I have Rick Steves Ireland 2018 guidebook and in the Sightseeing section, Rick mentions some sightseeing passes. Specifically, the Heritage Island Visitor Attraction Map (pg 533) is the one I am wondering about. He describes it as a "free" map that offers discount coupons to various sites. I am an American, but have recently moved to Belfast, Northern Ireland and I went to the TI office in Belfast, but they did not know what I was talking about. From the research I've done online, it seems that the details of this pass have maybe changed and it is no longer a free map that you can just pick up. I was wondering if anyone was familiar with this and knows if it did indeed change? It seems to now be a booklet (that contains the pass) that you can purchase online (for about 8 euros) and then get the discounts (https://www.heritageisland.com/ireland-touring-guide-discount-pass-2018/). Has anyone done this? Is it worth it? I am planning to go to the Guinness Storehouse at the end of December, but I have not booked it yet as I am wondering if purchasing the Heritage Island pass online would be helpful. Thank you!
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
I'm reading that web site the same way you are. But ticket booking link there doesn't really mention a discount on the Guinness Storehouse: https://www.heritageisland.com/attractions/guinness-storehouse. Do you have 2 people, in case it's still true that the better coverage is 2-for-1 entries at some locations? If you're going to be on the island for a while, then maybe 8 euros is a small price to pay, even for relatively small discounts. You could also stop into the Titanic Museum or Ulster Museum to see if they have more info than either the TI or the web site.
Posted by
OP
Belfast, UK
13 posts
Thank you, Laura! That's a good idea about visiting one of the museums, I will probably do that. My husband and I will be in Belfast for the next couple of years, so it probably would be worthwhile. Just wish the website gave more details, as I'd like to know what I am buying. Thanks again!