8-Day Relaxed Northern Ireland Road Trip from Belfast to Craigavon

Your slow-paced and relaxed road trip through Northern Ireland begins when you reach the incredible Belfast, where you’ll stay for a total of 6 nights. You'll choose from a selection of top-rated hotels. Take your pick and make it your home during your leisurely tour of the city.

In the city of Belfast, nothing beats the comfort the incredible Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast provides. This 5-star hotel is one of the most luxurious places to stay in the area and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,880 guests.

The best 4-star hotel we recommend in Belfast is The Flint. This hotel offers many conveniences and is the perfect base for your relaxed road trip activities. The Flint has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,698 guests.

Budget travelers in Belfast can stay cozy at the 3-star The Fullerton Arms. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 549 guests, this cheap hotel is the number one budget hotel option in the city.

These excellent hotels ensure guests a safe and relaxing stay in Belfast. If these popular options are not available during your trip to the city, our system will automatically help you find the best alternatives.

Belfast is an outstanding hub for culture, comfort, and exploration. The city offers travelers plenty of experiences to look forward to, including the magnificent Cushendun Caves. Around 1,596 visitors have rated this fascinating must-see tourist destination and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Exploring the food culture in Belfast offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

An excellent example is OX Belfast. This restaurant offers a menu of comforting meals and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 567 customers.

Kelly's Cellars serves great food and is a favorite among hungry travelers and locals. This popular restaurant in Belfast has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,449 reviews.

McHughs Bar and Restaurant is another one of the city’s best restaurants. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,161 customers, McHughs Bar and Restaurant is sure to provide you with an unforgettable dining experience.

If you’re curious about what Belfast looks like at night, a trip to some of the best bars near your accommodation is what you need next. Experience the local nightlife at Harp Bar, our top recommendation in the city. Customers have rated this bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,547 reviews.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Northern Ireland! Expect more to come as you continue this laid-back and relaxed road trip in Northern Ireland!

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Northern Ireland, you’ll explore the area around County Down, where you’ll be staying for another 5 nights.

Around 4,357 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

This local attraction is an amazing park that has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,264 visitors.

A stop at the outstanding W5 will make your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Northern Ireland more memorable. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,694 visitors, a stop at this local attraction during your leisurely self-drive through Northern Ireland is a chance to gain another experience worth sharing.

SS Nomadic is a well-loved ship's tender by locals and tourists alike, and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,892 visitors.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Northern Ireland by joining a traveler-approved tour in County Down. Tours offer an opportunity to get to know more about County Down and the unique culture of the country.

There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in County Down that will make your self-drive tour in Northern Ireland more memorable.

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Belfast for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Northern Ireland by eating at one of the best restaurants in Belfast.

With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,570 customers, the dining experience Stix and Stones offers is the perfect complement to your relaxed road trip in Northern Ireland.

Coppi Restaurant Belfast | Italian Restaurant | Tapas | Pizza | Pasta is another pleasant place to eat in Belfast. This restaurant offers a menu of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,349 customers.

If you’re looking for a restaurant that locals enjoy, check out The Spaniard and try their flavorful menu. This local favorite has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,184 customers.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city. At The Garrick, you can relax or make friends with locals and fellow travelers. This bar in Belfast is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,852 customers.

You can also unwind and enjoy a few drinks at Maddens, another well-known bar in Belfast. Customers have rated this city bar an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 931 reviews.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Northern Ireland is all about!

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Northern Ireland, you’ll explore the area around County Down, where you’ll be staying for another 4 nights.

Around 1,469 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

This local attraction is an amazing cafe that has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 718 visitors.

A stop at the outstanding National Trust - Mount Stewart will make your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Northern Ireland more memorable. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,932 visitors, a stop at this local attraction during your leisurely self-drive through Northern Ireland is a chance to gain another experience worth sharing.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Northern Ireland by joining a traveler-approved tour in County Down. Tours offer an opportunity to get to know more about County Down and the unique culture of the country.

There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in County Down that will make your self-drive tour in Northern Ireland more memorable.

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Belfast for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Northern Ireland by eating at one of the best restaurants in Belfast.

With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,042 customers, the dining experience Muriel's Cafe Bar offers is the perfect complement to your relaxed road trip in Northern Ireland.

The Chubby Cherub is another pleasant place to eat in Belfast. This restaurant offers a menu of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 980 customers.

If you’re looking for a restaurant that locals enjoy, check out Parisien and try their flavorful menu. This local favorite has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 741 customers.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city. At Bittles Bar, you can relax or make friends with locals and fellow travelers. This bar in Belfast is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 999 customers.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Northern Ireland is all about!

Day 4 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip through Northern Ireland serves as your introduction to Belfast. This is your chance to experience the very best of the city and appreciate Northern Ireland and its distinct culture and people.

Upon arriving in Belfast, you can check in at the accommodation of your choice for a quick break. This 4-star hotel has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,698 former guests.

You’ll enjoy restful days and nights at the 5-star Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,880 guests, Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast is the best luxury hotel option we recommend while in the city.

The 3-star The Fullerton Arms offers comfort at an affordable price, perfect for practical travelers. The Fullerton Arms is a top-rated budget hotel in Belfast with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 549 guests.

These recommendations are among the most popular places to stay in Belfast. If any of these options are not available during your stay in the city, we’ll provide you with the best alternatives. Our flexible booking system will automatically offer you a selection of accommodations that fit your budget and needs.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Belfast, allowing you to explore the city at a relaxed pace. For example, you can take in the unique atmosphere of the city from the outstanding Royal Portrush Golf Club. This golf course and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in Belfast. The fascinating Royal Portrush Golf Club has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,235 travelers.

Belfast is also home to the captivating Dunluce Castle, a local castle and another popular attraction in the city. About 6,468 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The extraordinary Giant's Causeway is another unforgettable place you can visit on your easy and relaxed road trip across Northern Ireland. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 23,695 travelers, Giant's Causeway proves to be one of the top sights in the area.

You’ll enjoy the time you’ll spend at the incredible The Dark Hedges. A trip to this wonderful site will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing landmark and attraction an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 11,385 reviews.

Every year, travelers gather around this fascinating sightseeing spot to appreciate its unique features.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Belfast, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available on this day of your relaxed road trip across Northern Ireland.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Northern Ireland. After a day of appreciating the best places to visit in Belfast, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Ranking high on our list of the best restaurants in Belfast is Shu Restaurant Belfast. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 577 customers, you really have to try the savory dishes of this excellent restaurant.

Locals love Deanes at Queens for its delicious meals, and we recommend you visit the restaurant at least once during your stay in Belfast. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 597 customers.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Belfast. At Crumlin Road Gaol Visitor Attraction and Conference Centre, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,248 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your relaxed road trip at The Hercules Bar, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 453 reviews.

Margot is also one of the best places in Belfast where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 351 customers.

Sleep comfortably and prepare for another day of your laid-back adventure in Northern Ireland!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Northern Ireland, you'll explore the best attractions in Belfast at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Belfast, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 2 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous Peace Wall Belfast. This incredible top-tier point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,027 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Northern Ireland by seeing another popular site in Belfast, the wonderful Bobby Sands Mural. This best-rated sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,027 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Crumlin Road Gaol Visitor Attraction and Conference Centre. This museum has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,248 visitors.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Carrickfergus Castle. This castle is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,892 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Carnfunnock Country Park. This amazing site is a wonderful park with more than 1,673 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 5 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Northern Ireland. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Belfast itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Northern Ireland extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Belfast. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, Crumlin Road Gaol Visitor Attraction and Conference Centre. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,248 customers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Belfast and unwind at the coolest bars in the city. Drink the night away and celebrate this day of your relaxed road trip at the popular Rita's. This vibrant bar is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 340 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular Santeria Belfast. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 171 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks.

Enjoy the rest of day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Northern Ireland, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

Day 6 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Northern Ireland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Belfast. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Craigavon, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Botanic Gardens is waiting for you. This botanical garden has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,542 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is Ulster Museum. This unique museum is a highly-recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,479 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible Belfast City Hall. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,836 visitors, this town hall is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding Belfast Castle. This popular castle and attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,173 people.

If you’re keen to continue your discovery, make your way to Antrim Castle Grounds. This attraction is a valued best-rated sightseeing destination in the area that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,741 visitors.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Belfast has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Northern Ireland. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car, because it’s now time to drive to the city of Craigavon. In Craigavon, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Northern Ireland.

With an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 2,104 guests, you can be confident this hotel will meet your expectations for a 3-star hotel.

At this top-rated hotel, you can expect comfortable rooms, impeccable service, and a pleasant ambiance.

This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations.

This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Northern Ireland!

Day 7 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Northern Ireland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Craigavon. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Belfast, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Portadown People's Park is waiting for you. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,136 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is Gosford Forest Park. This unique forest is a highly-recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 967 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible National Trust - The Argory. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 921 visitors, this top-tier point of interest is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding Tannaghmore Gardens & Animal Farm. This popular park and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,401 people.

If you’re keen to continue your discovery, make your way to Lurgan Park. This attraction is a valued park in the area that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,224 visitors.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Craigavon has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Northern Ireland. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car, because it’s now time to drive to the city of Belfast. In Belfast, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Northern Ireland.

With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,698 guests, you can be confident this hotel will meet your expectations for a 4-star hotel.

Alternatively, for a deeply relaxing stay, check in at a wonderful 5-star hotel like Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast. At this top-rated hotel, you can expect comfortable rooms, impeccable service, and a pleasant ambiance. Previous guests have rated this luxurious hotel an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,880 reviews.

If you’re looking for a top-rated budget hotel, we recommend staying at the 3-star The Fullerton Arms. This hotel is a top choice among travelers who value a good deal. Guests have given this accommodation an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 549 reviews.

This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations.

This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Northern Ireland!

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in Northern Ireland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Belfast.

Depending on when you need to leave, you might be able to fit in some sightseeing or shopping. Embrace the beauty of Belfast once more and find some souvenirs to help you remember your time in the city. To end your relaxing road trip in Northern Ireland on top, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Giant's Causeway & Bushmills Railway is an extraordinary attraction that is perfect for your last day in Belfast. This top sight is a popular park, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,235 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Belfast or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Belfast and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in Northern Ireland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.