Londonderry (Derry / Londonderry) — Northern Ireland's second city, the only remaining completely walled city on the island of Ireland, a cultural capital reborn from the trauma of "The Troubles." Here is Europe's best-preserved 17th-century walled miracle city, the global pilgrimage site for fans of Derry Girls, the silent historical testimony of the Bogside murals, and the gentle arc of the Peace Bridge bridging sectarian divides. From the bells of St Columb's Cathedral to the malty fragrance of the Walled City Brewery, from the classical dome of Mussenden Temple perched on a cliff edge to the street musicians' bagpipes in the Cathedral Quarter, Londonderry carries the confidence of "UK City of Culture 2013" and the wild coastline of Northern Ireland's northwest corner, allowing every traveller to find their own Derry rhythm between history and reality.
Europe's best-preserved 17th-century walls, a 1.5km complete circular walkway overlooking the entire city and the Bogside district
1887 neo-Gothic landmark, exquisite stained glass telling the story of the Ulster Plantation, twice bombed
Award-winning museum housed within a city wall bastion, exhibiting Derry's general history and artefacts from the 1588 Spanish Armada shipwreck
Heart of the Bogside district, telling the story of the 1968-1972 civil rights movement and Bloody Sunday, winner of "Most Authentic Experience Award"
12 large-scale political murals created by three Bogside artists, documenting the Northern Ireland conflict and civil rights struggle
S-shaped pedestrian bridge completed in 2011, crossing the River Foyle to connect east and west bank communities, symbolising reconciliation and the future
Completed in 1633, the first newly built cathedral in the British Isles after the Reformation, housing siege artefacts
1873 Gothic Revival Roman Catholic cathedral, 256-foot spire overlooking the Bogside, exquisite rose window
Popular mural on the gable wall of Badger's Bar, freezing Erin, Orla, Clare, Michelle and James in their teenage glory
UK's Best Taproom, converted from Ebrington Barracks, 200+ craft beers paired with locally sourced slow-cooked food
1785 classical circular temple perched atop a 100-metre cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, a romantic ruin managed by the National Trust
Dedicated exhibition on the 1688-1689 Siege of Derry, interactive media and historical artefacts telling the legendary 105-day defence
An artisan enclave within the city walls, cobblestone lanes connecting pottery, textile, jewellery studios and authentic Irish pubs
From the weathered walkways of the 17th-century city walls to the historical echoes of the Bogside murals, immerse yourself in the resilience and rebirth of Northern Ireland's cultural capital
In the morning, ascend the 17th-century city walls at Bishop's Gate and stroll along the complete 1.5km circular walkway, passing the "Roaring Meg" cannon at the Double Bastion, seven gates and panoramic siege views. In the afternoon, step inside the Guildhall to admire the exquisite stained glass windows and medieval costume cosplay beneath the Big Ben-inspired clock tower. Visit the Tower Museum, tracing from St Columba's monastery to the Spanish Armada shipwreck, and the "Derry Girls Experience" featuring Erin's diary and Spice Girls costumes. In the evening, visit the city's oldest building, St Columb's Cathedral, and touch genuine siege artefacts in the cathedral museum.
In the morning, delve into the Bogside district along Rossville Street, admiring 12 large-scale murals created by three local artists forming the "People's Gallery" — from Bloody Sunday to the hunger strikes, each is a silent historical testimony. Pause at the Free Derry Corner slogan wall, then enter the Museum of Free Derry to learn the truth about the 1968-1972 civil rights movement and Bloody Sunday through the eyes of those who lived it. In the afternoon, visit the Siege Museum, experiencing the gripping story of the 105-day siege of 1689 through interactive exhibits. Later, visit St Eugene's Cathedral, feeling the resilience of faith beneath its 256-foot spire in this Gothic Revival space. In the evening, snap a photo at the Derry Girls mural on Badger's Bar, raising a pint of Guinness to the city's humour and courage.
In the morning, walk from the city walls to the banks of the River Foyle and step onto the S-shaped Peace Bridge, completed in 2011. This pedestrian and cycle bridge arcs gracefully across the river, connecting the Catholic community on the west bank with the Protestant community on the east — the city's most moving symbol of reconciliation. Upon reaching Ebrington Square on the east bank, visit the UK's Best Taproom — the Walled City Brewery — sampling 200+ craft beers and locally sourced slow-cooked food. In the afternoon, drive north along the A2 coastal road to Mussenden Temple — a classical circular temple built in 1785 on the edge of a 100-metre cliff, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Magilligan Strand's magnificent seascape. On the return journey, stop at the Contemporary Arts Centre to feel Londonderry's modern pulse as a UK City of Culture. In the evening, return to the Craft Village within the walls and enjoy a traditional music session in a cobblestone lane Irish pub.
Located right at the foot of the Derry Girls mural, this award-winning Victorian-style bar has been operating for over 30 years. Signature Irish stew (£12), Guinness pie (£11) and handmade burgers (£10) are exactly the kind of comfort food the characters would love. The outdoor seating area faces the mural directly — order a craft beer and watch tourists taking selfies for the most authentic "Derry Girls-style" afternoon. Average £10-18, no reservation needed but recommended for dinner.
A hidden gem on Artillery Street, serving authentic Neapolitan sourdough pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven imported from Naples. The signature "Derry" pizza — Nduja spicy salami, Fior di latte mozzarella, roasted peppers and rocket — is a local legend. Also famous for their tiramisu made with Bushmills whiskey. Average £12-20 per person, walk-ins welcome but weekend evenings can get busy.
A stylish street food container on the banks of the River Foyle, serving gourmet loaded fries and craft beers. Signature "Derry Loaded Fries" — topped with pulled pork, apple slaw and smoked cheddar sauce (£9), or the vegan option with crispy tofu and miso mayo. The outdoor deck overlooking the Peace Bridge is the perfect spot for a casual riverside lunch. Average £8-15, cashless payment only.