Private Tour
DAY TOUR: Highlights of Derry and Donegal
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Given its geographical location, contrasting coastal and inland terrain steeped in ancient tradition, some would say that the North West of Ireland is truly the jewel in Ireland’s crown. Derry (or “Doire”) derived from the Gaeilge language word meaning “Oak” is a vibrant city located on the River Foyle in this region. With an abundance of historical landmarks to explore, you will be immersed in its lamentable past while attesting and embracing its transition to an energetic and dynamic city full of flavours and steeped in culture. The bordering County Donegal is a short 3km from the city. On this tour we explore elements of both.
➡️ This chauffeured private day tour is delivered by a Fáilte Ireland accredited driver guide.
➡️ This day tour is flexible and tailored for clients on the day to stop, go and explore.
➡️ Tours commence at 9am and finish at 5pm. Times are approximate and may be subject to change.
Additional Info
Specialized infant seats are available
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We can customise the day to suit any needs and a wheel chair accessible vehicle is available on request.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Derry
Setting off in the morning, we will walk the defensive walls of Derry City built between 1613 and 1619. This private guided walking tour will recount the story of Derry from it’s origins to the present day. We also have an option to visit Derry’s most recognised landmarks, the Guildhall, the Tower Museum and the Peace Bridge.
Grianan Of Aileach
Next we travel over the border and into Donegal. Here we visit Grianan an Aileach and Burt Castle. Said to have been built by the Tuatha De Danann, the ancient stone ringfort of Grianan an Aileach dates its origins to 3000 BC. Located 250m above sea level, this spectacular hilltop site was visited by St Patrick who once baptized the high king Eoghan. Not far from here we visit the stronghold of the O’Doherty clan. The remnants of the three story Burt Castle on this lofty domain makes for an impressive sight.
What‘s Included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
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DAY TOUR: Highlights of Derry and Donegal
Pickup included
Reviews
8 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Ancient & Modern in one day!
Y5782ZHdavidk,Aug 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great journey. The juxtaposition of the ancient and modern made this a fascinating way to spend the day. Highly recommended and our host - Joe - was a knowledgeable and always interesting traveling companion. A must during a visit to Donegal and its environs.
A week in heaven
christinemR3216WZ,Jun 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Gorgeous brilliant wonderful place,friendly people,great Hotel Central . Cruise. Of the bay , Slieve Leigh incredible! I’m absolutely in love with Ireland 🇮🇪 My 12th holiday in your WONDERFUL COUNTRY ❤️
Unbelievable Donegal area
X2292XOkennethm,May 15, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00All I can say is " Maureen exceeded our wildest expectations". She gave us an insight to the area that only a proud local could. Thank you Maureen, we will always remember our time with you! Ken and Martha Boston
An unexpected pleasure
greggK8396BA,Oct 7, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our first time in Ireland was made a wonderful journey by Joe, we provided him a blank slate and he crafted a wonderful overview of the history of his homeland which he clearly loves. The scenery, the people , the music, Joe used all of these to weave an unforgettable tapestry of memories for us. If you are fortunate enough to have him as your guide, listen to his stories, give him your time and you will be well rewarded.
Amazing Tour of St. Columbkille Sites!
M3Moore,Jun 4, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My husband and I are deeply interested in historical sites of all kinds. Joe came up with a day tour of Donegal that knocked our socks off! We saw all of the highlights of St. Columb's monasteries in the region, including Ray Church, the monastery at Garten, and the place of St. Columba's birth. He wove in historical political storytelling into his religious stories and we came away with a profound appreciation for so much than we understood before. He really went out of his way to satisfy our needs and we are so deeply grateful to him for a wonderful tour!
Beautiful Private Tour
morrisonfamily62,Mar 22, 2023
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a fabulous day with Ian! He shared personal stories and showed us some beautiful sites in and around Donegal. Because the tour was private, Ian tailored the tour to our preferences and allowed us time to enjoy the day at our own pace. Highly recommend taking time to see this part of Ireland!
Great tour of Inishowen Peninsula
Peg Dougherty,Aug 24, 2022
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our family tour of Inishowen Peninsula was truly amazing…Joe went way beyond my expectations, with his wealth of information about Ireland and our family’s history, his congeniality and diverse talents (he plays flute and sings)! He helped made my first trip to Ireland one I will never forget! Thanks Joe! Margaret Dougherty 24/08/2022
Highlights of Donegal Indeed!
StephenInWSeattle,Aug 7, 2022
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had the great fortune of having Joe as our tour guide for a second day of exploring the amazing sites and history near Donegal, Ireland. Traveling the Wild Atlantic Way, we explored many places including Grianan of Aileach, Doe Castle, Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle, and more! Once again, Joe was so skilled at sharing the history of the locations. Why they were important at the time and today. Not to mention, he to excellent photos of us and the incredible views so we could have them as a reminder of our incredible day. Chieftain Tours provided us with a few amazing days during our time spent around Donegal and we sincerely appreciated the stories, history and the skilled driving to get us to all of these wonderful places. Joe and this tour were exceptional! Amazing history, stories, and incredible views. Learning about the people and places really provided the experience we were looking for. We were able to get lost in the locations and imagine what it would have been like to live back in those times… It was a transformational experience. Thank you, Joe and Chieftain Tours, for the education, memories, humor, and wonderful sights.
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