Galway tours and tickets
Galway itself needs little booking: the old town is free, and the museum costs nothing. The outings need planning. The Aran Islands ferry, the Cliffs of Moher and a Connemara day tour all run on fixed seats in summer, and the ferry depends on the weather. Music sessions in pubs are free, so arrive early.
Book these first
- Aran Islands ferry
- a week or more ahead in summer. Sailings fill on sunny days, and the crossing is canceled in rough weather, so keep a spare day.
- Cliffs of Moher visit
- a few days ahead in summer. Timed visitor slots and tour buses sell out in July and August.
- A Connemara day tour
- a few days ahead in summer. Small-group tours have few seats and public transport there is limited.
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Day trips
Aran Islands
Ferries leave from Rossaveal, about 40 minutes by road from the city, and reach Inis Mór in around 40 minutes. The island has stone forts, cliffs and a bike route.
Which to pick. Book a morning crossing and an evening return. Allow six to eight hours, and hire a bike on the island. Keep a spare day.
A week or more ahead in summerOfficial siteTours and tickets on ViatorCliffs of Moher
The best-known cliffs on the Irish coast, about two hours south by road. Tours often combine them with the Burren and a coastal drive.
Which to pick. Take a tour or hire a car. Go late in the afternoon if you can, when the coach groups leave.
A few days ahead in summerOfficial siteTours and tickets on ViatorConnemara
Lakes, bogs and mountains northwest of the city, with Kylemore Abbey as a common stop. A tour or car is the easiest way, and the loop takes a full day.
Which to pick. Join a small-group day tour for the views without driving. Ask which stops it includes.
A few days ahead in summerOfficial siteTours and tickets on Viator
Museums and galleries
Galway City Museum
A free museum beside the Spanish Arch, covering the city's history, the Galway hooker boats and the whale skeleton in the hall. Check opening days.
Which to pick. Walk in and spend an hour on the ground floor. It makes a good wet-weather start before you head to the Spanish Arch.
Not needed, free entryVisitor guideOfficial siteTours and tickets on ViatorSt Nicholas' Collegiate Church
A medieval church, said to be the largest still in use in Ireland, on Lombard Street, next to the Saturday market.
Which to pick. Go in on a weekday morning, when it is quiet. It is open to visitors at set hours, and the Saturday market outside is lively.
Not neededVisitor guideTours and tickets on Viator
Guided walks and tours
Galway walking tour
A guided stroll of about 90 minutes through Quay Street, the Spanish Arch, the Claddagh and the old lanes. Some include a stop for a drink.
Which to pick. Go on your first morning, before the streets fill. Choose a small group with a local guide who knows the pubs.
On the day is fineTours and tickets on ViatorGalway Bay boat trip
Short cruises on the bay and the river Corrib, with views of the Claddagh and the coast. They run in the warmer months.
Which to pick. Pick a calm afternoon with a light wind, and check the weather and the tide times the morning you plan to go.
A day ahead in summerTours and tickets on Viator
Experiences and nights out
Live music session
Traditional music in pubs such as Tigh Neachtain or The Crane Bar. Sessions start around 9pm, and the best seats go early.
Which to pick. Arrive at 8pm for a seat, and buy a drink. Tip the musicians if there is a collection.
Not needed, free entryTours and tickets on ViatorSeafood and food tour
A guided walk through the city's food stops, from oysters to brown bread and cheese. It lasts about three hours.
Which to pick. Book it for your first day, so you know where to eat later in the trip. Check the group size and the stops.
A few days aheadTours and tickets on Viator
Booking tours and tickets in Galway
Is the Aran Islands ferry weather-dependent?
Yes. Sailings are canceled in rough weather, and the cliffs close in storms. Keep a spare day, and check the forecast and the operator the morning you travel.
Can I visit the Cliffs of Moher without a car?
Yes. Tours run from the city, and some buses go to the visitor center. A tour fits in the Burren and a coastal drive as well.
Do I need a guide in Connemara?
No, but a small-group tour saves driving on narrow roads. A car gives you freedom, but the loop is long, so start early.
How early should I arrive for a music session?
By 8pm for a seat in the best pubs. Sessions begin around nine, and weekends are busiest. Standing room is fine if you are happy to stay at the back.
Is Galway good for children?
Yes. The promenade at Salthill, the city museum and short boat trips suit families. Check the ferry age rules and the tide times.
What can I leave until I arrive?
The museum, the walking tour and the music sessions can be done on the day. Book the ferry, the cliffs and Connemara a few days ahead in summer.