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Galway: Private Family Walking Tour with Local Guide

2 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 2 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
| Galway, Ireland
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from $342.38 per group (up to 12)

Lowest Price Guarantee
The 14 'Tribes of Galway' banners / flag-posts at Eyre Square.
An Taibhdhearc Theatre, Ireland’s only Irish-language theatre established in 1928
Franciscan Chapel, Galway
One of the many wall-Murals in the city, this one to coincide with the Galway Arts Festival in mid-July each year.
Its mid-July, the time of year when Galway really comeds to life with the Film , the Arts and the Horse-racing Festivals.
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 23 (0) days in advance.
2 hours 35 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

**Discover Galway: A Walking Tour Like No Other!**

Step into the heart of Galway with our exclusive private City Walking Tour. Its designed for families and friends who want to experience this vibrant city like a local. Led by a passionate local expert, this tour offers a unique journey through one of Ireland’s most vibrant and historic cities.

Step back in time as you explore Galway’s Anglo-Norman roots, wander medieval streets and see how it has evolved into a thriving cultural hub. This is a lively storytelling experience, blending fascinating facts with fun local insights.

We will stroll through the Latin Quarter, where medieval Galway meets modern Irish culture. Visit iconic landmarks the Galway Cathedral, Lynch’s Castle and St. Nicholas’ Church. Witness Galway’s famous pub culture at The King’s Head pub and the Hall of the Red Earl hidden gem.

We make sure you feel like a friend being welcomed into the heart of Galway. BOOK NOW for an experience you won’t forget!

What's Included

  • We respect cultural diversity and welcome inclusion of people from all nationalities and backgrounds
  • Walking tour can be adapted to individual wishes - with group agreement .
  • Discount ticket to visit St Nicholas Collegiate Church (for 10am Tours only!)
  • Tea and coffee Extra Gratuties like Tea / Coffee
  • Alcoholic beverages Food and Beverages
  • Private transportation to and from the meeting point
See 3 moreSee 5 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point

Eyre Square
Galway, H91 NFD2, Ireland

Show on Google Maps

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

Eyre Square
Galway, Ireland

Guests have the option of remaining in the Old town / Latin quarter area or returning to returning to the central , Eyre Square with with your guide

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Eyre Square

Our accredited Guide will meet you at the FRONT entrance to the Hardiman Hotel in Eyre Square. We provide a Tour ineniary here. Our tour starts at the main Square, where the Guide will give you a brief overview of Galway's rich history. We'll outline the city's unlikely rise from a Gaelic settlement on Ireland's west coast to a wealthy and prosperous Walled city! We'll tell you about the 14 Tribal merchant families of Galway, various Points of Interest, iconic buildings and Historical aspects around the Square. The old Browne Doorway, the Tribes of Galway Banners, the John F Kennedy memorial and the Quin-centenary Fountain all feature.
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17 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Williamsgate Street

We now emerge onto Williams-gate St. and encounter some landmark buildings including the elegant Browne Thomas building. We also pass by Jewellers shops who specialise in Galway's Claddagh ring. if time allows we stop at the Oscar Wilde statue, an Estonia gift to Ireland in 2004 !
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6 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Franciscan Church

We now divert down Eglinton Street and pass by the Franciscan Friary church on the left. This iconic old church has lots of history and includes a little grave-yard at the rear which was a prominent place of burial in mid-17th and early 18th centuries.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Eyre Square Centre

We now enter the Eyre Square Centre to view the impressive Medieval City Walls from the 13th century.
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7 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Galway Cathedral

Up ahead, from the newly-constructed pedestrian bridge over the River Corrib, our group will pause to view Europe's newest stone cathedral, the Galway Cathedral and the Franciscan Chapel.
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8 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Lynch's Castle

The tour returns via Galway's famous River Walk to the main city artery. We arrive at a two-street intersection and the iconic Lynch's Castle building. This 4-story rectangular mansion is the oldest in the city and the finest surviving Town-Castle in Ireland. It was once the ancestral home of the powerful Lynch clan up until the mid-17th century. We explain the history of the building, its crests and roundels.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Market Street

The tour continues by turning right into Church Lane, once called 'Dead Man's Lane' where funerals passed on way into old graveyard. We talk about St. Nicholas church-yard and continue on through Market St.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Galway Courthouse

We continue towards Courthouse Square, which used to have two iconic Courthouses - one for the county and one for the city. One remains today and the Town Hall Theatre is opposite.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Bowling Green (pass by)

Our tour route passes close to Bowling Green. Here was the family home of Ms Nora Barnacle who was a prominent Galwegian in years gone by. She famously dated Irish Writer, James Joyce on 16th June 1904, thereafter known as Bloomsday! The Nora Barnacle House is believed to be Ireland’s Smallest Museum.
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Saint Nicholas' Collegiate Church

We next arrive at the imposing Church of St Nicholas Colligate Church, a 700year old structure. Your Guide explains the history of this largest Medieval church in continuous use in Ireland. It was originally built as a Catholic Church but, today, functions as a Protestant Church. In 1477, Christopher Columbus is said to have worshipped here prior to his epic voyage of discovery! There's also much to see within this ancient building and we offer discounts tickets to join their guided tours which operate Mon-Fri. 11am and 2pm and Wednesdays 12pm and 3pm.Extra Note: If you are lucky enough to visit on a Saturday, you can sample all the wonders of the Saturday Market (8am-4pm) just outside the church area!
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9 minutes Admission Ticket Included

Galway's Latin Quarter

We arrive in High Street, a section of Galway's Latin Quarter and encounter the iconic King's Head Pub. Legend has it that this pub site was gifted by Oliver Cromwell as payment to executioner of King Charles I. Also on this street we pass by the famous Naughton House, once owned by 'Humanity' Dick Martyn, an Irish MP in British Parliament.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

The Lynch Memorial

At this very popular Tourist attraction, we hear the story of the 15th century Lynch Memorial window and Mayor James Lynch FitzStephen. The story involves his privileged son, Walter, a love rivalry, a violent confrontation and the son paying the ultimate price issued by a stern, justice-of-the-peace father! The window commemorates this enduring legend and was erected in 1854.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Quay Street

Quay Street has been at the centre of Galway life since the city was founded almost 600 years ago. Today its a busy focal-point thoroughfare with several pubs, restaurants, cafes and lots of music. Also located here is a medieval castle, the Claddagh Ring Museum and even a building that housed Galway's first nightclub !
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Wolfe Tone Bridge (pass by)

From our Wolfe Tone Bridge vantage point, we can see the Claddagh Village across the River Corrib. This old Gaelic settlement was located outside the walled city of Galway. It was regarded as a fishing village with about 3000 people living here. The fishermen fished Galway Bay aboard the old Galway Hooker boats while the women-folk later sold the fish on the Spanish Parade area. Of course, the Claddagh area gave its name to the famous Claddagh Ring!
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The Spanish Arch

This open-space area, known as the Spanish Parade formally contained the old Galway port. Up until about 1660, there was a brisk foreign trade between Galway, France , Spain and Portugal. Old Galley ships frequented here with goods including wines and spices for local merchant families. Adjacent to here the medieval Spanish Arch is located on the banks of the River Corrib.
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8 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Hall of the Red Earl

This old Medieval site was once the castle residence of powerful Norman, Richard de Burgo. It was an important building up until the late 16th century. Its ruins had been lost for centuries till archaeologists discovered it in the late '90's.
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7 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Naughton's Pub (Tigh Neachtain)

Tig Neachtain is today one of Galway's finest pubs. In former years it was the town-house of Richard Martin, a local Galway celebrity in his day! In his early years as a duellist, he earned the nickname 'Hairtrigger Dick'. In later years, he was elected for Galway to the British Parliament and introduced animal rights laws, which earned him the name 'Humanity Dick'. These laws led to the setting up of the SPCA. Martin was also landlord of a substantial area of Connemara. Note: If group members are interested we can return to this fine pub in the heart of the medieval quarter and taste some drinks (at own expense).
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Kirwan's Lane

If Quay Street is too busy or alternatively if time allows our group will divert onto Kirwans Lane off Quay Street. This little detour will allow us to walk down this secluded medieval laneway. The laneway is named after one of Galway's Gaelic tribal families. This sublime streetscape offer us a view to past times when Galway city was regarded as 'the finest in the Kingdom'. Also located here is the site of the former Richard 'Humanity Dick' Martin Theatre.
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3 minutes Admission Ticket Free

An Taibhdhearc

The final stages of our City tour take us up Middle Street, where we pass by An Taibhdhearc. This is Ireland's only Irish-language theatre. It was established as a large-scale cultural project in the early 1920, when Ireland became a Free State. Micheal MacLiamor, the first director / manager worked there from 1928.
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7 minutes Admission Ticket Free

St Augustine's Catholic Parish (pass by)

The guide will explain that the Augustinian Order arrived in Galway in 1500 and setup an Abbey in the Forthill area of the city. Oliver Cromwell's English army banished them for a period but they returned in 1760 and established this building.
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Druid Theatre (pass by)

University graduates founded the now-famous Druid Theatre Company in 1975 in this city of culture. Druid has always maintained a vital relationship with writers, Tom Murphy and Martin McDonagh. Many well-known Irish actors and directors have worked with the company down through the years.
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Gothic and Tudor Revival-style former cathedral - Abbeygate Street Lower

Our final stop will be the old Galway Cathedral Building at the Middle Street / Abbeygate Street junction. This old building was in use for many centuries until it was deemed inadequate by Galway bishop, Dr Michael Browne.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Show 21 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Most travellers can participate and tour is child and animal-friendly

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Galway: Private Family Walking Tour with Local Guide?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (GMT).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-400766P2

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
2 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 2 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

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On average, this is booked 23 (0) days in advance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Balloon Tours customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Galway: Private Family Walking Tour with Local Guide?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (GMT).
  • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • We respect cultural diversity and welcome inclusion of people from all nationalities and backgrounds.
  • Walking tour can be adapted to individual wishes - with group agreement .
  • Discount ticket to visit St Nicholas Collegiate Church (for 10am Tours only!).
  • Local accredited Tour guide.
The following is NOT included:
  • Tea and coffee. Extra Gratuties like Tea / Coffee.
  • Alcoholic beverages. Food and Beverages.
  • Private transportation to and from the meeting point.
  • Accomodation.
  • Oversized luggage or large bags.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:

This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

The minimum age to participate is 16..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Galway: Private Family Walking Tour with Local Guide is as follows:

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • People with mobility impairment issues.
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Galway: Private Family Walking Tour with Local Guide will be included in your confirmation email from City Balloon Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • We respect cultural diversity and welcome inclusion of people from all nationalities and backgrounds
  • Walking tour can be adapted to individual wishes - with group agreement .
  • Discount ticket to visit St Nicholas Collegiate Church (for 10am Tours only!)
  • Local accredited Tour guide
  • Tea and coffeeExtra Gratuties like Tea / Coffee
  • Alcoholic beveragesFood and Beverages
  • Private transportation to and from the meeting point
  • Accomodation
  • Oversized luggage or large bags

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • People with mobility impairment issues.
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Most travellers can participate and tour is child and animal-friendly

Report Product Issue

Activity name