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Solo Female Travel in Galway

Nestled on the western coast of Ireland, Galway is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage and exuberant atmosphere. Often referred to as Ireland's “Cultural Heart,” it offers a delightful blend of traditional Irish music, charming streets adorned with colourful houses, and a variety of lively festivals. Galway is famous for its medieval Latin Quarter, where you can wander the cobblestone streets and explore relics of the ancient city wall, artisan shops, and traditional pubs. Its breathtaking sea views, particularly from the Salthill Promenade, and its proximity to the stunning Connemara countryside and the Aran Islands, further contribute to its appeal, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler in Ireland.

Galway is currently ranked #69 best place for solo female travellers. Check full ranking.

Travel rating

4.3 /5

Based on 7 experiences

3.9 /5

Based on our research

4.3 /5

Based on safety reports

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Is Galway good for solo travel?

Safety:Very safe

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.

Transport:Easy

Exploring Galway is relatively easy, owing to its compact size and walkable city center. The majority of the attractions, shops, and eateries are within walking distance from each other. Do remember to have a good pair of walking shoes as the city's medieval streets can be cobblestoned. As for areas outside the city, public transport or bike rental services are commonly used by tourists and they're usually reliable.

Things to do:Interesting

Galway will enchant solo female travelers with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant city life. The delightful Quay Street is buzzing with independent shops, quaint cafes, and beautiful architecture ideal for an afternoon stroll. Nature lovers will appreciate a walk along Salthill Promenade for breathtaking views of Galway Bay. Literary enthusiasts can visit Nora Barnacle's house, the wife of James Joyce. Don't forget to visit Galway's Spanish Arch and Galway City Museum to delve into the city's earlier times. Despite its hustle and bustle, the city exudes a safe, friendly, and welcoming atmosphere for solo women travelers.

Food:Above average

Galway offers a wide array of food options showcasing traditional Irish fare along with a blend of international cuisine. Seafood is a standout due to its coastal location. Locally sourced, farm-to-table offerings are common, enhancing the quality and freshness of your meals. However, those with dietary restrictions might experience slight limitations.

Budget:Moderate

Galway, while being a charming city with friendly locals, historical landmarks, and distinguished arts scene, can be moderately priced. The cost of accommodation, food, and entertainment varies but generally aligns with the average for cities in Ireland. Public transportation is quite affordable, but activities like visiting museums, galleries, and festivals might raise your expenses. The hang of budgeting and planning can, however, make your journey more cost-effective.

Is Galway worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.3 /5

based on 7 experiences

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

Things to do: 5/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5

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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

Things to do: 3/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 2/5Safety: 4/5

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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

Things to do: 4/5Food: 3/5Budget-friendly: 1/5Safety: 4/5

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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

Things to do: 4/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5

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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

Things to do: 5/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 4/5

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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

Things to do: 3/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5

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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

Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5

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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

Meet local women in Galway who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.

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

Speaking

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Sophia

About Me

I’m a grad student at NUI Galway looking to explore the city and meet new people!

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Stay with locals in Galway

Stay with local women in Galway who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Hospitality exchange is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.

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.

Speaking

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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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