The top 8 most Instagrammable places in Northern Ireland

Take the best possible photos, with our selection of must-see tourist sites!

Gwen Rouviere
by Gwen Le Cointre
4 April 2024, 05:41
The top 8 most Instagrammable places in Northern Ireland
Carrick-a-rede bridge - © MNstudio

Explore Northern Ireland and immerse yourself in a land of contrasts, where breathtaking nature meets cultural treasures. If you fancy a trip to Ulster, we’re going to reveal the 10 most Instagrammable places in the region. From breathtaking natural sites to striking ruined castles, you’ll see that Northern Ireland has plenty to offer for lovers of beautiful photos and Instagram!

Top 10 of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful places to take a photo for Instagram

1. Giant’s Causeway, Co. Antrim

This natural site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its hexagonal basalt columns that extend into the sea. The play of light at dawn and dusk transforms the site into an exceptional natural spectacle.

So don’t hesitate to visit early in the morning, or at the end of the day: the site takes on a whole new photographic dimension with the light.


2. Dark Hedges, Co. Antrim

Dark Hedges - © adrianpluskota

Dark Hedges – © adrianpluskota

This avenue, lined with 200-year-old beech trees, became famous thanks to the “Game of Thrones” series. In the morning, the mist creates a mystical atmosphere, perfect for memorable photos.

Whether you visit in winter or summer, the place changes with the seasons and never offers the same experience.


3. Dunluce Castle, Co. Antrim:

Dunluce Castle - © Nick Fox

Dunluce Castle – © Nick Fox

Perched on cliffs overlooking the ocean, this ruined castle offers a glimpse of the region’s nobility and tumultuous history, set against the backdrop of the ocean.

The building has incredible charm, and is one of the most popular locations for photographers. Whether you have a drone or a smartphone, you’ll have no trouble capturing the essence of the castle, with its ruins, its views and its atmosphere, as if suspended outside time.


4. Belfast and its murals, Co. Antrim:

The capital offers a unique blend of art, history and culture, particularly evident in the murals that decorate its walls, bearing witness to periods of conflict and peace.

Feel free to wander around and capture the most striking frescoes. Some of them are living witnesses to the Northern Irish conflict… just as some, more contemporary, deliver artistic messages of all kinds!

An opportunity to discover Belfast’s past, but also its present!


5. The Rope Bridge in Carrick-a-Rede, Co. Antrim:

Carrick-a-rede birdge - © MNstudio

Carrick-a-rede birdge – © MNstudio

For thrill-seekers, this suspension bridge linking the coast to the tiny islet of Carrick-a-Rede offers breathtaking views of emerald waters and craggy cliffs.

Don’t miss the panorama from the bridge, with the view below… We advise you to go in good weather, otherwise you may be frustrated by the lack of visibility across the ocean.


6. The mountains of Mourne, Co. Down

Did you know? These mountains inspired the worlds of writer C.S. Lewis for his work Narnia. They offer breathtaking views and wilderness trails, perfect for lovers of photogenic hikes.

The wall that runs through them offers a highly graphic look that will appeal to discerning Instagrammers.


7. Le Giant’s Ring, Co. Antrim:

This ancient dolmen in the heart of the Northern Irish countryside is a prime spot for those seeking to capture the magic of the Irish countryside. The site combines wild beauty with centuries-old history.

Don’t hesitate to take photos of it in any season: it offers incredible photo opportunities!


8. St Johns Point Lighthouse, Co. Down :

St John's Lighthouse, Killough - Philip McErlean - cc

St John’s Lighthouse, Killough – © Philip McErlean – cc

This colorful lighthouse, with its yellow and black stripes, stands proudly against the tumultuous waves of the sea. It’s the perfect place for lovers of charming seascapes.

Don’t hesitate to shoot in the middle of a storm: you’ll get some dark, beautiful photos… but be careful! The coast in bad weather calls for caution (don’t venture out if the weather forecast is unfavorable).


To discover at the moment