Welcome to my guide to the most Instagrammable places in Northern Ireland!
In this post, I’m going to be sharing some of the best photo spots in Northern Ireland, like Giant’s Causeway and the Belfast City Hall.
But don’t worry, I’m also sharing some hidden gems, like Tollymore Forest Park and Rathlin Island!
I’ve visited Northern Ireland twice now. Once with my grandparents several years ago and once more recently with my husband, Tucker.
During my travels in Northern Ireland, I realized how underrated it actually is!
It’s my hope that this post will encourage you to visit these breathtaking views and take your own Instagram pictures so that more people will want to visit Northern Ireland.
So, let’s dive right in!
Instagrammable Places in Belfast
To start with, let’s go over some of the most Instagrammable places in Belfast, which is the capital of Northern Ireland.
1. Belfast Botanic Gardens
One of the most beautiful places in Northern Ireland is the Belfast Botanic Gardens!
Visiting the park is free, but do check the opening and closing times of the Tropical Ravine, as they change throughout the year.
The Palm House is the most visually appealing area of the gardens, and it houses many different species of tropical plants.
Give yourself at least half an hour – or even a full hour – to enjoy this beautiful slice of nature in the heart of Belfast.
Recommended by Maja of Away With Maja
2. Belfast City Hall
Belfast City Hall is a photo-worthy building located right in the heart of the city of Belfast.
It’s a large building with incredible, grand architecture, and its elegant Edwardian Baroque style is quite impressive.
Belfast City Hall is adorned with ornate stonework, towering pillars, and a stunning copper dome.
Outside Belfast City Hall, you’ll find beautiful shrubs and flowers. In the spring, especially with flowers in bloom, it’s a stunning display!
Belfast City Hall offers free tours every day, and the tour lasts about one hour.
The interior showcases intricate marble work, impressive staircases, and colorful stained glass windows.
This is a beautiful location and is worthy of belonging on your Instagram feed!
Recommended by Eleanor of Elevate Your Escapes
3. The Salmon of Knowledge
The Salmon of Knowledge is a well-known sculpture by the river Lagan in Belfast.
It’s an expression of knowledge and wisdom and is made up of beautiful tiles.
This is one of the best free things to do in Belfast, and you can visit it at any time of day!
I recommend allocating 15 minutes to admire its beauty and capture memorable photos.
The area along the river is very peaceful, so anyone interested in Belfast’s rich culture will enjoy the area.
Getting there is also easy because it’s close to the city center.
Recommended by Lavina of Continent Hop
4. The Titanic Museum
Situated in the capital city of Northern Ireland is Titanic Belfast, a modern and beautiful museum dedicated to the story of the Titanic.
The museum stands steps away from where the real Titanic was built and is the same height as the Titanic in 1912.
The Titanic Belfast is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, where you can spend a couple of hours.
General admission to the museum is between £11.00 (child) – £25.00 (adult).
Even if you don’t have time to tour the inside, you can always grab a picture outside.
The Titanic Belfast is stunning and full of history, making this a great stop in Belfast!
Recommended by Joanna of Plan Before Land
5. The Belfast Murals
One of the most intriguing things to see on any visit to Belfast is the murals, which are a legacy of the dark days of The Troubles.
The best places to photograph these colorful artworks are on the Falls Road (Republican) and the Shankill Road (Loyalist).
The murals are free to see, and it’s perfectly safe to wander around during the day.
However, it’s probably wise not to be there after dark, especially around the Peace Lines, as there is a curfew and the gates between the two communities close at 7 pm.
I visited the murals on a fascinating three-hour political tour conducted by ex-prisoners from both sides of the conflict.
Black cab tours are another popular way to see these works of art around the city.
Recommended by Steve of Morbid Expeditions
Other Instagram Spots in Northern Ireland
Of course, most of the best photo-worthy places in Northern Ireland for your Instagram account are not in Belfast.
So, let’s go over those next!
6. Giant’s Causeway
Perhaps the most famous Instagram-worthy place in all of Northern Ireland is Giant’s Causeway!
This UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts visitors from around the world because of its 40,000 interlocking basalt columns.
These columns stretch out into the sea, creating a bridge-like formation that looks like giants crafted it, hence the name.
The first time I saw it, it nearly took my breath away!
Giant’s Causeway is not only a geological wonder but also the center of many a local legend, particularly the famous story of Finn McCool, an Irish giant.
No Northern Ireland bucket list would be complete without this fascinating and photo-worthy location.
7. Slieve League
Along the Wild Atlantic Way of Northern Ireland lie the Cliffs of Slieve League, or Sliabh Liag in Irish Gaelic.
These infamous cliffs are part of County Donegal.
Their jutting rocks and crashing waves make them one of the most Instagrammable places in Northern Ireland!
There is no entry fee to see the cliffs, and there is plenty of parking near the viewing areas.
There are safety rails to keep guests safe, but harsh winds should be expected while looking down at the wild cliffs below.
Recommended by Olivia of Girl With Blue Sails
8. Tollymore Forest Park
One of my very favorite places in all of Northern Ireland is Tollymore Forest Park.
This area is a true hidden gem that is seemingly tucked away from the rest of the world.
My favorite thing about this park is how peaceful it is!
On any given day, you’ll find locals out for a stroll, a picnic with the family, or walking their dogs.
Within Tollymore Forest Park, you’ll find multiple Instagrammable places.
I personally loved the stepping stones and the entrance gate, but Tucker liked the massive Yew trees the best.
If you enjoy a more nature-focused setting away from the cities and villages, then make sure Tollymore Forest Park is in your Northern Ireland travel plans!
9. Killybegs
Along the rugged coastlines of the Wild Atlantic Way is Killybegs, a charming seaport village in County Donegal.
Killybegs is Ireland’s largest fishing port and a safe, sheltered deep-water harbor in the waters of Donegal Bay.
Spend a day here learning the town’s fishing history at the Maritime and Heritage Centre, or take a walk around the harbor to photograph enormous trawlers and harbor seals.
If you fancy a boat ride, cruises depart daily for amazing views of Slieve League Cliffs.
I spent an afternoon here and loved Donegal’s nautical atmosphere, fresh seafood, and simple healing beauty.
Recommended by Jenn of Jenn Fisher Books
10. The North Down Coastal Path
The North Down Coastal Path is a scenic coastal walk just 5 miles south of Belfast, spanning the coastline from Holywood to Portavoe.
It also encompasses several local beauty spots along the way.
While the panoramic Irish Sea views are stunning, some of the more scenic attractions along the way include Helen’s Bay, Crawfordsburn Beach, and the Bangor Seafront marina and pier.
The Belfast also covers the main stretch to the Bangor train, making the north coast easy to access independently, and all attractions are free to explore.
Recommended by Allan of Sunny Bangor
11. The Dark Hedges
The Dark Hedges became a popular spot after being featured in TV shows and movies, like “Game of Thrones,” where it was used as the King’s Road.
Its fame has made it a must-see spot for fans and tourists from all over the world, and it is a very commonly photographed location.
These trees were planted way back in the 18th century, around 1775, by a family who wanted to impress visitors as they approached their home.
These old, tall trees frame both sides of the road, and their branches reach out and intertwine above, creating what looks like a natural tunnel.
I’ll be honest; this location didn’t particularly wow us, but it wasn’t too far out of our way to stop for a quick picture.
12. The Mount Stewart Gardens
Mount Stewart covers many tourist interests, from tours of the 19th-century home to various walking trails around the 950-acre estate.
But the standout attraction is undoubtedly the sunken gardens with their intricate displays of flowers, statues, water features, and topiaries, as well as the rich history behind them.
These beautiful gardens are best visited during the spring and summer months when they are hugely popular locally.
However, they remain relatively unknown to tourists due to their off-the-beaten-path location along Strangford Loch.
Their popularity is reflected in their entrance fee of £15+, making it the second most expensive National Trust Property in Northern Ireland after the Giant’s Causeway.
Recommended by Allan of Bangorni
13. Silent Valley
One of the most Instagrammable spots in Northern Ireland is Silent Valley near Newcastle, County Down.
Silent Valley is a reservoir nestled in the Mourne Mountains, and it’s the perfect place to capture the beauty of the area.
It costs £5 per car to enter Mountain Park, but it’s more than worth the money for the views, walking trails, and picnic spots.
The best way to visit Silent Valley is during a weekend break in Northern Ireland in Newcastle.
There are so many things to do in the area, such as relaxing on the beach, hiking up Slieve Donard, or walking an alpaca, which is one of the best animal experiences in Northern Ireland.
Most importantly, you’ll leave Silent Valley and the Mournes with tons of new photos and memories.
Recommended by Josh of A Backpacker’s World
14. Rathlin Island
Northern Ireland’s northernmost point and only inhabited island, Rathlin Island, is woefully underappreciated.
But truthfully, that’s okay since it means more peace and quiet for those who visit!
This small island off the coast of County Antrim is full of beautiful places to take photos.
Some of these include the seabird center that’s flooded with puffins each spring and summer, the three charming lighthouses at different corners of the island, and the stunning coastal hiking routes on the southern end (my favorite!).
Rathlin Island is best visited as a day trip from Ballycastle.
A round-trip ferry ticket costs £16.00 for passengers on foot.
Recommended by Karissa of In Old Cities
15. Slieve Donard
The Slieve Donard Resort and Spa isn’t just any hotel but rather a place full of charm and history.
This grand, castle-like hotel is located right by the sea, with stunning views of the Mourne Mountains on one side and the Irish Sea on the other.
It’s like something out of a storybook, where you can wake up to see the sunrise over the water and watch the sunset behind the mountains!
This beautiful building was named after the tallest mountain in Northern Ireland, Slieve Donard, which is nearby and adds to the area’s natural beauty.
It’s known for its lovely, spacious rooms, some with views that are so beautiful, you might just want to stay in your room all day!
If you’re looking for a luxurious hotel to feature on your social media, then this would be the perfect stay for you.
16. Dunluce Castle
Dunluce Castle is found in Bushmills on the northern coast of Northern Ireland.
It is a very picturesque castle that sits on a cliff overlooking the sea.
The castle is open from 9:30 am to 5 pm, with the last admission 30 minutes before closing.
There is an entrance fee of £6 for adults and £4 for children aged 5-17.
Inside, you can see the well-preserved ruins and there is also a museum detailing the history of the castle.
Outside of opening hours, the area surrounding the castle is open to the public.
Dunluce Castle is worth visiting at any time of day, and the castle is most photogenic from a distance!
Recommended by Kristin of Scotland Less Explored
17. Carrick-a-rede Bridge
The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge in County Antrim is an easy day trip from Belfast and is easily one of the most Instagrammable places in Northern Ireland!
You will walk approximately 1 km from the car park along the gravel and stony path, where you can see stunning coastline views.
At the end, you will come to the famous rope bridge suspended 30m high over the water.
Take your time walking the 20m swaying bridge until you get to Carrick-a-Rede Island for more beautiful views out over the water!
Plan to be here for about 1 hour.
Adult tickets range from £13.50 to £15.50 depending on the season, and tickets must be pre-booked online.
Recommended by Kim of Explore Your Bucket List
18. The Derry Murals
The Derry murals depict the historical events dating from 1968, when a protest march was planned to draw attention to the plight of the Catholic population in Derry.
Northern Ireland has a very complex and turbulent history, and the murals found on the walls of homes in the Bogside area depict that history in a very graphic and captivating way.
There are 13 Bogside murals, known as the ‘Peoples’ Gallery,’ created starting in 1993.
You can see the murals when visiting Bogside and take them in on guided walking tours or spend a few hours in the area.
During your visit, you will learn the history of the murals and the “Troubles” that caused such turmoil and unrest in Northern Ireland.
Recommended by Kim of Explore Your Bucket List
19. Carrickfergus Castle
Carrickfergus Castle is an excellent day trip option from Belfast, as you can drive here in under 20 minutes.
Despite being besieged by several countries since the time it was built over 800 years ago, this Norman castle remains one of the best-preserved castles in Northern Ireland!
You can purchase a ticket on-site to tour certain rooms of the castle, including the banquet hall, vaults, and armory.
Tickets cost only £6.00 for adults and £4.00 for children (ages four and under can enter for free).
Aside from exploring the castle itself, you’ll be able to catch stunning views of Belfast Lough from the keep and walls.
Recommended by Amanda of My Vintage Map
In Conclusion: The 19 Most Instagrammable Places in Northern Ireland
I hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to the best photo spots in Northern Ireland!
What did I not put on my list that you would add? Let me know!
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