How to Explore Galway with City Sightseeing Galway Hop on Hop Off Tour

Are you planning to visit the charming city of Galway but not sure where to start? The City Sightseeing Galway Hop on Hop Off Tour is the perfect way to explore the city at your own pace. With a 48-hour ticket, get unlimited access to the hop on hop off sightseeing bus and visit eight different tour stops, including popular landmarks such as Eyre Square, Spanish Arch, and Lynch Castle. In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of your Galway hop on hop off tour.

Overview of City Sightseeing Galway Hop on Hop Off Tour

The City Sightseeing Galway Hop on Hop Off Tour is a 48-hour ticket that allows you to explore Galway city with ease. You can hop off the bus at any of the eight tour stops, visit the nearby attractions, and hop back on the next bus when you’re ready to move on. The hop on hop off bus operates on the Red Route, which covers 12 stops and 16 points of interest in Galway. You can learn about the city’s culture and history with the onboard audio commentary available in English, which comes with free headphones. In addition to the unlimited use of the bus for 48 hours, you’ll also receive a discount booklet that includes offers on local eateries, attractions, and shopping. Please note that food and drinks, gratuities, and hotel pickup and drop-off are excluded from the tour.

The Red Route

Here are the 12 stops covered on the Red Route: 1. Eyre Square 2. Spanish Arch 3. The Claddagh 4. Salthill Promenade 5. Galway Museum 6. St. Nicholas’ Church 7. Galway Cathedral 8. National University of Ireland, Galway 9. Salmon Weir Bridge 10. Hotel Meyrick 11. Courthouse 12. Lynch Castle Each of these stops includes points of interest that you can visit. Here are 16 points of interest covered on the Red Route: 1. Eyre Square Centre 2. The Browne Doorway at St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church 3. The Bell Tower at St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church 4. Galway Market at St. Nicholas’ Church 5. The Long Walk 6. Nimmo’s Pier 7. Salthill Village 8. Galway Atlantaquaria National Aquarium of Ireland 9. Salt Hill Park 10. The Galway Bay Hotel 11. Mutton Island Lighthouse 12. The Claddagh Ring Museum 13. Galway City Museum 14. The Spanish Arch 15. The King’s Head Pub 16. Lynch’s Castle

How to Use City Sightseeing Galway Hop on Hop Off Tour?

To use the City Sightseeing Galway Hop on Hop Off Tour, follow these simple steps: 1. Buy a 48-hour ticket online at the link provided. Make sure you print or download your ticket, which will be emailed to you after purchase. 2. Arrive at the first stop, Eyre Square, and show your printed or downloaded ticket to the driver or a member of the City Sightseeing Galway team. 3. Get on the hop on hop off bus, and enjoy the views of Galway. 4. Hop off the bus at any of the stops that interest you. 5. Visit the nearby attractions at your leisure. 6. Hop back onto the next bus when you’re ready to continue your tour. 7. Repeat Steps 4 to 6 at the remaining stops. 8. End your tour anytime within 48 hours after you start your tour.

Tips for Using City Sightseeing Galway Hop on Hop Off Tour

Here are some tips to make the most of your Galway hop on hop off tour: 1. Download the City Sightseeing Galway app to see the timetable for the bus and know when the next bus is coming. 2. Listen to the audio commentary to learn about the city’s culture and history. 3. Plan your day in advance and decide which attractions you’d like to visit. 4. Pay attention to the bus timetable to avoid missing the last bus of the day. 5. Use the discount booklet to save money on local eateries, attractions, and shopping.

Book Your Tour Now

The City Sightseeing Galway Hop on Hop Off Tour is a fantastic way to explore the city at your own pace. With unlimited access to the hop on hop off sightseeing bus for 48 hours, you can visit popular landmarks such as Eyre Square, Spanish Arch, and Lynch Castle easily. The onboard audio commentary available in English is a great way to learn about the city’s culture and history. Don’t forget to use the discount booklet to save money on local eateries, attractions, and shopping. Book the tour here and get ready to explore the beautiful city of Galway.

Frequently Asked Questions about Galway

Galway is a vibrant city located on the west coast of Ireland. Famous for its traditional Irish music, colorful buildings, and friendly locals, Galway attracts visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re planning a trip to Galway or just curious about this fascinating city, here are some frequently asked questions to help you learn more.

1. What is the best time to visit Galway?

Galway is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. If you want to experience Galway’s lively streets and cultural events, summer (June-August) is the perfect time. Visitors can enjoy the Galway International Arts Festival, the Galway Races, and the Galway Oyster Festival during these months. However, if you prefer a quieter atmosphere and don’t mind cooler weather, spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are also great times to visit.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Galway?

Galway has a lot to offer visitors, from historical sites to natural wonders. Some of the must-see attractions include:

• The Spanish Arch
• Eyre Square
• Gleninagh Castle
• The Cliffs of Moher
• The Aran Islands
• Galway Cathedral
• National University of Ireland, Galway
• Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden

3. What is the best way to get around in Galway?

Walking is the best way to explore the narrow streets of Galway’s city center, but there are other options for those who want to venture further. Public transportation in Galway includes buses and taxis. Buses are relatively inexpensive and offer extensive routes around the city and surrounding areas. Taxis can also be easily hailed on the street or booked in advance.

4. What is the weather like in Galway?

Galway has a temperate climate with mild temperatures throughout the year. Summers are usually cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C). Winters can be cold and damp, with temperatures averaging around 45°F (7°C). Rainfall is common in Galway, with the wettest months being October through January.

5. What is the nightlife like in Galway?

Galway has a buzzing nightlife, with many pubs and nightclubs open until the early hours of the morning. Visitors can enjoy traditional Irish music, live performances, and DJs in the city’s many venues. Some of the most popular nightlife spots include The Quays, The Crane Bar, Roisin Dubh, and The King’s Head.

6. What traditional dishes should I try in Galway?

Galway is known for its delicious seafood, including oysters, mussels, and fish and chips. Visitors should also try traditional Irish dishes like Irish stew, colcannon, and boxty (a type of potato pancake). For dessert, try a slice of apple tart or a scoop of Irish ice cream.

7. What are some popular shopping destinations in Galway?

Galway offers many shopping options, with everything from high-end fashion to locally made crafts. Some of the most popular shopping destinations include:

• Galway Market
• Shop Street
• Eyre Square Shopping Centre
• Galway Crystal
• Celtic Crafts
• OMG @ Zhivago

8. What is the best way to experience traditional Irish culture in Galway?

Galway is known for its lively traditional music scene, which can be experienced in the many pubs and music venues around the city. Visitors can also learn about traditional Irish culture by visiting historical sites like the Galway City Museum, the Nora Barnacle House, and the Thoor Ballylee Castle (owned by the famous poet W.B. Yeats).

9. What is the best way to get to Galway?

Galway can be easily reached by car, bus, train, or plane. Visitors who arrive by plane can land at Galway Airport or Shannon International Airport, which is about an hour’s drive from Galway. Bus and train services connect Galway to the rest of Ireland, and the city is also located along the scenic Wild Atlantic Way driving route.

10. What is the local currency in Galway?

The currency used in Galway, as well as the rest of Ireland, is the euro. ATMs can be found throughout the city center, and major credit cards are widely accepted.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Galway

If you are planning a trip to the west of Ireland, make sure to add Galway to your itinerary. This charming city located on the Wild Atlantic Way is a perfect destination to explore the rugged beauty of Ireland’s west coast, experience authentic Irish culture, and enjoy the vibrant local scene. In this post, we will guide you through some of the best ways to spend your time in Galway, from exploring the city’s historic sites to taking scenic hikes, and tasting the local delicacies.

1. Discover Galway City’s Historic Sites

Galway city has a rich history, and it is easy to get lost in the stunning architecture and medieval streets while exploring the sights. Here are some of the must-visit historic sites in Galway:

i. Galway City Museum

Located in the heart of Galway city, the Galway City Museum offers an excellent introduction to the city’s past. The museum provides an immersive experience into the history of Galway, including exhibitions such as “Galway Within the Walls,” which examines the story of Galway’s medieval town.

ii. Eyre Square

Eyre Square, also known as John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, is the heart of Galway’s city center. The Square has been a significant public space since the 18th century and is home to several statues and memorials, including one of former US President, John F. Kennedy.

iii. Lynch’s Castle

Lynch’s Castle is one of Galway’s most notable historic sites; the castle is a beautifully preserved example of medieval architecture in the heart of the city. The building dates back to the 16th century and exhibits the influence of the Flemish Renaissance style.

2. Explore the Stunning Connemara Region

The Connemara region boasts some of the most spectacular scenery on the Wild Atlantic Way, including rugged coastline, mountains, and lakes. Here are some ways you can explore this region:

i. Take a Scenic Drive

One of the best ways to discover the beauty of the Connemara region is by taking a drive on the Wild Atlantic Way. You can discover beautiful landscapes like the Twelve Bens – a range of mountain peaks – the beautiful Killary Harbour or visit picturesque towns such as Clifden, Roundstone or Letterfrack.

ii. Connemara National Park

Located about an hour’s drive from Galway, the Connemara National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. This stunning park boasts beautiful mountains, bogs, and lakes, and is home to several walking trails that offer breathtaking views of the rugged scenery. Make sure to bring your hiking gear when visiting the park.

3. Discover the Local Scene

Galway is known for its vibrant local scene, which offers plenty of fun activities for tourists. Here are some ways to discover the authentic Irish culture and enjoy the local scene:

i. Visit the Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter is one of the most vibrant areas in Galway city, and it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the authentic Irish culture. Wander down cobbled streets, past independent boutiques, and enjoy some excellent food in one of the many cosy restaurants, pubs and eateries.

ii. Listen to Traditional Irish Music

You can’t visit Ireland without listening to traditional Irish music, and Galway is one of the best places to do so. Whether you are a fan of vibrant pub sessions or more intimate gigs, you are sure to find some fantastic traditional Irish music in Galway. Some popular venues to check out are The Crane Bar and Tig Coili.

iii. Taste the Local Delicacies

Galway is a haven for food lovers, and there’s no better way to experience the food scene than to taste the local delicacies. Some must-try dishes are traditional fish and chips, Connemara lamb, and the famous Galway Bay Oysters.

4. Take a Scenic Stroll

Taking a stroll is one of the best ways to soak up the atmosphere in Galway. Here are some of the most scenic spots to take a leisurely walk:

i. Salthill Promenade

The Salthill promenade offers a lovely view of the bay and Galway city. The walk is about two miles long and is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a jog.

ii. River Corrib

Walking along the banks of River Corrib is a pleasant way to escape the city’s bustle. This river offers beautiful views of the city and is an ideal way to relax.

Book Your Tour Now

Galway city and the surrounding region offers something for everyone. From discovering the city’s historic sites to exploring the stunning Connemara region or enjoying the vibrant local scene, Galway is a perfect destination for your next Irish adventure. Make sure to add Galway to your itinerary and follow our guide to ensure an unforgettable experience.