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Holidays to Northern Ireland

There are lots of places to visit in Northern Ireland, no matter what you love to do while you are on holiday. With city exploration and countryside adventures available to you in this amazing country, you will find plenty to entertain yourself with, whether you prefer a city or rural break or a mixture of the two!

Learn more about what to do in Northern Ireland today and book your attractions in advance to avoid disappointment. You could even save a bit of money by doing this too, which gives you more to spend when you get there.

Road Trips in Northern Ireland
Attractions in Northern Ireland

With so many things to do in Northern Ireland, there’s a choice of attractions to suit everyone. With city exploration and countryside adventures available regardless of who you travel with there will be something for everyone. Below is out list of the top attractions to visit in Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland coast
Plan your trip to the Giants Causeway, Northern Ireland

Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway simply has to top your Northern Ireland itinerary. You'll be absolutely mesmerised by its awe-inspiring natural rock formations, which stretch out into the sea like massive hexagonal stepping stones. Whether you're there for the brilliant photo opportunities or to soak up the local legends of giant rivalries, it’s a breathtaking spot you won't want to miss.

TItanic Museum

Titanic Experience in Belfast

If you’re in Belfast, make sure you check out the Titanic Experience. It’s right on the spot where the famous ship was built, and the whole place does an amazing job of bringing the story to life. The interactive exhibits and clever displays make for a riveting, emotional trip through Belfast’s maritime past, and it’s something everyone will enjoy.

Belfast W5

W5 in Belfast

Travelling with kids? Northern Ireland has loads of great family attractions to keep everyone happy. W5 in Belfast is a fantastic interactive science centre where interested minds can get stuck into all sorts of hands-on exhibits. If your little ones are into sea creatures, you can also swing by the Exploris Aquarium for a fun immersion in underwater worlds.

Carrickergus Castle

Castle Adventure in Carrickfergus

If you’re in the mood for a bit of history, Carrickfergus Castle is a must-see. This impressive Norman fortress sits right by the water and is so well-preserved that you really get a sense of what things were like back in the day. It’s easy to spend a few hours roaming the old stone walls, climbing the towers, and allowing your imagination to run wild.

Tollymore Forest Park

Nature Trails in Tollymore Forest Park

If you’re craving a break from the city, Tollymore Forest Park is perfect for a breath of fresh air. The peaceful trails wind past rivers, quirky stone bridges, and huge old trees, making it a lovely spot to stretch your legs. Bring along some sandwiches and a flask of tea for a laid-back picnic or a chilled-out afternoon walk.

Dark Hedges

Magical Walk Through Dark Hedges

Don’t miss a magical stroll through the Dark Hedges. This beautiful avenue of twisted beech trees is one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic attractions, thanks to its photo spots and a moody canopy that feels like something from a storybook. Walking under these dramatic branches is a real treat, especially if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, and it’s the perfect way to wrap up your trip.

Where to Stay on Your Holiday to Northern Ireland?

When planning a trip to Northern Ireland there are plenty of different types of accommodation you can book depending on your preferences. Whether you want to stay in a city centre hotel, luxurious apartment, or a cosy B&B there is plenty of choice for you and who you are travelling with.

If you're heading to a popular attraction, booking places to stay in Northern Ireland nearby can help you beat the traffic and make the most of your day. Prefer a scenic journey? Choose somewhere further out and enjoy a relaxing road trip through Northern Ireland’s natural beauty.

Arthur Cottage in Northern Ireland
Benefits of planning a trip to Northern Ireland with P&O Ferries

Forget the rush and confined spaces that come with air travel – your holiday to Northern Ireland starts as soon as you step on board! With space to walk around, many entertainment options, comfortable seating, and stunning sea views, planning your trip to Northern Ireland couldn’t be easier.

When travelling with at P&O Ferries you can be reassured you will feel refreshed and relaxed.  We will even take the stress out of getting to the port with our free travel and sailing updates when you book directly with us.

Taking the ferry is incredibly convenient, too. You can pack as much luggage as you fancy and bring your own car along, which completely spares you the hassle of sorting out car hire and makes exploring multiple destinations at your own pace an absolute breeze.

With flexible ticket types to suit every budget, plenty of onboard entertainment to keep the kids smiling, and our exclusive Club Lounge if you fancy a touch of luxury, we've got everything sorted. So, why not get your Northern Irish adventure started and book your ferry today?

Book P&O Ferries to Larne
Book P&O Ferries to Larne
Travelling to Northern Ireland

Plan your trip to Northern Ireland FAQs

1 How to Get Around Northern Ireland?

Bringing your own car on the ferry with P&O Ferries is by far the easiest and most flexible way to explore. Having your own vehicle means no strict luggage limits, no relying on timetables, and the total freedom to take scenic detours whenever a view catches your eye. Northern Ireland’s road network is smooth and easy to navigate, making road trips like the famous Causeway Coastal Route an absolute joy.

2 What Are Some of the Best Walking Holidays in Northern Ireland?

Northern Ireland is a total dream for keen walkers. The Mourne Mountains in County Down offer dramatic peaks, sweeping sea views, and iconic climbs like Slieve Donard. For a coastal trek, the Causeway Coast Way takes you along wild Atlantic cliffs and golden beaches, passing stunning landmarks like Dunluce Castle.

 If you prefer lush woodland and rushing waterfalls, the nature trails through Tollymore Forest Park and the Glenariff Red Trail in the Antrim Glens offer magnificent scenery at a slightly gentler pace.

3 What is the Best Destination for Family Holidays in Northern Ireland?

Belfast and the Causeway Coast are absolute winners for a family break. Belfast is packed with hands-on fun, from the interactive exhibits at the W5 science centre to the immersive Titanic Experience. 

If your family loves the outdoors, heading up along the coast gives you easy access to the giant basalt columns of the Giant's Causeway, brilliant sandy beaches at Portrush, and the fairytale trails of Tollymore Forest Park. There’s more than enough to keep kids of all ages thoroughly entertained!

4 When Is the Best Time to Visit Northern Ireland?

Summer (June to August) is naturally the most popular time to visit for people planning their Northern Ireland Holidays, giving you the longest daylight hours and warmest weather for coastal drives and outdoor activities. 

However, spring (April to May) and early autumn (September to October) are fantastic sweet spots – you'll enjoy pleasant weather, lovely seasonal colours in the countryside, and far fewer crowds at the top sights. Even winter has its own charm, especially if you fancy cosy pub fires, festive markets, and crisp city breaks in Belfast!

5 Where are the Best Instagrammable Holiday Destinations in Northern Ireland?

You’ll be utterly spoiled for choice when it comes to picture-perfect spots for your feed! The haunting, atmospheric beech canopy of the Dark Hedges is an absolute must-snap, while the otherworldly hexagonal stones at the Giant’s Causeway make for incredible cliffside shots. Perched right on the edge of dramatic coastal drops, the ruined Dunluce Castle looks like something straight out of a movie. In Belfast, don't miss the striking modern architecture of Titanic Belfast and the colourful street art scattered across the Cathedral Quarter.