Discover Galway's city centre from the Medieval Quarter to the River Corrib
About the Tour
Galway is a quaint medieval city with a big heart, as you’ll soon discover. We will visit the key sites on this walking tour, with insights into modern Galway along the way, as well as a journey through 800 years of history. In the medieval quarter, you’ll hear about events both surprising and some gruesome. Then we’ll visit some of the famous and lesser known sites as we make our way through the centre of Galway from John F Kennedy Park to the banks of the river Corrib.
Some of the highlights include:
- Saint Nicholas Church and its 1651 map of Galway
- The Spanish Arch and the City Walls
- Wild swans on the Claddagh shore
- Learn where the word “lynched” comes from
- Discover who the Tribes of Galway were
- Hear how Richard Martin founded the R.S.P.C.A and delve into the darker side to his character
- Tips on how to spot the famous Claddagh ring
I’ll take you to places you’d never find on your own. Galway is a safe city where there’s ‘craic’ to be had and the living is easy! If you only take one tour while in Ireland, choose this one!
Tour Producer
Derek Spillane
Credentials & Professional Memberships
• Fáilte Ireland–Approved National Tour Guide
• BA (Hons.) in History and Heritage Studies
• Guiding professionally across Ireland since 2012
• Former Chairperson, Galway Tour Guides Association
• Member, ATGI – Association of Tour Guides of Ireland
• Fully accredited with Fáilte Ireland National Tour Guide Badge
• Full Public Liability Insurance
• SPSV Licence Holder
• D1 Driver’s Licence Holder
• Proven reputation as a safe, professional, and highly rated driver-guide
Private Luxury Tours of Ireland with a Fáilte Ireland National Tour Guide
Welcome! If you’re looking for a private tour guide in Ireland who combines deep local roots, academic expertise, and over a decade of professional experience, you’re in the right place.
I am a Fáilte Ireland–approved National Tour Guide with a BA (Hons.) in History and Heritage Studies, guiding visitors throughout Ireland since 2012. Born and raised in Galway—with family roots tracing back to 1776 and strong connections to the Aran Islands—I offer an authentic, insider’s perspective on Ireland’s history, culture, and landscapes.
Bespoke Private Tours of Ireland (1–8 Guests)
I specialise in private, tailor-made tours of Ireland, designed around your interests and travel style. Enjoy luxury transport for groups of 1 to 8 guests, with personalised itineraries that bring Ireland’s heritage and scenery to life.
Tour options include:
• Private day tours from Galway or Dublin
• Multi-day Ireland tours starting in Dublin
• Luxury shore excursions from Galway Port
• Custom itineraries featuring the Wild Atlantic Way, Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher, the Aran Islands, and beyond
Every tour is carefully curated to offer a rich blend of history, storytelling, scenic beauty, and local insight.
A Knowledgeable Local Guide with Global Perspective
Extensive travel around the world has shown me how transformative a truly great guide can be. My goal is to deliver more than just sightseeing—I provide immersive, engaging experiences that connect you to Ireland’s people, past, and place in the world.
As a fully accredited Fáilte Ireland National Tour Guide, I operate to the highest professional standards, holding full insurance and all required driving licences. My commitment to safety, professionalism, and guest satisfaction is consistently reflected in five-star reviews.
If you’re seeking a luxury private Ireland tour led by a qualified, experienced, and passionate local guide, I would be delighted to welcome you and help you discover what makes Ireland so special.
To book a physical tour go to www.wildaboutireland.ie
Preview Location
Location 18
Richard Martin
The Martins were large landowners and one of the Tribes of Galway. Their stately home was at Ballynahinch Castle set in the rugged beauty of Connemara. Richard Martin was a me... Read More
How VoiceMap Works
Major Landmarks
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Eyre Square
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Shop Street
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Lynch's Castle
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Saint Nicholas' Collegiate Church
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The Latin Quarter
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Spanish Arch
Getting There
Route Overview
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Start locationExplore Galway Kiosk, Eyre Square, Galway, Ireland -
Total distance1km -
Final location2 The Long Walk, Galway, Ireland -
Distance back to start location594.01m
Directions to Starting Point
Start: Explore Galway Kiosk, Eyre Square, Galway, Ireland
The tour starts in front of the Explore Galway Kiosk in Eyre Square, opposite the Cafe Express.
Tips
Places to stop along the way
Kings Head, The Kitchen
Best time of day
Anytime day or night
Precautions
Relax, Galway is a safe city
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