Is Galway Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Galway is widely known to be safe and welcoming for solo female travelers. The locals are friendly and always happy to help if needed. Like everywhere, it's imperative to practice general precautions such as avoiding walking alone late at night in desolated areas and keeping your belongings secure, but overall, you should not have any major concerns regarding safety.

Safety rating

4.3 /5

Based on 7 experiences from female travelers

4.7 /5

Based on our research and crime data

Galway is currently ranked #5 safest place in Ireland for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 4.3 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Galway?

Safety at night:Safe

Galway typically experiences lower crime rates than other large cities and it's often considered a safe place for solo female travelers. At night, most areas still feel safe and welcoming, though it's always advisable to maintain a general level of caution and street smarts. Well-lit paths, populated areas, and known routes are your best bet when walking alone. Hardly any problems would usually be encountered, but as with any city, it's worth avoiding isolated areas late at night.

Public transportation:Very safe

Public transportation in Galway is generally considered to be very safe, with numerous modes available including buses, trains, and trams. Security measures such as CCTV cameras are in place in many areas, and staff are typically very helpful. Additionally, Ireland as a whole has a lower crime rate compared to other countries making it safe for solo female travellers. As usual, it's recommended to stay alert and keep an eye on your belongings, especially during peak travel times.

Street harassment:Low

Galway is generally a safe and welcoming city for solo female travelers. Instances of street harassment are rare, and it's not something that should be a great concern. That said, common sense precautions should always be taken, such as avoiding certain areas late at night and not being excessively friendly with strangers. The locals are often friendly and willing to lend a hand if asked. The overall ambiance of the city is relaxed and people are respectful.

Petty crimes:Low

Galway is generally safe and most visits are trouble-free, but petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching do occur. It's advisable to take basic precautions like safeguarding your personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Using sturdy, zipped bags and not flaunting valuable items in public can also reduce one's risk.

Is Galway worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.3 /5

based on 7 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

3.5/5

Safety

4.3/5

Food

3.3/5

Budget-friendly

3/5

Weronika

Germany

Solo travel

I felt really safe in Galway, even though my campsite was located outside of the city and I had to travel there by bus (quite a long journey). The people were all extremely friendly and nice, I really have no complaints:)

Posted: August 11, 2024Experienced: July, 2024

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Annette

Australia

Solo travel

I felt safe in Galway, moved freely around the space with no worries. The music in the streets was such a highlight. I even hired a car to explore the outskirts of the "city" and I am so glad I did because the sights and views were unbelievable

Posted: May 31, 2024

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Solo travel

I travelled to Galway on a low budget. It is pretty expensive especially for accommodation, but not much more than many other cities in Europe. I felt safe in the city though and the countryside is beautiful.

Posted: May 27, 2024Experienced: April, 2024

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Cassidy

United States

Group travel

Galway was the first city we visited in Ireland and it was just stunning. It was easily the most enchanting place I’ve ever been and I loved the quaint nature of the city. I was with a group of girls and we felt super safe, the people were so kind, and the area we were in made everything easily accessible. We had a car, however I think it could easily be walkable with a little bit different planning.

Posted: April 11, 2024

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Solo travel

It was such a fun experience in Galway. I did a tour from a local tour guide. It was very interesting. Also, not too far from the cliffs of Moher. I felt quite safe the whole stay. I met different kinds of people and they were all very friendly! Also loved the accent

Posted: April 9, 2024Experienced: May, 2023

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Solo travel

Super nice little town - cozy vibes. Felt very safe, lots of cute areas to explore. Lots of cute pubs, good food. Not much to do in terms of attractions, but nice to walk around and enjoy the atmosphere.

Posted: November 29, 2023Experienced: November, 2023

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Solo travel

Galway is a charming little town. Very pedestrian-friendly and safe, with the possibility of day trips to many attractions (Kylemore Abbey, Cliffs of Moher etc.) People are very kind and helpful. Good public transportation.

Posted: October 19, 2023

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Is Galway safe for women?

Galway is a friendly vibrant tourist city which is safe to travel in. Lots of tours to join and solo travellers. Hostels are safe. I would recommend travelling here. It is a cultural city with lots of things to do and see for everyone

Posted: April 3, 2024

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Meet locals in Galway

Olivia

About Me

Hi, I am a 23 year old from Ireland. I love to solo travel and meet new, interesting people. I enjoy spending time in nature but also enjoy city life too.

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Lilli

About Me

Hiya! I‘m Lilli, in my early to mid-20s and I am currently studying film in Galway (although I am from Berlin, Germany). I love exploring new cities and getting to know new people and I never ever want to experience a party hostel ever again :D

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Fauve

Galway

Can host for:

3 days

About me

My main passion is positive dog training and showing dog owners how they can best care for their dog and prevent unwanted behaviours by modifying way they feed and treat them. I love to read and travel. I am starting out solo travelling for the first time.

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Sofia

Galway

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi, I am Sofia, living in Ireland in beautiful city Galway for last 7 years. I am single mum and I love traveling for short trips in Europe. I like to explore new cultures and traditions with respect for natives. I would love to travel some stage to Thailand and I will when I have chance to take more days off. I am very friendly and happy to meet new people. Hopefully can meet someone in my city Galway.

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