Day Trips from Belfast: 7 Picturesque Escapes
Belfast might be your starting point, but some of Northern Ireland’s most memorable scenery lies just beyond the city. Within a couple of hours, you can be standing beneath the Mourne Mountains, breathing in Atlantic air on the Causeway Coast or wandering the walls of Derry.
That variety makes day trips from Belfast perfect whether you are travelling with friends, exploring solo or adding an extra adventure to a weekend break. Pack comfortable shoes, check the weather and choose your escape.
1. Giant’s Causeway and the Causeway Coast
The Giant’s Causeway is the kind of place photographs never quite capture. More than 40,000 basalt columns meet the Atlantic here, creating a UNESCO World Heritage landscape shaped by volcanic activity millions of years ago.
Turn the journey into a road trip by following part of the Causeway Coastal Route, stopping around Dunluce Castle, Portrush or Carrick-a-Rede along the way. If travelling by car is your thing, discover more scenic drives from Belfast for inspiration.
2. Mourne Mountains and Newcastle
When city streets start feeling a little too busy, head south towards Newcastle and the Mourne Mountains.
Serious walkers can tackle Slieve Donard, while Tollymore Forest Park offers gentler trails through woodland and beside rivers. Afterwards, wander Newcastle’s promenade with the mountains behind you and the Irish Sea stretching ahead.
If this sounds like your ideal day, you can also explore hikes in Belfast closer to the city.
3. Derry
History feels close in Derry. Walk along the historic city walls, admire the Guildhall and cross the Peace Bridge before stopping for lunch or finding a cosy pub. Fans of Derry Girls will spot plenty of familiar references too, while our guide to things to do in Derry has even more ideas for exploring the city.
Regular rail connections make Derry~Londonderry one of the most convenient day trips from Belfast by train, especially if you would rather watch the countryside roll past than spend your day driving.
If one day does not feel quite long enough, Maldron Hotel Derry puts you in the heart of the city, making it easy to turn your day trip into an overnight stay and explore at a slower pace
4. Portrush
For sea air and an easy-going atmosphere, make your way to Portrush. Spend the morning wandering beside the water before heading towards Whiterocks Beach, where pale cliffs and Atlantic waves create a beautiful backdrop for a long walk.
Portrush is reachable by rail from Belfast, making it a great choice for friends planning a spontaneous seaside escape.
5. The Gobbins
Want something more adventurous? The Gobbins takes you along a dramatic cliff path on the County Antrim coast, with bridges, caves and crashing waves adding to the experience.
Visits are guided and advance booking is recommended. Wear suitable walking clothes and prepare for changeable coastal weather.nFor adventurous groups, it offers something completely different from a traditional sightseeing day.
6. Carrickfergus
Carrickfergus combines history and sea views without taking you far from Belfast. Start at Carrickfergus Castle, an imposing Norman fortress overlooking Belfast Lough, then spend some time wandering along the waterfront. The town is also connected to Belfast by rail, making it an easy option when you only have part of a day free.
Back in the city earlier than expected? Fill the remaining hours with some free things to do in Belfast.
7. Dublin
Fancy crossing the border for the day? Dublin is an easy change of pace, swapping Belfast’s industrial heritage for Georgian streets, leafy squares and the lively buzz of the Irish capital.
The Enterprise train connects Belfast Grand Central Station with Dublin Connolly, so you can settle into your seat and enjoy the journey rather than worrying about driving. Once you arrive, many of the city’s highlights are within easy reach. Wander through Trinity College, stroll around St Stephen’s Green or head towards Temple Bar and the River Liffey before finding a cosy pub for lunch.
Dublin is one of the more ambitious day trips from Belfast by train, so an early departure will give you more time to explore. If you decide one day simply is not enough, Maldron Hotels has several locations across Dublin, including Maldron Hotel Pearse Street, Maldron Hotel Parnell Square, Maldron Hotel Smithfield and Maldron Hotel Kevin Street. They make it easy to turn your day trip into a spontaneous overnight stay before travelling back to Belfast.
Where to Stay in Belfast
Maldron Hotel Belfast City makes a convenient base for exploring Northern Ireland. Located in the heart of Belfast and a short walk from Grand Central Station, you can easily reach bus and rail connections for your next adventure.
If you are driving, Maldron Belfast International Airport is another useful base for exploring further afield.
Either way, you can spend your days chasing coastlines and mountain views before returning to Belfast for dinner, drinks and a comfortable night’s sleep.
FAQs: Day Trips from Belfast
The Giant’s Causeway, Mourne Mountains, Portrush and North Down coast are beautiful options for day trips from Belfast.
The Giant’s Causeway is a popular choice for its UNESCO-listed landscape and spectacular Causeway Coast scenery.
You can travel to places including Carrickfergus, Portrush and Derry~Londonderry, giving you several easy options for car-free trips.
No, several day trips from Belfast are possible by train, while driving or joining a tour can make more remote coastal attractions easier to explore.
