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16 Day Scotland & Ireland

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• View the Scottish Crown Jewels at Edinburgh Castle, perched high above the city Visit stately Scone Palace, ancient residence of Scottish kings where Charles II was crowned At a whisky distillery, learn the art of Scotch whisky making and enjoy a tasting Travel to Loch Ness, one of Scotland’s most storied sites, home of the Loch Ness monster Cruise on the "bonnie banks" of Loch Lomond, with gorgeous vistas of tranquil scenery Explore Glasgow's George Square with its impressive collection of statues and monuments Ferry to Belfast, one of Europe's true Renaissance cities Tour the interactive Titanic Experience Museum that reveals the story of the ill-fated ship Excursion to Connemara National Park, a wonderland of scenic mountains and grasslands Discover Galway, a seafaring town, now one of the fastest growing cities in Europe View the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, a wall of rock towering over the Atlantic Ocean A breathtaking day of magnificent vistas as you drive around the renowned "Ring of Kerry" At Blarney Castle, kiss the legendary Blarney Stone, promising you the "gift of gab" Enjoy spirited Dublin, with its thousand year history, immortalized by James Joyce †Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates

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• Flights New York-Edinburgh, Dublin-New York Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices Airline taxes & fuel surcharges 14 nights accommodations
• 2 nights Edinburgh 2 nights Aviemore 2 nights Glasgow 1 night Belfast 1 night Derry 2 nights Galway 2 nights Killarney 2 nights Dublin Hotel taxes, fees & service charges Hotel porterage All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates† Ferry Cairnryan-Belfast 21 meals: 14 breakfasts, 7 dinners Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach Services of English-speaking tour managers throughout Entrance fees per itinerary

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The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

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Gate 1 Travel offers escorted tours, European river cruises, independent vacations and customized international vacation packages for less. Our discount travel packages and tour packages to destinations worldwide provide exceptional value, saving our customers time and money. We have taken care of all the details so you don't have to. Find your dream vacation today.

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Mission: To deliver More of the World for Less by developing quality, affordable vacations for North Americans. To provide exemplary service to our customers and to earn their loyalty. To respect our partners. To invest in our employees, providing a safe and comfortable work environment. To know and understand our products and destinations. To constantly innovate and be a leader in technology.

Founded in 1981 with 3 employees; now with over 200 employees worldwide

Headquarters: Fort Washington, PA (Suburban Philadelphia)

Overseas Offices: Hungary, China, Costa Rica, Egypt, Morocco, Argentina, Indonesia, Great Britain, Greece, India, Israel, Italy, Peru, Ecuador, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam

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Ireland Tours, Vacation Packages, Trips & Travel Packages

Our Ireland Tours and Vacations

Ireland is an island in the North Atlantic to the west of Britain from which it is separated by the Irish Sea. Politically, Ireland is divided into the Republic of Ireland, which covers five-sixths of the island and Northern Ireland, a part of the United Kingdom which covers the remaining area and is located in the northeast of the island. The island's geography comprises relatively low-lying mountains surrounding a central plain with several navigable rivers extending inland. The island's lush vegetation, a product of its mild climate and frequent rainfall, earns it the name the Emerald Isle, to be experienced on Ireland vacations.

Why Consider an Ireland Vacation?

Ireland is known for its lush, green countryside, its friendly people, its special folk music and its colourful history and legends, all of which can be enjoyed on Ireland vacations. But there is an awful lot more to experience. Although not that large in area, it is packed with exciting destinations. You will always receive a warm welcome be it in the cities or the countryside and, although they have their own Gaelic language, everyone speaks English. Irish culture is very unique and has brought to the world’s attention, many great writers in the literary field.  The island's geography comprises relatively low-lying mountains surrounding a central plain with several navigable rivers extending inland. The island's lush vegetation, a product of its mild climate and frequent rainfall, earns it the name the Emerald Isle, to be experienced on Ireland travel packages. And there is no shortage of traditional Irish pubs where you can enjoy good conversation with the locals on Ireland Travel Packages.

Ireland Travel Highlights

There are many. There are three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ireland, the River Boyne, Skellig Michael, an island in the Atlantic and the Giant's Causeway in County Antrim in the north. However, let’s not forget to visit the Blarney Stone, the Ring of Kerry and have a pint of Guinness in a typical Irish pub.                                                  

Best Cities to Visit in Ireland

Explore dublin – the friendliest city in europe.

The most visited place in Dublin, a city of some considerable charm. It has a major university, Trinity College where the Book of Kells is situated, a richly illustrated manuscript of the four Gospels of the New Testament created around AD 800 by monks. The city is home to Dublin Castle, a complex of buildings within its walls which include two museums, a conference centre, two gardens and the prestigious State Apartments. The Guinness Brewery, the most visited tourist attraction on guided tours of Ireland as well as independent travel, is where you can learn about the history of Ireland’s most famous drink through a series of exhibits and learn how Guinness is made followed by a free pint of Guinness. Yes, you will never see so many bars and pubs all crammed into one urban area. There is an Irish word, “craic”, which translates loosely as news, gossip, fun, entertainment and enjoyable conversation. The Museums and Art Galleries of Dublin are numerous. Check out the Little Museum of Dublin which tells the story of the city and its people, the National Gallery of Ireland, home to some of the most important works of Irish art and the Dublin Writers Museum where you can learn about the lives and works of famous Irish writers such as James Joyce, George Bernard Shaw, W.B. Yeats, Samuel Becket and Oscar Wilde

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Discover Cork

Ireland’s second-largest city is Cork with its grand Georgian avenues side by side with narrow 17th Century passageways. It is fairly compact so walking around the centre is not difficult on Ireland tours. The English Market here is the place to purchase local specialties from the 50-plus stalls selling produce. You can visit the Cork City Gaol where you can take a tour through its cells and corridors. One of the main art galleries in the Crawford Municipal Art Gallery with its permanent collection of Greco-Roman sculptures together with Irish paintings ranging from the 17th Century to the present day. The Elizabeth Fort in Cork was built almost 400 years ago and was used right up to the Irish Civil War of the 1920s. You can walk along the ramparts and enjoy the best views anywhere in the city. Some nearby attractions include the port of Cobh, an attractive seaport which was the last port of call of the Titanic and Blarney Castle with its dungeons and famous Blarney Stone which when kissed, as every visitor does, gives the gift of the gab or, in simpler words, the ability to talk eloquently.

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Iconically Irish – Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a small but charming city offering Ireland tours a mixture of vibrant nightlife, beautiful streets, great shopping opportunities and rich cultural heritage. It is especially known for its medieval buildings. The two major attractions are Kilkenny Castle, a spectacular Norman castle which dominates the city and the impressive St. Canice's Cathedral, built over 800 years ago.

Ireland’s Historic City - Waterford

Waterford is world-famous for its glassware/crystal. It is the oldest city in Ireland with a long medieval history. A large portion of the city walls still stands today. Highlights include the Bishop’s Palace, a magnificent Georgian residence offering an authentic example of the 18th Century lifestyle and the Waterford Crystal Factory which is well worth visiting on an Ireland vacation. You will see everything from glass tumblers to chandeliers.

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Gateway to Atlantic Coastal Scenery - Killarney

Killarney is an attractive town and one of Ireland’s leading tourist destinations due to its proximity to the Killarney National Park. It is a good place to visit some castles and stately homes. The town has many narrow lanes in which you can sometimes easily get lost. Many restaurants and craft shops are hidden down these lanes. 

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Limerick -  Gateway to Western Ireland

Limerick is Ireland’s third-largest city.  In the centre is Pery Square with its fine Georgian terraces dating back to 1835. Another landmark is the 13th Century King John’s Castle with its vast walls and towers built on the instructions of King John of England around 1200. The Hunt Museum in Limerick has one of Ireland’s best private collections of art and antiquities (over 2000 items) ranging from the Neolithic Age to the 20th Century. St. Mary’s Cathedral is Limerick’s oldest and most historic building founded in 1168. Just outside Limerick is the magnificent Bunratty Castle, probably Ireland’s most renowned castle dating back to 1425 and the best-preserved medieval fortress in the country. There are mediaeval banquets at which certain guests can be banished to the dungeons below.

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Galway – The City of Culture

Galway is known as a city of art and culture with its lively atmosphere. If you enjoy visiting typical Irish pubs on an Irish vacation, this is the city to meet friendly locals. A landmark is the lively Galway street market, a local gathering place selling farm-fresh produce, arts, crafts and snacks. The imposing Galway Cathedral is exceptionally beautiful with its decorated dome, lovely mosaics and rough-hewn stonework emblazoned with stained glass. The Spanish Arch is an extension of Galway's medieval city walls, designed to protect ships moored at the nearby quay. Lynch's Castle, built in the 15th Century, is a good example of the Irish gothic style of architecture.

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Best things to see in Northern Ireland

The ancient walled city of londonderry .

Londonderry, also known as Derry, is the second-largest city in Northern Ireland. It is in fact, the only remaining, completely intact walled city in Ireland. The city is renowned for its architecture with its collection of late Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian buildings. Historic buildings within the city walls include St Augustine's Church which sits on the city walls close to the site of an original monastic settlement, the 1633 Gothic cathedral of St Columb, the copper-domed Austin's department store which claims to be the oldest such store in the world and the imposing Greek Revival Courthouse.

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The Amazing Mysterious Giant’s Causeway

County Antrim is where you will find the Giant’s Causeway on Northern Ireland tours, made up of a collection of gigantic stepping stones, the tallest measuring 12 metres/39 feet in height. It runs from the coast, under the sea, eventually appearing on the east coast of Scotland. There are about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns which were formed as a result of an ancient volcanic eruption. The name itself comes from myths and legends which have been passed down over time.

Unique Belfast

Belfast, once a troubled city, is today, a destination on Northern Ireland tours that has totally reclaimed itself. The architectural style of Belfast's buildings ranges from Edwardian, like the City Hall, to modern, like the Waterfront Hall. Some of the main attractive buildings include the City Hall completed in 1906 whose grounds contain a memorial to the victims of the Titanic and Stormont where the Northern Irish parliament sits. Many of Belfast’s oldest buildings are to be found in the Cathedral Quarter area, the city’s main cultural and tourist area which also contains many cafés, bars and interesting buildings. Belfast is known for its parks and gardens as there are more than 40 public parks in the city, popular places for picnics, walking and running. Titanic Belfast houses the world’s largest Titanic visitor experience and features over six floors, nine interpretive and interactive galleries which bring to life the history and story of this iconic ship launched in Belfast in the early 1900s.

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You can access more information on  Northern Ireland vacations and tours here

The Best Castle Tours, Stately Homes, Museums and Art Galleries to see in Ireland

As you might expect, Ireland has its fair share of castles which can be visited on Ireland tours. There are even castles which provide accommodation. Consider one of the following.

Kilronan Castle – County Roscommon       Markree Castle – County Sligo

Bunratty Castle - County Clare                   Dromoland Castle - County Clare

Many stately homes are open to the public. Ownership has been passed down over generations resulting in having invaluable artifacts on display. There are so many museums and art galleries all over the country to satisfy every cultural interest on guided tours of Ireland.

When is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Ireland?

Ireland has been called the “Green or Emerald Island” and this may cause you to think it rains all the time. This can happen but it doesn’t last long and the sun can come out at any time. The sunniest region in the extreme southeast. The climate in Ireland is fairly temperate which makes it a year-round destination.

Click for more information on the best time to visit Ireland

What Languages are Spoken in Ireland?

Ireland is a very multi-cultural destination, hence many native and adopted languages are spoken across the country. The two most common languages are Irish and English. Irish is the official national language of Ireland, however, the dominant language spoken is English. This has been the case since the 19th century. 

What Should I Know Before Going to Ireland?

Did you know that the human settlement of Ireland can be traced back to approximately 10,000 years ago? Find out more about the History of Ireland and some Country Quick facts .

Do you need a Visa to travel to Ireland? Find out by visiting our Travel Tips, Visas and Health page

  "Globetrotting with Goway" blog articles

For some additional reading, the following articles are from our blog “ Globetrotting with Goway ”….. a great source of information for those people who are, or who want to be, world travellers!

Enjoy the Ultimate Comprehensive Tour on an Ireland Vacation

Dublin’s Fair City is a Must on Ireland Vacations

Sleep In a Castle in Ireland (Castle Hotels)

Don’t Wait to See Ireland!

Unearthing the Legendary Tales of Ireland’s Ancient East

Extend your Stay

Consider an additional stopover to your  Ireland vacation  at one of Goway's other European destinations. You can choose from a  Paris vacation,  a  London vacation  or an  Amsterdam vacation . This can be done stopping over en route to or from Ireland.

Dublin Signature

DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Discover the heart of Ireland’s capital, Dublin, on this 5-day signature experience. Relax in deluxe accommodations as you visit key sites around the city, including the Guinness Storehouse and EPIC Ireland. Later, and with the help of private local guides, discover delicious bites on a food-themed walking tour of Dublin and then set out to visit the medieval capital of Kilkenny and beautiful County Wicklow.

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GATEWAY TO IRELAND

Personal Guided Tours of Ireland

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Come away, O human child! To the waters and the wild With a faery, hand in hand, W.B. Yeats

DISCOVER OUR ISLE IN STYLE

We are your Gateway To Ireland

Experience the wonders of Ireland’s natural beauty and rich heritage with our private guided tours from Dublin. If you’re seeking a more intimate and personalised experience away from the crowds, you’ve come to the right place!

Our personalised guided day tours from Dublin offer a unique opportunity to explore the Irish countryside and escape the hustle and bustle of city. We pride ourselves on providing a tailored approach and showcasing both Ireland’s top attractions and hidden gems that larger tour groups often miss. To enhance your experience, many of our tours include a delightful picnic featuring Irish teas, coffees, and fresh pastries, enjoyed in atmospheric surroundings and off-the-beaten-path locations. 

Visit Ireland Your Way

Your own personal driver guide will help you experience Ireland your way, gain insight into local culture and enjoy a journey tailored to your interests. Our private tours provide a personalised approach, showcasing off-the-beaten-path spots not found on typical tourist routes.

Joining our personal guided day tours offers a unique opportunity to explore Ireland at your own pace, away from the crowds. Enjoy activities that few other travellers experience and gain a local perspective on the country’s treasures. 

Our knowledgeable driver guides will open the door to Ireland’s pristine natural beauty and ancient heritage, leading you through scenic cliffs, ancient passage tombs and enchanting forests, revealing hidden details and sharing local insights along the way. Whether you’re interested in hiking or horse riding, we’re here to make your adventure unforgettable.

We drive, you relax

Leave the planning and driving to us as we navigate the winding roads of Ireland’s stunning landscapes. Sit back, relax, soak in the views and let us take you on a journey filled with captivating sights and fascinating stories.

Let Ireland energise and inspire you while we handle the rest.

Gateway To Ireland – your gateway to an unforgettable Irish adventure.

Tailored journeys

We tailor your Private Car Tour to the landmarks you want to see.

We act as guides and consultants before you arrive, creating an itinerary for you so all you have to do is show up in Ireland and be driven around.

We pick a plan together – just email our team at [email protected] and we will arrange a WhatsApp call or what suits you.

Speak to Diana or the team today

+353 87 660 6996

For families, solo travellers, couples & groups, check out what our clients are saying.

Great hike to Wicklow Head with Gateway to Ireland Tours.

Diana is an awesome guide with great stories about the area and local wildlife. She really feels the audience and sets the hike’s pace accordingly. I was there with my 10-year old kid. He was happy – the best indication of the quality.

Fantastic way to explore Irish history and natural beauty in just one day

It was an amazing day that exceeded all expectations!

We have visited 3 key sights of the area: Hill of Tara, Bective Abbey and Trim Castle. The tour was perfectly planned and balanced. We delved into Ireland’s history with an enthusiastic guide Diana who added depth to the experience. The guide’s knowledge and passion were evident throughout, ensuring a comfortable and informative journey.

This tour is a fantastic way to explore Irish history and natural beauty in just one day.

We left with a deep appreciation for Ireland’s heritage and cherished memories. Highly recommended!

Experiential learning, with passion and care.

It was the perfect day! Not only did the weather cooperate, Diana, our tour guide with Gateway To Ireland, was a delight! Well versed on all of Ireland’s rich history, extremely knowledgeable on all the sites we toured and a pleasure to be with for the day!

Highly recommended

Had a wonderful time with Diana. She was informative and fun. Her knowledge of the area was very evident. She is also extremely knowledgeable of the areas plants and birds. My husband and I enjoyed a hike along the sea with wonderful views of the cliffs and water. We also saw seals with their pups. The scenery was very impressive. It was a great hike. We felt like we got to see a whole other part of Ireland. The length of the tour was perfect. We were looking for something that took us out of Dublin but didn’t require an exhausting 12 hour+ day. We returned refreshed and in time for dinner. It was perfect. I would not hesitate to take another tour with Diana.

Sunday hike with a view and in great company

We had a lovely Sunday experience together with Diana at Wicklow Cliff Walk. She is a great organiser and a passionate person interested in what she is doing. Diana met us in Dublin and drove us to a convenient starting point. The pace of the hike was customised to our group so we had plenty of time for enjoying the views, watching birds and grey seals.

Highly Recommend, 3 historical stops

Highly recommend! Amazing day spent with the sweet, attentive, and very knowledgeable Diana. This off the beaten path tour is a delight. Diana drove/guided my husband and I to the Hill of Tara, Bective Abbey and Trim Castle. We loved every minute, making three different historical stops in total. I sincerely appreciated how Diana asked us about our interests, so that she could personalize the day. Loved having tea/coffee and scones sat on a historical wall overlooking the Bective Abbey (chair was optional) and surrounding pastoral lands. We made sure to have our tennis shoes/hiking boots on, as the grasses were wet and a bit muddy; it was great fun getting up close and personal with over 5,000 years of Irish history. Also I was impressed how communicative she was prior to the trip; I felt in good hands from the minute I booked. Would not change a thing; bravo Diana for creating a fun enlightening trip.

Diana mastered the story telling in her adopted country of Ireland and was able to guide our group of 4 US citizens ( one with an Irish grandmother and deep roots) to a delightful informative tour of the country side of Ireland outside of Dublin. We loved spending the time wtih her personally driving us thru the gardens and countryside safely and of good cheer and many fun stores to share about each location.. all new info to us ( even tho my 3rd time in Ireland). We recommend you try out her service to see and learn about different parts of Ireland. Most importantly, she cares with TLC and chock full of info./history.

Excellent Private Tour

Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, Powerscourt My husband and I spent the day on a private scenic tour of Powerscourt Garden and waterfall, the Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, and Guinness Lake with our amazing guide Diana. She is extremely knowledgeable, and coordinated the details (hotel pick-up, restaurant for lunch, and photos of us). We highly recommend her private tours for 2-4 travelers. It was truly a highlight of our trip!

Diana was excellent! She sensed the right level of information for us. We moved at a comfortable rate. She checked on us to be sure we were doing okay, if there was anything we needed. She provided a few options to personalize our trip. She knew all the best places to take the best pictures. Would take a tour with Diana again!!

Great way to experience the mountains and countryside from Dublin

We absolutely loved our tour. So easy from Dublin to see the Wicklow mountains and experience another part of Ireland. We loved seeing the lakes, the lunch spot was incredible, and Diana shared so many interesting historical facts and stories with us. Diana was a great guide and so knowledgeable, plus she took pictures of our group which was so nice. We would do this again should we return to Ireland!

Fantastic Private Tour Experience!

Diana offered a fantastic experience to Cashel Rock, as well as private tour at the local village museum by the owner, and a castle tour. She is a wonderful host and knowledgeable. She is diligent and committed to providing a premiere tour experience starting with our pick up at our hotel. We will be back, and we will be booking with Diana in the future. We loved all the sites we visited, learned a lot, and enjoyed the beautiful scenery. Very well done and a highly valued experience. Many thanks!

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Galway Travel: A Guide To Visiting The City

About galway.

Galway is one of the most culturally-rich destinations in Ireland . It was named the European Capital of Culture for 2020 by Creative Europe.

This amazing city is packed with fun things to do, a wonderful vibe and a rich history. While I was living in Dublin, I visited Galway numerous times. It’s one of my favourite places in Ireland.

It’s less travelled than Dublin, so visiting Galway feels like a more local experience. If you visit in the off-season, you may even find that you’re one of the only tourists around.

Let this Galway travel guide inspire you and help you plan your next trip to the Emerald Isle!

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Unlike Ireland’s east coast, the west coast is commonly known for its dreary weather. However, most people are quick to judge this area and assume that the weather is worse than it actually is.

Don’t worry! There are bright and sunny days, and it doesn’t rain as much as everyone assumes it does — even though it may rain for a few minutes every day.

Most tourists will visit Galway in March, July, and August. This is when the city is at its busiest, so keep this in mind when you’re planning your Galway travel experience.

During winter, there are fewer tourists because it’s a lot colder and some tourist attractions may be closed.

Spring and autumn both have pretty great weather and if you plan your trip right, Galway won’t be overrun by travellers.

Peak Season

Galway’s peak season is summer (mid-June to August) since this is when the weather is nicest and most people have the time off. March is another popular and overly busy time to visit due to St. Patrick’s Day.

The prices during this season are at an all-time high because everyone is visiting and hotels can charge more. Travellers can expect that the city will be at its busiest during these months.

Avoid visiting during this time if you can, unless you really want to attend the St. Patrick’s Day Festival in Galway. The bright side is that Galway’s festival is less busy than Dublin’s.

Shoulder Season

The shoulder season in Galway is both the springtime (besides the few days surrounding St. Patrick’s Day) and autumn. The weather is great during these months, despite the rain every once in a while!

Prices during this time are more levelled-off, especially for hotels. Accommodations have no reason to raise prices since not as many people are trying to visit during this time.

Travelling in Galway during the shoulder season isn’t crazy-busy and the weather averages 10°C so you don’t need to wear a jacket in the middle of the day.

Galway’s off-season is the winter, as is the same with most places in Ireland. Wintertime in Galway isn’t the most pleasant and days are pretty short with the sun starting to set as early as 3:30 p.m.

The temperature during this time isn’t the best for city exploring because it averages 5°C. The only good news is that Galway doesn’t experience any snow whatsoever!

If you’d like to experience visiting Galway with the least amount of tourists possible, then you’re welcome to visit in the winter. There are a lot of cosy pubs that could warm you up with some nice Irish Stew .

Neighbourhoods

Where to stay.

Luckily, there is a multitude of great areas to stay in Galway. You pretty much can’t go wrong — there really isn’t a bad neighbourhood. If you’re just spending a weekend in Galway , you may want to consider being more central, but if you have longer, anywhere will do!

Every neighbourhood listed below offers a mix of either bed and breakfasts, Airbnbs, hotels, and hostels. There’s accommodation for every type of traveller.

The Claddagh

This is the area where the traditional Irish ring got its name!

The Claddaugh is one of the neighbourhoods in Galway with the most history. If you’re a history buff, that’s an automatic win for you.

This area used to be a fishing village and it dates back hundreds of years ago.

This Claddagh, in particular, is extremely pretty because it’s located right on Galway Harbour, which is one of the must-see sites in the city.

No matter where you stay in this area, you’re sure to look out your window and see a wonderful view.

Most hotels here are upper mid-range, as they cost around €90. There are also some local bed and breakfast options if you prefer a more homey feel during your stay in Galway city.

Click here for hotels in the Claddagh area.

Though slightly farther outside of the city than The Claddagh, Salthill is still worth considering when booking a place to stay. It’s also located right next to the water and therefore offers some pretty nice coastal views.

What makes Salthill so great is that there are quite a few beaches in the area that you could easily visit.

If you’re lucky enough to not be visiting in peak season, you may even find that you have a beach to yourself.

This is a more affordable area to stay with most accommodations costing around €65 on average. You won’t be short on places to eat since there are a lot of restaurants, pubs, and bars nearby.

Click here for hotels in the Salthill area.

Galway City Centre

If you want to stay right in the middle of the hustle and bustle when visiting Galway, then stay in the city centre. Most places to stay in this area will cost around €100 unless you opt to stay in a hostel, or an Airbnb.

From the city centre, you could easily walk to almost any Galway attraction, including busy Quay Street or Eyre Square.

You also won’t have to spend as much on public transportation if you stay here, and you’ll be just a short walk away from pubs and nightlife.

Click here for hotels in Galway City Centre.

This neighbourhood is the farthest away from the city centre, but is close enough that you can still easily get to and from — by bike, bus or car.

Oranmore is a good option if you’re looking for a quieter, authentic western Ireland experience, and it’s a top option for families visiting Galway.

Oranmore is home to a picturesque castle, a large park, and hiking trails in the forest of Merlin Woods Park. Plus, lots of livestock, wheat fields and sports clubs.

Click here for hotels in Oranmore.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

There is a multitude of fun things to do and see in Galway . No matter what kind of traveller you are, you’ll find something that interests you.

Since Galway is a city, there are lots of fun shopping streets to explore, but as it’s also on the coast, you’ll find lots of outdoor activities as well. Here are three must-sees in Galway:

Galway Harbour

This beautiful harbour is one of the most picturesque areas of Galway city. A vibrant array of colourful houses line the harbour and boats come in and out of the area.

If you find that you have amazing weather during your trip to Galway, then be sure to pack yourself a picnic and sit by the harbour to fully soak up the views.

You’re missing out if you don’t add this into your Galway travel itinerary, even if you’re only going to be there for a day!

Quay Street

Quay Street is a bit like Galway’s own version of Grafton Street in Dublin, but it’s lined with an abundance of pubs, restaurants, and shops.

If you’re lucky, you may even witness some of Galway’s local street performers (buskers) for free on the street!

Some of the best street performers in Ireland can be found here.

Eyre Square

This huge square, also known as John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, is often considered one of the city’s main hubs. There may even be a market during your visit to Eyre Square!

It’s completely free to explore the relaxing square, which is filled with stores, fountains, and a playground for young ones.

TOP TOURS IN GALWAY

There are numerous fun tours in Galway city, and there’s a tour for everyone — no matter what kind of traveller you are.

Whether you’re a foodie or a history buff, there’s a tour for you! Below are a few of the top-rated tours in Galway.

Irish Food Trail Galway

If you consider yourself a foodie, you have to do this tour in Galway city!

The tour is hosted by a local and he will spend 3 hours bringing you around Galway to some of the best hidden pubs and restaurants.

This tour is recommended for couples, solo travellers, and families with children over the age of 12. Click here to learn more.

Galway's Legendary Walking Tour

A great way to learn about Galway’s history is to take an introductory walking tour.

This 90-minute tour will teach you all about the Lynch family of Galway, the Claddagh, and more. You’ll also learn more about the historical sites of the city.

This tour is family-friendly and everyone under age 16 is free! Plus, the tour is limited to 10 people so you’re bound to have a personalised experience. Click here to learn more.

The Claddagh Ring Experience

As mentioned earlier in this post, the Claddagh legend came from Galway! This is a great tour to learn more about the culture of the city.

This awesome 2-hour Airbnb experience will teach you all about the history of the Claddagh and you’ll even visit a ring workshop and a famous jeweller.

The tour ends with coffee, tea, and dessert at a local bakery. This tour is family-friendly and is perfect for couples and solo travellers alike. Click here to learn more.

BEST DAY TRIPS FROM GALWAY

If you find that you’ll have more than a few days in Galway city, then I highly recommend taking advantage of its prime location to visit some of the surrounding sites.

Many of Ireland’s natural gems are in western Ireland, and Galway is the perfect location to serve as a home-base.

Here are some of the best day trips that you should consider.

Cliffs of Moher

This Galway guide wouldn’t be complete without mentioning a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher!

These gorgeous green cliffs set against the rocky blue waves provide a perfect photo opportunity for any traveller.

The Cliffs of Moher are by far the most popular site for tourists to visit in all of the Emerald Isle.

Tickets start at €10 and you can easily get there in 1.5 hours by driving or by taking Bus Eireann 350, which takes slightly longer.

Another option is to book a day tour with one of Galway’s many tour companies, like this one .

Kylemore Abbey

This beautiful abbey was built in 1920 and is a Benedictine monastery. It was originally built for nuns that were fleeing from Belgium during WWI.

It takes around 1 hour to get to Kylemore Abbey from Galway by car. There’s also an option to take 2 different buses, but this takes closer to 3 hours.

Book a day tour to learn more and to have your transportation easily sorted out. Click here for details.

Aran Islands

The Aran Islands are a small group of three islands located right off Ireland’s western coast.

The islands include Inishmore (the most popular island to visit), Inisheer, and Inishmaan.

There’s an abundance of forts and historical sites to visit on these islands, including Dun Aengus and O’Brien’s Castle.

One of the smallest churches in the world is also here —Teampall Bheanáin.

Luckily, it’s easy to get here from Galway with this affordable day tour .

WHERE AND WHAT TO EAT

Galway’s food scene is one of the best in Ireland. The city is mainly known for its seafood dishes, so if you’re a fan of seafood, you’re in great luck.

Since Galway is located right on Ireland’s coast, many of the seafood restaurants get their fish from local fisherman early in the morning and will serve it to you later in the city centre.

Your Galway travel adventure wouldn’t be complete without trying seafood in at least some form! Here are some dishes you won’t want to miss.

If you’re looking to try the best oysters in Galway, you’ll want to visit McDonagh’s. Three oysters will only cost €5.50 ($6).

The oysters come straight from Kelly Oysters which have been at the forefront of the oyster business in Ireland for over 50 years. The oysters are caught right in Galway Bay.

Fish and Chips:

Though fish and chips may be seen as a traditional English dish, Galway is also known for it! This dish is fried fish with a side of french fries.

Be sure to try it at McDonagh’s, which has its own fish and chip shop in addition to their seafood restaurant. The price fluctuates depending on what type of fish you order, but cod starts at €6.40 ($7).

All the best food in Galway revolves around seafood! 

The best place to get mussels in Galway is at Oscar’s Seafood Bistro. An average meal here will cost around €15 ($17), but you’re paying for local, high quality food.

Best Restaurants in Galway

Dela Restaurant: This is farm to table restaurant located right in Galway that sources its ingredients locally. Dela Restaurant has a casual and modern atmosphere, with prices ranging from €12 to €23 ($14 to $26). See the brunch menu .

Crust Bucket: Don’t let this funny name deter you from eating here, this is a great place to eat in Galway! Crust Bucket is a quirky pizza place inside of a double-decker bus with prices ranging from €10 to €12 ($11 to $14). See the menu .

Pullman Restaurant: This is a more upscale restaurant located in an old converted Orient Express train car! It’s a one-of-a-kind dining experience. The atmosphere is luxurious and dinner will cost €61 ($69) for two courses or €69 ($78) for three courses. Click here to learn more.

BEST PUBS IN GALWAY

The pubs in Galway are amazing and a lot of them are known more for their live local music rather than their food! You’re sure to be entertained no matter which pub you choose to eat at in Galway.

Here are a few of the best pubs to stop in at when visiting Galway.

O’Connell’s

This is one of the most popular pubs in Galway. Located conveniently right near Eyre Square, O’Connell’s has its own beer garden and a casual atmosphere.

You’ll want to visit for the beer garden itself which feels like its own hidden section of Galway! It used to be a grocery store but converted to being just a pub around 50 years ago.

While you’re there, try to order some of their pizza, which is beyond delicious. It will be a highlight of your Galway travel experience.

Taaffes Bar

Taaffes Bar is located right near Eyre Square as well.

This pub is particularly well-known for its live music. No matter what time you visit, there was always some form of live music being performed.

Taaffes Bar is located in a 400-year-old building, but the pub has only been up and running for around 150 years. This is a great pub to visit if you want to run into some locals!

Tigh Neachtain

Tigh Neachtain is one of the most cozy pubs in Galway, with fireplaces throughout. You’ll also find live music here.

Unlike Taafes Bar and O’Connells, Tigh Naechtain is located near Quay Street in the city centre of Galway.

This pub in particular dates back pretty far and the Neachtain family has been running it for over 100 years. The current location was once home to the founder of the first theatre in Galway.

LIVE MUSIC VENUES

Since Galway is known as a cultural hub of Ireland, it’s of course also known for its live music venues. The best live music in Galway can be found inside pubs and restaurants mostly. Here are three top spots.

Monroe's Tavern

If you want to experience some local trad music, you 100% have to go to Monroe’s Tavern. It’s located right down the road from the Spanish Arch and next door to Oscar’s Seafood Bistro.

They also serve some great food and have open fireplaces. Monroe’s Tavern even has Irish dancing on Tuesday nights. Find it on the map, here.

Róisín Dubh

Some say that Róisín Dubh is one of the best live music venues  in the world . If that doesn’t sell you on this venue, I don’t know what will!

It’s located just a five-minute walk from Monroe’s Tavern and they also serve traditional pub food. Find it on the map, here .

Tig Chóilí is another excellent spot in Galway to listen to some trad music. There are live music sessions scheduled twice every day.

Despite having scheduled times, Tig Chóilí is specifically known for its spontaneity! Oftentimes, musicians may come into the pub to grab a pint and instead end up performing from their table. Find it on the map, here .

FESTIVALS IN GALWAY

As the cultural hub of Ireland, Galway has so many fun festivals throughout the year. From food to arts to literature, Galway has a festival for everything!

Keep in mind that if you’re visiting Galway during a festival, the city might be a lot busier than normal. Here are a few of the most interesting and fun festivals that the city offers.

Vodafone Comedy Carnival

This is considered to be the biggest festival of comedy in all of the European Union. It’s been running since 2006.

The festival takes place over a whole week, during which, 10 shows a day take place. This festival only sells tickets to anyone over the age of 16.

Some of Ireland’s best comedians come to take part in the Vodafone Comedy Carnival every October. 

Tickets start around €20 ($23) depending on the shows you choose to attend.

Cúirt International Festival of Literature

If you’re a fan of literature, this is the festival for you.

This is one of the oldest festivals in Galway, running since 1985. 

The Cúirt International Festival of Literature promotes poetry, non-fiction, literary fiction, and more. It’s a week-long festival in April.

You purchase tickets per show and each show costs anywhere from €6 ($7) to €25 ($28).

Galway International Arts Festival

The Galway International Arts Festival dates back to 1978 and features music, theatre performances, and more during July.

This festival normally takes place over approximately 10 days and it’s the biggest arts festival in all of Ireland. It’s recommended for couples and solo travellers.

Like the other festivals on this list, you buy tickets separately for each performance that you’d like to see.

Depending on the popularity of the artists, tickets can range anywhere from €30 ($34) to €55 ($62).

HIKING IN GALWAY

Though there aren’t any hikes directly in Galway city, you can easily travel about 30 to 60 minutes out of the city and find some amazing trails.

If you’ll be in the area for more than a few days, definitely go on one of these hikes to get the most out of your Galway travel experience.

Below are a few of the top-recommended hikes near Galway city — all offering breathtaking views.

Knockma Hill

This is a 2.5-mile trail about 30 minutes from Galway’s city centre. Unfortunately, it can’t be reached by public transportation.

The trail here is called Knockma Nature Reserve Trail and is considered moderate.

It’s forested and you’ll feel like you’re in a mystical place — there’s an abundance of fairy doors throughout the forest too.

There’s a legend that says Connacht’s Queen is buried somewhere on this hill, so you can be on the lookout during your hike.

Diamond Hill

At Diamond Hill, there are two trails to choose from. These beautiful trails are located right in Connemara National Park.

Though these trails are an hour’s drive out of the city centre, the views are worth it.

Upper Diamond Hill Trail is best for intermediate hikers and is approximately 3.8 miles long. Beginner hikers may choose to hike Lower Diamond Hill Trail which is only 1.6 miles long.

The views at the top are unmatched as they offer views of the coastline and the Twelve Bens mountain range.

Portumna Forest Park

This beautiful park filled with trails is only a 50-minute drive from Galway city.

It’s made up of four different trails, all with varying degrees of difficulty. Each offers great views of the water and cover a decent amount of the park.

Beginners should opt towards the Forest Friendly Walking Trail which is around 1 mile long and takes 20 minutes.

Intermediate hikers will want to go on either the Bonaveen Walking Trail or Rinmaher Walking Trail, both of which are around 6 miles long.

Top Beaches in Galway

Since Galway is located right on the water, there are quite a few great beaches in the area.

Most of these beaches aren’t meant for swimming but do provide a great place for walking or jogging. Here are three good options:

Salthill Beach

Salthill Beach is technically one beach that’s made up of tinier ones, so you’ll be able to find an area just to yourself if you want.

It’s fun to go swimming here and the water is a beautiful shade of blue. Keep in mind that lifeguards aren’t on duty year-round.

Ballyloughane Beach

This beach is a 10-minute drive or a 20-minute bus ride away from Galway’s city centre and can provide a perfect escape from city life for a little bit.

Ballyloughane Beach isn’t a swimming beach, but it is a great place to walk the shoreline and just feel at one with nature.

If you’re looking for a place to bring your kids, this is a place that they’ll love. It’s also an area that isn’t usually busy.

South Park is another coastal beach area that isn’t necessarily for swimming! You can walk straight to Salthill from here within 15 minutes.

This beachy area provides great views of the harbour and there’s a playground that’s great for the kids.

Be sure to also walk Nimmo’s Pier to get some great views of the water.

COST OF TRAVEL IN GALWAY

If you’re okay with giving up luxury stays to save money, it can be quite budget-friendly and cheap to visit Galway.

One night in a hostel dorm will only cost around €18 ($20), while hotel rooms average around €90 ($100), depending on the area you choose to stay in.

Bed and breakfasts are a good mid-range option, costing around €70 ($75) per night.

Airbnbs in Galway can cost anywhere from €30 to €100 ($33 to $113), but the nice thing about staying in an Airbnb is that you can save money by cooking your own food.

Transportation won’t cost more than €10 ($11) a day, especially if you have a Visitor Leap Card.

Choosing to eat at local restaurants will allow meals to cost around €7 to €10 ($8 to $11) while expensive restaurants can put you out upwards of €60 ($67) per meal.

Budget $40 / Day

This would get you one night’s stay in a hostel dorm, budget-friendly meals, and allow you to visit a lot of the free sites in Galway.

Mid-Range $150 / Day

A budget like this would allow you to stay in The Claddagh neighbourhood in a bed and breakfast with meals at some of the great pubs in the area.

Top-End $300 / Day

With $300 a day, you could stay directly in Galway’s city centre and eat at some of the finer places in the city, including a nice dinner at Pullman Restaurant.

Transportation

Getting around galway.

Galway’s public transportation is quite reliable and you’ll most likely use it at least once a day while in the city, especially if you’re staying a bit away from the centre.

If you purchase a Visitor Leap Card , you can save around €0.50 per ride, so be sure to buy one to save money. Staying outside of the city centre will most likely require you to at least use public transport to get to and from the city.

If you’re staying closer to the city centre, you’ll most likely be able to rely on walking or biking.

• Public Bus: The bus in Galway is pretty reliable since traffic is normally not that heavy. It can get you pretty much all around the city in a timely manner. With a Visitor Leap Card, one way will cost €2 ($2.20). If you don't purchase one, you'll have to pay €2.50 ($2.80) with exact cash.
• Metro: Unfortunately, there are no metros in Galway.
• Uber: Galway does not have Uber, but it does have taxis which are reliable and affordable.
• Taxi: For taxis, you have to pay based on how far you take them. These prices change depending on the time of day. You can either opt to hail taxis yourself or download the Free Now app (formerly My Taxi) which is a great way to easily order taxis all around Ireland.

Also be aware of the fact that drivers are on the left side of the road, not the right. It could be especially dangerous to cycle in the city centre, so always wear a helmet .

• Walking: Galway is an extremely walkable city! you can walk pretty much everywhere and just use public transportation a few times. Once you're in the city centre, you could save major money by walking to everything you want to see. All the top sites are close by each other.

The bus is a great option through Bus Eireann for only around $16, depending on the time of day you're travelling to Galway.

You could also opt to take a taxi, but Shannon Airport is an hour away from Galway— this option could easily put you out over $100! Another option is to drive if you had planned on renting a car anyway. If you're flying into Dublin International Airport, your best option is to take a City Link bus to Galway for €16 which will take around 2 hours.

IS GALWAY SAFE?

Ireland, in general, is pretty safe for travellers, and since Galway is a small city, there isn’t much crime. The overall risk for travelling in Galway is quite low.

There aren’t any particular neighbourhoods that are at higher risk for crime, though it’s probably best to be especially alert while in the city centre for pickpockets.

Use normal safety precautions, especially at night and try to stick to well-lit areas.

Consult local travel advisories and the current political climate before planning your trip to Galway for safety precautions, and ask your hotel receptionists if it’s safe to walk around at night.

ALL GALWAY POSTS

10 Best Airbnbs in Galway, Ireland

Weekend in Galway: The Perfect 2 Day Itinerary

25 Best Things To Do in Galway, Ireland

10 Best Pubs In Galway, Ireland

Best Places to Stay in Galway, Ireland

The Aran Islands: A Complete Travel Guide

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