cool shore excursions®
Top activities
Top landmarks
Trip ideas
Nearby places
  • Tours by category
  • Tours by accessibility
  • Tours by feature
  • Tours by time
  • Tours by the numbers
  • Top attractions
  • Galway travel guides
  • Galway travel calendar
  • Tours in nearby places
  • Explore Ireland tours
Language $Currency
Login / Sign up
Bookings
Bookings
Wallet
$0.00
Wishlists
Wishlists
Cool Rewards Rewards
Gift cards
Profile
Help Center
Language
Log out
Start your search
Change your search
Place or activity
Select Dates
You booked this experience
You're departing on
Google Calendar
Apple Calendar
Microsoft Outlook
Make your trip unforgettable

Medieval Galway Tour

19 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 19 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
|
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards. Galway, Ireland
Book online or call us

from $22.83 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Medieval Galway Tour Image 1
Medieval Galway Tour Image 2
Medieval Galway Tour Image 3
Medieval Galway Tour Image 4
Medieval Galway Tour Image 5
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 24 (0) days in advance.
1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Please note: Galway Christmas Market is running in Eyre Square from November 6th to December 22nd 2026. When in Eyre Square, walk to a set of steps and walk up the steps. At the top of the steps, you'll see the Heineken Beer Tent on the right-hand side. The Browne Doorway will be to the left of the beer tent..

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 Burgos and made it one of the most important trading hubs along the western seaboard during the medieval period.

What's Included

  • Fáilte Ireland Regional Guide with over 10 years of experience and an MA in Irish Studies.
  • Entrance fee into St. Nicholas's Church.
See 1 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point

Eyre Square
Galway, Ireland

Show on Google Maps

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

End point

Galway
Co. Galway, Ireland

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.
Read more

Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

The Browne Doorway

The Browne Doorway is a freestanding door in Eyre Square. The door comes from a house that was originally located on Lower Abbeygate Street and the house was owned by Martin Browne, a very important merchant.
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Eyre Square Centre

Hidden in Eyre Square Shopping Centre are the remains of the city walls. Walls were a common feature of towns during the medieval period and they were a defensive feature. Visitors will hear how the walls were important to the people of Galway.
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Lynch's Castle

Lynch's Castle is connected to the Lynch family who were one of the 14 Tribes and a very powerful family. Today the building is AIB bank and the oldest commercial building in Ireland.
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

The Lynch Memorial

Galway is known as the City of the Tribes. The Tribes were 14 families who controlled Galway during the medieval period. Hear about the Mayor of Galway, who hung his own son in the 1400s.
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Saint Nicholas' Collegiate Church

St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church has been at the heart of Galway city for over 700 years. Visitors will hear about Jane Eyre and James Kearney, and how Cromwell's soldiers used the church as a stables. There is a fee to enter the church, which isn't included in the price of the tour. The fee goes towards the maintenance of the church. It is up to the visitor if they would like to go in or not.
Read more

10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

The King's Head

The King's Head pub is a popular spot in Galway city but the building has a connection to the beheading of King Charles I of England.
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Thomas Dillon's Claddagh Gold

Explore Thomas Dillon's Jewellers on Quay Street. They are the original makers of the famous Claddagh ring since 1750. Hear the story surrounding this well-known ring.
Read more

10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Hall of the Red Earl

The Hall of the Red Earl is a significant archaeological site and run by Galway Civic Trust. It was discovered in the late 1990s and all that can be seen are the foundations, with the remains of the walls, columns and buttresses. Visitors can walk down into site to get a closer look.
Read more

10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Kirwan's Lane

Galway had 14 lanes and and alleyways during the medieval period. Kirwan's Lane is one of 5 lanes still in existence and named after the Kirwan family who were one of the 14 Tribes. There are still remnants of medieval Galway on Kirwan's Lane with some of the buildings.
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Quay Street

Blake's Castle at the end of Quay of Street was owned by the Blake family, one of the 14 Tribes. At one point the castle was the county gaol. Visitors will hear a little of what life was like for the criminals in the jail. The castle fell into ruin but was restored around the 1980s.
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

The Spanish Arch

The Spanish Arch is one of Galway's most iconic attractions. It was built as an extension of the city walls and protected the boats that were moored in the harbour. Visitors will hear about the Claddagh across the river and the tsunami that destroyed two of the arches.
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Show 10 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Medieval Galway Tour?

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). 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-172198P2

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
19 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 19 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
19
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 24 (0) days in advance.
Galway Tours
Attractions
Guides
Calendar
View more

Similar Tours & Activities

Private Connemara Day Tour
5.0 (9)

Private Connemara Day Tour

When you choose to tour around Connemara, in comfort and style, Galway West Chauffeurs is the name to pick. Galway West Chauffeurs are fully insured...

8 to 9 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (9)
from
$656
From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk.
4.9 (501)

From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk.

Our Connemara Day Tour from Galway offers a choice of 3 hour main stop: Option 1. - 3 hours in the Connemara National Park. Option...

9 hours Free Cancellation
4.9 (501)
from
$57
Galway by eBike: Must-Do Independent Half-Day Activity!
4.9 (10)

Galway by eBike: Must-Do Independent Half-Day Activity!

Unlock the heart of Irish culture with the **Galway City Independent eBike Tour – See it all in 3 hours!** Experience the pulse of Galway...

3 hours Free Cancellation
4.9 (10)
from
$69
Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway
4.9 (428)

Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway

In this groundbreaking day trip, you will get to taste the best of the west of Ireland in just a few hours. Explore Inis Oirr...

8 hours 45 minutes Free Cancellation
4.9 (428)
from
$137
Private Connemara Day Tour

When you choose to tour around Connemara, in comfort and style, Galway West Chauffeurs is the name to pick. Galway West Chauffeurs are fully insured …More

5.0 (9)

Private Connemara Day Tour

5.0 (9)

When you choose to tour around Connemara, in comfort and style, Galway West Chauffeurs is the name to pick. Galway West Chauffeurs are fully insured...

8 to 9 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (9)
from
$656
From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk.

Our Connemara Day Tour from Galway offers a choice of 3 hour main stop: Option 1. - 3 hours in the Connemara National Park. Option …More

4.9 (501)

From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk.

4.9 (501)

Our Connemara Day Tour from Galway offers a choice of 3 hour main stop: Option 1. - 3 hours in the Connemara National Park. Option...

9 hours Free Cancellation
4.9 (501)
from
$57
Galway by eBike: Must-Do Independent Half-Day Activity!

Unlock the heart of Irish culture with the **Galway City Independent eBike Tour – See it all in 3 hours!** Experience the pulse of Galway …More

4.9 (10)

Galway by eBike: Must-Do Independent Half-Day Activity!

4.9 (10)

Unlock the heart of Irish culture with the **Galway City Independent eBike Tour – See it all in 3 hours!** Experience the pulse of Galway...

3 hours Free Cancellation
4.9 (10)
from
$69
Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway

In this groundbreaking day trip, you will get to taste the best of the west of Ireland in just a few hours. Explore Inis Oirr …More

4.9 (428)

Small Group - Cliffs Cruise and Aran Islands in a Day from Galway

4.9 (428)

In this groundbreaking day trip, you will get to taste the best of the west of Ireland in just a few hours. Explore Inis Oirr...

8 hours 45 minutes Free Cancellation
4.9 (428)
from
$137

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Day Cruise sailing from Galway City Docks
4.7 (456)

Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Day Cruise sailing from Galway City Docks

Awarded 'BEST IRISH EXPERIENCE' and 'Boat Tour of the Year in Ireland', this is the only tour that enables passengers to sail straight from Galway...

8 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.7 (456)
from
$69
The Welcome to Galway Walking Tour
4.9 (640)

The Welcome to Galway Walking Tour

Wander the streets of Galway with our expert local guide and discover the history, culture and tales which makes Galway so special. This is a...

1 hour 15 minutes Free Cancellation
4.9 (640)
from
$17
Connemara, Cong & Kylemore Abbey Tour from Galway
4.8 (1,039)

Connemara, Cong & Kylemore Abbey Tour from Galway

Departing from Galway at 10:00 AM, you begin your fully guided tour of Connemara & Cong at our first photo stop near the scenic Inagh...

8 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (1,039)
from
$51
The Dark History Tour of Galway City
4.8 (247)

The Dark History Tour of Galway City

Join us on The Dark History Walking Tour of Galway City as we explore the darker side of Galway and delve into the gruesome history...

1 hour 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.8 (247)
from
$23
Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Day Cruise sailing from Galway City Docks

Awarded 'BEST IRISH EXPERIENCE' and 'Boat Tour of the Year in Ireland', this is the only tour that enables passengers to sail straight from Galway …More

4.7 (456)

Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Day Cruise sailing from Galway City Docks

4.7 (456)

Awarded 'BEST IRISH EXPERIENCE' and 'Boat Tour of the Year in Ireland', this is the only tour that enables passengers to sail straight from Galway...

8 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.7 (456)
from
$69
The Welcome to Galway Walking Tour

Wander the streets of Galway with our expert local guide and discover the history, culture and tales which makes Galway so special. This is a …More

4.9 (640)

The Welcome to Galway Walking Tour

4.9 (640)

Wander the streets of Galway with our expert local guide and discover the history, culture and tales which makes Galway so special. This is a...

1 hour 15 minutes Free Cancellation
4.9 (640)
from
$17
Connemara, Cong & Kylemore Abbey Tour from Galway

Departing from Galway at 10:00 AM, you begin your fully guided tour of Connemara & Cong at our first photo stop near the scenic Inagh …More

4.8 (1,039)

Connemara, Cong & Kylemore Abbey Tour from Galway

4.8 (1,039)

Departing from Galway at 10:00 AM, you begin your fully guided tour of Connemara & Cong at our first photo stop near the scenic Inagh...

8 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (1,039)
from
$51
The Dark History Tour of Galway City

Join us on The Dark History Walking Tour of Galway City as we explore the darker side of Galway and delve into the gruesome history …More

4.8 (247)

The Dark History Tour of Galway City

4.8 (247)

Join us on The Dark History Walking Tour of Galway City as we explore the darker side of Galway and delve into the gruesome history...

1 hour 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.8 (247)
from
$23

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Medieval Galway Tour?
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).
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Fáilte Ireland Regional Guide with over 10 years of experience and an MA in Irish Studies.
The following is NOT included:
  • Entrance fee into St. Nicholas's Church.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

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 Medieval Galway Tour is as follows:

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • 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 Medieval Galway Tour will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. 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

  • Fáilte Ireland Regional Guide with over 10 years of experience and an MA in Irish Studies.
  • Entrance fee into St. Nicholas's Church.

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • 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
  • Please note, tour runs in all weather, unless there's a severe weather warning.  Please dress accordingly. In the event of a severe weather warning the tour will be cancelled for the safety of the group, and an alternative date or a full refund will be given.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

Report Product Issue

Activity name