Solo travelling in the City

The City Hotel is ideally located within the centre of Derry, with all the key tourist attractions and must see sights within a short walking distact from the hotel, and unless you wish to explore further afield from our hub, there is no need for public transport.
Steeped in culture and history and charmed with the quintessional Irish craic, Derry has many a story to tell and with so many fantastic tours and attractions available daily, there is something for everyone to see and do. From fabulous restaurants and cafes, lively nightlife and no shortage of shopping, travelling solo in Derry will not feel solo.
City Hotel is the perfect base to explore the North of Ireland, with excellent transport links, knowledgable and friendly staff and close proximity to the main places of interest, Derry is ideal destination for the solo traveller.
With so much to see and do, we have curated a fun packed 48hr in Derry and surrounding areas to make exploring  easy and enjoyable!


Day 1.

Visit Derry
Start off your trip to the all new state of the art Visitor Information centre located in Waterloo Place and discover how to "Unlock the Walls." For detailed information about all upcoming festivals and events due to take place in the local area please visit the official Visit Derry website.

The City Walls.
Next stop visit our City Walls. The walls were built in the 17th century as defenses for early settlers and are approximately 1 mile in circumference, they form a walkway around the inner city. A number of companies such as Martin Macrossan City Tours (http://www.derrycitytours.com) and City Sightseeing tours (citysightseeingderry.com) offer guided tours of the city, including the walls and are well worth using to find out about the unique history of this special city feature.

Derry is one of the few cities in Europe that never saw its fortifications breached, withstanding several sieges including one in 1689 which lasted 105 days, hence the city's nickname, The Maiden City.

St Columbs Park.
Located a short walk from the hotel across the Peace Bridge, St Columbs Park is nestled amongst the banks of the River Foyle, comprising of 70 acres of parkland in a historic demesne. Wrap up the day with a sweet treat from Cafe in the Park, a hidden gem within the walled gardens.

Museum of Free Derry
Spend an afternoon visiting our fantastic museums full of the history of our wonderful city. Start off with the Mueseum of Free Derry. This museum is located in the centre of Derry's Bogside district, only a short distance from the central bus station and firmly on the 'Troubles' tourist route. The museum provides a compact history of the political history of the city and includes artefacts from Bloody Sunday (30th January 1972) and its aftermath.

It is a very moving experience and should be visited in conjunction with walking the city's walls and a visit to the Tower Museum.

Tower Museum
Next up is the Tower Museum, a museum explaining the political conflict that has shaped the city and the country: a must for those unfamiliar with Northern Ireland's war-torn past.

The Craft Village
Be sure to include of retail therapy and stop by the Craft Village, a cultural oasis in the heart of our vibrant city. With artisan crafts stores, coffee shops and locally designed gift and souvenior shops, the Craft Village is the charming hidden jewel in Derry's crown. Keep an eye out for their upcoming "Cottage Sessions" which showcase the very best of our local talent.

Thompson's Restaurant
Wind down the day of exploring with a delicious evening meal in Thompson's Restaurant overlooking the River Foyle, with delicious dishes created with the finest of local produce. With live entertainment on every weekend, enjoy a nightcap to the finest of local talent.
 
Day 2.

Kick off day 2 with a freshly cooked hot breakfast inThompson's Restaurant to fuel up for the day ahead.

Guildhall
Located a stones throw away from the City Hotel, the Guildhall is one of Derry's most recognisable landmarks. Originally built in 1887 by the Honorable Irish Society, the Guildhall is now home to the City Councils chamber and Mayor's parlour, as well as an interactive tourist information point.

Derry Girls Mural
Become a Derry Girl and set off from the Guildhall to experience the fabulous Derry Girls mural created by not for profit company UV Arts. Located on the wall of Badgers Bar and Restaurant, next to Foyleside Shopping Centre, right on the City Walls. This mural was created to celebrate the success of the hit TV show which is based on writer Lisa Mc Gee's experience growing up in Derry in 1990's. The hit show first aired on Channel 4 and has since been nominated for a Bafta.

Siege Museum
The Siege Museum and Visitor centre, showcases artefacts past and present of the history of the Siege of Derry. The museum offers an interactive and informative visitor experience with guided tours running daily, For ticket booking and further information click here.

Millennium Forum
Why not catch a show? Millennium Forum have a jammed packed programme with an aray of entertainment, from the finest musicals, hilarious comedians and world class music acts, there is something to keep everyone entertained. For information of upcoming events check out Millennium Forum website.
 
Return to City Hotel to finish the day with a tasty meal in Coppins Bar washed down with one of our many delicious locally brewed beers, followed by a restful and relaxing nights sleep to unwind and reset for your onward journey.