Car Hire Belfast International Airport

The most breathtaking road trips in Northern Ireland include vibrant cities, rolling verdant hills and unspoilt coastlines. After you pick up your hire car at Belfast International Airport, you can park up in Belfast city centre in around 30 minutes. Here you can visit many of the city’s best attractions such as the Cathedral Quarter, St George’s Market and the Titanic Belfast experience.

Back behind the wheel, journey north to marvel at the Causeway Coastal Route and the Glens of Atrim, a route considered to be one of the most spectacular road trips in the world. On the way you can pay a visit to the hometown of poet and Nobel Laureate Seamus Heaney, whose poetry was inspired by this area of outstanding beauty. Stretch your legs at the ruins of Dunluce Castle or continue on to Londonderry to take in the city’s sights and attractions. From here you can travel south to the Fermanagh Lakelands and if you have time, drive further east to view County Down’s Mountains of Mourne in all their glory.

Whatever your plans or budget, rent a car from Avis and start planning your trip. Whether you are looking for cultural experiences or wide green spaces, there are tons of beautiful places to discover.

Northern Ireland is a fantastic place to see by car. From the emerald green landscapes and mountainous interior to the wild coastlines, you’ll find a tapestry of incredible road trips within easy reach of the capital.

Stretching 195 miles along the glittering Antrim Coast between Belfast City and Londonderry, the Causeway Coastal Route is rated as one of the top road trips in the world. Besides having miles of stunning coastline, this area of Northern Ireland is notable for its rugged cliffs, charming villages and ancient archaeological sites. There are many worthy attractions to stop at along the route, including the 12th century Carrikfergus Castle, the sheer Gobbins cliff walk, and Glenarm Castle and Gardens.

Just one hour south of Belfast via the A49 brings you to Tollymore Forest Park. Nestled in the foothills of the Mourne mountain range, this tree-cloaked corner of Northern Ireland is said to be the inspiration behind C.S. Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia. Home to breathtaking views, winding rivers and gurgling streams, grottos and caves to explore, this unique woodland conjures up visions of adventure and fantasy.

Take some time to drive out to Bellaghy in County Londonderry where you can discover the hometown and legacy of Seamus Heaney, the Nobel prize-winning poet, as well as get to know the landscapes and people that shaped his work.

The hinterlands of Belfast will be recognisable to many as major filming locations for HBO’s popular TV show, Game of Thrones. Discover our recommended tours and locations for the ultimate Game of Thrones tour from Belfast here.