Derry

No city in Ireland connects the kaleidoscope of historical dots more colorfully than Derry (as it's known to Nationalists), a.k.a. Londonderry (to Unionists). From a leafy monastic hamlet to a Viking-pillaged port, from an essential WWII naval base to a wrenching flashpoint of sectarian Troubles…Derry has seen it all. Though it has less than half of Belfast's population, Derry has a more diverse history, and a prettier setting. This predominantly Catholic Nationalist city was much contested throughout the Troubles, but the 21st century has brought refreshing changes. Wandering its thriving embankments, bridges, streets, and walls, you'll be glad you came to this underrated city.