rail ticket from Dublin’s Connolly Station to Belfast’s Grand Central Station, a comfortable and scenic trip taking you north into Northern Ireland’s capital. On arrival, check in to your centrally located hotel and take some time to settle in before beginning your exploration. Start with a visit to the impressive Belfast City Hall, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, where you can admire the stunning architecture and learn about Belfast’s rich history. In the evening, we recommend dining at Mourne Seafood Bar, a much-loved local restaurant serving the freshest seafood dishes in a relaxed setting.
Make the most of Belfast with a 24-hour Hop-On Hop-Off pass, offering the flexibility to explore the city at your own pace. Among the highlights are visits to either Titanic Belfast, an award-winning interactive museum dedicated to the city’s most famous ship, or Crumlin Road Gaol, a historic Victorian-era prison that offers a fascinating insight into Belfast’s past. In the evening, make your way to the vibrant Cathedral Quarter, the heart of Belfast’s nightlife, where you’ll find cobbled streets, street art, and lively pubs. For dinner, we suggest The Muddlers Club, a modern restaurant tucked away in the Quarter, known for its creative menus and intimate atmosphere.
On your third day in Belfast, embark on a full-day Giant’s Causeway tour from Belfast, a journey through the breathtaking beauty of County Antrim’s coastline. Highlights include the world-famous Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its striking hexagonal rock formations, as well as the medieval Carrickfergus Castle, the dramatic ruins of Dunluce Castle perched on the cliffs, and the eerie avenue of intertwined beech trees known as the Dark Hedges. You will also have the chance to enjoy the spectacular views at the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge viewpoint. After returning to Belfast in the evening, unwind with dinner and a pint at The Crown Liquor Saloon, a beautifully preserved Victorian gin palace and one of the city’s most atmospheric pubs.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before before returning by rail to Dublin. Spend the afternoon with a leisurely stroll along Grafton Street, Dublin’s famous shopping street filled with buskers, boutiques and cafés. From there, enjoy the tranquillity of St. Stephen’s Green, a beautiful Victorian park in the heart of the city. In the evening, we recommend dinner at The Hairy Lemon, a lively and characterful Dublin pub serving hearty traditional dishes.
On your final morning in Dublin, enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out. Depending on your flight time, you may have time for a final stroll through the city or some last-minute shopping before your onward journey.
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