Exploring Galway’s pub scene means experiencing authentic Irish culture at its finest.
Two standout tours consistently deliver memorable experiences: The Connemara Pub Tour packs great value into a half-day journey, combining breathtaking countryside views with stops at four distinctive pubs, complete with food and drink options.
The Aran Islands Pub Tour offers an intimate look at island life, blending traditional music, fresh seafood, and local craft demonstrations while visiting the stunning Inisheer and Inishmore.
I’m impressed by both tours’ attention to detail – from comfortable transportation to well-planned scheduling.
They’re especially good for travelers seeking a balance of culture and social atmosphere without the typical tourist traps.
Let’s explore these excellent drinking tours in detail.
Good To Know
- Galway’s pub scene offers an authentic Irish cultural experience through local pubs, with a focus on culture and social atmosphere.
- The Connemara Pub Tour is a half-day guided adventure from Galway City, visiting four distinctive pubs with food and drink vouchers.
- The Aran Islands Pub Tour focuses on the islands of Inisheer and Inishmore, offering round-trip transportation, tea/coffee, scones, and a seafood lunch.
- Both the Connemara and Aran Islands tours emphasize attention to detail, guest satisfaction, and knowledgeable local guides to enhance the experience.
- The tours boast high ratings, flexible cancellation policies, and a focus on creating an intimate atmosphere to foster a deeper connection to the local culture.
Connemara Pub Tour From Galway City. Co Galway. Guided. Half Day.
The Connemara Pub Tour from Galway City whisks visitors away on a half-day guided adventure through the scenic Connemara region. This private tour allows only your group to participate, ensuring a personalized experience led by a knowledgeable local guide.
The tour includes transportation, entertainment, and a €5 food and beverage voucher for each of the 4 pubs visited.
The meeting point is the Victoria Hotel in Galway, where a bus collects guests and returns them at the end of the tour. The experience is accessible, with wheelchair and stroller-friendly transportation and surfaces. Most travelers can participate, making it a suitable option for a wide range of visitors.
Priced from $1,617.75 per group (up to 15 people), the tour offers a Lowest Price Guarantee and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option.
With a perfect 5.0 rating based on a single review, this Connemara Pub Tour promises a wonderful experience, as evidenced by the glowing feedback from a previous guest.
Read our full review: Connemara Pub Tour From Galway City. Co Galway. Guided. Half Day. Review
Book now: Check availability
Aran Islands Pub Tour From Galway. Inisheer/Inishmore. Guided.
If you’re looking to experience the beauty and charm of the Aran Islands, the Aran Islands Pub Tour from Galway is an excellent choice. This private tour focuses on the islands of Inisheer and Inishmore, offering an intimate atmosphere as you explore the local pubs.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from Galway City to Connemara Airport, with a return flight from Connemara International Airport. In case of inclement weather, ferry transport or the option to wait for a later flight will be provided.
During the tour, you’ll have a driver guide to show you around the islands. Enjoy a tea or coffee with fresh scones, a seafood lunch, and craft-making activities. You’ll also receive vouchers to use at the pubs on the islands, allowing you to fully learn about the local drinking culture.
The tour starts at 9:30 am, and the meeting and end points are both at the Connemara Airport.
With a flexible cancellation policy and a lowest price guarantee, the Aran Islands Pub Tour is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Galway.
Read our full review: Aran Islands Pub Tour From Galway. Inisheer/Inishmore. Guided. Review
Book now: Check availability
Questions About Staying Here
Can I Bring My Own Alcohol on the Tours?
It’s generally not allowed to bring your own alcohol on drinking tours. The tour operators provide the drinks as part of the experience, and allowing outside alcohol could disrupt the flow and atmosphere of the tour.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
The tours are generally wheelchair accessible, though it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Many offer accommodations for guests with accessibility needs to ensure they can fully participate in the experience.
How Much Walking Is Involved in the Tours?
The amount of walking involved in the tours can vary, but most require a moderate level of mobility. Some tours may include walking between different venues, while others focus more on the drinking experiences themselves.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
Many tour companies offer the ability to customize itineraries for their tours. Clients can often work with the tour operator to adjust the schedule, activities, and highlights to suit their specific interests and needs.
Do the Tours Include Transportation to and From Galway?
Many drinking tour providers in Galway offer transportation to and from the city as part of their packages. This can be a convenient option for visitors, allowing them to fully enjoy the tour without needing to worry about getting to and from the starting point.
Worth The Stay
Galway offers a range of guided pub tours that allow visitors to enjoy the local drinking culture. The Connemara Pub Tour and the Aran Islands Pub Tour provide unique experiences, letting travelers explore the pubs and bars of historic regions. These tours offer a glimpse into Galway’s vibrant pub scene and are a must-do for anyone seeking an authentic Irish drinking experience.