Galway tours

Things to do in Galway

Galway greets you with a vivid blend of colours and cultures, where the streets buzz with the infectious energy of its residents. The city's pulse offers an invitation to explore beyond the obvious, and with a local guide, you'll find yourself in the thick of Galway’s lively atmosphere. Whether you’re wandering through bustling markets that overflow with the fragrance of fresh flowers or embarking on a food and wine tour to savour the rich tapestry of local and global flavours, each experience becomes uniquely yours. Your guide helps you bypass the queues, providing you with direct access to the city’s artistic treasures and its layered history. In Galway, you're not just a visitor—your connection to the place deepens with every story shared and every step taken. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Galway. Explore Galway your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Galway tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Galway for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Hike Diamond Hill in Connemara National Park with views over the Twelve Bens, then visit Kylemore Abbey’s Victorian Walled Garden on a private tour tailored to your pace. You can also ferry from Rossaveal to Inis Mór to watch the seal colony on the north shore, or kayak the River Corrib to spot swans near the Claddagh. Layover tours: With a few hours from Ceannt Station, a guide-led walking tour can cover the Latin Quarter, St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, the Spanish Arch, and the Hall of the Red Earl, with a stop for fish and chips at McDonagh’s or coffee at Ard Bia. If you have half a day, your private layover tour can add Salthill Prom or a quick spin to Dunguaire Castle in Kinvara. History tours: See Lynch’s Castle, the medieval city walls off Eyre Square, and artefacts at Galway City Museum, then head out to Aughnanure Castle near Oughterard on a private history tour. Your guide can weave in stories of the Tribes of Galway and show you the site of the Lynch window on Market Street. Galway’s centre is very walkable and well served by city buses and the train, but rural sights in Connemara, the Aran Islands, or south to Kinvara are not easy on public transit. You can book a chauffeured tour or ask your local guide to include private transportation for these tours. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Galway inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Explore the vibrant city of Galway, Ireland, with your guide on a private walking tour. This experience allows you to delve into the city’s heart by exploring its bustling neighborhoods. A local guide is your best companion to uncover the stories and secrets that make each area special. - Latin Quarter: Ideal for cultural tourists, this lively neighborhood is filled with colorful shops, traditional pubs, and street performers. It’s the perfect spot to soak up the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps hear a tale or two about Galway’s rich history. - Salthill: A great choice for families or anyone who loves the sea. You can stroll along the famous promenade, enjoy an ice cream, and take in stunning views of Galway Bay. It’s a refreshing escape within the city. - Claddagh: Known for its historic significance and local charm, this area appeals to those seeking meaningful connections. Learn about the origins of the famous Claddagh ring and explore the quaint streets that tell stories of times past. Day trip ideas from Galway Base yourself in Galway, then slip out to rugged coasts, quiet villages, and island life that make easy day trips with big variety. - Cliffs of Moher and the Burren: Walk along towering sea cliffs and explore the Burren’s limestone pavement, a solid pick for hikers, photographers, and anyone curious about rare plants and wild Atlantic views. - Connemara: Trace lake-dotted valleys to Clifden’s Sky Road and into Connemara National Park for short trails, which suits scenic drives, gentle hikes, and Gaelic culture in small towns. - Aran Islands (Inis Mór): Ferry out from Rossaveel, rent a bike, and circle stone walls, sea cliffs, and seal haul-outs; this caters to cyclists, Irish language fans, and people who like slow island days. - Cong and Lough Corrib: Wander riverside paths, abbey ruins, and forest tracks, then take in broad lake views; great for film buffs, easy walks, and quiet village time. - Kinvara and the Burren Coast: Stop in a harbour town for local history and Galway Bay views, then follow the Flaggy Shore for fossils, shorebirds, and calm seaside scenery; your tour can focus on nature, coastal photos, or low-key village stops. These day trips from Galway fit relaxed tours with time for photos, short walks, and local stops without a long drive. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Galway most travellers miss.