Overview to Northern Ireland: Travel Guide and Tourist Information
- Northern Ireland Information
- Things to do in Northern Ireland
- Where to stay in Northern Ireland
- Northern Ireland street map
The sleepy villages, green-grassed fields and enthralling castle ruins of Northern Ireland are a long way from the turmoil of years of civil war. In truth, ‘the Troubles’ ended a while back, and today the country continues to blossom into an inviting travel destination.
The capital, Belfast, pays testament to Northern Ireland’s newfound confidence. Alongside the historic City Hall and Grand Opera House, urban regeneration has bought about a rash of impressively modern architecture such as the Waterfront Hall.
Perhaps the best tribute to Belfast’s new era, however, looks back to the past. Where once the giant murals reflected a city bristling with anger, today they sit as a fascinating testament to what once was, and a favorite tourist attraction for visiting travelers.
Away from Belfast, many visit the country’s second city, Derry, to soak up its artsy atmosphere. Sandwiched between rolling hills, the city is held in by its 17th Century stone walls – the perfect vantage point from which to check out its engaging center.
Few other cities attract attention, however, and heading instead for the hills of rural Northern Ireland is recommended. The beautiful lakes of Lough Erne and the nearby Island of Enniskillen (which comes with a fascinating castle) make for wonderful rambling.
Right up towards the tip of the country in North Antrim, the famed Giant’s Causeway is a sight to behold: the result of a violent volcanic eruption, its thousands of primeval hexagonal columns rising up from the sea offer a spectacular trek along the coastline.
Finally, after a hard day’s jumping from pillar to pillar, trying a drop or two of Northern Ireland's famous whisky is practically compulsory. Irish malts are some of the best in the world, and all but guarantee a relaxed ending to a busy day of sightseeing.
