Destination Spotlight: Northern Ireland

Written on March 13, 2025

While many travelers fly into Dublin and spend their time exploring the 26 counties of the Republic of Ireland (what is known as Ireland), don’t dismiss the incredible 6 counties of Northern Ireland. With a fascinating history, truly stunning landscapes, and a lively capital city (Belfast), dividing your time between the two countries is an ideal way to experience all the Emerald Isle has to offer.

Know Before You Go

Planning a self-drive tour is a popular way to see Ireland and Northern Ireland but be aware that the entire island is one of four countries in Europe to drive on the left side of the road. If you’re planning to drive across the border between Ireland and Northern Ireland, it’s important to have the correct ID, necessary forms, permission from the rental car company, and the required fee on hand.

Also good to note? Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom, so the currency used is the pound. (Whereas Ireland is part of the European Union, and the currency used is the Euro.) Plan accordingly when exchanging currency before departure.

May through September is the best time of year to visit Northern Ireland, thanks to warmer temperatures and less rainfall. Peak travel season, June through August, sees an increase in rates and tourists, but also touts summery weather.

Here are ten reasons to visit Northern Ireland and eat, drink, and sightsee around the country.

5 Things to Eat and Drink

Ulster Fry: This breakfast dish is a dream for fans of fried food: sausages, bacon, blood pudding, eggs, mushrooms, beans, and both potato and soda bread join forces to create a giant plate of food that is popular after a fun night out.

Belfast bap: A large, crusty roll sometimes stuffed with sausages, bacon, and egg, bap is the perfect walking snack while perusing St. George’s Market.

Fifteens: A sweet treat often served with tea, fifteens are made with crushed digestive biscuits, glace cherries, marshmallows, condensed milk, and coconut, which is mixed together and baked.

Irish Coffee: Prepared with brewed coffee, Baileys Irish Cream, a shot of Irish whiskey, and a spoon of whipped cream, a traditional Irish Coffee is sure to warm you up on a chilly day.

Whiskey from Bushmills Distillery: Visiting the world’s oldest distillery, which was awarded licensure in 1608, is an essential experience when in Northern Ireland. Tour the distillery with an educator to learn about how the craft whiskey is made before enjoying a tasting.

5 Must-Do Experiences / Must-See Sights

For Nature Lovers

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge: A 66-foot rope bridge maintained by the National Trust, the structure connects the mainland to the small island of Carrickarede and is primarily a (scenic) tourist attraction. On tiny Carrickarede sits one building: a quaint fisherman’s cottage that dates back to the 1830s. Be sure to check availability and pre-book your perilous passing over the bridge.

Giant’s Causeway: Northern Ireland’s iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, Giant’s Causeway, is a must-see while in the country. With the backdrop of the cold, tumbling waters of the Atlantic, the approximate 40,000 stone structures of the Giant’s Causeway look like steps leading into the ocean. These structures were formed 50-60 million years ago as lava moved towards the coastline and cooled upon touching the water. The result was layers of basalt that formed into columns and was pushed into polygonal “steps” from pressure. Prebooking your ticket allows the National Trust to space out visitors more evenly, and includes a guided tour, use of a handheld audio device, and access to the facilities (exhibition, shop, café.)

Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion: Explore the sweeping peaks of the Mourne Mountains in southeast County Down by car, foot, or bicycle. Make the most of your visit by booking a guided walking tour specific to your interest and ability so a local guide can teach you about the nature, history, geography, and culture of the area. Themed options include a pilgrimage for St. Patrick, experiencing Castle Ward, and the “Men of Mourne” which features a historical deep-dive into the lives of stone masons, soldiers, and smugglers.

Children will delight in the story trail, where they can follow the fun of Fionn’s Giant Adventure, looking for clues and using an app (coming soon according to the tourist site) to seek out fairies, magic, and music.

Nature lovers can paddle around the waters of Strangford Lough or set off on a hike to spot wildlife like red squirrels, seals, and otters.

For History Buffs

Titanic Museum: The Titanic has important ties to the island of Ireland. The ship was built in Belfast (Northern Ireland) and its final port-of-call before setting sail across the Atlantic was Queenstown, now known as Cobh (located in Ireland.) The Titanic Museum, constructed on the former shipyard of the ill-fated ocean liner, features nine galleries of interactive exhibits, an underwater cinema, and a shipyard ride aboard a gantry (a type of crane), all while paying tribute to the ship, its builders, and the passengers from dreamy beginning to tragic end.

For Fans of Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones tour: For fans of HBO’s award-winning television series Game of Thrones, a location tour is an absolute must when visiting Northern Ireland. Spend time exploring the studios for the iconic show to check out sets, props, and costumes, all while learning about the filming process. Visit 16 filming locations like Tollymore Forest Park, Castle Ward, Inch Abbey, and Slemish Mountain that provided settings for the intricate stories of the Game of Thrones characters.

Intrigued by Ireland? Check out our other blog posts about the country!

☘️ Destination Spotlight: Ireland

☘️ 7 Places to Visit in Ireland

When you’re ready to book your trip to the Emerald Isle, our team can help you plan a perfect itinerary!