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

Should you visit Dusseldorf or Galway?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Dusseldorf and Galway. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a historic, fun-filled, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Galway

Galway is a historical, vibrant, and lively city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dusseldorf and Galway: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Dusseldorf or Galway?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dusseldorf than Galway, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Dusseldorf is more popular for its food and historical sights, while Galway is known for its nightlife. Dusseldorf is more touristy than Galway and is known for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany. It is also home to Altstadt (the Old Town). Galway is popular for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music.

How is Dusseldorf different from Galway?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dusseldorf
Galway

Both Dusseldorf and Galway have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Dusseldorf is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.

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 Dusseldorf or Galway? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dusseldorf
Galway

Dusseldorf 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, Dusseldorf makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

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 Dusseldorf or Galway Better for Nightlife?

Dusseldorf
Galway

Galway is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Galway know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Dusseldorf has a few options to choose from. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

Is Dusseldorf or Galway Better for its Old Town?

Dusseldorf
Galway

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

Dusseldorf is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

Galway does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Dusseldorf or Galway?

Dusseldorf
Galway

Shopping is a popular activity in both Galway and Dusseldorf.

Dusseldorf is a great destination for shopping. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

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 Dusseldorf or Galway Better for Families?

Dusseldorf
Galway

Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf is a very family-friendly place to visit. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

Galway is a family-friendly city. 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 Dusseldorf or Galway Better for Couples?

Dusseldorf
Galway

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

Dusseldorf is a very popular place to visit for couples. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

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 Dusseldorf or Galway Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dusseldorf
Galway

Galway is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Dusseldorf. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

Is Dusseldorf or Galway Better for Students?

Dusseldorf
Galway

Galway is a good destination for students. However, Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

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

Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

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

Dusseldorf
Galway

Dusseldorf is an unbeatable place 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.

Visitors in Dusseldorf can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

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


Is Dusseldorf or Galway a more walkable city?

Dusseldorf
Galway

Dusseldorf and Galway both are very good when exploring on foot.

Dusseldorf is very walkable. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Galway or Dusseldorf?

How long in Dusseldorf or Galway?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dusseldorf and Galway. In our opinion, Dusseldorf has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Dusseldorf than Galway. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Galway than Dusseldorf 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 Galway.


  • How many days in Dusseldorf or Galway? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dusseldorf 2-3 
    Galway 2-3

One day in Dusseldorf or Galway?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Dusseldorf. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and nightlife around the friendly city of Galway, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Dusseldorf or Galway?

Dusseldorf 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Galway, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Dusseldorf or Galway?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dusseldorf. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Galway, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Dusseldorf or Galway?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Dusseldorf. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Galway is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


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


Which place is cheaper, Galway or Dusseldorf?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Dusseldorf is €185, while the average daily cost in Galway is €131. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Dusseldorf and Galway in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dusseldorf 95
    Galway 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dusseldorf 190
    Galway 140
Compare Hotels in Dusseldorf and Galway

Looking for a hotel in Dusseldorf or Galway? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Dusseldorf


Hotels in Galway


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Dusseldorf Hotel Prices and Galway Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dusseldorf 1.63
    Galway 33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dusseldorf

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dusseldorf:

  • Dusseldorf Airport (DUS) to Dusseldorf - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Business Car: $73
  • Dusseldorf Arrival Private Transfers from Airport DUS to Dusseldorf: $73
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Van: $77
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Dusseldorf to Airport DUS in Luxury Car: $86
  • Arrival Private Transfer Dusseldorf Train Station or Port by Car: $92

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galway

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Galway:

  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to Cork City: $561
  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to Dublin Airport: $668
  • Galway Private Driver: Personalized Tours & Transfers: $749
  • Galway Private Transfer from Galway Airport to City centre: $90
  • Galway Private Transfer from central Galway to Galway Airport: $90
  • Galway to Limerick | Private Transfer and Car Service: $294
  • Galway to Shannon Airport | Private Transfer & Car Service: $294
  • One-Way Private Transfer to Killarney: $668
  • Shannon Airport to Seamless Private Transfers: $257

Is it cheaper to fly into Dusseldorf or Galway?

Prices for flights to both Galway and Dusseldorf change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Dusseldorf 76
    Galway 33
Typical Food Prices in Dusseldorf

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Dusseldorf:


  • Salami
    1.99
  • Nutella
    1.00
  • Yogurt
    1.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dusseldorf

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Dusseldorf.

  • Culinary Flingern – The Food Tour: $48

Typical Food Prices in Galway

Some typical examples of dining costs in Galway are as follows:


  • Fish & Chips Dinner
    8.12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Galway

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Galway.

  • Tour & Taste Galway Food Tour: $93
  • Galway Food Tour: $107
  • Galway Food Tours: $109
  • Private Irish Cooking Experience in the Heart of Gaeltacht: $136
  • Farm to Table Experience and Irish Cooking Class in Galway: $190

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dusseldorf 25
    Galway 12

Tours and Activities in Dusseldorf

Here are a few actual costs in Dusseldorf for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.10
  • Düsseldorf Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Düsseldorf Sightseeing round-trip Cruise: $19
  • Night watchman tour: $22
  • Guided Walking Tour in Dusseldorf: $22
  • Hop-on hop-off tour in Düsseldorf in a double-decker bus: $22
  • Dusseldorf Old Town and Altbier Tour: $25
  • Düsseldorf 2-Hour Evening Cruise: $27
  • Beer tour with tasting in Dusseldorf: $34
  • City game scavenger hunt Duisburg - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44

Tours and Activities in Galway

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Galway are as follows:

  • Cong The Quiet Man Museum Skip-the-Line Ticket: $8.17
  • Old Town Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.45
  • City Centre App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Galway's City Centre: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Welcome to Galway Walking Tour: $16
  • Burren Botany Experience: $16
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $17
  • The Legendary Walking Tour of Galway: $17
  • City Sightseeing Galway Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $17
  • Galway City: Guided 1.5-Hour Walking Tour: $21
  • Dark History Guided City Walking Tour: $21
  • Evening Guided Walking Tour: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dusseldorf 23
    Galway 15
Typical Alcohol Prices in Dusseldorf

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Dusseldorf are as follows:


  • Night Out Drinking
    25

Sample the Local Flavors in Dusseldorf

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Dusseldorf:

  • Brewery Tour Düsseldorf in English (inc. 3 beer): $29

Sample the Local Flavors in Galway

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Galway:

  • Traditional Irish Poitin & Gin Distillery Tour: $355


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dusseldorf and Galway, we can see that Dusseldorf is more expensive. And not only is Galway much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Galway would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Galway and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Dusseldorf would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dusseldorf than you might in Galway.

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


Which is Bigger, Dusseldorf or Galway?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Galway. When comparing the sizes of Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf or Galway?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Galway in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dusseldorf and Galway. Most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Galway because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Dusseldorf is a little warmer than Galway in the summer. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Galway fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Dusseldorf usually receives more sunshine than Galway during summer. Dusseldorf gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dusseldorf usually receives more rain than Galway. Dusseldorf gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Galway receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dusseldorf 19°C (66°F) 
    Galway 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Galway in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dusseldorf as well as Galway. The autumn months attract visitors to Dusseldorf because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Galway this time of year.

In the autumn, Dusseldorf is around the same temperature as Galway. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dusseldorf in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Galway averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Dusseldorf often gets more sunshine than Galway. Dusseldorf gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 96 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Galway. Dusseldorf usually gets less rain in October than Galway. Dusseldorf gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Galway receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dusseldorf 12°C (53°F) 
    Galway 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Galway in the Winter?

Both Galway and Dusseldorf are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Galway for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Dusseldorf in the winter. In January, Dusseldorf is generally much colder than Galway. Daily temperatures in Dusseldorf average around 3°C (37°F), and Galway fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Dusseldorf usually receives less sunshine than Galway during winter. Dusseldorf gets 45 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 59 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Galway. In January, Dusseldorf usually receives less rain than Galway. Dusseldorf gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Galway receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dusseldorf 3°C (37°F) 
    Galway 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Galway in the Spring?

Both Galway and Dusseldorf during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Dusseldorf for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Galway in the spring for the activities around the city.

Dusseldorf is around the same temperature as Galway in the spring. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Galway fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Dusseldorf often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Galway. Dusseldorf gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 153 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Galway. Dusseldorf gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Galway receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dusseldorf 9°C (48°F) 
    Galway 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Galway and Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf Galway
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 88 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 103 mm (4.1 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in) 9°C (48°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (53°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 142 mm (5.6 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)