No-fly Northern Ireland: Highlights by road

This no-fly itinerary starts with an overnight ferry from Liverpool to Belfast. Enjoy the plush comfort of your sea-view cabin, a complimentary bottle of Prosecco and a box of Anthon Berg Royal Selection Chocolates as you make your way across the Irish sea.

Today you'll arrive in Belfast, pick up your hire car and check into your accommodation in the heart of the city, just off the River Lagan. From this central location you have two days to explore. Northern Ireland's buzzing capital is perhaps best known for being the birthplace of RMS Titanic, and the world-famous Titanic Belfast attraction and its interactive galleries are well worth a visit. Afterwards, take a stroll past the iconic copper-topped City Hall building, marvel at the city's beautiful Victorian architecture, and discover the myriad bustling markets and lively bars and restaurants. 

Stay: Radisson Blu Hotel Belfast (Superior)

Today you'll hit the road and head north into the Glens of Antrim, an area of deep valleys carved from a high plateau along the rugged coastline. Surrounded by rolling green hills and lush forests, you'll want to pause to breathe in the fresh air and take in the scenery, perhaps on a woodland trail meandering past waterfalls and pretty streams. Your accommodation for the next two nights is a historic 17th-century castle, which has been updated with airy, contemporary furnishings whilst retaining the traditional oak-beamed features of its past. You're in one of Northern Ireland's most picturesque locations – the windswept Ballygally beach and some of the most scenic filming locations from hit TV show Game of Thrones are on your doorstep. After days spent enjoying the sights, return to the hotel each night to dine in the Garden Restaurant, with views across the bay to Scotland.

Stay: Ballygally Castle (Superior)

You have a choice of routes today – take the coastal road to Ballycastle, or detour inland to the quaint town of Ballymoney, where you can find the famous Beech tree-lined Dark Hedges road. In Ballycastle, take a leisurely walk along the mile-long beach, or visit Kinbane Castle ruins, a historic monument just outside of town. Winding along the cragged coast you'll arrive at the characterful Bushmills Inn, a luxurious converted coach house and your accommodation for the night. From here, the world-famous Giant's Causeway is within easy reach; a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its basalt rock formations are accompanied by a visitor centre with information about the geology of the causeway and the myths and legends behind it. 

Stay: Bushmills Inn, Bushmills (Superior)

Today's route sees you through green hinterlands and around some of Northern Ireland's more remote bays on your way to Londonderry. It's the only intact walled town in Ireland, and within its stone borders you'll see incredible architecture of great historical significance, including the spectacular St. Columb's Cathedral and the neo-gothic Guildhall. In the evening, head into the centre of Derry to enjoy live music in one of its many traditional pubs.

Stay: Maldron Hotel, Derry (Superior)

After breakfast this morning you'll drive back through Northern Ireland's green interior en route to Belfast. Here, you'll board your overnight ferry back to Liverpool to continue your journey, once again enjoying the comfort of your Class 4 berth as you sail home to the UK.