Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Galway. Galway Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 45 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Galway, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Ireland vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Galway is roughly 45 minutes from GWY via Local Bus Service / Taxi. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Galway
You have two main options for getting from Galway Airport into town:
- Local Bus Service / Taxi: About 45 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 65 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at GWY may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Galway’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Galway:
Transport to the city and back runs about $11 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $22 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $43 USD total.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Exploring Galway on a Layover
If you head into Galway, here are two things worth checking out:
Eyre Square (John F. Kennedy Memorial Park) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
Galway Cathedral is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at GWY, check out The Galway Sky Lounge or West Atlantic Duty-Free & Souvenirs to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Galway: Ard Bia at Nimmos and The Quay Street Kitchen. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for The Propeller Grill or Gateway Coffee Co.. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at GWY for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Galway or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Rest Areas & Lounges
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at GWY.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Galway with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Galway may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.