A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. Galway for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Antalya or Galway?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Antalya or Galway? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Antalya

Antalya is a relaxing, luxurious, and historic vacation spot. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Galway

Galway is a vibrant, lively, and friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Antalya and Galway: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Galway?

You'll generally find more things to do in Antalya than Galway. Antalya is bigger than Galway, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Antalya is better known for its museums, food, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Galway is more popular for its big city activities. Antalya is more touristy than Galway and is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. Also, Antalya is famous for Hadrian's Gate. Galway is well known for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music.

How is Antalya different from Galway?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Galway and Antalya. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antalya or Galway?

Antalya is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Antalya. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

Galway offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular landmarks and sights in town include Eyre Square, St. Nicholas' Church, the Galway Cathedral, and the Galway City Museum.

Is the Food Better in Antalya or Galway? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Antalya is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Antalya makes for a great culinary experience. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

Galway has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are local pubs and traditional restaurants offering authentic Irish dishes. Popular options include Irish Stew, Cockles and Mussels, and Galway Oysters.

Is Antalya or Galway Better for Nightlife?

The excellent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Antalya and Galway.

Antalya has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Galway is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is among the best in Ireland. The city embraces the friendly Irish hospitality and there are laid back pubs and bars around town as well as a few trendy nightclubs.

Is Antalya or Galway Better for Music?

Antalya is a vacation spot with good options for live music. However, Galway is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Antalya. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Galway is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or Galway Better for Resorts?

Antalya is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Galway is not a resort destination.

Antalya is a world class resort vacation destination. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Galway is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Galway Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya is a vacation spot with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Galway is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Antalya. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Galway is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Galway Better for Beaches?

Antalya is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Galway is not a beach destination.

Antalya is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Galway is not a beach destination.

Is Antalya or Galway Better for its Old Town?

Antalya is notable for its historic old town. However, Galway does not have a historic old town.

Antalya is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Galway does not have a historic old town.

Is Antalya or Galway Better for Hiking?

Antalya is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Galway is not a hiking destination.

Antalya is a popular spot for hiking. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Galway is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Galway?

Antalya is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Antalya is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Galway. You'll find shopping both in the city center as well as at suburban shopping malls. For some of the best shopping head to The Latin Quarter, The Westend or the outdoor market which is found in Church lane by St Nicholas' Church.

Is Antalya or Galway Better for Families?

Antalya is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Antalya is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Galway is a family-friendly vacation spot. Kids will enjoy the National Aquarium Galway or simply wandering around the Latin Quarter. About 15 minutes outside of the city is the Wildlands Adventure Park which has ziplines, ropes courses, and other adrenaline filled activities. Brigit's Garden is another fun place to let kids stretch their legs.

Is Antalya or Galway Better for Couples?

Antalya is notable for romance. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Antalya is a very popular place to visit for couples. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Galway makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are nice restaurants, beautiful walks, and a few parks to explore. There are also several romantic places just outside of town that make for a great day trip.

Is Antalya or Galway Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya and Galway are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Galway. There are plenty of hostels in the area and it's easy to meet other travelers.

Is Antalya or Galway Better for Students?

Galway is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Antalya is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Galway. The city has a solid student population with a number of activities and entertainment options.

Antalya is not popular with students.

Is Antalya or Galway Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Antalya is notable for its public transit. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Antalya. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

Galway has some public transit options. There are two bus companies in Galway, Bus Eireann and City Direct.

Is Antalya or Galway a more walkable city?

Galway is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Galway is a very walkable destination. If you stay in central Galway, the area is generally compact and walkable.

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Antalya Worth Visiting? and Is Galway Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Galway or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Galway?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Antalya and Galway. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Antalya than in Galway. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 2-3 days is enough time in Galway.

Families should spend more time in Antalya than Galway. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Antalya, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Antalya than Galway. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Antalya that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antalya than Galway if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Antalya.

One day in Antalya or Galway?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of Antalya. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Galway, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Antalya or Galway?

Antalya is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Galway, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Galway has to offer.

Five days in Antalya or Galway?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antalya. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Galway is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antalya or Galway?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Antalya. This vacation spot offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Galway. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Galway. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.

When comparing the travel costs between Antalya and Galway, we can see that Antalya is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Antalya Expensive? and Is Galway Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Galway?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Galway. When comparing the sizes of Antalya and Galway, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Antalya or Galway?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Antalya or Galway in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Galway. Many visitors come to Antalya in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Galway for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Antalya is much warmer than Galway. Typically, the summer temperatures in Antalya in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Galway averages at about 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antalya this time of the year. In the summer, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Galway. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 142 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in July than Galway. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Galway receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Galway in the Autumn?

Both Galway and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Antalya for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Galway because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Antalya is generally much warmer than Galway. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 21°C (69°F), and Galway fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Galway during autumn. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 96 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Galway. In October, Antalya usually receives less rain than Galway. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Galway receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antalya or Galway in the Winter?

Both Galway and Antalya during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Antalya because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Galway this time of year.

Antalya is much warmer than Galway in the winter. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 11°C (51°F) in January, and Galway fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Galway. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 59 hours of full sun.

Galway gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than Galway. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Galway receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Galway in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Galway. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Antalya this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Galway for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Antalya is much warmer than Galway. Typically, the spring temperatures in Antalya in April average around 16°C (62°F), and Galway averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Galway during spring. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 153 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antalya usually receives less rain than Galway. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Galway receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Galway and Antalya