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

Should you visit Corfu or Galway?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Corfu or Galway, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Corfu

Corfu is a stunning, natural, and breathtaking island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Galway

Galway is a friendly, cultural, and historical city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Corfu and Galway: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Corfu or Galway?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Corfu. Although Corfu and Galway are popular destinations, Corfu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Corfu is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Galway attracts visitors for its museums and big city activities. Corfu is more touristy than Galway and is popular for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape. It is also well known for Canal d'Amour. Galway is famous for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music.

How is Corfu different from Galway?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Galway is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Corfu is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Corfu have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The island's local dishes are heavily influenced by the surrounding areas. You'll find similarities to Greek and Venetian dishes as well France and Mediterranean flavors. Common ingredients include wine, garlic, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice and several traditional dishes that you should try include pastitsado (red wine stew), sofrito (garlic seasoned beef), and veal fricando (roasted veal).

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 Corfu or Galway Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find high quality options in both Corfu and Galway.

The nightlife in Corfu has something for everybody. It's a large island that attracts a number of students, so you can expect a party during the summer months. The most popular areas for nightlife are Kavos, Ipsos, Kontokali, and Sidari. You'll also find clubs in many of the resorts and there are often all night parties even during the off seasons.

Galway offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Corfu or Galway Better for Resorts?

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

Corfu is a world class resort vacation destination. The diversity of resorts, from family-friendly to romantic or all-inclusive, means there really is something for everyone. There are also a number of villages so you can find a location that perfectly lines up with your needs.

Galway is not a resort destination.

Is Corfu or Galway Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Corfu is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Galway is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Corfu is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is large enough that it has a number of spots to choose from. One of the most beautiful is Afionas, in Port Timone. It's only accessible by boat or a 45 minute hike. Paleokastritsa is a more accessible snorkeling and dive area with facilities and luxury villas where you can stay. For scuba diving, you can also head to Agni, but the busy boat traffic means it's not the best place for snorkeling.

Galway is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Corfu or Galway Better for Beaches?

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

Corfu is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island is known for its stunning beaches which offer a diversity of settings ranging from family-friendly to natural or party-focused. The most famous beach resort area is Paleokastritsa but other nice places include Pelekas, Agios Gordis, and Glyfada. On the western side of the island you'll find mostly long sandy beaches and on the eastern side you'll find more pebble beaches.

Galway is not a beach destination.

Is Corfu or Galway Better for Hiking?

Corfu is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Galway is not a hiking destination.

Around Corfu visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The stunning natural beauty of the island means you'll find some of the most breathtaking hikes in the Greek Isles. From the lush green rolling hills to the striking blue waters, there are many places to soak up this island's idyllic setting. The island is also rich in plant life and you'll find more than 30 species of orchids here. Popular hiking trails include Vlacherna Trail (good for beginners and families), Mount Pantokrator Trail (the most challenging on the island), and Old Town Hiking Trail which takes you through the history of the area.

Galway is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Corfu or Galway?

Corfu is notable for shopping. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Corfu is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find most of the shops concentrated in Corfu Town. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, jewelry, ceramics, and items made from olive wood.

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 Corfu or Galway Better for Families?

Corfu is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Corfu is an extremely popular island to visit for families. Because it is so beautiful with amazing beaches, it makes an ideal destination for kids and adults. There are many places where kids can swim as well as a number of great activities for everyone. The whole family will enjoy glass bottom boat rides, horseback riding, and even a visit to the popular Hydropolis Waterpark. There are also a huge number of kid-friendly resorts around the island.

Galway is a family-friendly island. 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 Corfu or Galway Better for Couples?

Corfu is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Corfu is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's idyllic natural setting and stunning beaches make this a truly romantic island. It's a favorite honeymoon destination for newlyweds from around the world. There are luxury hotels and resorts that have spas, pools, and fine dining options. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or a more adventurous experience, you'll find it all here.

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 Corfu or Galway Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Corfu and Galway are high quality places to visit.

Many backpackers visit Corfu. The island is a favorite, particularly during the crowded summer months. There are a number of hostels where backpackers can stay and an active nightlife if that's your style. There are also quiet and more peaceful settings if you want to escape the crowds.

Galway is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels in the area and it's easy to meet other travelers.

Is Corfu or Galway Better for Students?

Galway is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Corfu is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Galway. The city has a solid student population with a number of activities and entertainment options.

Corfu is not popular with students.

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

Corfu 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 Corfu. There's a decent public bus system on the island. The blue buses stay near Corfu Town while the green buses go further around the island.

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

Is Corfu or Galway a more walkable city?

Corfu and Galway are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Corfu is a very walkable island. It's easy to walk around Corfu Town, and if you plan to spend most of your time at the beach there's really no need for a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Galway or Corfu?

How long in Corfu or Galway?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Corfu and Galway. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Corfu than in Galway. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Corfu, and 2-3 days is enough time in Galway.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Corfu 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 Corfu.

One day in Corfu or Galway?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Corfu. 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, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this friendly destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Corfu or Galway?

Corfu is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Galway. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Corfu or Galway?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Corfu. 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Galway. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Corfu or Galway?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxing destination of Corfu. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Galway. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens, The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.

When comparing the travel costs between Corfu and Galway, we can see that Galway 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 Corfu Expensive? and Is Galway Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Corfu or Galway?

Galway has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Corfu. When comparing the sizes of Corfu 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 Corfu 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 Corfu or Galway in the Summer?

Both Galway and Corfu during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Corfu this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Galway for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Corfu is generally much warmer than Galway. Daily temperatures in Corfu average around 25°C (76°F), and Galway fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Corfu. In the summer, Corfu often gets more sunshine than Galway. Corfu gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 142 hours of full sun.

Corfu usually gets less rain in July than Galway. Corfu gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Galway receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or Galway in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Corfu and Galway. Many travelers come to Corfu for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Galway in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Corfu is much warmer than Galway in the autumn. The daily temperature in Corfu averages around 18°C (65°F) in October, and Galway fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Corfu usually receives more sunshine than Galway during autumn. Corfu gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 96 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Galway receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Corfu gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Corfu usually receives around the same amount of rain as Galway. Corfu gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Galway receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Corfu or Galway in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Corfu as well as Galway. Many visitors come to Corfu in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Galway for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Corfu is much warmer than Galway. Typically, the winter temperatures in Corfu in January average around 10°C (49°F), and Galway averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Corfu often gets more sunshine than Galway. Corfu gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 59 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Galway. Corfu receives a lot of rain in the winter. Corfu usually gets more rain in January than Galway. Corfu gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Galway receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or Galway in the Spring?

Both Galway and Corfu are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Corfu for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Galway because of the activities around the city.

In April, Corfu is generally much warmer than Galway. Daily temperatures in Corfu average around 14°C (58°F), and Galway fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Corfu usually receives more sunshine than Galway during spring. Corfu gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 153 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Corfu usually receives more rain than Galway. Corfu gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Galway receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Galway and Corfu