Tours and Tickets to Experience The Spanish Arch

Hear the legend of the Lynch family as you make your way through Galway, and decide what you think is really behind the murder the family is linked to. Wander around the city’s backstreets, hearing stories from your guide. Learn about the city, too, and let your guide recommend restaurants and pubs for you to try after your tour finishes. You might make new friends on this small-group tour, too.

Vibrant and bustling Galway is known for its festivals, quirky pubs, and street performers, but only those in-the-know can spot the tell-tale signs of its medieval past. On this self-guided audio tour, I’ll point out remnants of this historical city and reveal some of its darker tales of death, murders, and executions. Starting in front of the Browne Doorway in Eyre Square, you’ll walk through Galway’s main shopping district to your first stop, the King’s Head Bistro and Pub. There, I’ll share the gory details of King Charles I of England’s execution and what the event has to do with the pub’s name. You’ll then wind your way into the heart of the Latin Quarter to the Spanish Arch, to find out how millions of Irish were affected by An Gorta Mór (or, the Great Hunger) of 1846. On this dark tour you’ll also have the opportunity to see the Lynch’s Memorial Window where a father hung his own son in the 1400s, and learn about the murder of the Joyce family in Maamtrasna in 1882.

A small-group experience for curious travellers drawn to Ireland’s ancient Celtic roots. Explore Galway at an easy pace, with time to ask questions, soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy personalised recommendations for the rest of your trip, tailored to your interests. Step into a city where the Otherworld still feels close. As we walk, you’ll hear Irish storytelling in its natural habitat: myths and legends woven into real places—whispers carried by the river, echoes in medieval stone, and memories that cling to old walls. Meet the Gods and Goddesses behind the lore, trace the symbols locals still recognise, and see how Galway’s living folklore sits right alongside its creative, modern spirit. You’ll finish not just having “seen” Galway, but feeling why it’s vibrant, rebellious and unlike anywhere else in Ireland: full of stories, characters, and traditions that are still very much alive.

Maximize your time in Galway with a 24 or 48-hour hop-on, hop-off bus ticket. Explore the city at your own pace, hopping off at more than 13 stops to visit landmarks like Eyre Square, Spanish Arch, and Salthill Promenade. Use the bus as often as you like during your ticket period for flexible sightseeing.

Join a local Galway fisherman, one of the last surviving fishing families of Claddagh, on a boat cruise across Galway Bay, visiting popular and scenic areas such as the Claddagh, Spanish Arch, the Long Walk, Port of Galway and the bay. Live the history of Galway’s maritime past and the traditional wooden sailboats, the Galway Hooker, as you enjoy the views of Galway City from the sea. Embrace nature and the expansive views that reach across the bay to the UNESCO site of the Burren in County Clare as your skipper shares insights into his life as a fisherman and tells stories from the famous Claddagh village. Learn about the traditional sailboats, Galway Hookers, and witness his infectious passion for these boats and the community that dedicate their time to preserving these crafts.

Experience Galway like a local on this private walking tour led by a friendly resident who knows the city best. Wander through lively streets, charming squares, and along scenic rivers as your guide shares stories, history, and insider tips that bring the city to life. With flexible durations from 2 to 6 hours, you can choose a relaxed stroll or a more immersive exploration, all at your own pace. Perfect for travelers seeking a personal and authentic introduction, this tour offers a warm welcome and a chance to discover Galway’s unique character firsthand.

Make the most of your time in Galway city by booking this group tour, where your guide shows you the most important landmarks, plus some you wouldn't find on a self-guided tour. Besides sightseeing, you also try some local food and beverages. Your Irish storyteller of a guide fills you in on the history and culture of Galway as you walk through this beautiful city.

Explore Galway City at your own pace with a self-guided audio tour focused on gastronomy. Stroll the city streets and connect to an app on your smartphone to learn about local food and drink traditions. As you explore Galway’s Latin Quarter and west side, hear stories about the evolution of local food and get advice on where to eat and drink during your trip.

Hear Irelands story through Irish songs while walking through Galway city streets. We will visit Galway port from where so many desperate Galway and Connemara people were forced to leave and hear songs highlighting this story. Then we will visit Spanish Arch, the wonderful Claddagh fishing community, Eglinton Canal, Carrolls, The Dew Drop, Lynch Castle, St Nicholas Church and taste the terrible reality of Oliver Cromwell. Visit old Market location of WoodQuay, see the Corrib river and 1890s railway bridge. Visit Eyre Square and hear about Dargan, Irelands railway hero. Hear about the cattle horse and hay markets here. Also listen to song telling of the Irish working building American Railways.

Providing the only dedicated walking tour of the Latin Quarter, this tour will highlight the city of Galway which grew up around St. Nicholas's collegiate church, the city port that contributed to the city becoming a powerhouse of trade and politics during the medieval period. Brendan your guide is a qualified and licensed guide who has intimate knowledge of the city. The tour will be narrated through historical facts, and stories that will bring the city to life!

Take a walking tour of Medieval Galway with an experienced regional guide and member of the Approved Tourist Guides of Ireland. See the remnants of the medieval period in Galway and learn about the city's past. Meet your guide at the Browne Doorway in Eyre Square where they will take you on an exciting tour to discover the city walls, Lynch's Memorial Window, the story of the Claddagh ring, Hall of the Red Earl, and much more. Hear how the 14 Tribes took control of Galway from the de Burgo's and made it one of the most important trading hubs along the western seaboard during the medieval period.

As one of Ireland's oldest cities, Galway is rich in history and sightseeing and we like to give our guests a West of Ireland welcome. . These shared tours take place between mid-May to end of September and contain enjoyable mix of the History and Culture of Galway as well as sightseeing onboard the riverboat, the Corrib Princess. This in-person combined tour is a great way to spend an afternoon exploring the city and the adjacent Corrib Lake. It's presented by an Irish Tourism professional with on-board commentary on the river boat route. We start with the walking tour and visit top city landmarks including the new Galway Cathedral, the medieval Lynch's Castle, St. Nicholas' Church, the Latin Quarter and the Spanish Parade. where you get an understanding of local culture. The River cruise segment takes 1.5 hours and allows you explore the region's Corrib waterways. Guests will have 'free time' to take photos on-board and enjoy beverages including a supreme Irish Coffee!

Galway might have a charming history that delights tourists, but as with any storied city, there are certainly darker tales below the surface. Discover chilling stories of murder, ghosts, and witchcraft as you navigate the city streets on this evening walking tour that takes you to some of Galway’s most haunted spots.

Uncover the captivating history of Galway and get to know the City of the Tribes in this engaging 90-minute tour, where tales of local myths, medieval battles, and cultural treasures come to life. Learn about the legendary Tribes of Galway - 14 powerful merchant families who shaped the medieval city - and how their legacy is still celebrated today. Hear stories of colourful characters, including the Galway man responsible for several world firsts in animal rights, one local family's connections to King Arthur, and the intriguing origins of Galway's iconic Claddagh Ring. You will also learn why Galway's patron saint is a surprisingly familiar figure and explore the city's rich heritage, guided by a knowledgeable, fully qualified and approved local tour guide. Perfect for history buffs and curious travellers alike, this tour promises a deep dive into Galway's storied past.

Make the most of your time in Galway by hopping on an electric bike and following your guide to the city’s top spots, and some hidden ones, too. This small, intimate group tour takes you by the city’s landmarks like Galway Cathedral, the Spanish Arch, and many more. Learn about the city’s history and culture from your local guide. If you’re feeling brave, take a dip in the sea at Blackrock Diving Board.

Discover the food traditions of Galway in the west of Ireland with this half-day tasting tour. Meet your local guide for a small-group stroll in Galway and taste your way through the city. Bring your appetite and learn about local history and heritage while sampling a variety of food from savory to sweet. Complete the experience with a visit to a traditional pub.

If you’re looking to get Instagram–worthy pictures while on your trip in Galway, but aren’t the best at taking pics yourself, try this Galway Photography Tour with an Instagram Influencer. An influencer knows the ins and outs of taking the best pictures and leads the way to up to seven spots like the Galway Cathedral and Spanish Arch. Learn techniques so you can take awesome pictures at each stop.

Growing up in Galway has given me an intimate knowledge of the rich and vibrant history of the jewel of the west, Galway. Much like the strong currents of the River Corrib that run through it, the stories and tales of its inhabitants have flowed through my life. A family heritage of storytelling imbued me with a love for imparting a good yarn. These tours will have the history, the lore and the origins of Galway’s unique culture, from a true native Galwegian! My walking tours draw from 20 years involvement in theatre, storytelling and music. My guided jaunts around Galway are the perfect marriage of all these aspects of my life. It will become abundantly clear the joy it provides me and I aim to share this joy with my customers. If it’s the culinary delights of Galway, its medieval history, its lesser known stories or the rich musical and artistic heritage of the city you seek to learn about, I would be privileged to guide you along the way. Gaillimh Abu!

Make the most of your time in Galway by booking this private tour, where you get a great overview of the city, visit some of the most famous spots, and make a plan for the rest of your time in the city. Walk at your own pace to places like Lynch’s Castle, St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, and more. Make sure your cameras are ready for photos of the Spanish Arch, Galway Cathedral, and the Quadrangle at UCG.

You're not only getting a Photo Session, you're getting a full travel experience carefully handpicked according to the eyes of an experienced travel photographer. Perfect for couples, families or solo travelers that want to register their passage in one of Ireland's most beautiful cities! No more asking strangers to take pictures of you, no more selfies, let's take your photos to the next level!

Explore the vibrant city of Galway with a local guide during this small-group walking tour. Maximize time in Galway with an itinerary that includes top landmarks such as Eyre Square, Lynch’s Castle, the Spanish Arch, and the Oscar Wilde statue. Learn about Galway’s history, heritage, and culture from a local guide during this walking tour.

Take a fun electric bike tour of Galway City with a local guide and see all the highlights Galway city has to offer. Cycle along canals, passing historic city sights, lakes, rivers, castles, beaches and loads more. On this guided ebike tour learn about Galway’s fascinating and rich history, as well knowleagable cultural insights into Galway City, which is considered the cultural heart of the West of Ireland. Our guide will provide you with personal stories, observations and local understanding throughout this tour. As you cycle through the narrow streets and bustling squares, you will encounter stunning architecture, picturesque canals and an eclectic mix of shops, pubs, and restaurants. Delve into the stories and legends that make Galway City such a unique and enchanting place, learning about its most famous inhabitants, from poets and playwrights to traders and explorers.

Growing up in Galway has given me an intimate knowledge of the rich and vibrant history of the jewel of the west, Galway. Much like the strong currents of the River Corrib that run through it, the stories and tales of its inhabitants have flowed through my life. A family heritage of storytelling imbued me with a love for imparting a good yarn. These tours will have the history, the lore and the origins of Galway’s unique culture, from a true native Galwegian! My walking tours draw from 20 years involvement in theatre, storytelling and music. My guided jaunts around Galway are the perfect marriage of all these aspects of my life. It will become abundantly clear the joy it provides me and I aim to share this joy with my customers. If it’s the culinary delights of Galway, its medieval history, its lesser known stories or the rich musical and artistic heritage of the city you seek to learn about, I would be privileged to guide you along the way. Gaillimh Abu!