Things to do in Northern Ireland

All about Northern Ireland

When to visit

The ideal time to visit Northern Ireland is either in spring or fall as both seasons offer pleasant weather to get out into nature. In spring, it’s all about the blooming flowers, while in autumn it’s fall colors. Annual draws include St. Patrick’s Day on March 17, which is celebrated throughout the country, and The Twelfth or Orangefest on July 12, which takes place in Ulster province.

Getting around

You can drive around the entirety of Northern Ireland in about 13 hours, and many tourists get a car to do a slower stop-by-stop visit. Without a vehicle, the best way to get around is by train or bus. You can purchase tickets to both through Translink—the train system is called Iarnrod Eireann Rail and the bus options are Ulsterbus and Metro.

Traveler tips

Castlewellan is one of the most overlooked towns in Northern Ireland, and it lies just 30 miles (48 kilometers) outside Belfast, making it a great day trip from the city. A visit to Castlewellan Forest Park, home to the Castlewellan Castle and Peace Maze is a must, as well as time in the nearby Tollymore Forest Park—a scene straight out of a storybook and home to some Game of Thrones filming locations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Northern Ireland a safe place to visit?

Yes, Northern Ireland and its capital of Belfast are safe to visit with a low crime rate. You’ll see armed police around, a legacy of the Troubles period (1968–1998). To avoid confrontation, skip political talk and don’t wear British-themed clothing or that of some soccer (football) teams.

Is it worth going to Northern Ireland?

Yes, it’s worth going to Northern Ireland. Even if you’re not intrigued by its history of the Troubles, the country offers travelers some worth-the-trip natural views and attractions, like Giant’s Causeway, Titanic Belfast, and Dunluce Castle.

Can I travel freely between Ireland and Northern Ireland?

Yes, you can travel freely and easily between Ireland and Northern Ireland so there’s no need to worry if you’re planning to see highlights from both areas on your trip. The border is open, so it’s usually fairly simple to drive across when you want to.

How many days do you need in Northern Ireland?

To get the full experience of Northern Ireland’s history and scenery, spend three to five days. Recommendations for a shorter visit include a day trip to Londonderry, a black-cab taxi tour of Belfast, and a visit to Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. More time means more natural wonders.

Which currency is used in Northern Ireland?

Northern Ireland uses pound sterling. This is different from Ireland, which uses the euro. The distinction is because Northern Ireland is a part of the United Kingdom, whereas Ireland is an independent country and European Union member. If you visit both Ireland and Northern Ireland, you’ll need both currencies.

Is there a train between Dublin and Belfast?

Yes, there are trains that run between Dublin and Belfast—good news for travelers without a car who want to visit both capital cities on one trip. You can take one of Ireland’s high-speed trains between the cities and get to where you’re going in just a few hours.

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