When is the best time to visit Northern Ireland?

Aim for late spring to early autumn (think May to September) for the best weather and longer days to soak up every bit of your Northern Ireland adventure.

What should I pack for a trip to Northern Ireland?

Pack layers, a waterproof jacket (trust us, it rains), comfy shoes, and a sense of adventure - perfect for unpredictable weather and awesome sightseeing.

How many days should I spend in Northern Ireland?

Give yourself at least 2-4 days to hit the highlights without rushing - enough time to enjoy the coast, castles, and a legendary Northern Ireland vibe.

Do I need a visa to visit Northern Ireland?

Your visa requirements can change according to your nationality. Check out our handy visa guide for the latest info.

Do you tip in Northern Ireland?

Tipping’s appreciated, but not mandatory - around 10% in restaurants if the service’s great, and don’t forget a little something for taxi drivers and guides.

Can I drink tap water in Northern Ireland?

Absolutely! Tap water is safe, fresh. So, no need to lug bottled water unless you’re hiking remote spots.

Is internet access good in Northern Ireland?

Yes, most towns and cities have solid Wi-Fi and mobile coverage, so staying connected on your Northern Ireland tour is a breeze.

What is ATM access like in Northern Ireland?

ATMs are everywhere - cities, towns, and tourist hotspots - so getting cash on your Northern Ireland tour is super convenient.

What are the best places to visit in Northern Ireland?

Don’t miss the Giant’s Causeway, Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, the Game of Thrones filming spots, and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Oh, and of course, the charming town of Derry for awesome views and vibes.

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NORTHERN IRELAND TOURS

Name: Best of Scotland & Ireland
Brand: Contiki
Price: 1635 GBP
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.6 (213 reviews)

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Wild cliffs, vibrant cities, and legendary stories - these Northern Ireland tours serve up awesome adventures, unforgettable moments, and rich culture all rolled into one. Keep scrolling for all the highlights.

Top Northern Ireland Tours

Adored by 18-35s worldwide since 1962

Best of Scotland & Ireland

Days

Places

Countries

From

£1,635

Best of Great Britain & Ireland

Days

Places

Countries

From

£2,150

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Why Contiki?

Totally stress-free travel

Accommodation? Local transport? The best experiences? Relax – we take care of it all (and then some).

The travel dream team

Your iconic Trip Manager, Driver and Local Guides will help your group explore the world with complete confidence.

Experiences that count

You’ll see the main sights, sure, but you’ll also meet local people and join the most culturally immersive experiences.

Why visit Northern Ireland with Contiki?

Two Friends Talking And Smiling At The Top Of A Clief

Walk the Walk

From Belfast’s Bogside murals to Derry/Londonderry’s city walls, you’ll explore it all on foot on awesome Northern Ireland trips for 18-35 year olds.

Sheepdog Herding At Glenshane Country Farm

Real Connections

Think local lemon farms on the Amalfi coasMeet a fourth-gen shepherd, hang with sheepdogs, and give back through a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience that’s all about culture, community, and good vibes.t, dining with local people in Sarajevo, cabaret in Paris and more.

Giants Causeway An Area Of Hexagonal Basalt Stones, County Antrim Northern Ireland Famous Tourist Attraction World Heritage Site

Only Got 2 Days? Easy.

From the Giant’s Causeway to Derry, you’ll smash through the must-sees with stories, sights, and an expert Trip Manager leading the way.

Book with confidence

Lock in your spot with a £60 deposit

Pay monthly or bi-weekly

Amend your booking up to 60 days pre-trip

ABTA & ATOL Protected

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Northern Ireland tour reviews

“Every single day was incredible and I couldn't have asked for a better itinerary. The highlights of the trip were the Cliffs of Moher, Aran Islands, Giants Causeways and the Sheep Farm. We also made some incredible friends.”

Cynthia Lliguichuzhca

Ireland In a Week

“Trip was absolutely amazing! I would absolutely recommend it to anyone wanting to travel solo and meet new people!! I had so many great experiences and memories”

Mitchell Sullivan

Scotland and Ireland

“A whirlwind of pretty castles, beautiful scenery, natural wonders and interesting history. This trip was the perfect mix of fast paced fun and time for slow exploration of hidden gems. I loved every minute of it!!”

Sara A.

Great Britain and Ireland

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Highlights of our Northern Ireland tours

See Giant’s Causeway

This wild, otherworldly rock formation is a must-see on any Northern Ireland trip. Nature’s weirdest masterpiece? Maybe. But definitely unforgettable.

Meet the Sheepdogs

Get rural with a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience on Jamese’s family farm. Watch clever collies, try sheep shearing, and feast on a home-cooked Irish lunch.

Walk the City Walls

Step back in time with a stroll around Ireland’s only walled city. Think 17th-century vibes, stone streets, and stories hiding in every corner.

Explore Belfast

Join a local for a proper Belfast tour. Dive into the city’s highs, lows, and iconic sights - all served with that unmistakable Northern Irish wit.

Take the Titanic Tour

No basic museum here - this is the ultimate Titanic tour Belfast deserves. Special effects, ship reconstructions, and deep-sea drama bring the legend to life.

Top festivals in Northern Ireland

Stendhal Festival

A colourful blend of indie music, art, and camping set in Limavady’s lush countryside. It’s a laid-back local fave and an unforgettable stop on your Northern Ireland trip.

Belfast International Arts Festival

From world-class dance to thought-provoking theater and live music, this city-wide celebration brings Belfast to life every autumn. Big vibes, big talent - it’s an essential cultural fix.

Féile an Phobail

This community-powered fest brings people together with concerts, comedy, workshops and more. It’s authentic, electric, and a must for anyone curious about what to see and do in Northern Ireland.

Derry Halloween

Think haunted houses, light shows, spooky parades and eerie performances - all set within the iconic walls of Derry. It’s eerie, it’s awesome, and a true Northern Ireland festival.

Hillsborough International Oyster Festival

Sure, the oysters are top-tier, but this quirky village fest also features races, food markets, and live music. A perfect, offbeat highlight on a Northern Ireland holiday.

Best Foods in Northern Ireland

Ulster Fry

Start your Northern Ireland tour with the iconic Ulster Fry - crispy bacon, sausages, eggs, and soda bread. The ultimate northern ireland food classic to fuel your adventures.

Irish Stew

Warm up with hearty Irish stew, slow-cooked lamb, potatoes, and root veg. A must-try on any Northern Ireland tour for true comfort food vibes.

Soda Bread

Forget boring bread. Northern Ireland food shines with fluffy, slightly sweet soda bread, perfect alongside butter or dipped in stew on your Northern Ireland tour.

Boxty

Potato pancakes done right. Boxty is crispy on the outside, soft inside, and a tasty northern ireland food staple you’ll crave long after your tour ends.

Champ

Mashed potatoes with spring onions and butter - simple but legendary. Champ’s creamy, garlicky goodness is a staple of northern ireland food you can’t miss on your tour.

Best Museums in Northern Ireland

Titanic Belfast

The ultimate experience telling the awesome story of the Titanic’s birth and legacy. A world-class museum and must-visit on any tour of Northern Ireland’s best cultural spots.

Ulster Museum

A treasure trove of art, history, and natural wonders, this museum is a cultural hotspot perfect for explorers seeking a deep dive into Northern Ireland’s rich heritage.

Game of Thrones Studio Tour

Step inside Westeros! This immersive tour brings your favourite scenes to life and is a dream come true for fans of the iconic series and history lovers alike.

SS Nomadic

Climb aboard the last surviving White Star Line ship and soak up authentic Titanic history. It’s a unique gem that adds real depth to your Belfast adventure.

Crumlin Road Gaol

Explore Belfast’s infamous prison for a thrilling, offbeat look at the city’s darker past - a must-see for those craving something a little different on their cultural journey.