N Ireland Planning

Does anyone know of a small group tour that would go from Derry thru
the north of the Republic (Sligo/Atlantic coast) and on to Dublin?

Does it have to be a tour? There are regular buses from (London)Derry to Sligo. https://www.buseireann.ie/

No, it doesn't have to be a a tour but taking the bus isn't as appealing, as a tour would private some information and maybe a stop (Ulster Park) en route. . I've seen a number of private guides and taxi services (quite expensive) that would go where you ask but usually small groups are more reasonable.

When you say Titanic Quarter, so you mean going to the museum? It's well worth the time.

I would give Londonderry one day and spend at least one more in Port Ballintrae. Train to Coleraine then walk through station and onto the bus which will drop you at the hotel. The Bayview Inn is my favorite hotel in Northern Ireland. The views and restaurant are fabulous. It is a short distance from the Giants' Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and Port Royal.

http://www.bayviewhotelni.com/

PS I've taken the bus from Derry to Galway. It is not for the faint of heart. Long trip, minimal breaks, but high on local flavor.

Definitely spend several days in Derry. I've always stayed at the Maldrons hotel when there. Very nice accommodations, lovely breakfast, close to everything. Get a tour of the People's Gallery - the Bogside Murals. It's quite moving if you have an understanding of this history. I created this short video about the videos for a college course on political I designed and taught. You might find it interesting. https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=51&v=5cBfnftU1yo&feature=emb_logo

Walk the walls...that's worth some time just on its own! Eat at Sandwich, Co. in the middle of Derry - lots of locals there.

Can't advise on the tour to/from Derry as we always just drove, but that is such a beautiful part of the isle up there on the Antrim Coast. Totally worth a few days on its own. Enjoy!

Thank you so much - I enjoyed your video - beautifully done and informative, providing a window so that I could enjoy Ireland vicariously. Unfortunately, vicariously is the only was we can travel right now and so your post is especially appreciated. Someday we'll be traveling again,.,..

Don't forget the Giants Causeway, north of Belfast.

The Aircoach stop is on the side of the Europa and the Crown Saloon is across the street from the Europa.
Definitely take a Black Cab tour, it mostly centers around the Peace Wall and the Troubles.
Look into taking a tour with Susie Millar. She is a descendant of one the builders of the Titanic.
Paul Corkin also gives tours of Belfast.

Thanks Wendy for the wonderful video on the Bogside murals.

Seafood chowder at Mournes seafood Bar!

Also, a pint at the Spainard ( check to see if it’s reopened) peruse the Belfast Exposed Gallery on Donegall street and stop in at Beth’s Bakery and Cafe for a pastry or full on English breakfast.

If the Spaniard is closed then try the venerable Kelly’s Tavern which is next to Mournes.

I am so grateful; for all the suggestions. Needless to say, we've postponed our trip but our plans are getting better better and better as your thought and comments arrive - and they give me hope that we will all be traveling again...some day...

If you do add Giant’s Causeway to your trip, and I highly recommend that you do, the visitors center there is quite nice and there is a shuttle that you can take down to the causeway if you’re concerned about walking. It runs continuously. I was there in March of 2019 and I found standing at the causeway as the waves came in exhilarating and one of the (many) highlights of my trip.