we moved here to galway last october and the weather was GREAT... many of the tourist site in our local area were still open but had reduced hours. some were weekends only. it really depends what you want to do.

november was a bit windy but nothing severe. we didn't do much site-seeing then

march this year was good but none of the tourist sites were open yet. most everything doesn't kick into gear until april. 3 generations of my family came to visit for a week and we never ran out of things to do or see, but there were some missed opportunities.

hope this helps.

Thanks so much for all of the information.  We are actually trying to plan it for this year, but it is quite difficult trying to plan for 6 adults with very differnt schedules.  Yet another option is the week prior to Easter but I was a bit concerned about closings.

As far as the off season closings....what is closed?  Castles?  Sites?  Pubs?  B & B's?

I think we may opt for the 5 day vagabond tour.  We have all decided that we have no interest in bus tours, but also don't really want to drive.  My parents are very laid back and I think would enjoy the activity that is offered (walks, hikes, etc.)That way, we can do the tour and then spend time after to use the train in and out of Dublin. (As I wanted to take them to Glendough, my favorite place to visit from when I lived outside of Dublin as an exchange student)