Location: Galway
Top Things to do in Galway
The 10 Best Historical & Heritage Tours in Galway, Western Ireland
For visitors, the best thing about Galway is that you can walk everywhere. As soon as you arrive, enjoy a walk through the city streets. There, you'll find lively pubs, independent shops and winding cobblestone streets packed with students, artists, writers and craftspeople. You may even hear Gaelic spoken. For a day trip, take a ferry to the island of Inis Mor. You'll return refreshed by the ocean air and Inis Mor's breathtaking scenery. Oh, and be sure to wear sunscreen on the island, no matter how chilly it is. (Just trust us, okay?)
Restaurants in Galway
1. Private Connemara Day Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Explore the stunning and rugged scenery of Connemara in a privately chauffeured vehicle and take in some of the most spectacular scenic views in Ireland. Heading west from Galway city, the villages of Connemara will stretch out before you like a colorful road map of communities and hidden gems just waiting to be explored, from the bogs and lakes of the Gaelic speaking South Connemara to the mountain vistas of North and West Connemara. However, as dramatic and breathtaking as the landscape may be, all travelers know that memories and encounters are what make a journey unique and Connemara Chauffeurs will help make your visit to Connemara one that you will never forget.
Inclusions: WiFi on board, Bottled water, Private transportation
Exclusions:
Reviewed By James J
It was a wonderful trip and Connemara Chauffeurs was great. Made a few other stops on the trip to see other things. Flexibility and Sean was a fabulous tour guide. Cliffs of Moher is a must see destination. Thank you Sean for an excellent experience touring the coast. I highly reccomend!
2. Galway City Walking Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
This is an intimate tour with a local. The idea is to relay all information in a fun manner and to leave visitors with a very good experience, not just the bare facts. Galway is a vibrant, fun and energetic city and our tours will reflect that energy. Each tour is as new an experience for the guide as the visitor. No two tours are ever the same. That is what makes Athas Tours so unique.
Inclusions: Guided walk, Hand sanitizer if required
Exclusions:
3. 5-Day Magical Southern Explorer Small Group Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
Sure, have you never heard of an Irish half hour? It can stretch out for days and 5 days is what you’ve got to experience this memorable, expertly guided road trip, over ever-changing landscape, along The Wild Atlantic Way. From shucking Clarinbridge oysters and downing creamy stout in Galway, to the jaw dropping sights of the Ring of Kerry, with only the Atlantic separating the 40 shades from the 50 U.S. states. Cool down with Fungie, Dingle’s resident dolphin who came for the fish in 1984 and stayed for the craic or feel like you’re at the edge of the world, at the dramatic Cliffs of Moher. And how about a spot of kissing at the Blarney Stone where you’ll come away with the gift of the ‘gab’ (talk); handy for ‘having the craic’ with your small tour group. And in between the heritage and culture, bohemian Galway and dinky Doolin, there’ll be ceol agus craic (music and boldness), seafood and banter and an epic road-trip you’ll never forget.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Air-conditioned vehicle, All Fees and Taxes
Exclusions: Lunches and Dinners, Optional activities
Reviewed By russ2jen
Sadly, in these uncertain days of Coronavirus, I had to cancel my upcoming tour. The team at Overland Ireland were compassionate and understanding in working out the details so as to minimize losses all around. Flexible reschedule options into next year were offered as well. This is the kind of small company to support.
4. Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Cruise
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 165 reviews
Schedule** (Tour runs from Early March to 30th of September) 09:00 – Depart Galway New Coach Station for Doolin and The Burren 11:00 – All aboard the Ferry to Inisheer* 13:45 – Depart the Island and begin Cliffs Cruise 15:30 – Lunch stop in Doolin 16:30 – Arrive at the top of the Cliffs of Moher and receive free admission! 17:30 – Depart cliffs for Galway via Wild Atlantic Way 19:30** – Return to Galway New Coach Station Please be aware: * Sailings are weather dependant. In the unlikely event of a cancellation you will receive a full refund/reschedule or you will have the option to take our 10:00am Cliffs of Moher & Burren Tour instead. ** All times are approximate, if you have connections to make please inform us in advance. Ferry tickets and admission to the Cliffs of Moher are FREE. Activities on the island and lunch are not included.
Inclusions: Cliffs of Moher Entrance Fee, Return Ferry to/from Island
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Lunch
Reviewed By aidomcdonnell
Not impressed with costs , id have prefered to ( after seing inside the abbey ) just miss that and be able to just walk around the beautiful grounds ! Bit of a rip off in my opinion
5. Cliffs of Moher, Wild Atlantic Way and Galway tour from Dublin
Overall Ratings
4.8 based on 1,307 reviews
Spend a day on our Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin going from the east to the west of Ireland. Your unique Cliffs of Moher Tour will take you to Galway, the Wild Atlantic Way, The Burren, Cliffs of Moher, Kilmacduagh monastery, proper west of Ireland countryside and farms and much much more. All entrance fees included.
Inclusions: All other attractions can be seen without extra charges, Live commentary/guide on board, Air-conditioned vehicle, Entrance fee included to the Cliffs of Moher visitor center, The Burren, Kilmacduagh Monastery stop, Galway City, Wild Atlantic Way drive
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Hotel pickup and drop-off
Reviewed By 310pp
Our guide was Karina and we couldn't have asked for a better one! She was brilliant and went way over the alloted 90 minutes. Very knowledgeable and a good laugh too, which we were in need of, it made for a very entertaining morning for myself and my son. Loved the little anecdotes from Bruce Springsteen to The beatles, as well as all the history, both modern and old. The recommendation of a good Whiskey shop was spot on and I'll look out for her in The Commitments film next time I watch it!
6. Connemara, Kylemore Abbey or Connemara National Park day tour from Galway-Guided
Overall Ratings
4.8 based on 6 reviews
Connemara is known for its wild and rugged landscape and awe-inspiring scenery of glistening lakes, tumbling streams, desolate blanket bogs and craggy mountains. Join this guided journey following the Atlantic Ocean coastline along the invigorating Wild Atlantic way route to this unspoilt treasure. Travel through some of the most storybook villages in Ireland, marked by thatched cottages, dry stone walls, blanket bogs and galloping Connemara horses. Spend time walking in majestic Connemara National Park or the romantic Kylemore Abbey & Victorian walled gardens.
Inclusions: Driver/guide, Live commentary on board, Transport by air-conditioned minivan, 3 hour visit to either Kylemore Abbey OR Connemara National Park
Exclusions: Food and drinks
Reviewed By Janine o
We loved it!! Highly recommend if you are around connemara. We will be back again. The fellas in charge were sound out.
7. Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin
Overall Ratings
4.8 based on 3,511 reviews
Day trip from Dublin to Ireland’s remote and rugged west coast to see the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren and Galway City. Enjoy the unique benefit of a dedicated Tour Guide and a separate Driver for the day. The Driver concentrates on your safety and the Guide on your comfort and entertainment. There is a rest stop on route to the Cliffs of Moher and upon arrival you receive a premium ticket to visit and enjoy every aspect of what the site has to offer. 2 hours visiting time. Then travel along part of the Wild Atlantic Way coast and enjoy a coastal stop in the Burren, a unique limestone landscape famous for its flourishing plant life. Upon arriving in Galway City your Guide will offer you a free guided tour of the city, it's optional to join or just enjoy free time to wander this charismatic, bohemian and artsy city yourself. On tour hear tales about Irish history, culture, stories some Irish music will be played with some guides playing their instruments on the coach. 2 hours visit.
Inclusions: Hotel pickup (select hotels only)., Professional guide, Guided walking tour Galway City, Entrance fees to all attractions. Free unlimited 4G wifi available on the coach.
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Hotel drop-off
Reviewed By RichMikeIrl
As a huge fan of Medieval history, I really enjoy my visits to Kilkenny and Glendalough. The Sheep Dog Trials make for an excellent escape from the city hustle.
8. 4-Day South West Ireland Tour from Dublin
Overall Ratings
4.7 based on 42 reviews
We start our adventures in the west of Ireland, where we travel through beautiful Connemara, one of the beautiful remote regions of Ireland.Then it's on to Galway, Ireland's trendy party capital on the west coast! Enjoy a pint or two in the great traditional pubs of Galway. We continue our adventures as we travel down the west coast, with the highlight of the drive being time to visit the Cliffs of Moher - at 214m high, these cliffs were the Cliffs of Insanity in the movie Princess Bride! We continue to County Kerry, and the magical town of Killarney. A priceless opportunity to get to know the charming Irish people a little better! Onward to the Dingle Peninsula! Rugged mountains, romantic sandy beaches and crystal cascades sparkle as the Paddywagon cruises into the lovely Dingle Peninsula, and we stay overnight in the charming village of Annascaul. We also kiss the Blarney Stone on our return to Dublin. You cant beat this for value, a great 4 days!
Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, 3 nights accommodation (Galway, Dingle Peninsula, Killarney), Fun Professional Guide, Live commentary on board, Transport by air conditioned coach, WiFi on board, USB Ports at every seat
Exclusions: Gratuities, Lunch, Dinner
Reviewed By Susan D
I am also waiting for a refund from Paddywagon. It has been 10 months and I still get the same response that they can't access their funds due to Covid. DO NOT DO BUSINESS WITH THIS COMPANY!!!
9. Cliffs of Moher Day Trip from Dublin
Overall Ratings
4.6 based on 1,586 reviews
Join us on our Cliffs of Moher tour as we discover some of the most dramatic cliffs in Ireland. We take an unforgettable journey to the Wild Atlantic Way where you are rewarded with dramatic and breathtaking views that are nothing short of amazing. Along with your fellow travellers, discover the best of Ireland’s dramatic coastline including the Burren and the bohemian city of Galway.
Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Driver/guide
Exclusions: Lunch
Reviewed By junior22016
I went to the office on 37 College Green in Dublin to buy a Hop/Hop off ticket. The attendant told me the ticket was 42 euro when the actual price was. I asked which one it was and she told me it was 22. I paid with a 50 euro bill.However, she ended charging me 42 euro. Since I was trying to make the bus, I did not realize she took my money until I was on the bus. At the end the route I told her what she did knowing she was going to pretend to be clueless. She played along and checked her register to tell me she did not have any extra money in there. The fact is, that money never made it to the register. That was extremely dishonest and you guys need to be careful with crooks like this.
10. Connemara Day Trip from Galway: Kylemore Abbey and Ross Errily Friary
Overall Ratings
4.6 based on 331 reviews
Discover the dramatic beauty of Connemara with its rugged wilderness, welcoming locals and historic treasures, on this full-day trip from Galway city. Traveling with an expert guide, your tour visits Ross Errilly Friary, pretty Cong village and must-see Kylemore Abbey. Spend time at leisure in these Irish gems and enjoy stunning scenery in between each visit.
Inclusions: Professional Local Driver/Guide, Air-conditioned vehicle
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Entrance Fee to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
Reviewed By tanjamattila
We booked Cliffs of Moher & Burren tour. The cliffs were awesome and our driver John was really great, but the tour was quite badly organised and ended up costing more. Right at the beginning of the journey we were told that due to covid 19 they had cancelled some of the activities that were included in the price: Gleninsheen Wedge Tomb, the 5,800-year-old Poulnabrone Dolmen and Ballyalban Fairy Fort, and also a visit to Kilfenora to see Celtic Crosses was cancelled. We were offered an option to pay 15 euros extra per person to get a one hour boat trip in front of the Cliffs of Moher instead. That was quite unprofessional way from company's side to replace those very interesting attractions that we thought that we could see. We felt a bit scammed as we had to pay more to get a possibility to experience something else. Other option would have been to wait in Doolin until the boat trip was over. The boat trip itself was also very poor from its staff's side. We were given false information regarding how the Cliffs have formed (by atmospheric pressure - that's not correct), about the building date regarding a tower on top of the cliffs etc. It was a bit hilarious and frustrating. The quality of that boat trip didn't convince us but oh well, one more experience :) Other than these couple of odd things the day was really nice and as we live in Ireland we will for sure take another trip to see more of the area. But as we felt that we cannot really trust the tour description and we were not informed in advance about any changes, and there was no word about cancelled activities due to covid 19 on their website when we booked and read about this tour, we will either try another tour company or we will rent a car next time.
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