Derry (Lisahally) Full Day Shore Excursion
TOUR Details
Tour Start
Lisahally Harbour
Tour End
Lisahally Harbour
€115
7
Hrs
Small Group
Tour
Donegal & Derry: Legends of the North experience
NOTE: THIS TOUR IS TIMED TO COINCIDE WITH YOUR SHIPS ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE TIME IN KILLYBEGS.
Step ashore in style and travel in luxury with a small group, guided by local Fáilte Ireland-accredited experts on an unforgettable journey through Donegal and Derry. Ascend the legendary Grianán of Aileach for sweeping, breathtaking views, stroll along Derry’s historic walls, murals, and Guildhall, and immerse yourself in the haunting Bogside Museum, where the city’s history comes vividly alive.
Your day ends in a traditional Irish pub, alive with music, laughter, and the warmth of true Irish hospitality — the perfect way to experience the soul of the North.
From port to pub, this is more than a tour — it’s the ultimate Northern Ireland experience, not to be missed.
WHATS INCLUDED
- Luxury air conditioned vehicle
- All Attraction Entry Fees
- Accredited Expert Guide
- Departure scheduled for cruise ship arrival time
- Insider access and insights
- Moneyback Guarantee
BOOKING
TOUR VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS
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TOUR ITINERARY
Arriving into the port of Derry in Lisahally, your fully guided adventure begins the moment you step ashore. First we make our way on a scenic route to the ancient neolithic ringfort of Grianán of Aileach in County Donegal. Here you will hear stories of Ireland’s ancient past whist admiring the panoramic views from the hilltop — a breathtaking introduction to Ireland’s dramatic landscape and intriguing past.
Next, journey to the historic city of Derry, where every corner tells a story. Admire the iconic city defensive walls, take in the powerful murals, marvel at St. Columb’s Cathedral and the majestic Guildhall, and view the graceful Peace Bridge — a cityscape alive with centuries of resilience, culture, and hope.
Step back in time at the Museum of Free Derry, where Ireland’s past and its struggles feel alive and close. From ancient tools and peatland displays to powerful exhibitions on the city’s political history, the museum weaves together the stories of people who lived, worked, and fought here.
Wander the galleries and you can almost sense the hands that shaped these artifacts, the communities that resisted injustice, and the lives behind every struggle. It’s a place that makes history personal, real, and quietly unforgettable.
As your day draws to a close, relax in a traditional Irish pub, where music, warmth, and the lively energy of true Irish hospitality welcome you. Enjoy the unforgettable atmosphere, a perfect finale to an extraordinary day exploring Donegal and Derry.
Places You Will Explore
Perched on a windswept hill in County Donegal, Grianán of Aileach greets you like something out of a legend. This ancient stone fortress, once home to High Kings, looks out over a breathtaking sweep of Lough Swilly and Lough Foyle, with the Inishowen peninsula stretching endlessly toward the sea.
Step through its narrow entrance, and the past seems to stir around you. You can almost sense warriors pacing the walls, royal gatherings unfolding, and the thrill of epic triumphs lingering in the air. The circular stone walls, built without mortar, rise with a quiet defiance, standing firm against wind, rain, and time itself.
At the summit, with the sky stretching wide and the land tumbling away in every direction, you don’t just see history — you actually feel it. Grianán of Aileach isn’t just a ruin; it’s a living echo of Ireland’s ancient strength and spirit.
Perched along the River Foyle, Derry City crackles with history, character, and charm. Its iconic 17th-century walls — the only fully intact in Ireland — sweep around winding streets filled with historic buildings, colourful murals, and stories that leap off every corner.
Walk the ramparts and take in the city’s energy: from the famous murals of the Bogside to the vibrant streets that inspired Derry Girls, the city pulses with life, laughter, and unforgettable vibes.
Derry isn’t just a place to visit — it’s a place that grabs you, makes you smile, and stays with you long after you leave.
Nestled in the heart of Derry’s Bogside, the Bogside Museum is a moving, immersive journey into the city’s most turbulent and defining years. This is not a museum for glitz — it’s a place where history hits you with honesty and humanity.
Inside, powerful exhibits bring the Troubles to life: original photographs, news footage, personal testimonies, and artifacts from marches and protests that shaped a city. Visitors can trace the stories behind iconic murals, see the faces of those who stood for change, and feel the tension, courage, and resilience of the people who lived through it.
Step out onto the streets, and the murals themselves become living exhibits, connecting the past to the present. Visiting the Bogside Museum isn’t just about seeing history — it’s about understanding the struggle, and leaving awed by the unwavering spirit of Derry.
In the heart of Derry, Peadar O’Donnell’s Pub is more than a pub — it’s a living tapestry of the city’s history. Steeped in tales of immigration, family, and local characters, its walls echo with stories that shaped Derry over generations.
Step inside, and the atmosphere hums with life: live “Legenderry” music, traditional songs, and the laughter of locals make the past feel immediate and vibrant. Visitors have the perfect opportunity to sample a creamy Guinness or sip Ireland’s finest Mountain Dew, letting the city’s spirit flow through every note, every story, and every clink of a glass.
It’s a fitting finale to your Donegal & Derry journey — part history, part celebration, entirely unforgettable.












REVIEWS
From all over the world, some fantastic reviews and testimonials from past customers
EXCELLENT Based on 58 reviews Posted on Ronald BrownTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Nicola was a great guide! She picked us up on time at the port and took us to Donnegal city where we toured the castle. Then it was on to views of the countryside and a small town where we saw weavers making beautiful blankets, scarves etc. After a quick sandwich we drove to the Sliabh Liag Cliffs which were gorgeous despite the rain. Nicola got us back to our ship in good time after a delightful day.Posted on Valerie VerdoneTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great tour company! We had a fabulous day with Kevin! Thank you Chieftan Tours for a great day in Donegal,Ireland!Posted on Katie LadnerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. An absolute must see! What a great show!Posted on Margaret CritzTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Joe from Chieftain Tours made my day in South Donegal unforgettable. He was funny, incredibly knowledgeable, and brought every stop to life with great stories—from castles and abbey ruins in Donegal Town to the cliffs of Slieve League (which we got to drive right up to—major bonus!). We also visited Silver Strand Beach and the Glencolmcille Folk Village, and Joe made every bit of history feel fresh, surprising, and honestly just fun. If you’re visiting Donegal, do yourself a favor and book with Chieftain Tours. Ask for Joe. You won’t regret it.Posted on Leonie GattiTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We booked the highlights of South Donegal with Joe from Chieftain Tours May 2025. We decided to have a day off driving ourselves and see the sights with a knowledgeable guide. Joe was amazing. We warmed to him immediately. His knowledge of not only Donegal but Ireland and its history made for a wonderful day. It was sad to say goodbye. We felt like we’d known Joe for years. Do not hesitate to book a tour with Joe. Our day was truly a memorable one.Posted on Katelyn LackeyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My husband and I had a wonderful day touring around the Donegal. We got to see some amazing sites and some off-the-beaten-path areas that we never would have seen on our own. Joe was very knowledgeable and gave us some good stories and history of the area. It was a day well spent!Posted on Cathy SimpsonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We spent two weeks in Ireland without a car by piecing together buses, trains, guides/drivers and day tours. Our adventure started with Joe Greene touring us around Co. Donegal for two wonderful days of sharing the spectacular landscapes, seascapes and history. Easy and fun to be around, we learned so much and can highly recommend our new Irish friend. Thanks, Joe -- a definite highlight of our trip.Posted on Debbie DriverTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an incredible day traveling around Donegal with Joe! He provided such a great balance of sharing the history and the natural beauty of Donegal. He is clearly passionate about Donegal and his love for the place shined through during the tour. He also adapted the tour to include things we hoped to do and see. The day with Joe was one we won't forget! Kudos!!Posted on Tien ThompsonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Joe was EXCELLENT. He was knowledge, flexible and FUNNY. He is also an excellent driver! We learned so much. You can tell Joe is very passionate about what he does. Highly recommend Joe and his company! We had a great time !Posted on Hayley ThompsonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing tour and Joe was very kind and accommodating. He was knowledgeable and would recommend the tour to anyone!




