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

Should you visit Lisse or Galway?

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

Should I visit Lisse or Galway? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Lisse

Lisse is a colorful, picturesque, and stunning town. You'll find world class beauty in Lisse as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Lisse travel costs.

Galway

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

Lisse and Galway: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisse or Galway?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisse. Although Lisse and Galway are popular destinations, Lisse has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lisse is very popular for its impressive beauty, while Galway attracts visitors for its nightlife and big city activities. Lisse is more touristy than Galway and is popular for its stunning flowers and iconic tulip fields. It is also well known for the Keukenhof Gardens. Galway is famous for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music.

How is Lisse different from Galway?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Lisse and Galway.

Lisse offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a handful of museums in the area, like the Museum de Zwarte Tulp (Museum of the Black Tulip), which showcases the history and art of the Dutch flower-growing industry, including exhibits on tulips, bulbs, and floral culture. And, of course, there's the Keukenhof Gardens, which is the main draw to the area during the spring season and one of the most popular attractions in the Netherlands.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Galway. 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 Lisse or Galway? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Lisse and Galway both to be nice destinations.

Lisse has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The town has a variety of food options, from traditional Dutch snacks to international cuisine. Local cafes and restaurants often serve classic Dutch dishes, such as poffertjes (mini pancakes) and bitterballen (fried meatballs), perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal. In Keukenhof Gardens you'll find food stalls, trucks, and a cafe, but they can get crowded during peak times.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Galway area. There are local pubs and traditional restaurants offering authentic Irish dishes. Popular options include Irish Stew, Cockles and Mussels, and Galway Oysters.

Is Lisse or Galway Better for Nightlife?

Galway is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Galway for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Lisse. Most people don't think about nightlife when they visit town but there's a surprising number of thinks to do like cozy bars and charming cafes. Visitors can enjoy live music, great drinks, and a friendly atmosphere, especially in the town's central areas.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisse or Galway?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lisse. The town offers a range of shopping opportunities, especially in its charming town center. You’ll find boutique stores, gift shops, and specialty shops selling local products, such as Dutch cheeses, flowers, and souvenirs.

Many visitors go to Galway to go shopping. 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 Lisse or Galway More Beautiful?

Lisse is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Galway is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Lisse as well. Most visitors come for the Keukenhof Gardens, which are a breathtaking spectacle, renowned for their vibrant and meticulously arranged displays of millions of tulips and other flowers. The gardens are designed with picturesque pathways, tranquil ponds, and themed flower beds, making it feel like a living painting in every corner.

Galway is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lisse or Galway Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisse or Galway.

Lisse offers lots of family activities. The Keukenhof Gardens has a few things to keep the kids entertained, like a play area and boat rides. Some kids will also enjoy seeing the millions of colorful tulips and other flowers. For a more interactive experience, families can head to the Flowerstrip, where children can explore local farms and see how flowers are grown. Also near town is Lisse is the Duinrell theme park, which has thrilling rides and a water park that’s perfect for a family day out.

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 Lisse or Galway Better for Couples?

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

Lisse is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy this area, especially during the spring when the Keukenhof Gardens come alive with vibrant tulip fields and flower displays. There are also boat rides through the nearby canals, surrounded by beautiful countryside. A visit to the nearby Keukenhof Castle provides a charming atmosphere, with its elegant gardens and tea room. perfect for relaxing together. Couples can also explore the local flower fields by bike.

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 Lisse or Galway Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers visit Galway. There are plenty of hostels in the area and it's easy to meet other travelers.

Lisse is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The entrance fee to Keukenhof Gardens can be a bit pricey, but there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy nearby, like cycling through the beautiful tulip fields or exploring the nearby countryside. Budget accommodations, such as hostels or guesthouses, can be found in Lisse or in nearby towns like Leiden, offering affordable options for travelers.

Is Lisse or Galway Better for Students?

Galway is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Lisse is not popular with students.

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

Lisse is not popular with students.

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

Lisse and Galway both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Lisse offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel from Schiphol Airport and elsewhere in the country to Keukenhof Gardens. It's best to book your tickets in advance.

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

Is Lisse or Galway a more walkable city?

Galway is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Lisse is a somewhat walkable town. Many visitors bike through the tulip fields outside of the Keukenhof Gardens. You could walk, but you'll cover more ground with a bicycle.

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

Should I spend more time in Galway or Lisse?

How long in Lisse or Galway?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lisse and Galway. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Galway than in Lisse. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Lisse, and 2-3 days is enough time in Galway.

Families should spend more time in Galway than Lisse. 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.

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

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

One day in Lisse or Galway?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lisse. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Galway, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Lisse or Galway?

Lisse 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.

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

Five days in Lisse or Galway?

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

A week in Lisse or Galway?

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

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands, The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lisse and Galway, we can see that Lisse 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 Lisse would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lisse 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 Lisse Expensive? and Is Galway Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisse or Galway?

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

Both Galway and Lisse during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lisse in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Galway for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Lisse is generally around the same temperature as Galway. Daily temperatures in Lisse average around 17°C (62°F), and Galway fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisse. In the summer, Lisse often gets more sunshine than Galway. Lisse gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 142 hours of full sun.

Lisse usually gets more rain in July than Galway. Lisse gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Galway receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisse or Galway in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisse and Galway. Most visitors come to Lisse for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Galway because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Lisse is around the same temperature as Galway in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisse averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Galway fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Lisse usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Galway during autumn. Lisse gets 99 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, Lisse usually receives less rain than Galway. Lisse gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Galway receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisse or Galway in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lisse as well as Galway. The winter months attract visitors to Lisse because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Galway this time of year.

The weather in Lisse can be very cold. In the winter, Lisse is much colder than Galway. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisse in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Galway averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Lisse often gets less sunshine than Galway. Lisse gets 46 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 59 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Galway. Lisse usually gets less rain in January than Galway. Lisse gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Galway receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisse or Galway in the Spring?

Both Galway and Lisse are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Lisse this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Galway for the activities around the city.

In April, Lisse is generally cooler than Galway. Daily temperatures in Lisse average around 8°C (46°F), and Galway fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Lisse usually receives more sunshine than Galway during spring. Lisse gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 153 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisse usually receives around the same amount of rain as Galway. Lisse gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Galway receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Galway and Lisse