Planning a trip to Londonderry and Northern Ireland is the first step toward an unforgettable adventure. To help ensure your visit is as smooth as possible, here is some essential practical information covering everything from travel and money to staying connected.

Getting Here & Around

Londonderry is well-connected by air, road, and rail. The city's primary airport is the City of Derry Airport (LDY), with regular flights to and from major UK cities. You can also fly into one of Belfast's two airports—George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD) or Belfast International Airport (BFS)—which are both under a two-hour drive away.

Within the city, navigating is simple. The historic Walled City is best explored on foot, while a local bus service (Foyle Metro) covers the wider area. Taxis are also readily available. For traveling across Northern Ireland, the public transport network, managed by Translink, offers comprehensive bus and train services.

Currency & Payments

The official currency of Northern Ireland is the Pound Sterling (£). While Northern Ireland has its own banknotes, you can also use notes issued by banks in England, Scotland, and Wales. It is advisable to have some cash for smaller purchases, though debit and credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted in most shops, restaurants, and hotels.

Health & Safety

Northern Ireland is a safe destination for visitors. Standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings, should be taken as you would in any major city. In case of an emergency, the number to dial is **999** for police, fire, or ambulance services. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is no longer valid for most UK visits, so it is highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers health emergencies.

Connectivity & Electricity

Mobile phone reception is excellent across the region. If you are a visitor from the EU, "roam like at home" policies may no longer apply, so check with your mobile provider before you travel. Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and many public places.

The standard electricity supply is **230V, 50Hz**. The plug type is **G**, which is a three-pronged plug, common throughout the UK and Ireland. It's a good idea to pack a universal travel adapter.

Tipping & Etiquette

Tipping is not mandatory in Northern Ireland but is a common practice for good service. A tip of 10-15% in restaurants and for taxi drivers is generally considered appropriate. In pubs, it is not customary to tip the bar staff unless you're buying a round of drinks, in which case you might offer a small tip.