Although it's possible to arrive independently, many visitors opt for a round-trip Giant's Causeway tour from Dublin with transportation and entrance fees included. Guided Causeway excursions, with upgrades for a private tour guide or luxury coaches, often include stops to visit the Dark Hedges and explore other nearby attractions such as the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, the Old Bushmills Distillery, and the ruins of Dunluce Castle.
Volcanic activity created the notable formations at the Giant's Causeway, including the Chimney Stacks, Giant's Harp, and Honeycomb, all of which are favorites of visiting photographers. Spot these formations and other stunning views framed by the windswept cliffs on your walk over the stepping stone-like columns to the edge of the sea.
Wear sensible clothing and footwear, as the stones can be slippery.
An outdoor audio guide is available, in addition to another guide for visually impaired visitors.
The site includes three parking lots and a park-and-ride area.
Paths down to the causeway are partially accessible, as are the grounds.
The visitor center features several interactive exhibitions; there's a small fee to enter.
The Causeway Coastal Route, a scenic drive between Belfast and Londonderry, is a popular option for independent travelers—stop at Rathlin Island and Ballintoy along the way. Alternatively, arrive via an organized tour from both Belfast (a 1.5-hour drive) and Dublin (a 3-hour drive).
Opening times vary seasonally; check the Giant's Causeway website for the latest hours, including the visitor center schedule. Expect wind and rain during winter and visit earlier in the day for a quieter experience before the tour groups arrive.
These rock formations get their name from an old legend about Irish warrior Finn McCool and his Scottish rival, Benandonner. Per the tale, McCool built a path across the sea to face his rival, eventually defeating Benandonner by dressing as a baby; Benandonner feared McCool was the child of a giant and didn't dare to face him. On his way back to Scotland, Benandonner tears up the path behind him, leaving behind only the Giant's Causeway and similar rock formations on the Scottish island of Staffa.
