Private tour in Galway Derek S

Galway City Half Day Tour

5.0

(4) reviews

-
Hours icon 4 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 4 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Derek S.

4.9

Guide rating

70

Reviews

Tours delivered

3 hrs

Avg. response time

Welcome! I can't to share with you what is special and unique about my country! 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. You can enjoy luxury transport for groups of 1 to 3 or 3 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. My extensive travels 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 present. 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. Below is a selection of the  Private Day Tours from Galway that I offer. The Cliffs of Moher and the Burren National Park Connemara, Kylemore Abbey and Sheep Farm Tour A Taste of Ireland Food Tour: A taste of Connemara Walking in the Connemara National Park Galway City Half Day Tour & Saint Nicholas Colligate Church Tour Mystical Ireland: Connemara, Wesport & Achill Island My Credentials 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 and a Regional Tour Guide Badge • Full Public Liability Insurance • SPSV Licence Holder ▪︎ Luxury and comfortable vehicles • 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

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Derek S.

Overview of your Galway tour

Discover the medieval city of Galway with a local guide. Expect some dark tales as you visit the key historic sites. A thrilling walk through 800 years of Galway’s history Galway, is a quaint medieval city with a big heart, as you will soon discover. Come with me, your local guide, as we visit all the key historical sites as we journey through 800 years of the city’s history. Explore Eyre Square and Galway’s Latin Quarter which is steeped in history. Visit the King’s Head pub and discover the significance of its name. Explore Saint Nicholas Church, the oldest functioning medieval church in Ireland and learn about some of the 18 sieges that the city has experienced. With a visit to Lynches Castle, discover what life was life for the townsfolk back in medieval times and discover the 14 tribes of Galway. Discover the secrets of the Claddagh Ring at the Claddagh Ring Museum. Visit the Spanish Arch, Long Walk and the Old Fishmarket and discover Galway’s rich maritime heritage

Recent Reviews

Amy G.United States
6 days ago

Derek is friendly and personable; he communicated well both about our tour in advance and also during the tour. We came away from the tour having seen many of the city’s sites and appreciated that thoroughness, as well as Derek’s knowledge of Galway.

Diane W.United States
July 2025

We had a great time with Derek, an excellent guide. Our tour was very interesting and took us all over the city. I highly recommend this tour as an introduction to the wonderful city of Galway.

Mike F.United States
June 2023

Derek was a pleasure to be with today for our city tour. He is very knowledgeable regarding Irish history as well as the history of Galway. He hit all the important places during our time. We would highly recommend him. Thanks again Derek, it was a pleasure.

Joni R.United States
July 2022

If history is what your looking for Derrick is the guy! Filled with knowledge and very accommodating to us throughout our tour. Wonderful day learning of Galway

Your Galway tour itinerary

Depart Galway 9.30 am Eyre Square •Walls of Galway and Medieval Quarter •Abbeygate Street and old Catholic Church •Lynch Castle and Shop Street •Saint Nicholas Colligate Church •Kings Head •Claddagh Ring Museum •Quay Street and Kirwans Lane Coffee Break •Blakes Castle and the Latin Quarter •Fishmarket Square and Spanish Arch •Museum and Claddagh Basin •The Long Walk •Elignton Canal and Galway's Westend •The River Corrib •Galway Cathedral and Nuns Island •University of Galway Tour concludes at the place of your choice at 12.45pm or by arrangement

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Walking

Walking tour

What's included
Private Guide
What's not included
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location

Galway, Ireland

Airport: ,Cruise: ,ByGuide:

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
History
Architecture
Art And Culture
City Highlights
Off The Beaten Path
Tour reference number
926473
Languages
English
Activity level
Light
Accessibility
Wheelchair Accessible
Kid Friendly

Traveller reviews

5.0

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Galway best suited for?

This private tour in Galway is perfect for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in exploring the medieval charm of the city with a local guide. It's also suitable for those who prefer a leisurely pace, as the tour is wheelchair accessible and kid-friendly.

What should I bring or wear?

Can this private tour in Galway be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 4 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 4 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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