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

Should you visit Galway or Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo 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 historical, vibrant, and lively city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a historical, cultural, and beautiful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Galway and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

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
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Galway or Sarajevo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sarajevo than Galway. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Sarajevo is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Galway attracts visitors for its nightlife. Galway is famous for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music. Sarajevo is famous for its worn torn past, but today it is a city that is filled with culture, natural beauty, and incredible food. It is also well known for The Old Town.

How is Galway different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo?

Galway
Sarajevo

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo. The sights in the city reflect its history and culture. Famous places to visit include Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Latin Bridge, Kovači Memorial Cemetery, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum.

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 Sarajevo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Galway
Sarajevo

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Bosnia isn't the first place that comes to mind when you think of food, but it is actually among the best. The dishes are heavy on meat and pastry, with the perfect amount of seasoning. Favorite dishes include Bosnian burek and cevapi. And it's easy to dine your way through this beautiful city as restaurants are very affordable.

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 Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Galway
Sarajevo

Galway is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Galway has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Sarajevo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. After immersing yourself in history for the day, the nighttime offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. Locals and tourists come together at the city's many bars and nightclubs where you can listen to music, dance, or chat with locals over a cold beer.

Is Galway or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Galway
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Galway does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Sarajevo offers plenty to see. The city's old town, which is known as Baščaršija, is filled with a history charm that is unlike any other European city. The wooden shops, wandering lanes, and striking minarets highlight the area's beautiful culture and long-running history.

Galway does not have a historic old town.


Is Galway or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Galway
Sarajevo

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

Around Sarajevo visitors will find world-class hiking trails. If you have a way to get out of town, you'll be rewarded with a natural beauty that is untouched and pristine - a rare find in Europe. There are a number of popular trails that are popular with locals and tourists alike. While landmines remain a concern in off-the-beaten-path areas, if you stay on marked trails, they pose no real threat.

Galway is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Galway or Sarajevo?

Galway
Sarajevo

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

Sarajevo is an extremely popular place for shoppers. This city offers a unique opportunity to shop for traditional hand-crafted good in the old town. The goods are handmade and reflect the city's long running history as a center for trade. Popular items for purchase include coffee sets, jewelry, and handmade carpets.

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 Sarajevo Better for Families?

Galway
Sarajevo

Galway is a good destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Sarajevo doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Older kids will really benefit from the history and cultural lessons that coincide with a visit to this beautiful city. There are also some fun activities that they can enjoy including a zoo, an indoor play area, and an amusement park not far outside of town.


Is Galway or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Galway
Sarajevo

Galway is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for couples.

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.

Sarajevo is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Romance isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Sarajevo, but the city has amazing food and world class cultural sights that will make for a truly rewarding trip.

Is Galway or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Galway
Sarajevo

Both Galway and Sarajevo are very good 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 Sarajevo. This city is among the most culturally captivating places in Europe. Although it's often overlooked by tourists and backpackers, the affordability, stunning beauty, and unique personality make it a truly amazing place to visit.

Is Galway or Sarajevo Better for Students?

Galway
Sarajevo

Galway is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo 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.

Sarajevo is not popular with students.


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

Galway
Sarajevo

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo. It includes a tram, trolleybus, bus and minibus network.

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

Is Galway or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Galway
Sarajevo

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

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

Sarajevo is a somewhat walkable city. Most of the touristy areas in the central part of the city are walkable, but there are also some sights outside of town that you will need a taxi to visit.

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

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Galway?

How long in Galway or Sarajevo?

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

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

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


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

One day in Galway or Sarajevo?

The city of Galway offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Sarajevo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Galway or Sarajevo?

Galway is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Galway, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Sarajevo 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.

Five days in Galway or Sarajevo?

Galway is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sarajevo. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Sarajevo?

Galway is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the overlooked destination of Sarajevo. This city 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland, The Best Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.


Which place is cheaper, Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo is €66. 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 Sarajevo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galway 70
    Sarajevo 26
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galway 140
    Sarajevo 52
Compare Hotels in Galway and Sarajevo

Looking for a hotel in Galway or Sarajevo? 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 Sarajevo


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 Sarajevo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galway 33
    Sarajevo 6.58

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galway

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Galway:

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Sarajevo

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Sarajevo:


  • Tram Tickets (for 2)
    1.53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarajevo

Also for Sarajevo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • One-way Private Airport Transfer to Sarajevo: $15
  • Airport transfer Sarajevo - Bosnia: $16
  • Private Transfer to and from Sarajevo Airport: $25
  • Sarajevo Airport Private Transfer: $27
  • Airport transfers and all other transfers 4 people: $27
  • Airport Transfers Sarajevo for Individual Clients: $27
  • Airport Transfers & Private Tours with Luxury minibus Bosnia: $27
  • Airport Transfers Sarajevo Chauffeur for Individual Clients: $27
  • Airport Transfer in Sarajevo: $27
  • Sarajevo Airport Private Transfers (from/to): $30
  • Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Ilidža: $33
  • Private Transfer from Sarajevo Downtown to Sarajevo Airport (SJJ): $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Galway or Sarajevo?

Prices for flights to both Sarajevo 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
    Sarajevo 29
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 Sarajevo

For Sarajevo, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Restaurant Dinner (for 2)
    11

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sarajevo

For Sarajevo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Sarajevo Local Food Tour: $27
  • Walking Food Tour with Local Craft Experience: $43
  • Traditional Bosnian Dinner with your Host Family: $44
  • Traditional Bosnian Dinner with Host Family: $53
  • Bosnian Cooking Lessons: $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Galway 12
    Sarajevo 11

Tours and Activities in Galway

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

  • Abalone farm tour and tasting with coastal seaweed walk. Guided. 2 hours: $82
  • 3 Hours Guided Irish Whiskey Tour and Tasting in Galway City: $180
  • Aran Island, Cliffs of Moher & Cruise tour from Galway. Guided.: $119
  • Aran Islands Bike Tour with Tea & Scones - Day Trip to Inisheer from Doolin: $136
  • Aran Islands Bike Tour with Tea and Scones from Galway: $163
  • Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Galway: $82
  • Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Day Cruise sailing from Galway City Docks: $60
  • Boat cruise with local skipper on Galway Bay. Galway city. 1 hour: $36
  • Burren Botany Experience: $16
  • Castles of Connemara tour departing Galway city. Guided. Full day: $134
  • City Sightseeing Galway Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $17
  • City of the Tribes Tour: $131

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sarajevo

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Sarajevo's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • National Museum (for 2)
    7.16

Tours and Activities in Sarajevo

For Sarajevo, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Sarajevo Walking Tour In Small Group: $11
  • Sarajevo Talkie-Walkie Tour: $13
  • Grand Walking Tour: $16
  • Sarajevo Grand Walking Tour: $16
  • HISTORY OF ISLAM IN SARAJEVO TOUR: $16
  • SARAJEVO CITY TOUR - Learn something in an interesting way.: $17
  • Discover Sarajevo Walking Tour with Local Guide: $17
  • Sarajevo genuine walking tour: Steps through history: $19
  • Sarajevo Old Town: Bosnian Ethnic Food & Coffee Walking Tour: $19
  • Tunnel of Hope Siege Tour: $20
  • Uncovering Islam Tour: $20
  • Old Town Walking Tour with Local Guide: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galway 15
    Sarajevo 6.88

Sample the Local Flavors in Galway

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Galway:

  • Traditional Irish Poitin & Gin Distillery Tour: $355

Sample the Local Flavors in Sarajevo

Also in Sarajevo, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Small-group Wine Tasting Expiriance, with lunch in vineyard: $70


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Galway and Sarajevo, we can see that Galway is more expensive. And not only is Sarajevo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Sarajevo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sarajevo 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 Galway would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Galway than you might in Sarajevo.

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


Which is Bigger, Galway or Sarajevo?

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

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 Galway or Sarajevo in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Galway is much colder than Sarajevo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Galway in July average around 16°C (60°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 26°C (78°F).

In Sarajevo, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Galway often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Galway gets 142 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun.

Galway usually gets more rain in July than Sarajevo. Galway gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Galway 16°C (60°F) 
    Sarajevo 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Galway or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

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

In October, Galway is generally much colder than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Galway average around 11°C (52°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

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

Sarajevo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Galway gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Galway usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Galway gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Galway 11°C (52°F) 
    Sarajevo 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Galway or Sarajevo in the Winter?

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

Galway is around the same temperature as Sarajevo in the winter. The daily temperature in Galway averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Galway often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Galway gets 59 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Galway receives a lot of rain in the winter. Galway usually gets less rain in January than Sarajevo. Galway gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Galway 6°C (42°F) 
    Sarajevo 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Galway or Sarajevo in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Galway is much colder than Sarajevo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Galway in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Galway usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during spring. Galway gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarajevo. In April, Galway usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Galway gets 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Galway 9°C (48°F) 
    Sarajevo 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Galway

Galway Sarajevo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 88 mm (3.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 103 mm (4.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 127 mm (5 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 16°C (60°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 26°C (78°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 118 mm (4.6 in) 26°C (78°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 22°C (71°F) 109 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 142 mm (5.6 in) 17°C (62°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 101 mm (4 in) 11°C (52°F) 203 mm (8 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 125 mm (4.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 196 mm (7.7 in)