Top Western Ireland Culture

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.

Take a ramble through the charming streets and alleyways of the heritage town of Westport, one of the few planned towns in Ireland. Laid out in Georgian style with tree lined promenades, this picturesque town is bursting with character. Colourful shop fronts house local artisan foods, quality restaurants and lively pubs. In the company of a local guide, immerse yourself in the culture and heritage of this beautiful town with plenty of tall tales and laughs along the way. Leave with new friends and lifelong memories of one of Ireland’s most beloved towns.

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.

Join a friendly local guide in Sligo for a private walking tour starting at the iconic Statue of W. B. Yeats and meandering through riverside paths, historic alleys, abbey ruins and open public spaces. You’ll capture the spirit of the town and its link to one of Ireland’s greatest poets, while enjoying a mix of culture, nature and local life. Whether you go for an hour or up to six hours, this tour gives an authentic and relaxed glimpse of Sligo’s heart.

A premium small-group experience for curious travellers who feel drawn to Ireland’s ancient Celtic roots. Step beyond ordinary sightseeing and into the magical world of ancient Ireland. This tour brings Ireland’s legendary past to life through captivating storytelling, hidden city corners, medieval streets and unforgettable local atmosphere. Explore Galway at an easy pace, with space to ask questions, soak in the atmosphere, and receive personalised recommendations tailored to your interests. Step into a world where faeries, druids and the Otherworld still feel close. Hear tales of warrior heroes, powerful goddesses, fairy folklore and the mysteries that shaped Irish culture for centuries. If you're searching for one of the most unique things to do in Galway, this is it.

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.

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.

Be guided by an islander on the smallest of the Aran Islands and learn first hand about her story as a local on this island steeped in traditions and culture. Hear her story of growing up there, leaving, returning and witnessing all the changes and influences of the modern world on the Island while helping to keep all that is good in the traditions and culture alive.

Delve into the haunting history of Galway on this captivating evening walking tour. Stroll through medieval streets as you uncover chilling tales of executions, ghostly apparitions, and local folklore. Begin at Lynch's Castle, where the powerful Tribes of Galway once ruled, and hear the dark tale of Mayor James Lynch Fitz Stephen. Explore Spanish Arch and the River Corrib, where legends of famine victims and lost sailors come alive. Visit Galway Cathedral and St Nicholas' Collegiate Church to learn about the city’s grim past before concluding at The King's Head Pub, with an option to enjoy a unique Blood Red Ale. - Evening walking tour through Galway’s medieval streets and haunted spots - Discover chilling stories of executions and ghost sightings - Visit historic sites including Lynch's Castle and Galway Cathedral - Optional upgrade to enjoy a unique Blood Red Ale at The King's Head Pub

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.

Discover the art of oyster farming at one of Ireland's oldest oyster farms. Finding authentic farm-to-table experiences amongst a sea of sightseeing tours can be tricky, but this hands-on excursion takes you behind the scenes with working oyster farmers. Take a tour around the site, master the technique of shucking, and taste fresh oysters direct from the sea.

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.

Step into Ballina through the lives and stories that shaped it. Enjoy storytelling with poetry, humour, and local legend, plus hands-on moments with rare artifacts led by a warm local guide. Explore Georgian streets, striking Victorian architecture, and heritage sites as your guide shares stories of founders, ordinary families, rebellion, community, and the lasting impact of the Great Famine. See treasures from the Jackie Clarke Collection and learn Ballina’s connections to Mary Robinson and President Joe Biden. Each stop reveals the town’s character, culture, and enduring community spirit.

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.

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.

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.

Step inside Galway cities only working distillery for a one-of-a-kind journey into Ireland’s oldest spirits. Discover how whiskey and poitín began as the same drink, separated only by the buying of a licence, and explore centuries of distilling tradition brought to life through our family’s 170-year-old illicit heritage. Learn the secrets of brewing, mash bills, cask finishes and maturation, and see how we make whiskey today using time-honoured methods. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of rebellion, craftsmanship and community that makes our Micil spirits truly unique. Your experience includes three guided tastings – two styles of whiskey plus a very special Heritage Edition poitín made with peated barley and oats. It’s interactive, authentic, and an absolute must-do when visiting Galway.

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Galway on this premium night tour, where you’ll savor beer tastings at four authentic pubs, including a special welcome drink from Galway Bay Brewery. Begin your journey in Eyre Square and wander through the charming Latin Quarter, before heading to the lively West End, known for its cultural scene. Enjoy a curated experience that combines storytelling, local brews, and traditional Irish music at a renowned venue to conclude the night. This uniquely crafted tour is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Galway's rich pub culture and social atmosphere. - Explore iconic pubs in Eyre Square, Latin Quarter, and West End - Enjoy beer tastings at four handpicked venues, including craft selections - Experience an intimate setting with local storytelling and insider knowledge - Conclude with live Irish music at one of Galway's top venues

It can be impossible to explore Ireland's stunning natural beauty without a car. Discover the scenery and heritage of the Burren and Atlantic coast with none of the hassle of driving or organizing car hire on a private tour. Explore the Cliffs of Moher and a megalithic monument with facts and context from your guide. Plus, get a taste of authentic Irish culture with a live sheepdog demonstration (own expense) and a lunch stop at a traditional Irish pub.

Discover a thriving Irish tradition in a historic place with admission to Caherconnell Stone Fort & Sheepdog Demonstrations. Pre-booking tickets to the sheepdog demonstrations is a convenient way to take care of planning in advance. That means you can use your travel time for exploring the historic ring fort and watching the highly trained sheepdogs perform.

Discover the unparalleled beauty of Connemara on this expertly guided tour, showcasing the enchanting Kylemore Abbey, its exquisite Victorian walled gardens, and the breathtaking landscapes of one of Europe’s most beautiful national parks. This tour is designed for guests in Ireland on a self-drive tour or travelling in their own car. Set off on an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Connemara, one of Ireland’s most breathtaking regions. Upon arriving Kylemore Abbey you’ll meet your expert local guide and begin an extraordinary exploration of the Kylemore Abbey estate. Surrounded by towering mountains, tranquil lakes, and untouched natural beauty, this experience offers a deep dive into the rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes that make Connemara truly unique.

Book this hassle-free small-group tour to see some of the best of West Ireland, where all your transport, guides, and logistics are all taken care of for you. You have several activities in this tour, including a trip to Aughnanure Castle, spending time in Connemara and its surrounding villages, and a chance to watch a sheepdog demonstration.

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.