Vacation trip in March

We are from a small town in Fillmore California USA (about an hours from Los Angels California).
We are going to Ireland March 11th through the 21. We will be staying at the Wellington Temple Bar in Dublin.
We already have plans to go to the Guiness brewery, a few castles near by and a trip to Derry.
Since we are going to be there for the very first time, what other tourist spot do you recommend?

Do we need any forms of documents to travel to Northern Ireland. If you can give us more information on this travel area that would be great.

Also would you have information on how to get from Dublin to Scotland. I'm under the impression that it would be some sort of day trip by boat ride and we would have to spend the night to at least be a tourist in Scotland for a bit.

Your help in this matter would be greatly appreciated as we want to make sure we get the full in Ireland experience.

Hello Alex,

Greetings from the Emerald Isle!

It's wonderful to hear you'll be visiting our shores soon and your itinerary sounds great already. 😄

For additional tourist spots, you are spoiled for choice. Consider exploring the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher on the west coast or wandering through the mystical landscapes of the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland. 🌊 If you're drawn to history, a visit to the ancient ruins of Newgrange or the town of Kilkenny might enchant you. But there are so many places you could visit and I recommend you take a look at this page, where you can find many trip ideas to take inspiration from, and at these 5 amazing Ireland Road Trips! And don't forget to indulge in some traditional Irish music and cuisine along the way.
This 12 days island itinerary might also help you. 🗺️

Regarding travel to Northern Ireland, you won't need any additional documents beyond what's required for entering the UK.
However, it's essential to have a valid passport. Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay, and it's always a good idea to check for any updates or changes in entry requirements closer to your travel date. For the most current and accurate information, consider checking the official website of the U.S. Department of State or consulting with the embassy or consulate of the United Kingdom.

As for transportation from Dublin to Scotland, indeed, a ferry ride from Dublin to Holyhead in Wales followed by a train or bus journey to Scotland is a popular option. Spending a night in Scotland would allow you to explore a bit, perhaps Edinburgh or Glasgow, before returning.

For more detailed information and assistance with your travel plans, feel free to reach out again!

I hope your visit will be filled with unforgettable experiences!

Have a great day. ☘️

Hi Alex, 

It’s great to hear that you’re planning a trip to Ireland and our lovely city of Derry. 

Aside from your plans to visit Dublin and Derry, you could check out the incredible Giant’s Causeway, just an hour from Derry. It is located on the North coast of our island, along with a host of other amazing attractions, such as Dunluce Castle and Mussenden Temple. You could also explore the rugged beauty of County Donegal, with some of the most awe-inspiring coastline in the world, at places like Portsalon and Malin Head, and your pick of quaint and tidy towns like Rathmullan or Dunfanaghy. County Donegal is also home to Glenveagh Castle, situated in the heart of a national park in the Derryveagh mountains. In addition, the magnificent city of Belfast is only 1 hour 15 minutes away by car form Derry, or 2 hours from Dublin. There you can see the Titanic centre, Ulster Museum, Belfast Castle, and the Stormont estate to name just a few amazing sights.

Regarding travel documents: it is not usually necessary for US citizens to apply for a visa to visit the Republic of Ireland or the UK for short stays. However, it is good to check online at the websites of the British, Irish and US governments for travel advice, in case you require any specific travel documents. There are no border checks between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland and so there is complete freedom of movement, but it is essential to have the correct documents during your time here.

In terms of travel to Scotland: there are regular ferry services leaving Dublin to the UK, and from Belfast and Larne directly to Scotland. However, it is worth noting that it would not be feasible to plan a day trip to Scotland from the island of Ireland, as the travel time is extensive. The shortest ferry route lasts about 2 hours from Larne or Belfast to Cairnryan (about 3 hours from Glasgow by car). It is a better idea to spread your travel over a few days and so be able to fully enjoy your time in Scotland. 

Be sure to call into us at our office in Waterloo Place, Derry when you make it to our wonderful city! We can give you the best advice on what to see and do in and around the city – the Spring Carnival, including our St. Patrick’s Day parade and festivities will be taking place in the 17th March. We are a city famed for our festivals and celebrations, so it is an unforgettable experience!  If we can help you with anything else, either before or during your stay, please don’t hesitate to contact us, directly or through Community.

Kind regards,

Andrew

Visit Derry