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

Should you visit Warsaw or Galway?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Warsaw and Galway 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.

Warsaw

Warsaw is a cultural, historical, and under-rated 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 shopping.

Galway

Galway is a cultural, historical, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Warsaw 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
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Warsaw or Galway?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Warsaw than Galway, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Warsaw is popular for its historical position as a cultural and political center. It is also home to The Old Town Market Square. Galway is popular for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music.

How is Warsaw different from Galway?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Warsaw
Galway

Warsaw 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 Warsaw. There are a number of landmarks and interesting museums around town. Many of the museums focus on the area's history, including the Warsaw Rising Museum, POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, and the Museum of Warsaw. Other notable sights include the Royal Castle, Łazienki Królewskie Park, and Wilanów Palace Museum and Park.

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 Warsaw or Galway? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Warsaw
Galway

Dining out at restaurants in both Warsaw and Galway can be an enjoyable experience.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Warsaw. The city's restaurants are diverse with a combination of international flavors, Michelin Star restaurants, and Soviet era "milk bars". Traditional dishes are hearty with many soups, dumplings, and desserts to choose from. Some of the most famous dishes include pierogis (dumplings), zurek (soup), and borsch (beetroot soup).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Galway. There are local pubs and traditional restaurants offering authentic Irish dishes. Popular options include Irish Stew, Cockles and Mussels, and Galway Oysters.

Is Warsaw or Galway Better for Nightlife?

Warsaw
Galway

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find great options in both Warsaw and Galway.

The nightlife in Warsaw has something for everybody. The city has an active nightlife scene with many bars and clubs spread out in a number of different areas. Many locals dress for the occasion, so depending on your hangout spot of choice, you may want to dress to impress.

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 Warsaw or Galway Better for its Old Town?

Warsaw
Galway

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

Warsaw is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. While many buildings have been rebuilt following World War II, there are still some historical gems to explore. St. John's Archcathedral dates back to the 14th century and Rynek Starego Miasta is the square at the heart of the old town.

Galway does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Warsaw or Galway?

Warsaw
Galway

If you're looking to go shopping, Warsaw and Galway both offer plenty of good spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Warsaw. The city has malls, shopping streets, flea markets and boutiques to explore. There are both global brands and local items to choose from. For the best deals you should head to an outlet mall.

Galway offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Warsaw or Galway Better for Families?

Warsaw
Galway

Both Warsaw and Galway are good to visit with kids.

Warsaw offers lots of family activities. The city has many museums that are dedicated to the area's history. These museums may, at times, cover difficult topics for young children, but there are also science and technology museums that are perfect for young minds. Make sure you check out the Copernicus Science Center. There's also a city zoo and many parks that are fun to explore.

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.

Is Warsaw or Galway Better for Couples?

Warsaw
Galway

Both Warsaw and Galway are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Warsaw is a nice destination for couples. While many of the city's historical buildings were destroyed during the war, there are a few gems that remain. Couples will enjoy visiting the Wilanów Palace and the Palace of Culture and Science. There are also many parks and gardens where you can wander or enjoy a picnic. And, of course, the old town is a beautiful way to pass the time.

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 Warsaw or Galway Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Warsaw
Galway

Galway is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Galway is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are plenty of hostels in the area and it's easy to meet other travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Warsaw. While it's not as popular as many other city's in the area, this city remains affordable and fascinating for those who pass through. There are a few hostels around town as well as cheap places to grab a bite to eat.

Is Warsaw or Galway Better for Students?

Warsaw
Galway

Warsaw is notable for students. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in Warsaw. The city's long history and current standing as a cultural and economic hub make it appealing to international students. The prices are reasonable and the opportunities for students are abundant.

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

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

Warsaw
Galway

Warsaw 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 Warsaw. There are buses, trams, and a metro available.

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


Is Warsaw or Galway a more walkable city?

Warsaw
Galway

Galway is a great city for its walkability. However, Warsaw is not known for its high level of walkability.

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

Warsaw is generally not very walkable. Many sights are spread out, so walking between attractions isn't always the best option.

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

Should I spend more time in Galway or Warsaw?

How long in Warsaw or Galway?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Galway than Warsaw 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 Warsaw or Galway? Ideal Length of Stay
    Warsaw 1-3 
    Galway 2-3

One day in Warsaw or Galway?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Warsaw. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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.

A weekend in Warsaw or Galway?

Warsaw 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.

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.


Five days in Warsaw or Galway?

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

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.

A week in Warsaw or Galway?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Warsaw. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Galway or Warsaw?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Warsaw is $93, while the average daily cost in Galway is $140. 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 Warsaw and Galway in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Warsaw $51
    Galway $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Warsaw $102
    Galway $150
Compare Hotels in Warsaw and Galway

Looking for a hotel in Warsaw 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 Warsaw


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: Warsaw Hotel Prices and Galway Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Warsaw $4.67
    Galway $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Warsaw

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

  • ONEWAY Private Warsaw Chopin Airport(WAW) to/from Warsaw Transfer: $24
  • Bus Transfer to/from Vilnus: $35
  • Warsaw Chopin Airport one way private transfer 5-8 PAX: $36
  • Warsaw Private Transfer from Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) to City centre: $41
  • Warsaw Private Transfer from Warsaw city centre to Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW): $41
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Warsaw APT-HTL (WAW): $42
  • Private Transfer from Warsaw Chopin Airport: $43
  • Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) to Downtown hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $44
  • Private transfer by social-distance car from or to Warsaw Chopin Airport: $44
  • Private Round-Trip Transfer: Warsaw Chopin Airport: $49
  • Indoor Paintball with Hotel Transfers: $55
  • Economy Private Warsaw Okecie Airport Transfer: $57

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galway

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Galway:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Warsaw or Galway?

Prices for flights to both Galway and Warsaw 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
    Warsaw $27
    Galway $35
Typical Food Prices in Warsaw

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Warsaw:


  • Dinner for Two
    $13
  • Lunch for Two
    $10

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Warsaw

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

  • Lunch or Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe with Skip-the-Line: $17
  • Warsaw's No 1 cooking class-Polish dumplings with liqueur tasting: $61
  • Polish Dumplings Cooking Class: $62
  • Traditional Polish Cooking Class in Warsaw: $79
  • Traditional Polish Cooking Class with liquor tasting in Warsaw: $89
  • Polish Food Tour: $92
  • Taste of Poland - Old Town food tour and guided walk in one: $94
  • 4-Hour Polish Food Tour: $109
  • The 10 Tastings of Warsaw With Locals: Private Food Tour : $117
  • EVERYDAY Warsaw Traditional Food Tour with Old Town Sightseeing: $156
  • Traditional Food Tour with Old Town Sightseeing: $156

Typical Food Prices in Galway

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


  • Fish & Chips Dinner
    $8.70

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.
    Warsaw $7.00
    Galway $13

Tours and Activities in Warsaw

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Warsaw.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $4.28
  • Walking Audio Tour of Wilanów Palace Grounds: $5.20
  • Uncover Historic Marvels of In-App Audio Tour: $5.32
  • Old Town Self-Guided Smartphone Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Warsaw Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.00
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Smartphone Escape Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews Ticket: $11
  • Warsaw Old Town In-App Audio Tour on Your Phone (ENG): $12
  • Traditional Galar Cruise on The Vistula River: $15

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Warsaw $10
    Galway $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Warsaw

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Warsaw:

  • The Original Pub Crawl: $16
  • #1 Pub Crawl Warsaw with Premium Open Bar: $20
  • Pub Crawl with 1-Hour Open Bar: $20
  • Warsaw Wine Tasting Private Tour with Wine Expert: $176

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 Warsaw and Galway, we can see that Galway is more expensive. And not only is Warsaw much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Warsaw would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Warsaw 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 Warsaw.

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


Which is Bigger, Warsaw or Galway?

Warsaw has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Galway. When comparing the sizes of Warsaw 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 Warsaw 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 Warsaw or Galway in the Summer?

Both Galway and Warsaw during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Warsaw because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Galway this time of year.

Warsaw is a little warmer than Galway in the summer. The daily temperature in Warsaw averages around 19°C (65°F) in July, and Galway fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Warsaw. In the summer, Warsaw often gets more sunshine than Galway. Warsaw gets 353 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 142 hours of full sun.

Warsaw usually gets more rain in July than Galway. Warsaw gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Galway receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Warsaw 19°C (65°F) 
    Galway 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Warsaw or Galway in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Warsaw and Galway. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Warsaw this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Galway for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Warsaw is cooler than Galway. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Warsaw in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Galway averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Warsaw usually receives more sunshine than Galway during autumn. Warsaw gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 96 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Galway receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Warsaw usually receives less rain than Galway. Warsaw gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Galway receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Warsaw 9°C (49°F) 
    Galway 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Warsaw or Galway in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Warsaw as well as Galway. Many travelers come to Warsaw for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Galway in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Warsaw. In January, Warsaw is generally much colder than Galway. Daily temperatures in Warsaw average around -3°C (27°F), and Galway fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Warsaw often gets less sunshine than Galway. Warsaw gets 35 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 59 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Galway. Warsaw usually gets less rain in January than Galway. Warsaw gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Galway receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Warsaw -3°C (27°F) 
    Galway 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Warsaw or Galway in the Spring?

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

Warsaw is around the same temperature as Galway in the spring. The daily temperature in Warsaw averages around 9°C (47°F) in April, and Galway fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Warsaw. Warsaw usually receives more sunshine than Galway during spring. Warsaw gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 153 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Warsaw usually receives less rain than Galway. Warsaw gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Galway receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Warsaw 9°C (47°F) 
    Galway 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Galway and Warsaw

Warsaw Galway
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 22 mm (0.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Feb -1°C (30°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 88 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 3°C (37°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 103 mm (4.1 in)
Apr 9°C (47°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (53°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jul 19°C (65°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (60°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 142 mm (5.6 in)
Nov 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Dec -0°C (31°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 6°C (44°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)