Our journey through Derry's history begins with the city's most distinctive landscape feature - the famous city walls. The Derry Walls are the only fully preserved ramparts in Ireland, and some of the best preserved in Europe. Walking around these impressive fortifications, which are more than 400 years old, we can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and imagine what it looked like in its heyday. The city walls, which are 1.5 kilometers long, offer unforgettable views of the old city and its surroundings. It's the perfect place for a family stroll, during which you can learn about Derry's fascinating history. Along the walls, there are numerous information boards that take you through the most important events of the city's past.

After strolling along the walls, head to the majestic Guildhall, a neo-Gothic town hall that is one of the most recognizable buildings in Derry. The Guildhall, built in 1890, impresses with its architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. Inside you can visit an interesting exhibition on the history of the city and admire the impressive main hall. This place is not only an important landmark, but also the center of Derry's cultural and political life.

When comparing the two attractions, it's worth noting that while the city walls offer a panoramic view of the city and the opportunity for active outdoor sightseeing, the Guildhall provides a more detailed look at Derry's history in a comfortable setting. The walls are accessible free of charge year-round, making them an attractive option for families on a tight budget. The Guildhall, on the other hand, while also free, has specific opening hours, requiring some planning for a visit. However, both sites are extremely popular with tourists and are must-see spots on the map for any visitor to Derry.

To better understand Derry's complex history, it's worth visiting several key museums that offer an in-depth look at the city's past. Start with the Museum of Free Derry, which focuses on the tumultuous period of conflict in Northern Ireland known as 'The Troubles.' Located in the heart of the Bogside neighborhood, this museum tells the story of the civil rights movement and the tragic events of Bloody Sunday. The exhibit contains numerous photographs, documents and memorabilia from the period, offering visitors a moving and educational experience.

Another highlight on Derry's museum map is the Tower Museum. Housed in a 16th-century tower, this modern museum presents the history of the city from prehistoric times to the present. Of particular interest is an exhibition on the wrecks of the Spanish Armada, which sank off the coast of Ireland. The Tower Museum also offers a beautiful view of the city from its rooftop observation deck.

For those who want to explore the history of the 1689 siege of Derry, a must-see is The Siege Museum. This museum depicts the events surrounding the siege of the city by King James II's army, which lasted 105 days. The exhibit contains numerous artifacts, including weapons, documents and everyday objects from the 17th century.

When comparing the three museums, it's worth noting their different perspectives and subject areas. The Museum of Free Derry focuses on relatively recent history and is particularly emotional in its reception, which may be difficult for younger children. The Tower Museum offers a broader overview of the history of the city and region, making it more suitable for families with children of all ages. The Siege Museum, on the other hand, focuses on a specific historical event, which may be fascinating for those with a particular interest in military history.

In terms of pricing, the Museum of Free Derry and The Siege Museum charge an admission fee (as of 2023), while the Tower Museum offers free entry for children under 16. All three museums are well adapted for people with disabilities and offer educational materials in various languages. The tour time for each museum is about 1-2 hours, allowing for flexibility in planning a day of sightseeing.

Beyond the main attractions, Derry hides a number of lesser-known but equally fascinating places to explore during a visit to the city. One such place is Free Derry Corner, an iconic mural and symbol of the civil rights movement. This place, though small, is of great historical and emotional significance to the people of Derry. It's worth stopping here for a moment of reflection and a commemorative photo.

For lovers of religious architecture, a must-visit should be St. Columba's Long Tower, the oldest parish in the city. Although often overlooked by tourists, this church offers a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful interior. Nearby is The St Columba Heritage Center, a small but very interesting museum dedicated to the history of Christianity in the region.

Also worth noting are the less obvious elements of the cityscape, such as the gates in the city walls - each with its own history and character. Of particular interest is Bishop's Gate, which offers an excellent vantage point over the city.

For families with children, an interesting option might be a visit to the Derry Girls Mural - a large-format mural depicting female characters from a popular TV series. It's a great place to take fun photos and show kids how modern popular culture is connected to the city's history.

When comparing these lesser-known attractions to the highlights, it's worth noting that they offer a more intimate and often more authentic experience. These are places where you can meet locals and get a real feel for the city. Most of these places are available free of charge, making them an attractive option for travelers on a tight budget.

All in all, Derry is a city that offers an extremely rich array of historical attractions. From impressive city walls to fascinating museums to hidden gems, there is something for everyone. It's worth planning at least a few days to explore all of these sites to fully appreciate Derry's complex and fascinating history. Whether you are passionate about history or simply looking for an interesting place for a family outing, Derry will certainly not disappoint you. This is a city that not only tells the story of the past, but also actively shapes its present and future, while maintaining a remarkable respect for its heritage.