Top Galway Historical Tours

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.

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.

Marvel at the natural majesty of the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Cliffs of Moher on a full-day trip from Galway. Travel south by luxury coach and pass through quaint fishing villages such as Doolin and Kinvara. Admire the ancient fortress of Dunguaire Castle; get acquainted with the Burren, a limestone landscape reminiscent of the moon; and spend two hours of free time walking the trails surrounding the colossal Cliffs of Moher.

Explore Ireland’s beautiful Burren region and discover top natural landmarks, including the Cliffs of Moher, with ease on this day tour from Galway. Travel through the Burren’s rugged landscapes without having to tackle the winding roads yourself and discover the 16th-century Dunguaire Castle and Aillwee Cave. Explore walking trails on top of the mighty Cliffs of Moher at your leisure and enjoy panoramic views over the coastal scenery.

Experience the mighty Cliffs of Moher, a UNESCO World Heritage site, from both land and sea on this full-day tour from Galway. Marvel at the scenery along the Wild Atlantic Way; cruise out to Inisheer, one of the Aran Islands; then hike along the cliff-tops and enjoy spectacular views across the Atlantic.

Embark on a thrilling road trip along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way on this full-day tour from Galway. Discover the natural wonders of Galway Bay and Connemara as you leave the tourist trail behind and journey along the coast. Admire views of Rosmuc, Derrygimlagh Bog and the Twelve Bens Mountains; visit the former residence of political leader Padraic Pearse; and stop for morning tea in Roundstone (not included). Finally, look out for wild Connemara ponies as you hike through Connemara National Park or pay a visit to the magnificent 19th-century Kylemore Abbey.

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.

Explore the Wild Atlantic Way without the hassle of organizing logistics or renting a car, thanks to this full-day tour. Venture out from Galway onboard a coach, and admire the scenery as you travel through the limestone landscape of the Burren to the village of Doolin. There, take the express ferry to Inisheer, the smallest and most traditional of the Aran Islands. Discover a 10th-century castle ruin, a sunken church, a shipwreck, and a peaceful beach, with the option to explore on foot, by bike, or pony and trap (own expense). Afterward, the ferry continues beneath the towering Cliffs of Moher for a unique vantage point from on the water, before returning to Doolin. Choose whether to tuck into a traditional Irish pub meal (own expense), before heading the top of the cliffs to catch sweeping Atlantic views.

Departing from Galway Coach Station, this expertly paced half-day journey whisks you away from the city and into the karst limestone landscapes of the Burren, where your local guides share the history and geology that make this region a UNESCO Global Geopark. The highlight of your morning is a 75-minute premium stop at the world-famous Cliffs of Moher. With your €12.00 entry fee already included in the tour price, you’ll have seamless access to the visitor center and the most spectacular 2km stretch of secure walking paths. From these 700-foot heights, enjoy panoramic views that stretch across the Aran Islands to the peaks of Connemara, all while benefiting from the perfect amount of time to explore without the rush. You'll be back in Galway at 13:30 to enjoy an afternoon of shopping and exploring or in good time for onward travel options by rail or bus.

Delve into the rugged wilderness of Connemara, an Irish county thronged with historic monuments and natural splendor, on a full-day tour from Galway City. Gaze at the tranquil surfaces of Lough Carrib and Loch NaFooey and discover the elaborate walled gardens of Kylemore Abbey. Enjoy a pleasant balance of guided tours and independent exploration during this enriching excursion.

Set off from Galway Coach Station for an afternoon discovery of the Wild Atlantic Way's rugged charm. This expertly guided half-day expedition transitions from the city's energy into the limestone heart of the Burren, where our local guides unpack the ancient history and unique geology that define this UNESCO Global Geopark. The centerpiece of your journey is a 75-minute premium stop at the majestic Cliffs of Moher. With your €12.00 admission fee already included, you’ll enjoy seamless access to the visitor center and the most scenic 2km stretch of secure cliffside trails. From these 700-foot heights, take in sweeping views of the Aran Islands and the Connemara mountains, often bathed in the soft, golden light of the late afternoon.

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!

Discover top Connemara attractions without having to drive through the distracting landscape on a handy day trip from Galway. Your guide sheds light on the region’s rich heritage and spectacular natural scenery along the way. Admire views over the Twelve Pins mountains and enjoy free time in Leenane Village. Check out Killary Fjord and Kylemore Abbey, and stop in the Irish-speaking village of Spiddal, before returning to Galway.

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.

Experience the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren National Park your way with an accredited National Tour Guide in the comfort of a limousine. Explore the Cliffs and the Burren region at your own pace without the rush. There is so much to see for the independent traveller, you'll discover the history and culture of my region on this private day tour. Expect castles, stunning vistas, prehistoric remains, folklore and storytelling at every turn on this full day adventure from Galway.

Discover the best of the Wild Atlantic Way with this full-day tour from Galway. Set out on a combination coach and boat tour to see top landmarks in the west of Ireland including the Cliffs of Moher, the Aran Islands, and Connemara. See the Cliffs of Moher from below during a boat journey, visit the island of Inis Oirr, and back to the mainland.

Discover stunning landscape and explore ancient lands in a luxury vehicle. Cong is home to a 12th century Abbey, exile of the last High King of Irelan, Rory O' Connor. Walk through Cong woods to the Monks fishing cottage on the edge of Lough Corrib. Did you know that Cong is also the location of The Quiet Man movie starring John Wayne and Maureen O Hara? Discover the breathtaking landscape of Connemara and the majestic Killary Fjord. Visit Ireland's most romantic building, Kylemore Abbey, from the late 19th century, home of the Benedictine Order of Nuns in Ireland. Optional visit to the Abbey, Neo-Gothic Church, Mausoleum and Victorian Walled Garden. No visit to Kylemore would be complete without a visit to the Ironing Stone, a magical giant's wishing stone located on the Eastern avenue. Return to Galway via the Inagh Valley, Oughterard and Moycullen.

Try your hand at traditional Irish dance, with a former Riverdancer leading the way! In this afternoon dance experience, learn how to perform dances like the ceili group dance and sean nós, the ‘old style’ of Irish dancing, as well as the internationally popular moves of the Riverdance. Learn about the history behind all these dances and their place in Irish culture from your teacher, an expert in the history and performance of Irish dance.

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.

Let this local tour company take care of all the preparations to make this a memorable walk on Inishbofin Island. This self-guided tour takes you along the West Quarter of the island for a good walk in the Irish fresh air. You’ll also be given a lunch of soup, sandwiches, tea, and scones to keep you energized and a map so you can find your way.

Enhance your experience of Ireland’s spectacular Cliffs of Moher on a full-day excursion from Galway. With a professional guide, travel to the quaint village of Doolin to enjoy chowder, chocolate and the colorful architecture of the enclave. Continue to the spectacular Cliffs of Moher, 200-meter (700-foot) mounds that tower over the crashing Atlantic Sea, and spend some relaxed free time absorbing panoramic vistas. Return to Galway via the Wild Atlantic Way and gaze at scenes of outstanding natural beauty as you travel.

Discover the beauty and culture of County Clare with a half-day guided walk led by a local farmer. Go for a stroll along the region’s famous sea cliffs and learn about the history and folklore of this corner of Ireland. Admire views of local landmarks including the Aran Islands, the Dingle Peninsula, and the Twelve Bens of Connemara during this walk in the countryside.

Discover the Burren National Park and it's unique limestone landscape. Visit the Cliffs of Moher, breaktaking views if Ireland’s top visitor attraction. Why not have a seafood chowder at Monks of Ballyvaughan. Go see a sheepdog demonstration at Caherconnell Ring Fort and get to see both natural and ancient sites along the way such as: Dunguaire Castle Corcomroe Abbey Doonogh Castle Poulnabrone Dolman Doolin Aran Islands, Half Day Tours to Inis Oirr, smallest of the Aran Islands are possible, sailing from Doolin before or after Cliffs visit. (Just 15 minutes ferry crossing). If taking this option there will be an earlier departure time from Galway of 9.00am.