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5-Day Tour of Derry and Belfast: Exploring Historic Sites of the Troubles This itinerary delves into the history of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, visiting significant sites in Derry and Belfast. The tour includes local guides, museums, murals, and cultural highlights to provide a deeper understanding of this complex period. Day 1: Arrival in Derry...
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Derry , Ulster Discover Destinations
5-Day Tour of Derry and Belfast: Exploring Historic Sites of the Troubles
This itinerary delves into the history of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, visiting significant sites in Derry and Belfast. The tour includes local guides, museums, murals, and cultural highlights to provide a deeper understanding of this complex period.
Day 1: Arrival in Derry (Londonderry)
- Morning: Arrival in Derry
- Check in to your hotel (e.g., The Bishop’s Gate Hotel
- Optional: Enjoy breakfast or coffee at The Walled City Brewery.
- Afternoon: The Walls of Derry
- Explore the 17th-century city walls with a local guide to learn about their history and significance.
- Visit The Siege Museum, which offers insights into the Siege of Derry in 1689 and the Apprentice Boys of Derry.
- Evening: Free Time
- Stroll along the Peace Bridge, a symbol of reconciliation between communities.
- Dinner at Brown’s in Town, a popular restaurant offering local cuisine.
Day 2: The Troubles in Derry
- Morning: Walking Tour of the Bogside
- Take a guided tour of the Bogside Murals, also known as the People’s Gallery. These murals depict key events of the Troubles, including Bloody Sunday.
- Visit The Museum of Free Derry, located in the Bogside area, which provides a poignant account of Bloody Sunday and the Civil Rights Movement.
- Afternoon: Political History & Perspectives
- Walk through Ebrington Square, now a peaceful public space with views of the city.
- Meet with a local guide or community member to hear firsthand accounts of life during the Troubles.
- Evening: Traditional Music Night
- Enjoy live traditional Irish music at Peadar O’Donnell’s, a lively pub in the city center.
Day 3: Travel to Belfast & Titanic Quarter
- Morning: Travel to Belfast
- Drive or take a train to Belfast (approx. 1.5–2 hours).
- Check in to your hotel – The Chambers of Distinction
- Afternoon: Titanic Quarter
- Visit the Titanic Belfast museum to explore the history of the iconic ship and its connections to Belfast.
- Walk along the Slipways and see the SS Nomadic, a tender ship to the Titanic.
- Evening: Free Time
- Dine at The Muddlers Club or Ox, both Michelin-starred options for modern Irish cuisine.
Day 4: Belfast’s Troubles History
- Morning: Black Taxi Tour
- Take a Black Taxi Tour to visit key Troubles sites, including the Shankill Road, Falls Road, and the Peace Wall, where you can leave your own message of peace.
- Learn about the political and social struggles of the era from local guides.
- Afternoon: Political Murals & Crumlin Road Gaol
- Visit Crumlin Road Gaol, a historic prison where many political prisoners were held during the Troubles.
- Explore the International Wall murals near the Falls Road, showcasing global solidarity and political themes.
- Evening: Cathedral Quarter
- Enjoy dinner and nightlife in the vibrant Cathedral Quarter. Recommended spots include The Duke of York and The Harp Bar.
Day 5: Reflection and Departure
- Morning: Stormont Estate
- Visit the Stormont Parliament Buildings, where Northern Ireland’s Assembly meets. Take a guided tour to learn about the Good Friday Agreement and its significance.
- Stroll through the surrounding parkland.
- Afternoon: Final Reflections
- Visit Clonard Monastery, a site associated with the peace process and home to efforts that facilitated cross-community dialogue.
- Stop by the Ulster Museum for its Troubles exhibit and broader historical context of Northern Ireland.
- Evening: Departure
- Depart from Belfast International Airport or return to Dublin (2 hours by train or car).
Optional Additions:
- Derry: Visit the Free Derry Corner for a photo opportunity and further exploration of the Bogside area.
- Belfast: Take a trip to Milltown Cemetery, where many key figures of the Troubles are buried, and hear stories of their legacies.
Accommodation Recommendations
- Derry:
- Luxury: Bishop’s Gate Hotel.
- Belfast:
- Luxury: The Chambers of Distinction
This tour provides an immersive exploration of the Troubles while balancing history with the cultural and scenic beauty of Northern Ireland.
