Giant's Causeway

The basics

Although it's possible to arrive independently, many visitors opt for a round-trip Giant's Causeway tour from Dublin with transportation and entrance fees included. Guided Causeway excursions, with upgrades for a private tour guide or luxury coaches, often include stops to visit the Dark Hedges and explore other nearby attractions such as the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, the Old Bushmills Distillery, and the ruins of Dunluce Castle.

Volcanic activity created the notable formations at the Giant's Causeway, including the Chimney Stacks, Giant's Harp, and Honeycomb, all of which are favorites of visiting photographers. Spot these formations and other stunning views framed by the windswept cliffs on your walk over the stepping stone-like columns to the edge of the sea.

Things to know before you go

• Wear sensible clothing and footwear, as the stones can be slippery.

• An outdoor audio guide is available, in addition to another guide for visually impaired visitors.

• The site includes three parking lots and a park-and-ride area.

• Paths down to the causeway are partially accessible, as are the grounds.

• The visitor center features several interactive exhibitions; there's a small fee to enter.

How to get there

The Causeway Coastal Route, a scenic drive between Belfast and Londonderry, is a popular option for independent travelers—stop at Rathlin Island and Ballintoy along the way. Alternatively, arrive via an organized tour from both Belfast (a 1.5-hour drive) and Dublin (a 3-hour drive).

When to get there

Opening times vary seasonally; check the Giant's Causeway website for the latest hours, including the visitor center schedule. Expect wind and rain during winter and visit earlier in the day for a quieter experience before the tour groups arrive.

Irish folklore

These rock formations get their name from an old legend about Irish warrior Finn McCool and his Scottish rival, Benandonner. Per the tale, McCool built a path across the sea to face his rival, eventually defeating Benandonner by dressing as a baby; Benandonner feared McCool was the child of a giant and didn't dare to face him. On his way back to Scotland, Benandonner tears up the path behind him, leaving behind only the Giant's Causeway and similar rock formations on the Scottish island of Staffa.

How long does it take to tour Giant's Causeway?

A visit to the Giant's Causeway takes about two hours. The self-guided walking tour begins with a short descent to the seafront. Once at the coast, visitors can explore the more than 40,000 interlocking basalt columns stretching down into the sea. After touring, walk back to the parking lot.

Do I need to pre book Giant's Causeway?

Prebooking Giant's Causeway tickets ahead of time allows visitors to skip any ticketing lines. Tickets include on-site parking, guided tours, use of audio tour, and access to all facilities including the visitor center experience and café.

What is the best time to visit Giant's Causeway?

Sunset is a favorite time of day to visit Giant's Causeway, especially for those looking to escape the crowds or for photographers. The busiest time of day is midday; early morning visits are another way to avoid the crowds. Summer is the busiest time of year.

How hard is it to walk the Giant's Causeway?

A paved road descends from the parking lot to Giant's Causeway. The site itself is relatively easy to explore, though the interlocking basalt columns at the seaside are at different heights, which requires some stepping up and down. There are no handrails, so watch your step.

Are there toilets at Giant's Causeway?

Yes, there are toilets at the visitor's center in the Giant's Causeway site. The walk down to the coastal stones takes about 15 minutes; there are no toilets or facilities in the coastal area. To reach the restrooms, visitors must walk back up to the main visitor's center.

Is there parking at Giant's Causeway?

Yes, there is convenient parking at the Giant's Causeway site. Prebook your ticket, which includes reserved parking plus guided tours, an audio tour if desired, and access to all facilities. The walk from the parking lot down to the main site along the coast takes about 15 minutes.

Ways to explore

It's possible to travel to the Giant's Causeway independently, and you can book Visitor Experience tickets that include parking, guided tours, audio guides, and access to the Giant's Causeway Visitor Center, including its exhibitions and facilities.

Alternatively, many visitors opt for round-trip tours from Belfast or Dublin with packages that include transportation and entrance fees. These can be shared or private tours depending on your preferences. Guided Causeway excursions, with upgrades for a private tour guide or luxury coaches, often include stops at the Dark Hedges and explore other nearby attractions such as the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, the Old Bushmills Distillery, and the ruins of Dunluce Castle.

Accessibility

The Visitor Center, the Green Trail, the shop, and café are all wheelchair accessible. All-terrain wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available for loan. There are accessible restrooms and induction loops.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, snacks, bottled water

What to wear

Opt for walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, and weather-appropriate layers for this outdoor attraction.

Not allowed

Littering, defacing the rock formations

Amenities

Visitor Center, café, gift shop, restrooms, parking

Address 

The Giant’s Causeway is on Northern Ireland’s rugged north coast near Bushmills. You can travel here by car, public bus, or join guided day tours from Belfast or Dublin that include transportation.

Driving

The Causeway Coastal Route, a scenic drive between Belfast and Londonderry, is a popular option for independent travelers—you can also stop at Rathlin Island and Ballintoy along the way. Paid parking is available at the Causeway Coast Way Car Park, or there is a car park adjacent to the Visitor Center; to access the latter, you must be a Visitor Experience ticket holder or a National Trust member.

Public transportation

From Belfast, you can get the Translink Goldline 221 train to the Giant’s Causeway, which takes around 1.5 hours. Alternatively, guided sightseeing bus tours are a convenient option.

Best times to visit

It’s recommended to arrive in the morning to avoid the biggest tourist crowds.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are usually busier, so plan a trip for Mondays through Thursdays if your itinerary allows.

Best months to visit

May, June, September, and October offer mild weather and fewer crowds. July and August are the busiest months; winter is quiet, but can be windy, wet, and cold.

Special events

Nearby Bushmills hosts seasonal markets and cultural events, while Causeway Coast celebrations—such as the North West 200 sporting event—bring added visitors to the region.