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

Should you visit Galway or Naples?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Galway and Naples can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Galway

Galway is a friendly, cultural, and historical city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Naples

Naples is a historic, authentic, and gritty city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Galway and Naples: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Galway or Naples?

You'll generally find more things to do in Naples than Galway. Naples is bigger than Galway, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Naples is more touristy than Galway and is known for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza. Also, Naples is famous for Piazza del Plebiscito. Galway is well known for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music.

How is Galway different from Naples?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Galway
Naples

Naples 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 Naples. Most of the sights are concentrated in the city's historic center. The Naples Harbor is a gateway to the Mediterranean. Also worth visiting are the National Archeological Museum, Capodimonte Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

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 Galway or Naples? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Galway
Naples

Naples 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 Naples have been singled out for their culinary prowess. As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

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 Galway or Naples Better for Nightlife?

Galway
Naples

Evening events are high quality in both Galway and Naples.

Galway has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Naples has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene includes small bars, wineries, and dance clubs, but much of the energy and activity is actually focused on being outdoors. There is plenty of live music and many nightclubs are actually "disco bars" that are found tucked away in the city's historic center.

Is Galway or Naples Better for its Old Town?

Galway
Naples

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

Naples is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Most of the city's tourist attractions are found in the historic center, which includes beautiful fountains, grand churches, and an impressive network of catacombs and caves.

Galway does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Galway or Naples?

Galway
Naples

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

Naples is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are shopping streets and districts that have boutique clothing vendors, high end brands, and major chains. There's plenty of diversity in the shopping scene and some of the best shopping areas include Via Toledo, the Chiaia District, and Poggioreale Market.

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 Galway or Naples Better for Families?

Galway
Naples

Both Galway and Naples are notable to visit with kids.

Galway is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Naples is a family-friendly city. Despite its rough-around-the-edges reputation, the city actually has some fun kid-friendly activities. As the birthplace of pizza, a childhood favorite, eating is a kid approved activity. You can even try your hand at pizza making classes. Other fun kid-friendly activities include exploring the underground city, going to The Science Centre of Citta della Scienza, and running around Parco di Capodimonte.

Is Galway or Naples Better for Couples?

Galway
Naples

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

Naples is a very popular place to visit for couples. Dining on pizza, wine tasting, or taking a cruise on the Gulf of Naples all make this city a great couples destination. There are also many romantic day trips in the area, so many couples use Naples as a base for exploring the region.

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 Galway or Naples Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Galway
Naples

Both Galway and Naples are high quality destinations for backpackers.

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

Many backpackers visit Naples. It's more affordable than most of northern Italy, and it has plenty of hostels to choose from. The city makes a great stop for backpackers who want to see a different part of Italy. While not completely off the backpacker trail, Naples is not inundated with tourists the way some other Italian cities are.

Is Galway or Naples Better for Students?

Galway
Naples

Galway and Naples are both notable destinations for students and younger travelers.

Galway is a good city to visit for students. The city has a solid student population with a number of activities and entertainment options.

Plenty of students visit Naples. It's a large city with a lot to see and do. Students also appreciate the many day trips that are available in the area.

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

Galway
Naples

Naples 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 Naples. There's a metro with two metro lines as well as four suburban train lines. There are also funiculars, regional trains, and ferries to the surrounding areas.

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


Is Galway or Naples a more walkable city?

Galway
Naples

Galway and Naples both are high quality when exploring on foot.

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

Naples is a very walkable city. The historic center is flat and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Naples or Galway?

How long in Galway or Naples?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Galway and Naples. In our opinion, Naples has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Naples than Galway. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Galway, and 1-3 days is enough time in Naples.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Galway or Naples? Ideal Length of Stay
    Galway 2-3 
    Naples 1-3

One day in Galway or Naples?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Galway. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Naples is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Galway or Naples?

Galway 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.

Naples is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Galway or Naples?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Galway. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Naples. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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.

A week in Galway or Naples?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Galway. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful big city of Naples. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Naples or Galway?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Galway is €131, while the average daily cost in Naples is €129. 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 Galway and Naples in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galway 70
    Naples 66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galway 140
    Naples 132
Compare Hotels in Galway and Naples

Looking for a hotel in Galway or Naples? 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 Galway


Hotels in Naples


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: Galway Hotel Prices and Naples Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galway 33
    Naples 21

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Naples

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Naples:


  • Subway Ticket
    1.20
  • Alibus From Airport
    3.00
  • Short Taxi Ride
    7.34
  • Train to Pompeii
    3.20
  • Taxi
    15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Naples

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Naples:

  • Naples Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Naples Maritime Station: $5.35
  • Naples Porta Nolana: Train Transfer from/to Pompei: $16
  • From Train Transfer to/from Sorrento: $16
  • Naples Porta Nolana: Train Transfer from/to Ercolano Scavi: $16
  • From Transfer to Mount Vesuvius by Bus: $21
  • Vesuvius easy Transfer: $25
  • Naples Departure Transfer: Central Naples to Cruise Port: $26
  • Naples Cruise Port to Central Naples Arrival Transfer: $26
  • Private transfer car from Naples train station to the center: $26
  • Naples Airport (NAP) to Naples hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $26
  • From Bus Transfer to Rome Fiumicino Airport: $27
  • Naples Airport Private Departure Transfer: $29

Is it cheaper to fly into Galway or Naples?

Prices for flights to both Naples and Galway 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
    Galway 33
    Naples 40
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

Typical Food Prices in Naples

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


  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    28
  • Three Course Dinner (for Two)
    49
  • Napoli Pizza
    7.24
  • Dinner
    25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Naples

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

  • Napoli: Traditional Tiramisu Cooking Class with Limoncello: $36
  • Small Group Naples Pizza Making Class with Drink Included: $46
  • Street Food Tour of Naples with Top-Rated Local Guide & Fun Facts: $46
  • Naples Street Food Tour With Local Expert: $46
  • Authentic Italian Pizza-Making Workshop with Drinks: $46
  • Authentic Pizza Class with Drinks Included in the Center of Naples: $47
  • Authentic Italian Pizza Making Class with local pizzaiolo: $53
  • Food Tour with Davide: $53
  • Virtual Cooking Class: become a Pizza PRO!: $55
  • Food Tour of Naples with Davide: $55
  • Napoli Street Food Tour in Pignasecca: $58
  • Make Neapolitan Pizza With A View Of Naples Like No Other: $59

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Galway 12
    Naples 30

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Naples

Here are a few typical costs in Naples for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Museo Archeologico Nazionale Entrance
    9.00
  • Castelnuovo Museum Entrance
    5.00
  • Entrance to Pompeii
    11

Tours and Activities in Naples

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

  • Monuments and Historic District Self-Guided Tour: $4.27
  • Pompeii Self Guided Audio Tour: $4.27
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $5.35
  • Napoli: Entrance Tickets to Sant'Anna dei Lombardi Complex: $6.42
  • Naples from Ancient Greece to today: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Naples Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • San Lorenzo Maggiore and Neapolis Sotterrata Ticket: $9.62
  • Città della Scienza Interactive Museum Entry Ticket: $11
  • National Archaeological Museum Self-Guided 3D Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Castel Sant'Elmo Ticket and Pemcards: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galway 15
    Naples 21

Sample the Local Flavors in Galway

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Galway:

  • Traditional Irish Poitin & Gin Distillery Tour: $355

Typical Alcohol Prices in Naples

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Naples:


  • Beer
    4.10
  • Beer
    4.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Naples

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Naples:

  • Guided Pub Crawl in the Old Town: $16
  • Mount Vesuvius: Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting and Lunch: $51
  • Regional food and wine tasting: $53
  • Guided, FUN Wine Tasting in Napoli: $63
  • Guided, FUN Wine Tasting in Naples City Center: $64
  • Full-Day Bike Guided Tour in Napoli with Wine Tasting: $64
  • Vesuvius Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch Included: $75
  • Mount Vesuvius 4-Hour Volcano Tour with Wine Tasting: $79
  • Naples Wine Tasting Experience with a Sommelier: $86
  • Naples Wine Tasting Experience with a Sommelier: $90
  • Vesuvius Half-Day Trip with Lunch and Wine Tasting: $95
  • From Wine Tasting Tour on Vesuvius Slopes with Lunch: $97


When comparing the travel costs between Galway and Naples, 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 Galway Expensive? and Is Naples Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Galway or Naples?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Galway. When comparing the sizes of Galway and Naples, 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 Galway or Naples?

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 Galway or Naples in the Summer?

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

In July, Galway is generally cooler than Naples. Daily temperatures in Galway average around 16°C (60°F), and Naples fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Naples this time of the year. Galway usually receives less sunshine than Naples during summer. Galway gets 142 hours of sunny skies, while Naples receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Galway usually receives more rain than Naples. Galway gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Naples receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Galway 16°C (60°F) 
    Naples 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Galway or Naples in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Galway as well as Naples. The autumn months attract visitors to Galway 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 Naples this time of year.

Galway is much colder than Naples in the autumn. The daily temperature in Galway averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Naples fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Galway often gets less sunshine than Naples. Galway gets 96 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Naples receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Naples. Galway receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Galway usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Naples. Galway gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Naples receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Galway 11°C (52°F) 
    Naples 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Galway or Naples in the Winter?

Both Naples and Galway 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 Galway this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Naples for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Galway is cooler than Naples. Typically, the winter temperatures in Galway in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Naples averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Galway usually receives less sunshine than Naples during winter. Galway gets 59 hours of sunny skies, while Naples receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Naples. It's quite rainy in Galway. In January, Galway usually receives around the same amount of rain as Naples. Galway gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Naples receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Galway 6°C (42°F) 
    Naples 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Galway or Naples in the Spring?

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

In April, Galway is generally cooler than Naples. Daily temperatures in Galway average around 9°C (48°F), and Naples fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Galway often gets less sunshine than Naples. Galway gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Naples receives 189 hours of full sun.

Galway usually gets less rain in April than Naples. Galway gets 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Naples receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Galway 9°C (48°F) 
    Naples 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Naples and Galway

Galway Naples
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 8°C (47°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 88 mm (3.4 in) 9°C (48°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 103 mm (4.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 21°C (69°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Jul 16°C (60°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 118 mm (4.6 in) 24°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 21°C (70°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 142 mm (5.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 101 mm (4 in) 12°C (54°F) 161 mm (6.3 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 125 mm (4.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)