Simply put, Galway’s best city tours fall into three main categories – historic walking tours, food experiences, and nature excursions. The most enriching options are the walking tours with local guides, who share authentic stories about medieval Galway while strolling through winding lanes and past ancient stone buildings. Food tours stand out for their stops at family-owned shops and traditional pubs, offering genuine tastes of the West. Day trips to Connemara and the Cliffs of Moher are well worth it for the dramatic coastal scenery and expert commentary. Both guided and self-guided options accommodate various group sizes and mobility needs. Let’s explore the specifics of our recommended tours.
Good To Know
- Galway City Walking Tours offer highly-rated, personalized 2-hour walking tours led by local guides, with options for private and themed “Dark” tours.
- Specialized Culinary and Cultural Experiences include guided foodie, whiskey, and pub tours, as well as an outdoor walking tour highlighting Galway’s heritage.
- Connemara and Scenic Tours provide full-day guided explorations of the Connemara region, including visits to historical sites, as well as electric bike and cliffs of Moher tours.
- Tours offer accessibility features, such as wheelchair and stroller-friendly options, as well as accommodations for dietary restrictions, ensuring inclusive experiences.
- Self-guided audio tours and flexible pricing options allow for independent exploration and value-for-money, complementing the guided tour offerings.
Galway City Walking Tour
Why not start your Galway visit with the highly-rated Galway City Walking Tour? This 2.5-hour walking tour receives rave reviews, with 99% of travelers recommending it.
Led by local guide Gary, you’ll explore Galway’s history, culture, and landmarks. From the Claddagh ring to Norman clan stories, Gary’s engaging insights and local knowledge create an immersive experience.
The tour covers top sites like Eyre Square and the Spanish Arch. At a maximum group size of 15, you’ll enjoy personalized attention.
With free cancellation and “Reserve Now, Pay Later” options, it’s a convenient way to discover Galway. Just note some reviews mentioned the tour running longer than expected, so plan accordingly.
Read our full review: Galway City Walking Tour Review
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Castles of Connemara Tour Departing Galway City. Guided. Full Day
Departing from Galway City, the Castles of Connemara Tour provides visitors a full-day guided exploration of the historical and scenic wonders of the Connemara region.
With a maximum group size of 15, the tour takes visitors to Aughnanure Castle and Kylemore Abbey, with gratuities and lunch included. The tour is rated 4.8/5 based on 21 reviews, with 90% of travelers recommending it.
Highlights include guided commentary on local history and ecology, and the opportunity to access back roads and hidden gems.
While most customers praise the knowledgeable guides, some note limited castle visits and discomfort from seating arrangements.
Read our full review: Castles of Connemara Tour Departing Galway City. Guided. Full Day Review
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Electric Bike Tour of Galway City With Expert Local Guide
Exploring Galway City by electric bike is a unique and thrilling way to discover its charms. The 118 reviews for this 4.9/5 rated tour rave about the top-quality electric bikes, smart helmets, and knowledgeable local guides.
At $69.71 per person, it’s a great value, with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start. Highlights include visiting 5 key neighborhoods, light exercise, and frequent stops for exploration.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour accommodates a wide range of riders with a minimum height of 146cm and maximum weight of 125kg. Highly recommended for those seeking an engaging way to see Galway.
Read our full review: Electric Bike Tour of Galway City With Expert Local Guide Review
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Cliffs of Moher, Burren and Wild Atlantic Way Day Tour From Galway City
This full-day tour from Galway City promises an immersive journey through some of Ireland’s most stunning natural landscapes.
Visitors will explore the iconic Cliffs of Moher, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Burren region, known for its unique karst geology.
Along the way, travelers will discover hidden gems of the Wild Atlantic Way, including Black Head and Fanore Strand.
With an included cruise to the base of the cliffs, a knowledgeable guide, and ample time at the main attractions, this tour offers an exceptional value.
Travelers consistently praise the guides’ expertise and the breathtaking scenery, making this an excellent choice for anyone seeking to experience the best of Ireland’s west coast.
Read our full review: Cliffs of Moher, Burren and Wild Atlantic Way Day Tour From Galway City Review
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Discover Galway City Walking Tour
Situated in the heart of Galway, the Discover Galway City Walking Tour provides visitors with an engaging and immersive introduction to the city’s rich history, architecture, and local culture.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the 90-minute tour takes participants on a journey through Galway, highlighting key landmarks like the Pádraic Ó Conaire Statue and the Spanish Arch.
With a maximum group size of 25, the tour offers personalized recommendations and engaging stories that bring the city to life.
Wheelchair and stroller accessible, the tour is suitable for families and first-time visitors, offering a great way to explore Galway on foot at an affordable price of $21.45 per person.
Read our full review: Discover Galway City Walking Tour Review
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City Sightseeing Galway Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
For visitors looking to explore Galway’s top attractions at their own pace, the City Sightseeing Galway Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour offers a convenient and flexible sightseeing experience.
With a 4.1 rating from over 100 reviews, the 60-minute tour allows travelers to hop on and off at their leisure, with buses running every 90 minutes or more frequently during the summer.
The tour includes an audio guide in English and stops near major sights like the Salthill Promenade, University of Galway, and Galway Cathedral.
While some found the experience disappointing due to long wait times and limited bus frequency, many praised the tour’s informative drivers and as a great way to prioritize attractions.
Read our full review: City Sightseeing Galway Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Review
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5 Hour Walking and Tasting Tour of Galway City
Offering a more immersive exploration of Galway’s vibrant culture, the Walking and Tasting Tour of Galway City provides visitors with an engaging 3-hour experience that combines sightseeing, local history, and a sampling of the city’s renowned culinary delights.
With a maximum group size of 16, the tour has earned a remarkable 4.9 rating from 150 reviews, and is recommended by 96% of travelers.
Along the way, knowledgeable local guides like Conor, Nicole, Barry, and Lorraine lead participants through the city’s highlights, offering tastings of traditional Irish dishes, oysters, and unique local beverages.
While some reviews expressed a desire for more historical content, the majority praised the engaging storytelling and accommodating nature of the guides.
Outdoor Walking Tour in Wonderful Walls of Galway City
This outdoor walking tour takes participants on a captivating exploration of Galway’s iconic Wonderful Walls, providing a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich history and architectural heritage.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the 1.5-hour tour departs at 11:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, with a maximum of 10 travelers. Priced at $21.45 per person, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and well-suited for families.
Guests will meet at the opticians on Woodquay Street and end their journey at the Wolfe Tone Bridge. With a 4.5/5 rating from previous participants, this tour promises an immersive and enlightening experience exploring Galway’s renowned Wonderful Walls.
Read our full review: Outdoor Walking Tour in Wonderful Walls of Galway City Review
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Connemara Pub Tour From Galway City. Co Galway. Guided. Half Day.
The Connemara Pub Tour from Galway City, Co Galway, is a guided half-day experience that takes visitors on a private tour through the picturesque Connemara region.
The tour includes a private local guide, €5 food and beverage vouchers for four visited pubs, transportation, and entertainment. Guests can enjoy scenic views and famous Connemara music while exploring the area.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most travelers. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
With a 5.0 overall rating from a single review, the Connemara Pub Tour is highly recommended for those seeking a unique and immersive cultural experience in Galway.
Read our full review: Connemara Pub Tour From Galway City. Co Galway. Guided. Half Day. Review
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Foodie Walking Tour of Galway City. Guided. 2½ Hours.
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Galway City can embark on a 2½-hour Foodie Walking Tour guided by local experts.
This highly-rated tour includes 6 food/drink stops and a goodie bag, allowing participants to savor the flavors of Galway. The tour starts and ends at McCambridges Of Galway Ltd, with a maximum of 12 travelers per group.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation. Dietary restrictions must be advised in advance, as menus can’t be changed on the day.
Priced from $152.41 per person, this tour offers a worthwhile and enjoyable culinary experience, with positive feedback on the engaging guides and exposure to local specialties.
Read our full review: Foodie Walking Tour of Galway City. Guided. 2½ Hours. Review
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Explore Galway City Walking Tour
For those seeking a comprehensive introduction to Galway City, the Explore Galway City Walking Tour offers an engaging and informative 2-hour experience.
Led by knowledgeable guides, this walking tour takes visitors on a journey through the heart of Galway, highlighting the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Starting at the iconic O’Conaire Statue in Eyre Square, the tour covers notable sites like the St. Nicholas Church, providing valuable insights along the way.
With a maximum of 12 participants, the tour ensures a personalized and immersive experience.
Priced at $32.17 per person, this tour is an excellent value and a must-do for anyone visiting Galway.
Read our full review: Explore Galway City Walking Tour Review
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Galways City Centre: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Galway’s City Centre: A Self-Guided Audio Tour offers an immersive journey through the heart of this vibrant Irish city.
Narrated by Derek Spillane, the tour allows you to explore Galway’s attractions and lesser-known areas at your own pace.
With lifetime access to the VoiceMap app, you’ll have offline maps, geodata, and a convenient starting point at the Failte Ireland Tourist Office.
The tour ends at the iconic Spanish Arch, giving you ample time to further enjoy Galway.
While the tour doesn’t include entrance fees or transportation, it provides a flexible and informative way to discover the city.
Reviews highlight the ease of use, engaging storytelling, and historical insights offered by this self-guided audio experience.
Read our full review: Galways City Centre: A Self-Guided Audio Tour Review
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Galway City Walking Tour With Local Guide
The Galway City Walking Tour with Local Guide offers an immersive exploration of the city’s vibrant heart, led by a knowledgeable local.
This customized private tour allows groups of up to 15 participants to discover Galway’s rich history and charming streets. Starting and ending at the iconic Eyre Square, the tour is accessible for wheelchair users and stroller-friendly.
Priced at £38.03 per group, the experience boasts a 5.0 review rating, ensuring a top-notch journey through this captivating Irish city.
With flexible scheduling from March to November, the tour provides a convenient and engaging way to experience the best of Galway.
Read our full review: Galway City Walking Tour With Local Guide Review
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The Dark Tour of Galway City
Offering a captivating exploration of Galway’s darker past, the Dark History Tour of Galway City immerses visitors in the city’s eerie tales and macabre legends.
Lasting 90 minutes, the tour is led by expert guides like Barry, Conor, Nicole, and Lorraine, who engage audiences with their storytelling and knowledge.
Traversing the city’s atmospheric streets, the tour highlights ghostly encounters, historical murders, and local folklore, providing an immersive experience for the 20 travelers maximum.
With a 96% recommendation rate and a 4.8/5 overall rating, the tour is an excellent introduction to Galway’s rich and sometimes unsettling history, perfect for first-time visitors seeking a unique perspective on the city.
Read our full review: The Dark Tour of Galway City Review
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Private Guided Foodie Walking Tour in Galway City. 3 Hours
For those seeking a delectable dive into Galway City’s vibrant food scene, the Private Guided Foodie Walking Tour presents an unparalleled opportunity.
Over the course of 3 hours, this private tour takes guests on a culinary adventure through 6 local eateries and watering holes. Accompanied by an expert guide, you will savor a curated selection of the city’s finest food and drink offerings.
With dietary restrictions accommodated in advance, the tour caters to a range of preferences. Upon completion, guests depart with a goodie bag, memories of Galway’s gastronomic delights, and a deeper appreciation for the city’s thriving food culture.
Read our full review: Private Guided Foodie Walking Tour in Galway City. 3 Hours Review
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3 Hours Guided Irish Whiskey Tour and Tasting in Galway City
Enjoy Galway’s vibrant whiskey culture on this 3-hour guided Irish Whiskey Tour and Tasting.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, you’ll visit pubs and bars to sample various Irish whiskeys. The tour starts at 2:00 PM, meeting outside O’Connell’s Bar in Eyre Square.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, you’ll have an intimate experience learning about the history and production of Irish whiskey. Alcoholic beverages are included, and the tour ends at Tigh Neachtain on Cross Street Upper.
Priced from $152.41 per person, the tour requires a minimum of 2 people to run, with 4 people needed for the full experience.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: 3 Hours Guided Irish Whiskey Tour and Tasting in Galway City Review
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The Sum Up
Galway City offers a diverse range of tours that cater to various interests. From walking tours showcasing the city’s rich history and architecture to outdoor adventures like biking and visiting the Cliffs of Moher, there’s something for all. Foodies can indulge in a guided foodie tour, while whiskey enthusiasts can explore the local Irish whiskey scene. With knowledgeable guides and unique experiences, these tours provide an excellent way to discover the best of Galway.