4-Night Northern Ireland Tour – A Private 5-Day Irish Journey
Discover Northern Ireland Your Way with a Private, Bespoke Irish Tour
Short on time but eager to discover Northern Ireland’s remarkable history, dramatic coastline and beautiful countryside? Our private 4-night Northern Ireland tour offers a memorable five-day journey with your own experienced Irish driver-guide.
Beginning in Dublin, travel north to discover Newgrange, explore Belfast’s fascinating maritime heritage and experience the spectacular North Antrim Coast, including the world-famous Giant’s Causeway.
Continue west to the historic walled city of Derry and discover the wild beauty of Donegal, with opportunities to visit Glenveagh National Park and the magnificent Slieve League Cliffs. Your return journey to Dublin offers further opportunities to explore Ireland’s heritage and countryside, depending on your preferred route and available time.
At Glenbeg Tours, we believe your Irish holiday should be as individual as you are. A private tour gives you the benefit of local knowledge, personal service and the flexibility to discuss the places and experiences that matter most to you.
Although this is a shorter tour, it offers a wonderful introduction to Northern Ireland and Ireland’s northwest, combining ancient history, vibrant cities, dramatic coastal scenery and some of the country’s most memorable landscapes.
Your tour, your interests, your pace — discover Ireland with Glenbeg Tours.
Your 4-Night Northern Ireland Tour at a Glance
- Duration: 5 days and 4 nights
- Tour type: Private, tailor-made Irish tour
- Starting point: Dublin, with collection arrangements agreed in advance
- Main destinations: Belfast, the North Antrim Coast, Derry and Donegal
- Historic highlights: Newgrange, Titanic Belfast and Derry’s historic city walls
- Scenic highlights: Giant’s Causeway, Glenveagh National Park and Slieve League Cliffs
- Your driver-guide: Travel with your own experienced Irish driver-guide
- Customisation: Discuss your preferred stops, interests and pace with Glenbeg Tours
This sample itinerary combines Northern Ireland’s celebrated landmarks with the spectacular scenery of Donegal. With several regions to cover in five days, some journeys are long, so the final route should be agreed in advance to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Highlights of Your Northern Ireland Journey
Discover Newgrange and Ireland’s Ancient Past
Visit Newgrange in the Boyne Valley, a remarkable prehistoric monument built thousands of years ago. Its extraordinary construction offers a fascinating insight into the achievements of Ireland’s earliest communities.
Explore Belfast and the Titanic Story
Discover Belfast’s maritime heritage and learn about the construction of the famous Titanic at Titanic Belfast. Depending on your arrival time, you may also have an opportunity to visit Belfast Castle or explore the city’s vibrant centre.
Experience the Spectacular North Antrim Coast
Travel along one of Ireland’s most beautiful coastal routes, with dramatic cliffs, picturesque harbours and wonderful ocean views. Depending on your interests and the time available, stops may include Carrick-a-Rede and Ballintoy Harbour.
Visit the World-Famous Giant’s Causeway
Explore Northern Ireland’s remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its extraordinary basalt columns and fascinating geological history. Local legends tell of the giant Finn McCool, adding another layer to this unforgettable landscape.
Discover Historic Derry
Explore the historic walled city of Derry, where centuries of history can be discovered along its ramparts and in its characterful streets. A guided walk can offer valuable insight into the city’s past and cultural heritage.
Experience Glenveagh National Park
Discover Donegal’s dramatic mountain scenery, tranquil lakes and beautiful landscapes at Glenveagh National Park. If time allows, explore the grounds of Glenveagh Castle and its gardens.
Marvel at the Slieve League Cliffs
Experience the spectacular Atlantic scenery of Slieve League, where immense cliffs rise high above the ocean. These dramatic landscapes provide some of the most memorable coastal views in Ireland.
Discover More of Ireland on Your Return Journey
Depending on your preferred route and available time, your journey back to Dublin may include Belleek Pottery, Cavan County Museum or Malahide Castle. These are optional possibilities rather than guaranteed stops, as the day’s driving distance and departure arrangements must be considered.
Follow Your Private Northern Ireland Tour Route
Your journey begins in Dublin before travelling north to Newgrange and Belfast. Continue along the spectacular North Antrim Coast to the Giant’s Causeway, then travel west to historic Derry.
From there, discover Donegal’s magnificent landscapes, including Glenveagh National Park and the Slieve League Cliffs, before returning to Dublin through Ireland’s northwest and midlands.
Your route: Dublin → Newgrange → Belfast → North Antrim Coast → Giant’s Causeway → Derry → Glenveagh National Park → Slieve League Cliffs → Donegal → Dublin.
This route combines Ireland’s ancient heritage, historic cities, spectacular coastline and rugged mountain scenery in one memorable private journey.
map
Day 1 – From Dublin to Belfast via Newgrange
Your Irish journey begins with collection at your agreed Dublin location, where you will meet your experienced driver-guide and travel north towards the Boyne Valley.
Your first major stop is Newgrange, one of Ireland’s most remarkable prehistoric monuments. Built thousands of years ago, this extraordinary site provides a fascinating introduction to Ireland’s ancient past and the people who created these impressive structures.
Continue to Belfast, Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital, a city with a rich industrial and maritime heritage.
Depending on your arrival time and interests, you may be able to visit Titanic Belfast, which tells the story of the famous ship and the city where it was built. If time permits, Belfast Castle or a stroll through the city centre may also be possible.
After a day combining ancient history and modern city life, settle into Belfast for the evening.
Overnight: Belfast.
Day 2 – The North Antrim Coast and Giant’s Causeway
Today, discover the spectacular North Antrim Coast, renowned for its dramatic scenery, rugged cliffs, picturesque harbours and sweeping Atlantic views.
Travel along the celebrated coastal route, with opportunities to stop at scenic viewpoints and explore some of the region’s best-known attractions.
Depending on your interests and the time available, you may visit Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, famous for its dramatic coastal setting, and Ballintoy Harbour, a picturesque location recognised by many visitors from its appearance in film and television.
The highlight of the day is the Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s world-famous natural landmark. Its remarkable basalt columns were formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, while the legend of Finn McCool adds a distinctive element of Irish folklore.
If time permits, a visit to the historic Bushmills Distillery may also be considered.
Continue west towards Derry, where you will spend the night.
Day 3 – Historic Derry, Glenveagh National Park and Slieve League
Begin the day in Derry, a city rich in history and character. Weather and timing permitting, enjoy a guided walk along its historic city walls, which offer wonderful views across the city and an insight into its fascinating past.
Continue into Donegal, where the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with mountains, lakes and sweeping countryside.
A visit to Glenveagh National Park offers an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Ireland’s northwest. If time allows, you may explore the grounds of Glenveagh Castle and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
Later, travel towards the magnificent Slieve League Cliffs. Rising high above the Atlantic Ocean, these spectacular cliffs provide breathtaking views and a memorable highlight of your journey.
This is a particularly scenic day, so the precise order of visits and time spent at each attraction should be planned around driving distances and daylight.
Continue to Donegal town for your overnight stay.
Overnight: Donegal.
Day 4 – Return to Dublin via Ireland’s Northwest and Midlands
After breakfast, begin your return journey to Dublin, with opportunities to explore further along the way depending on your interests and available time.
One possible stop is Belleek Pottery, renowned for its fine craftsmanship and traditional pottery-making heritage. A factory visit and time in the shop may be possible if opening hours and the day’s schedule allow.
Another option is Cavan County Museum, which has a range of historical exhibitions, including a reconstructed First World War trench. Alternatively, if the route and timing are suitable, Malahide Castle near Dublin may be considered.
Because these attractions are spread across a substantial driving route, they should be treated as alternatives rather than a promise to visit all three.
Arrive in Dublin and settle into your hotel for your final night, bringing the day’s journey to a close.
Overnight: Dublin.
Day 5 – Departure from Dublin
After breakfast, your private tour concludes with a transfer to your agreed Dublin destination, whether that is Dublin Airport, a city hotel or another arranged location.
The departure timing should be confirmed in advance, especially if you are catching an international flight.
If you have additional time in Ireland, Glenbeg Tours can discuss other private touring options to extend your stay.
Your five-day journey combines ancient monuments, Belfast’s maritime heritage, Northern Ireland’s spectacular coastline, the history of Derry and the wild landscapes of Donegal.
Thank you for travelling with Glenbeg Tours. We hope your visit has given you lasting memories of Ireland and its people.
Why Choose a Private Northern Ireland Tour with Glenbeg?
A private tour offers a personal and flexible way to discover Ireland, combining the freedom to explore with the knowledge of an experienced Irish driver-guide.
Your Own Experienced Driver-Guide
Travel with someone who understands Ireland’s history, traditions and landscapes, bringing the places you visit to life through local knowledge and personal recommendations.
A Personalised Irish Experience
Your interests help shape your journey. Whether you enjoy ancient monuments, maritime history, dramatic coastlines or beautiful countryside, your itinerary can be discussed and tailored to suit you.
Discover Ireland Beyond the Main Attractions
Alongside celebrated landmarks such as Newgrange and the Giant’s Causeway, experience the character of Derry and the quieter landscapes of Donegal.
Flexibility Along the Way
Enjoy opportunities for photographs and selected additional stops, with the final schedule planned around realistic driving times and the attractions you most want to experience.
A More Personal Way to Travel
Whether travelling as a couple, a family or a small group of friends, a private tour allows you to enjoy the journey together without the restrictions of a large coach tour.
At Glenbeg Tours, our aim is to make your time in Ireland personal, comfortable and memorable.
Who Is This 4-Night Northern Ireland Tour Best For?
This private tour is ideal for travellers who want to discover Northern Ireland and Donegal but have limited time available.
- First-time visitors to Ireland looking to experience famous landmarks and dramatic scenery in a short holiday.
- American visitors incorporating Ireland into a wider European trip or a longer stay in the country.
- History enthusiasts interested in Newgrange, Belfast’s maritime heritage and Derry’s historic walls.
- Scenery lovers drawn to the Giant’s Causeway, the North Antrim Coast and Slieve League.
- Couples and families who prefer a private touring experience with their own driver-guide.
- Independent travellers who value local knowledge and the convenience of having someone else handle the driving.
As this tour covers considerable ground in five days, it is best suited to travellers comfortable with some longer drives. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, Glenbeg can discuss extending your stay or adjusting the route.
Your Irish Tour, Designed Around You
This itinerary provides a starting point for discovering Northern Ireland and Donegal, but every traveller has different interests.
You may wish to spend more time exploring Belfast, discover additional coastal viewpoints, enjoy a guided tour of Derry or focus on the landscapes and heritage of Donegal.
When planning your journey, we can discuss which attractions matter most to you and which optional stops best suit your available time. We can also consider your accommodation preferences, travel dates and any special arrangements that would make your holiday more enjoyable.
Our aim is to help you experience the places that matter most to you while keeping your itinerary comfortable and realistic.
Planning Your Private 4-Night Northern Ireland Tour
The cost of your private tour depends on your travel dates, group size, vehicle requirements and the arrangements included in your quotation.
Your quotation should clearly outline the services provided. The standard tour offering includes the daily service of a qualified driver-guide and the use of a private touring vehicle, together with associated transport costs and your driver’s daily and overnight expenses. Complimentary bottled water and onboard Wi-Fi are also offered, subject to availability.
Accommodation, meals, attraction admission fees and gratuities are not included unless expressly stated in your quotation. All-inclusive package deals may be available on request.
Tell us your preferred dates, number of passengers and accommodation requirements, and we’ll discuss a personalised quotation for your journey.
Contact Glenbeg Tours to start planning your private Northern Ireland tour.
Discover Ireland with Glenbeg Tours – Guest Reviews
Choosing a private tour is about more than the places you visit. It is also about the experience, the local knowledge and the memories you make along the way.
Read genuine reviews from guests who have travelled with Glenbeg Tours and discover what they have said about their Irish touring experiences.
Read our guest reviews on TripAdvisor.
Excellent combination sights, history and humor
Also gave great tips for restaurants and best Guinness pubs.
Michael just reinforced our view that the best part of Ireland is the people.
Highly recommend this tour, so much more than the sites!
Morris Family Vacation
Mike was able to procure some genealogy of my grandmother ( nee Gubbins) and took us to St Mary’s in Clonmanny where she was baptized and brought up! Plus lots of other sights like Dingle, Killarney, Inch Beach, Sligo, Our Lady of Knock shrine, Guinness brewery Cobh, game of thrones filming and Belfast Titanic, it was all spectacular! Mike knows the history of the counties and we were always impressed, from early morn to late nights! Food was incredible everywhere as were the people.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our 4-Night Northern Ireland Tour
Is this a private Northern Ireland tour?
Yes. Glenbeg Tours specialises in private Irish tours with your own driver-guide and private touring vehicle.
How long is the tour?
The itinerary covers five days and four nights, with overnight stays in Belfast, Derry, Donegal and Dublin.
Does the tour include both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland?
Yes. The journey combines Northern Ireland’s historic cities and coastline with destinations in the Republic of Ireland, including Newgrange, Donegal and the return journey to Dublin.
Will I visit the Giant’s Causeway?
The Giant’s Causeway is a principal highlight of the itinerary. The timing of your visit and any admission arrangements should be confirmed when finalising your quotation.
Can I visit Titanic Belfast?
A visit to Titanic Belfast may be possible on the first day, depending on your arrival time and the opening hours. If this attraction is particularly important to you, mention it when arranging your tour.
Can the itinerary be customised?
Yes. You can discuss your interests, preferred stops and travel arrangements with Glenbeg Tours. Optional visits will depend on the available time and practical driving distances.
Can I explore places connected to my Irish ancestry?
If you have family names, ancestral towns or particular counties you wish to explore, let us know when planning your tour. Relevant stops can be considered as part of your itinerary.
Is four nights enough to explore Northern Ireland?
Four nights allows you to experience several important highlights, including Belfast, the Giant’s Causeway, Derry and Donegal. It is a relatively fast-paced journey, so a longer tour may be preferable if you want more time at each destination.
Can accommodation be included?
Your accommodation preferences can be discussed during the planning process. Your personalised quotation should specify whether accommodation is included or arranged separately.
Where does the tour finish?
The itinerary includes an overnight stay in Dublin on Day 4, followed by your agreed transfer or departure arrangements on Day 5. If you are flying home, the timing should be planned around your flight.
How do I book a private tour with Glenbeg?
Contact Glenbeg Tours with your preferred travel dates, group size and any particular places you would like to visit. We can discuss your requirements and prepare a personalised quotation.
Start Planning Your Private Northern Ireland Tour
Discover Ireland’s remarkable history, spectacular coastline and beautiful countryside on a private journey designed around you.
From the ancient monument of Newgrange and the maritime heritage of Belfast to the Giant’s Causeway, historic Derry and the magnificent landscapes of Donegal, this four-night tour offers a memorable introduction to Northern Ireland and Ireland’s northwest.
With your own experienced Irish driver-guide, you can enjoy a more personal way of travelling, with opportunities to discover the places and experiences that interest you most.
Tell us when you plan to visit, who will be travelling and what you would most like to experience. Glenbeg Tours will help you plan a private Irish holiday suited to your interests and available time.
Request Your Private Tour Quote
Contact Glenbeg Tours to start planning your Irish adventure.
Explore More Private Ireland Tours
Looking for a different route or a longer Irish holiday? Discover our other private touring options:
- 3-Night Southern Ireland Tour – Enjoy a short private journey through Southern Ireland, with historic landmarks, scenic mountain roads and spectacular Atlantic coastline.
- 8-Night Southern Ireland Tour – Explore Southern Ireland in greater depth, discovering its beautiful coastline, historic towns and countryside.
- 8-Night Northern Ireland Tour – Discover Belfast, the Giant’s Causeway, historic Derry, Donegal and the landscapes of Ireland’s northwest.
- 14-Night Private Ireland Tour – Enjoy a more comprehensive journey through Ireland, combining celebrated landmarks, beautiful scenery and time to explore at your own pace.
EXPLORE IRELAND
See Ireland Through Irish Eyes
Discover spectacular scenery and authentic Irish experiences with Glenbeg Tours.
