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Northern Ireland Bucket List: 25 Must-Dos in 2024

by Staff

From castles to natural wonders, here are the top 25 best things to do in Northern Ireland in your lifetime.

The 25 BEST things to do in Northern Ireland (NI Bucket List)

If you’re travelling to the Emerald Isle and fail to go north of the border, you are missing out!

For such a small place, Northern Ireland (or ‘Norn Iron’ as locals affectionately know it) has some of the most beautiful and exciting places you will find anywhere on earth!

Our Northern Irish bucket list is a comprehensive list of top-quality places you should visit in Ireland. It includes tourist attractions, landmarks, mountains, and much more.

Here’s our NI Bucket List: the 25 best places to visit in Northern Ireland before you die!

Ireland Before You Die’s tips for visiting Northern Ireland:

  • Expect rain even if the forecast is sunny because the weather in Ireland is temperamental!
  • If you’re on a budget, check out our fantastic list of free things to do.
  • Stay safe in Northern Ireland by avoiding unsafe areas, especially at night.
  • Use public transport like Translink’s metro, Glider, and trains to get around.
  • Be sure to visit the Titanic Museum, the Peace Walls, and the Mourne Mountains – some of NI’s top attractions.

25. A Game of Thrones tour – for fans of the hit TV show

All fans of Game of Thrones have to take a tour of the country, a must-see.All fans of Game of Thrones have to take a tour of the country, a must-see.
Dark Hedges

If you’ve found yourself binging Game of Thrones, you’ll love a tour of the filming locations!

An interesting fact about Northern Ireland is that it is home of Game of Thrones. The smash-hit HBO TV series was filmed here. As a result, Northern Ireland has experienced a resurgence as a worldwide tourist destination.

Several tour companies operate tours from Belfast City and Dublin, offering a great day trip and exploring all the major filming locations of Game of Thrones.

Notable highlights include Winterfell castle, the cave where Melisandre gives birth to a dark spirit, Renly’s Camp in the Stormlands, and the Iron Island’s beach.

Castle Ward, owned and run by the National Trust and located on the shores of Strangford Lough in County Down, as well as Ballintoy Harbour and the Cushendun Caves on the Causeway Coastal Route are two must-visit attractions for Game of Thrones fans.

Tours from Belfast and Dublin are available with multiple tour companies. Private tours are available with Game of Thrones Tours. If you would prefer to do a self-guided tour, then check out our DIY Game of Thrones Tour.

READ: our guide to the best Game of Thrones tours

24. St. George’s Market, Belfast – for Northern Irish food and vibes

St. Geroge's Market is home to some amazing food and local crafts.St. Geroge's Market is home to some amazing food and local crafts.
Credit: discovernorthernireland.com

Located in the heart of the historic city of Belfast is St. George’s Market, the last-surviving Victorian market in the city, and undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Belfast.

Before the 20th century, it was an open meat market which contained a slaughterhouse and a meat market. Today, St. George’s Market is a bustling market with around 300 traders, creatives, and food vendors.

The market is open Fridays to Sundays and is the perfect place to experience a bit of ‘Norn Irish’ culture while trying excellent Northern-Irish food. Truly one of the top things to see in Northern Ireland.

Address: St George’s Market, East Bridge St, Belfast BT1 3NQ

23. Climb Slieve Binnian, Co. Down – the most beautiful peak in Northern Ireland

Slieve Binnian is the most beautiful peak in the country.Slieve Binnian is the most beautiful peak in the country.

For those interested in scenic hikes, this one is for you. Located in the heart of the Mourne Mountains, the most famous mountain range in Northern Ireland, is another of the best places to visit in Northern Ireland.

Slieve Binnian is one of the Mourne Mountains in County Down. At 747 meters, it is the third highest mountain in Northern Ireland.

Although it isn’t the biggest mountain in Northern Ireland, we believe it has a better view from the top than any mountain in Northern Ireland. It has a special place on our NI bucket list!

It is an intermediate-level hike and should take about seven hours, including breaks, to get from the car park to the top and back.

Climbing ‘Wee Binnian’ is one of our favourite things to do in Northern Ireland and you should climb it on a beautiful summer’s day!

Address: Carrick Little (Slieve Binnian) Car Park,74 Oldtown Rd, Annalong, Newry BT34 4RW

READ: IB4UD’s guide to the Slieve Binnian hike

22. The Derry Walls, Derry – the only remaining complete city walls in Ireland

The Derry Walls are remarkable and must-see sights in Northern Ireland.The Derry Walls are remarkable and must-see sights in Northern Ireland.

If you’re interested in history and you’re wondering what to do in Northern Ireland, a trip to Derry’s Walls should be top of your list for places to see!

These famous walls, which are approximately 1.5 km in circumference, are the only remaining city walls in Ireland. Constructed during the 17th century, these walls serve as a great insight into the historic walled city, one of few remaining in Europe.

A walk around the walls provides a unique view of the layout of the original town, which still preserves a Renaissance-style street plan to the present day.

There is simply no better way to understanding Derry than by walking around the old city walls! Tours of the walls are also available here; more information can be found in the Visit Derry information centre.  

Address: The Diamond, Londonderry BT48 6HW

21. The SSE Arena, Belfast – to catch a Giants’ game

The SSE Arena is the top place to grab a Belfast Giant's game.The SSE Arena is the top place to grab a Belfast Giant's game.

If you are looking for a fun, atmospheric, and lively experience with friends, then why not go to one of Belfast’s iconic ice hockey matches?

Located in the SSE Arena, you can find the famous Ice Hockey Team, the Belfast Giants. Playing in the Elite Ice Hockey League, the Giants are the local ice hockey team for Belfast City.

Going to an ice hockey game here is a great experience. The arena is fantastic, and the atmosphere is second-to-none. Additionally, there are always prizes during the breaks to keep the whole family entertained!

So, if you are looking for a unique sporting experience and are wondering what to see in Northern Ireland, a Belfast Giants game is a safe bet!

Address: 2 Queens Quay, Belfast BT3 9QQ

20. Kingspan Stadium, Belfast – for an Ulster Rugby game

Grab an Ulster Rugby game at the Kingspan Stadium in Belfast.Grab an Ulster Rugby game at the Kingspan Stadium in Belfast.
Credit: ©INPHO / Bryan Keane

Ireland is considered one of the best rugby nations in the world. No matter where you go in Ireland, you will never be too far from a world-class rugby institution.

Ulster Rugby is one such organisation that represents Ulster (the northern province of Ireland). They are one of four professional provincial rugby teams in Ireland.

If you are a rugby fan, a trip to see Ulster is one of the best things to do in Northern Ireland!

Address: 134 Mount Merrion Ave, Belfast BT6 0FT

19. Carrickfergus Castle, Co. Antrim – Northern Ireland’s most famous castle

Carrickfergus Castle is the countrys most famous castle.Carrickfergus Castle is the countrys most famous castle.

Probably the most famous and historic castle in Northern Ireland is Carrickfergus Castle. It is another of the top things to see in Northern Ireland.

Situated in the town of Carrickfergus (just outside Belfast), this beautiful castle has seen its fair share of historical events.

Besieged by the Scots, Irish, English, and French, the castle played an important military role until the early 20th century and remained a well-preserved medieval structure.

Today it is maintained as a tourist attraction, and it is well worth a visit!

Address: Marine Hwy, Carrickfergus BT38 7BG

READ MORE: Carrickfergus Castle: unveiling the strength and significance of Northern Ireland’s iconic fortress

18. Ulster American Folk Park, Co. Tyrone – for an insight into Ulster history

The Ulster American Folk Park in Co. Tyrone is another top thing to see.The Ulster American Folk Park in Co. Tyrone is another top thing to see.
Ulster American Folk Park Co. Tyrone.

If you are from America and are tracing your roots back to Northern Ireland, there is no better place to visit that the Ulster American Folk Park in County Tyrone.

Working with the Ulster Museum, you can immerse yourself into the story of the many brave migrants who made the voyage across the North Atlantic to America hundreds of years ago.

This park is a perfect time capsule of what rural Ulster was like back then, with little streets, farmhouses, and thatched cottages.

You can also experience what it was like to board an emigrant ship in the full-scale replica on show here. It is an incredible place to visit for anyone interested in Irish history.

Address: 2 Mellon Rd, Omagh BT78 5QU

MORE: our guide to Ireland’s folk and heritage parks

17. The North West 200, Co. Derry – experience Ireland’s biggest race

The North West 200 is a must-see event if you love motorcycle racing.The North West 200 is a must-see event if you love motorcycle racing.

If you are interested in motorcycles, this one is for you!

Northern Ireland is one of the best places in the world for motorcycling, and the North West 200 is one of Ireland’s biggest races.

This motorcycle race is held annually in May on the north coast of Northern Ireland. The racecourse is created on the streets and roads between towns of Coleraine, Portstewart, and Portrush.

It is one of the fastest races in the world, with regular speeds of over 200 mph. This event should be on any racing enthusiasts bucket list!

Address: 48 Cloyfin Rd, Coleraine BT52 2NY

16. Rathlin Island, Co. Antrim – the beautiful tiny island above Ireland

Rathlin Island is a beautiful tiny island just above Ireland.Rathlin Island is a beautiful tiny island just above Ireland.

If you want to get off the grid for a few days, let us tell you about Rathlin Island, one of the top things to see in Northern Ireland.

Rathlin is Northern Ireland’s only inhabited offshore island with a tiny population of just 150 people. It is also the most northerly inhabited island off the coast of the island of Ireland.

It is the perfect place to escape from the city and to have an authentic tranquil experience. The island itself is only six miles long. It has a small amount of accommodation, along with a pub, restaurant, and a community shop.

Amidst the jagged scenery of this gorgeous island, a short boat trip will allow you to discover tranquillity and beauty like never before.

If you are visiting during puffin season (April to July), be sure to see them along with lots of other sea birds at the re-furbished seabird centre!

The ferry to Rathlin Island takes approximately 40 minutes and departs daily from Ballycastle.

Address: Rathlin Island Ferry, 18 Bayview Rd, Ballycastle BT54 6BT

READ MORE: top 5 reasons to visit Rathlin Island

15. Titanic Belfast, Co. Antrim – the birthplace of the ‘world’s most-famous shipwreck’

Titanic Belfast one of the 5 most beautiful buildings in Belfast.Titanic Belfast one of the 5 most beautiful buildings in Belfast.

If you are interested in the story of the Titanic, then Titanic Belfast should be on your bucket list. This fabled ship was assembled in Belfast, and the capital city is home to the world’s most substantial Titanic visitor experience!

Since launching in 2012, the museum has won awards of excellence. As a result, it is now considered one of Ireland’s top tourist attractions!

Self-guided tours around the interactive galleries offer you the chance to learn all about the well-known vessel, the individuals who assembled it, and the people who were on board its maiden voyage.

A ticket for this tour is steep. So if you are on a low budget trip, you can still stroll into the main reception area and also on the slipway to discover Belfast’s famous maritime history and check out attractions, such as the HMS Caroline.

Afterwards, be sure to pop next door to the hotel for a drink, some food, or even afternoon tea in the room where the famous ship was designed!

Titanic Belfast is one of the top things to see in Northern Ireland and a worthy place on our NI Bucket List!

Address: 1 Olympic Way, Queen’s Road, Belfast BT3 9EP

14. Slieve Gullion, Co. Armagh – the most beautiful mountain in Armagh

Slieve Gullion offers beautiful mountain ranges, the best in Armagh.Slieve Gullion offers beautiful mountain ranges, the best in Armagh.
Credit: ringofgullion.org

If you like an easy scenic walking trail, then get yourself to Slieve Gullion, one of Northern Ireland’s hidden gems!

Slieve Gullion Forest Park offers the unmissable opportunity to experience peaceful forest trails along with spectacular mountain views.

The main 10 km trail is marked and starts at the car park, through the woodlands, and to the summit of Slieve Gullion.  For those who don’t want to walk, you can drive most of the way up.

At the summit, you will find an incredible Bronze-Age tomb and incredible views of multiple counties of Ireland!

Address: Car Park, Slieve Gullion, Newry BT35 8LN

13. Dunluce Castle, Co. Antrim – Northern Ireland’s most scenic ruins

Dunluce Castle is one of the most scenic ruins in Northern Ireland.Dunluce Castle is one of the most scenic ruins in Northern Ireland.

If you are interested in picturesque ruins, then look no further than Dunluce Castle, Northern Ireland’s most scenic ruins.

Dunluce Castle is a now-ruined medieval castle on the north coast of Ireland, the former seat of the MacDonnell Clan. It is located on the edge of a basalt outcropping. It is reachable via a bridge connecting it to the mainland.

The castle is surrounded by steep drops on each side, which may have been an essential factor which influenced the decision to build a castle here.

The first castle to built here was during the 13th century. Since then it has seen several historical events, including the sinking of a colony ship with the loss of 240 souls.

A trip to Dunluce is recommended if you are visiting other attractions on the north coast, such as the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-rede rope bridge. It’s truly one of the top places to visit in Northern Ireland. The Giant’s Causeway features on the UK Bucket List as one of the world’s most visited countries, and you won’t want to miss out.

Other castles to visit nearby include Dunseverick Castle and Kinbane Castle.

Address: 87 Dunluce Rd, Bushmills BT57 8UY

12. Glenariff Forest Park, Co. Antrim – one of the top things to see in Northern Ireland

Glenariff Forest Park is another of the best things to do in Northern Ireland, its full of beauty.Glenariff Forest Park is another of the best things to do in Northern Ireland, its full of beauty.

If you love walks through enchanting forests, make sure you put Glenariff Forest Park on your bucket list!

This park covers over 1,000 hectares with planted woodland, lakes, outdoor recreation spaces, and conservation areas.

There are several walking trails through the park that give spectacular views, glimpses of wildlife, plant life, and three stunning waterfalls.

Glenariff is open to the public and provides for many outdoor activities, including walking, hiking, and horse riding. There are recreational areas such as picnic and barbeque areas, as well as a tea house.

Address: Glenariff Forest Park, Glenariffe Road, Cargan, County Antrim, BT44 0QX

11. Portrush Whiterocks Beach, Co. Antrim – Northern Ireland’s most beautiful beach

One of the top best things to do in Northern Ireland is to visit Whiterocks Beach.One of the top best things to do in Northern Ireland is to visit Whiterocks Beach.
Whiterocks Beach

If you love beaches, then make sure you make a trip to Whiterocks Beach on the north coast! Truly one of the top places to visit in Northern Ireland.

This incredible beach was awarded the prestigious Blue Flag Award multiple times and has become a favourite with locals, and a must-see destination for international visitors.

The beach, situated just off the Causeway Coastal Route, is a unique, stunning beach with a backdrop of limestone cliffs that stretch from Curran Strand to Dunluce Castle.

Every year, Whiterocks is a mecca for water sports enthusiasts, including surfers, bodyboarders, and surf kayakers.

The beach is also popular with walkers to and from Portrush along the continuous stretch of sand that forms East Strand.

Address: Whiterocks Beach, Portrush

READ: Whiterocks Beach: when to visit, what to see

10. A traditional Irish pub crawl in Belfast – for some Irish pub culture

Another of the best best things to do in Northern Ireland is to do a traditional pub crawl.Another of the best best things to do in Northern Ireland is to do a traditional pub crawl.

It wouldn’t be right to visit Northern Ireland without checking out some of the best pubs on offer, would it?

Belfast is probably the best place in Northern Ireland to do a pub crawl as there are so many bars on offer, especially around the Cathedral Quarter.

Our suggested Belfast pub crawl includes some of the best pubs in Belfast like; The Points, The Crown Bar, Robinson’s, Madden’s, Kelly’s Cellars, White’s Tavern, McHugh’s, The Harp Bar, The Duke of York, and The Dirty Onion.

Read more about our suggested traditional pub crawl here: The Belfast Pub Crawl.

RELATED: Ireland Before You Die’s guide to the best pubs in Belfast

9. Cave Hill, Co. Antrim – for the best view of Belfast

Cave Hill offers the best view of Belfast and is another of the best things to do in Northern Ireland.Cave Hill offers the best view of Belfast and is another of the best things to do in Northern Ireland.
Credit: Tourism NI

One of the best places in Belfast for a view of the city is from Cave Hill, a basaltic hill overlooking the city.

From this point, visitors to Cave Hill Country Park can take in panoramic views of the Northern-Irish capital from different vantage points on the hillside.

Starting at the Belfast Castle car park, you follow the path to the top. Although it is a fairly tough climb, it is so gratifying when you get to the top of this and see Belfast in all its beauty!

This area is also home to top attractions, such as Belfast Castle and Belfast Zoo. On a clear day, you can enjoy views out over the city centre and even as far as the Mourne Mountains.

Address: Antrim Rd, Belfast BT15 5GR

READ: our guide to Cave Hill

8. A black taxi tour, Belfast – a unique insight into Belfast’s troubled past

The subject of The Troubles is almost inescapable if you want to understand Northern Ireland.

Probably the best way to start to comprehend Northern Ireland’s complex history and how it moulded the present-day is by taking a black taxi tour through Belfast.

On one such trip, a well-informed chauffeur leads the tours in small groups in London-style black cabs.

These tours last about 90 minutes and take you to some of the Belfast’s most notorious political murals, peace walls, and areas that were immensely affected by The Troubles.

There are many great cab companies that provide tours, such as Paddy Campbell’s and NI Black Taxi Tours.

If you want more information about what you will experience on tour, read our article here: 5 Fascinating Things You’ll Experience On A Belfast Black Taxi Tour

READ: 5 things you’ll experience on a Belfast black taxi tour

7. Crumlin Road Gaol, Co. Antrim – one of our favourite things to do in Northern Ireland

Another of the best things to do in Northern Ireland is visit Crumlin Gaol.Another of the best things to do in Northern Ireland is visit Crumlin Gaol.

Another of the best places to visit in Northern Ireland is Crumlin Road Gaol. It’s possibly the best historical museum in Northern Ireland is Crumlin Road Gaol.

This former prison is now a museum which offers daily tours. Each tour brings you through the old prison wings, execution areas, and tunnels to the old courthouse. At the same time, you learn about the history of this building.

The tours are brilliantly delivered and extremely enlightening. Regular guided tours last around 75 minutes and are open to the public daily.

If you are interested in learning about Belfast’s past, this is one of the best things to do in Northern Ireland!

Address: 53-55 Crumlin Rd, Belfast BT14 6ST

READ MORE: Our guide to visiting Crumlin Road Gaol.

6. Glenoe Waterfall, Co. Antrim – Ireland’s most beautiful waterfall

Glenloe Waterfall is the most beautiful one in Northern Ireland. Its one of the best things to do in Northern Ireland.Glenloe Waterfall is the most beautiful one in Northern Ireland. Its one of the best things to do in Northern Ireland.

There are many beautiful waterfalls in Northern Ireland, but Glenoe Waterfall has to be top of the list. This pretty little waterfall is snuggled in the hills just outside the charming small village of Gleno.

To get here, you need to find the car park on Waterfall Rd. Once at the car park, you simply follow a path through the trees to the stunning waterfall. The trek only takes about two minutes.

If you are visiting Northern Ireland and are staying in Belfast, a trip to this waterfall just outside the city is the perfect excursion. Another of the top things to see in Northern Ireland.

Address: Waterfall Rd, Gleno, Larne BT40 3LE

5. Causeway Coastal Route, Co. Antrim – Northern Ireland’s best road trip

Causeway Coastal Route is another of the best things to do in Northern Ireland, its Northern Irelands best road trip.Causeway Coastal Route is another of the best things to do in Northern Ireland, its Northern Irelands best road trip.

If you love a road trip, then the Causeway Coastal Route needs to be on your bucket list!

Spanning almost 200 miles along the coast from Belfast to Derry, this scenic drive has everything from castles to stunning landscapes, Game of Thrones filming locations, distilleries, and much more.

The route is considered one of the best drives on earth by many travel companies, including Lonely Planet, which rated the journey as one of the best in their “Best in Travel” list 2018.

The incredible Causeway Coastal Route is a worthy addition to our Northern-Irish Bucket List, with attractions such as Kinbane Castle, Downhill Demesne, White Park Bay, incredible natural landscapes formed by volcanic eruptions, and more.

RELATED: everything you need to know about the Causeway Coastal Route

4. Carrick-a-Rede, Co. Antrim – Northern Ireland’s famous rope bridge

Carric-a-Rede rope bridge is great activity, another of the top best things to do in Northern Ireland.Carric-a-Rede rope bridge is great activity, another of the top best things to do in Northern Ireland.

If you are looking for a thrill, look no further than Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge in County Antrim!

This famous rope bridge, near Ballintoy, is one of the top tourist attractions in Northern Ireland. The bridge itself links the mainland to a beautiful tiny island, spanning 20 metres and 30 metres above the rocks below.

The bridge is operated by the National Trust and a small fee is charged to cross the bridge. While here, it is also worth visiting the nearby Ballintoy Harbour.

Address: 119a Whitepark Road, Ballycastle BT54 6LS

3. The Old Bushmills Distillery, Co. Antrim – the world’s oldest whiskey distillery

The Old Bushmills Distillery is another of the best things to do in Northern Ireland.The Old Bushmills Distillery is another of the best things to do in Northern Ireland.

If you love whiskey, then the Old Bushmills Distillery needs to be on your bucket list!

This County Antrim distillery is the oldest operating distillery in the entire world!

Some of the world’s finest whiskey is produced here, including the famous Black Bush blend. The functioning distillery is open for daily tours which attract around 120,000 visitors per year.

We’ve experienced both the tour and also the premium tasting, and we’d highly recommend both. Make sure to read about the six things we experienced here.

Address: 2 Distillery Rd, Bushmills BT57 8XH

RELATED: what we learned at the Old Bushmills Distillery

2. Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, Co. Fermanagh – climb Ireland’s stairway to heaven

Another of the best things to do in Northern Ireland is Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail.Another of the best things to do in Northern Ireland is Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail.

Looking one of the top things to see in Northern Ireland? Well, possibly the best walking route in the country is the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail in County Fermanagh – also known as Ireland’s Stairway to heaven. It’s truly one of the best places to visit in Northern Ireland.

This incredible trail, located just outside Enniskillen, meanders through one of the largest areas of blanket bog in Northern Ireland, traversing over tracks, boardwalk and, finally a staircase to a viewpoint.

After climbing the steep staircase and arriving at the viewing platform on Cuilcagh Mountain, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding areas, including the beautiful Lough Erne in the distance.

From the visitor’s car park, it takes about two hours to reach the summit of the Cuilcagh Mountain. The journey back takes slightly less time, so it is recommended to give yourself about three to five hours to do this hike.

While in Enniskillen, we also recommend checking out Enniskillen Castle, the Marble Arch Caves, and Castle Coole.

Address: Marlbank Rd, Florencecourt, Enniskillen BT92 1ER

READ: our guide to the Stairway to Heaven

1. The Giant’s Causeway, Co. Antrim – one of the top places to visit in Northern Ireland

The Giants Causeway is one of the best things to do in Northern Ireland.The Giants Causeway is one of the best things to do in Northern Ireland.

If you want to experience incredible beauty with a mix of Irish mythology, then you should make a trip to the Giant’s Causeway, one of the most famous landmarks in Ireland!

The Giant’s Causeway is a unique rock formation (formed nearly sixty million years ago) located on the beautiful Northern Irish coastline. These rocks are famous all over the world, and, as such, people come from every corner of the globe to see them.

According to Irish legend, the Giant’s Causeway was created by the Irish giant Finn McCool. As a consequence, it is named after him.

As the story goes, Fionn built the Giant’s Causeway as stepping-stones to Scotland, because he didn’t want to get his feet wet!

When visiting this spot, you will not just be blown away by the incredible rocks, but also by the incredible natural beauty of the area.

Address: 44 Causeway Rd, Bushmills BT57 8SU

Other notable attractions

Northern Ireland is home to hundreds of fantastic attractions for you to discover and explore. Our top 25 things to do in Northern Ireland are only a small selection of what the country has to offer. If you have some extra time on your hands, there are plenty of other attractions that are well worth visiting.

Notable attractions not mentioned on our list include Castle Ward, Castlewellan Forest Park, Hillsborough Castle, Strangford Lough, and Tollymore Forest Park in County Down. We also recommend Enniskillen Castle, Castle Coole, and Lough Erne in County Fermanagh. Other must-visit attractions in Belfast include Belfast City Hall, the Ulster Museum, Belfast Zoo, and HMS Caroline.

Those visiting County Derry should make sure to check out the Peace Bridge, Downhill Demesne, and spend a day exploring Derry City. Meanwhile, County Antrim boasts sights such as Glenarm Castle, Dunseverick Castle, Slemish Mountain, a famous volcanic plug, the Antrim Plateau, and more.

Your questions answered about the best things to do in Northern Ireland

If you’ve got more questions about Northern Ireland, you’ve come to the right place. We answer some of our readers’ most frequently asked questions in online searches in the section below.

What is the capital of Northern Ireland?

Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland. It is located approximately 120 minutes from Dublin by car.

What time is it in Belfast, Northern Ireland?

What is the population of Northern Ireland?

It is said that as of 2020, there are 1.9 million people living in Northern Ireland.

What counties make up Northern Ireland?

Antrim, Armagh, Derry, Down, Fermanagh, and Tyrone are the six counties which make up Northern Ireland.

What is it the flag of Northern Ireland?

The only official flag connected with Northern Ireland is the Union Flag of the United Kingdom. The Ulster Banner was abolished in 1973, although it is still used by unionists and loyalists. Ireland’s tricolour flag is used as a symbol for nationalists, who stand for a united Ireland.

What is the best month to visit Northern Ireland?

Deciding on the best month to visit Northern Ireland depends on what you want to see and do while you’re here. To make the most of the beautiful natural scenery and outdoor attractions, we recommend visiting in the spring, summer, or early autumn, as days will be longer and conditions milder.

However, July and August tend to be busiest due to school holidays. So, if you want to make the most of good weather conditions without the crowds, we recommend visiting in May, early June, or September.

Is Northern Ireland expensive to visit?

The cost of visiting Northern Ireland will depend on what you choose to do while you’re here. It is completely possible to visit on a budget as there are lots of affordable options for places to stay and eat, as well as free and cheap things to see and do.

The capital city of Belfast is much more affordable than neighbouring capitals, such as Dublin or London, so it is a great option for those looking to travel on a budget.

What is the most visited place in Northern Ireland?

The Giant’s Causeway on the Antrim Coast is the most visited attraction in Northern Ireland, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.

If you are interested in Northern Ireland, you will find these articles really helpful:

Where to stay in Northern Ireland

The 5 most luxurious hotels in Northern Ireland

The 10 BEST family hotels in Belfast, Northern Ireland

Top 5 hotels with a hot tub and insane views in Northern Ireland

Top 10 most unique Airbnbs in Northern Ireland

Top 5 Airbnbs with a hot tub and insane views in Northern Ireland

Find Your Dream Hotel in Ireland

On the hunt for the ultimate hotel for your Irish adventure? Explore a curated selection ranging from the charming heritage of boutique accommodations in Dublin’s vibrant heart to the tranquil luxury of rural retreats and the captivating coastal vistas. Start your search below to find the perfect stay with our trusted hotel partner.


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Northern Ireland Itineraries

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The Six Counties in Six Days (Northern Road Trip Itinerary)

Game of Thrones Road Trip in Five Days (Road Trip Itinerary)

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Understanding Northern Ireland & its attractions

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Belfast Bucket List: the 20 best things to do in Belfast, Northern Ireland

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The 10 best things to do in County Down, Northern Ireland (County Guide)

6 northern gems: The best place to visit in every county of Northern Ireland

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Titanic Belfast: everything you need to know before you visit

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The 10 highest-rated golf courses in Northern Ireland

Find Your Dream Hotel in Ireland

On the hunt for the ultimate hotel for your Irish adventure? Explore a curated selection ranging from the charming heritage of boutique accommodations in Dublin’s vibrant heart to the tranquil luxury of rural retreats and the captivating coastal vistas. Start your search below to find the perfect stay with our trusted hotel partner.


Get featured on Ireland Before You Die

Do you want to get your Irish business more online exposure? Especially to those interested in travelling the best places in Ireland? Then why not get a dedicated feature on Ireland Before You Die. Find out more here.

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