galway tourist info

THINGS TO SEE

What to see in galway.

Galway can be described as a place where stunning natural landscapes are intertwined with ancient history, culture, and heritage. With an inordinate amount of natural wonders and fascinating places to see, you’ll soon find that your biggest problem is that you simply haven’t enough time to see it all.

From majestic mountains, meandering rivers, peaceful lakes, and breathtaking Atlantic shorelines, you will find that Galway has an unparalleled splendor and natural beauty all its own. The diverse landscape of Galway offers some of the most incredible and unspoiled views that cost nothing but leave an everlasting memory.

What’s more, Galway is a place brimming with history, culture, and heritage, so it’ll come as no surprise to find impressive monuments, buildings, settlements, ruins, and more scattered throughout. See the unique dry stone walls dotted along the road as you pass, spot the castle ruins in a nearby field, sit in awe of the beautiful religious architecture, visit iconic places synonymous with Galway, and stand inside ancient stone forts on the cliff edge of Europe.

Check out some of the fantastic places to see during your stay below and explore the hidden gems, natural wonders, fascinating history, and more, as you unearth the magic of Galway, Connemara, and the Islands.

DISCOVER THE PAST

Heritage & history.

Explore ancient stone forts and settlements, centuries-old castles that have been under siege, important farming and industrial buildings from the past, influential figures in society, and much more as you unearth the fascinating heritage and history throughout Galway.

UNEARTH PLACES OF WORSHIP & BELIEFS

Religious & spiritual.

Discover century-old remains of religious and spiritual places, learn about religious and spiritual traditions of the past, and witness the incredibly detailed and beautiful architecture of religious buildings and ruins that can be found throughout Galway.

DELVE INTO THE UNIQUE, WEIRD & WONDERFUL

Places of interest.

Visit the locations used in popular feature films such as ‘The Quiet Man’ and ‘The Field’ and relive your favourite scene, see iconic places and buildings that have become synonymous with Galway, learn about some unusual attractions, and unearth the legends and rumours of local hauntings and paranormal activity.

EXPLORE THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Outdoors & recreation.

Experience the diverse and beautiful outdoors that Galway has to offer. Spend time at the Connemara National Park and climb the infamous Diamond Hill, wander through the beautiful nature reserves, parks, woodlands, and gardens, or chill out on the beautiful sandy beaches dotted along the Atlantic coastline.

SHARE WITH OTHERS

Newsletter sign up.

By subscribing to our mailing list, you agree to our Privacy Policy .

10 reasons to visit Galway City, the bohemian soul of Ireland

Oct 27, 2021 • 6 min read

The lively streets of downtown Galway © maydays / Getty

With its tangled lanes lined with colorful shopfronts curving around Galway Bay, compact Galway is one of Ireland's most picturesque cities. Bolstered by an energetic student population, it's also one of the island's most vibrant, with musicians striking up in its atmospheric pubs and busking on its streets, a seafood-driven culinary scene, a jam-packed calendar of events and a bohemian soul.

Recently bestowed the honor of European Capital of Culture 2020, here’s what gives Galway its glory.

Living history

Situated at the mouth of the River Corrib, Galway (Gaillimh in Irish) started out life as a fishing village, Claddagh, and really took off in the 13th century when it came under the Anglo-Norman rule of Richard Óg de Burgh (aka the Red Earl) and its city walls were constructed. It's likely the Spanish Arch , which protected moored merchant ships from Spain, is a remnant of the medieval walls. Another surviving portion has been incorporated in the Eyre Square Centre shopping mall. Fascinating archaeological finds are on display at the Hall of the Red Earl , a medieval tax office/courthouse/town hall whose remains were uncovered by accident in 1997. In 1396, Richard II transferred power to 14 merchant-family 'tribes'; the most powerful, the Lynch family, built Lynch's Castle , Ireland's finest town castle (now an AIB bank). More recent history – from 1800 to 1950 – is on display at the Galway City Museum , where exhibits include a traditional wooden Galway Hooker fishing boat.

To appreciate the city's storied history, book a guided tour here .

Character-filled pubs

Galway is famed far and wide for its pubs, most of which are just a crawl from the next. Join the friendly locals as they bounce from place to place, never knowing what fun lies ahead but certain of the possibility. A brilliant starting point is Tigh Neáchtain (or just Neáchtain's – pronounced 'nock-tans' – aka Naughtons), a bright-blue-painted 19th-century treasure that attracts all walks of life beneath its low ceilings and on its tree-shaded terrace. Old-school O'Connell's , with stained glass, pressed-tin ceilings and a partially covered beer garden, is another enduring gem.

Pints of 'the black stuff' (ie Guinness) are popular, of course, but be sure to look out for Galway Hooker Irish Pale Ale, a local success story brewing locally for over a decade. Whiskey specialists include laid-back Garavan's .

Galway’s brightly painted pubs heave with live music. You’ll hear high-spirited traditional tunes featuring any combination of instruments – fiddle, tin whistle, bodhrán (goat-skin hand-held drum played with beater), guitar, banjo, squeezebox and more – pouring out from inside. It's possible to catch a céilí (traditional music session and dancing, pronounced 'kay-lee') or spontaneous seisún (pronounced 'seh-shoon') virtually every night of the week. Cherry-red-colored Tig Cóilí is a fantastic place to catch music, as is the two-storeyed Crane Bar .

Bands of all genres get their break at legendary venue Róisín Dubh , which also hosts comedy. You'll catch buskers along Shop St (and its extensions, High St then Quay St) and around the Spanish Arch.

Seafaring cuisine

Seafood reigns in Galway. Terroir-focused Aniar uses local catches in many of its Michelin-starred multicourse menus. Celebrated seafood bistro Oscar's is a superb place for Galway Bay oysters. Ard Bia at Nimmo's serves local flavors like West Coast monkfish with spelt, preserved lemon, spinach and sorrel yogurt or pan-roasted Atlantic hake with braised fennel, clams, beetroot and grilled asparagus. West Coast crab (washed down with Galway Hooker) is a specialty of hip Kai Café & Restaurant . And down-to-earth McDonagh's is an essential stop for phenomenal fish and chips at its chaotically sociable communal tables.

Galway Food Tours provides a taste of the city's best artisans, purveyors and dining highlights.

Outdoor pursuits

Shoals of salmon and sea trout surge upriver at Salmon Weir in May and June; tackle shops can provide angling advice, or visit Fishing Ireland for permit information. The Corrib Princess runs cruises here in summer. Another favorite outdoor activity is a 2.5km stroll along the Prom to Salthill (be sure to kick the wall near the diving boards in true Galwegian tradition). If you just want to unwind in the sunshine, the lawns of central Eyre Square are ideal.

Timeless finds

One of the joys of wandering through Galway is stumbling across its small specialty shops selling everything from Irish-made fashion to local art and jewelry, including its Claddagh rings (with a heart, signifying love, between two hands, symbolizing friendship and topped by a crown, representing loyalty), named for the original fishing village; jewelry shops producing them include Ireland's oldest, 1750-established Thomas Dillon's Claddagh Gold . Other favorites include the warren of book-lined rooms making up Charlie Byrne's Bookshop , and P Powell & Sons and Kiernan Moloney , both selling traditional Irish musical instruments.

Fabulous markets

A local gathering point, Galway's festive street market has set up on Church lane by St Nicholas' Church for centuries. Saturdays (8am to 6pm) are especially lively, with scores of stalls selling farm-fresh produce, arts, crafts and sizzling up ready-to-eat snacks such as curries and crêpes. There's also a market on Sundays (plus bank holidays, Fridays in July and August and every day during the Galway Arts Festival) from noon to 6pm. On sunny days especially, buskers give the markets a carnival atmosphere. In December, from 9am to 6pm from the 14th until Christmas Eve, stalls glow with candles and fairy lights during Galway's enchanting Christmas market.

Year-round celebrations

Galway is festive any time of year but especially during its annual celebrations (when you'll need to book accommodation well ahead). Standouts include late March's Galway Food Festival , with markets, food trails and family activities; late April's poetry- and prose-filled Cúirt International Festival of Literature ; mid-July's Galway Arts Festival and Ireland's leading film festival, the Galway Film Fleadh ; horse racing and high fashion at the uproarious Galway Race Week , starting on the last Monday in July; and late September's long-running Galway Oyster & Seafood Festival . Live music invariably provides the soundtrack.

Part of the Wild Atlantic Way , Galway is on the doorstep of some of Ireland's most spectacular scenery. Easy day trips from the city include the evocative Connemara region, with its fissured coastline, undulating bogs, empty valleys and slate-toned lakes (plus peat fire-warmed pubs), along with the plunging Cliffs of Moher and the rocky, moonscape Burren . You can find guided trips here . Offshore, the Aran Islands are a boat ride or light-plane flight away.

You might also like: Dos and don'ts in Ireland Quick escapes from Ireland's liveliest cities Gastronomic Galway – 10 of the best dining experiences in Galway City

This article was first published Sep 28, 2016 and updated Oct 27, 2021.

Explore related stories

Mar 30, 2024 • 11 min read

What makes Ireland a truly special place are those intangible moments that stay with you long after you’ve gone home. Here are 15 ways to find them.

Mar 13, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 7, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 5, 2024 • 9 min read

Jan 29, 2024 • 7 min read

Jul 19, 2023 • 5 min read

Mar 16, 2023 • 12 min read

Feb 17, 2023 • 6 min read

Oct 5, 2022 • 8 min read

Feb 9, 2022 • 4 min read

• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 2.5 By boat
• 10.1 Budget
• 10.2.1 Bed and breakfasts
• 10.2.2 Hotels
• 10.3 Splurge
• 11 Stay safe

Galway ( Irish : Gaillimh ) is the county town of County Galway on the west coast of Ireland. It's Ireland's fourth largest city, with a population in 2024 of 85,000, but its historic centre on the east bank of the River Corrib is compact and colourful. Popularised on the world stage by Ed Sheeran's song, Galway Girl , Galway is a party town with live music and revellers spilling onto its pedestrianised central street. It's also a base for exploring the scenic surrounding county.

Galway (jointly with Rijeka ) was the " European Capital of Culture " for 2020.

Understand [ edit ]

Galway expanded from a small fishing village from the 13th century, when the Anglo-Normans captured the area and built a fortified city. A charter of 1396 granted power to 14 merchant families, and this elite would later be mocked by Cromwell as "tribes" - hence the nickname "City of the Tribes". This illustrious 14, now immortalised in the names of the city roundabouts, were Athy, Blake, Bodkin, Browne, D'arcy, Deane, Font, ffrench, Joyce, Kirwan, Lynch, Martin, Morris, and Skerritt. All but two were Anglo-Norman rather than Gaelic. They're often described as an oligarchy, cartel or cabal, but by medieval standards 14 influential families operating an urban centre looks positively diverse. Imagine the Medici welcoming the Borgias and Sforzas to Florence: "Sure the city is big enough for all of us, and let's bring in the Albizzi, the Alberti...." They prospered through trade with Spain and Portugal, and by loyalty to the Crown, but that was the reason for Cromwell besieging and smashing the city. They recovered somewhat during the Restoration, but fell forever with the ousting of the catholic Stuart monarchy. Under the Hanoverian kings, power and fortune throughout Ireland centred on a tight little "Protestant Ascendancy", just to show everyone what a cartel or cabal really looks like. Sea trade also moved away to Dublin and Waterford. Galway stagnated until the 20th century, recovering slowly with independence, and more rapidly later with growth in students and in tourists. It's now a lively, buzzing colourful city that again feels well-connected to the rest of the world.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

• Dublin ( DUB  IATA ) has the widest selection of flights across Europe and UK, then you have a 3-4 hour journey to Galway.
• Shannon ( SNN  IATA ) has UK and European flights though not as many as Dublin, but is well-connected to the USA with pre-border clearance.
• Knock ( NOC  IATA ) has few flights, you'd only consider it for a road trip through Connaught and other northwestern areas.

The airports all have car hire, best reserved in advance, and see below for onward public transport to Galway.

The existence of Galway Airport was almost as short as its runway: commercial flights ceased in 2011 and private aviation ceased in 2015.

By train [ edit ]

• From Dublin Heuston there are ten trains M-Sa, six on Sunday, taking 2 hr 30 min via Athlone . Buy your ticket to or from Dublin city centre not Heuston, as this will include the city tram fare and save a couple of euros over separate tickets.
• From Limerick Colbert five trains run M-Sa, four on Sunday, via Ennis taking two hours. Limerick has connections from Cork .

By bus [ edit ]

• From Dublin there's competition, with Aircoach 706, GoBus 720 and Citylink 660 / 760 / 761 all taking 2 hr 30 min from Dublin airport and city, plus Citylink 763 also stopping in Athlone and Ballinasloe.
• From Limerick and Clare Bus X51 runs hourly nonstop from Limerick city to Galway, 80 min, while Bus 51 runs hourly from Cork via Mallow, Limerick, Shannon Airport, Ennis and Gort to Galway.
• From the north Bus 64 runs every two hours from Derry via Letterkenny , Donegal Town , Sligo and Knock Airport to Galway.
• Operators include Bus Éireann , CityLink and GoBus .

53.274 -9.048 1 Galway railway and bus station are side by side in Eyre Square. The railway ticket office is open M-F 07:00-18:00 and there are ticket machines and toliets. CityLink and GoBus buses use the coach station 100 m further north. The railway station is officially called "Ceannt" for Éamonn Ceannt, executed in 1916 for his part in the Easter Rising.

By car [ edit ]

• From Dublin take the toll motorway M4 west then M6 to the city's edge, maybe 2 hours depending on traffic.
• Parking is expensive. If your accommodation doesn't offer any, there's long-stay parking by the cathedral for a flat fee of €5/day.
• By thumb: outbound, ask around at your accommodation, there might well be a lift going towards Dublin. Otherwise head for Galway shopping centre: all the major routes branch out from the roundabouts here.

By boat [ edit ]

• For the Aran Islands , a connecting bus runs to Rossaveal the ferry port 38 km west. Ferries also sail from Doolin in County Clare, linked by an occasional bus from Galway. This means you don't have to go there and back the same way.
• India, or is it America? As a young merchant Christopher Columbus travelled in Europe before his transatlantic journey, and in 1476 he landed in Bristol then Galway. He may have continued to Iceland; in 1477 he settled in Lisbon. He was intrigued later to hear that two bodies washed up at Galway appeared to be Indian. This reinforced his belief (as he lacked a reliable internet travel guide such as Wikivoyage) that he could reach the Indies by sailing west.

Get around [ edit ]

• Walk: Central Galway is easily accessible on foot, and Salthill is a pleasant 30 minute walk from the centre, down the Prom to Blackrock.
• Taxis: there are ranks in Eyre Square and Bridge Street. Fares are nationally regulated and taxis must use the meter. As of March 2021, fares M-Sa 08:00 to 20:00 are €3.80 flagfall then €1.14-1.50 per km, 20:00 to 08:00 and Sunday €4.20 flagfall then €1.45-1.80 per km. In slow traffic or if asked to wait they charge by the minute, 40-50 cents.
• Try not to bring a car into town, it's congested and has limited, expensive parking. Central parking lots include Dyke Road and at the Cathedral.

Bus Éireann operate a frequent city bus network in Galway, consisting of seven routes:

• Route 401 provides a cross-city service from Salthill in the southwest to Parkmore Industrial Estate in the northeast, daily, every 20 minutes.
• Route 402 provides a cross-city service from Shangort Road in the west to Merlin Park University Hospital in the east, every 30 minutes Monday to Saturday and every 60 minutes on Sundays.
• Route 404 provides a cross-city service from Newcastle in the northwest to Oranmore in the southeast, daily every 30 minutes.
• Route 405 provides a cross-city service from Rahoon in the west to Ballybane Industrial Estate in the northeast, every 20 minutes Monday to Saturday and every 40 minutes on Sundays.
• Route 407 provides a service from Eyre Square in the city centre to Bóthar an Chóiste in the north, every 30 minutes Monday to Saturday and every 60 minutes on Sundays.
• Route 409 provides a frequent service from Eyre Square in the city centre to Parkmore Industrial Estate in the northeast, every 10 minutes Monday to Saturday, and every 15 minutes on Sundays.
• Route 424 provides a service from Eyre Square in the city centre to Barna in the west, 12 times per day Monday to Friday, 11 times on Saturdays and 5 times on Sundays.

City Direct also operate a frequent bus network on the western side of the city, consisting of four routes:

• Route 410 provides a service from Cappagh Road in the west via Salthill to Eyre Square in the city centre, every 60 minutes Monday to Saturday, with no service on Sundays.
• Route 411 provides a service from Cappagh Road in the west via Westside to Eyre Square in the city centre, daily every 30 minutes.
• Route 412 provides a service from Cappagh Road in the west via Gateway Retail Park to Eyre Square in the city centre, every 30 minutes Monday to Friday, with no service on Saturdays or Sundays.
• Route 414 provides a service from Barna in the west via Lombard Street to Eyre Square in the city centre, twice per day Monday to Friday, with no service on Saturdays or Sundays.

A map of the combined city bus network (Bus Éireann and City Direct) is available here . All routes connect with each other at Eyre Square in the city centre. Note that this map is a little out of date and route 403 has since become an extension of route 401, which now runs west-east across the city.

Cash fares on the Bus Éireann network are €2.40-2.80 adult and €1.40-1.70 child, while if paying with a TFI Leap Card are €1.68-1.96 adult and €0.98-1.19 child. On TFI Leap Card, 24 hour, 7 day and monthly tickets are also available.

Cash fares on the City Direct network are €2.50-3.50 adult and €1.00-1.50 child, while if paying with a TFI Leap Card are €2.00 adult and €1.40 child. Weekly and monthly tickets are also available.

See [ edit ]

• The historic spine of the city leads from Eyre Square southwest to the river, called William Street then Shop Street then High Street then Quay Street. It's all pedestrianised, an agreeable stroll from park to pub to pub to eating place to pub. At the top of Shop Street, 53.273188 -9.052186 2 Lynch's Castle is a fine medieval town house, once home to the Lynch dynasty. But it's now a branch of Allied Irish Banks: you're welcome to look in during opening hours but there's not much to see.

• 53.270885 -9.052186 5 Hall of the Red Earl ( Halla an Iarla Rua ), Druid Lane . 24 hours . The Hall is the earliest medieval structure to be seen within the walls of the city. It was built by the de Burgo family in the 13th century and was the main municipal building, acting as town hall, court house and tax collection office. But a fragment is all that remains, protected behind glass, and it won't take a minute to see. The modern building adjoining is the base of Galway Civic Trust, and their guided walks through the city (see "Do") start here. Free . ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.273 -9.055 8 Nora Barnacle's house is at 8 Bowling Green. Nora (1884-1951) grew up in Galway and came to live here with her mother who'd separated from the drunkard father. Her boyfriends had a habit of dying, so she left for Dublin where in 1904 she met James Joyce, and "knew him at once for just another Dublin jackeen chatting up a country girl". Soon she would have cause to bemoan his drinking, hanging about with artistic ne'er-do-wells, spendthrift ways, obscure nonsensical writing style, and his demands for English puddings. They lived mostly in Trieste and Paris then Zurich, where James died and Nora lived out her own final years. The house in Galway is a small museum of Joyce memorabilia (including letters, but not the hotties) but is closed in 2020.

• River Corrib flows for 6 km south from Lough Corrib to enter Galway Bay. In 1178 the friars of Clairegalway cut a new channel out of the lough, east of the original outflow, and this became the main course of the river. It passes the ruin of Menlo Castle to reach the northwest edge of the city at a salmon weir: watch them swim upriver in early summer. The last km of river is very fast, great for driving waterwheels but not navigable, so the 53.276 -9.061 10 Eglinton Canal was cut in the 19th century, with swing bridges, locks, and side-races for mills. The swing bridges have been replaced by fixed bridges so the canal is no longer navigable except by kayak.
• 53.278542 -9.060529 11 University Quad . Daily 08:00-21:00 . This was the original quadrangle of the college that opened in 1849 and became one of the three colleges of Queens University of Ireland (the others being Belfast and Cork). Since 1997 it's been known as the National University of Ireland Galway. The Quad buildings are in mock Tudor Gothic style modelled on Oxford's Christ Church, so their aspirations are clear. They're nowadays the admin offices of a huge modern campus stretching from the river and canal to Newcastle Road, then continuing west of that as University Hospital. Free . ( updated May 2020 )
• The medieval fort and walled city of Galway stood east of the river, controlled by the Anglo-Normans, with "No damned Irish here!" signs at its gates. The Irish were kept in their place in a village just west of the river outlet, An Cladach , the shore. Jewellers also worked there, hence the name of the ring. Nothing remains of that village so the present Claddagh neighbourhood is modern.
• 53.262603 -9.070556 12 The Promenade is the main shoreline attraction, stretching for 2 km into Salthill. Traditionally you turned around once you'd kicked the wall at the two-level diving platform at the junction of Threadneedle Rd. Lots of pubs and B&Bs along here. It's long been hoped to extend the promenade west to Silverstrand, and to reinforce the crumbling coast against sea erosion. By 2015 this plan had reached design stage, but with no prospect of the funding that would enable it to go to tender, and it's all gone very quiet since then. So you can pick your own way along the headland west of Salthill but there's no paved prom.
• 53.259838 -9.074062 13 Galway Atlantaquaria , Seapoint Promenade, Salthill H91 T2FD , ☏ +353 91 585 100 , [email protected] . M-F 10:00-17:00, Sa Su 10:00-18:00 . Large aquarium that majors on local marine life, so you will see sharks, but they're Irish sharks and proud of it. Staff display the various beasties: care to cuddle a huge crab? Adult €13, child €8.50 . ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.254 -9.055 14 Mutton Island is connected to the mainland at Claddagh by a one-km causeway. (Don't confuse it with Mutton Island off Quilty in County Clare.) It's popular for wedding photos taking in the lighthouse foreground and cityscape background, while artfully avoiding the sewage plant.

• 53.28 -8.998 15 Merlin or Doughiskey is a turret in wooded parkland 3 km east of city centre.
• 53.296 -9.074 16 Menlo is the ivy-shrouded stump you see from the river. By road it's a bit of a scramble over a padlocked gate and down an unsigned track.
• 53.298 -9.022 17 Castlegar means "short castle", which may refer to its structure or because it was used as a short-stay annexe by Menlo Castle. The name's even more accurate nowadays.
• 53.309 -9.028 18 Ballindooley is a turret along Headford Road N84 near Castlegar. Slow down for a look but it's hardly worth stopping.
• 53.313 -8.979 19 Killeen is a 15th century towerhouse that has been restored and is now a private residence.
• 53.323 -8.988 20 Cloonacauneen is a restored 15th-century towerhouse that's now a restaurant, often booked for weddings.
• Ballybrit is a turret just south of the racecourse, so if you've brought your racing binoculars you can save trudging across the field.
• Dunguaire: see Ballyvaughan for this plush place in Kinvarra south of the bay just before the boundary with County Clare.

Do [ edit ]

• What's on? Listen to Galway Bay Radio on 95.8 FM, or read This is Galway , or the Galway Advertiser online or in print (free) on Thursdays.
• Walk: Stroll along the banks of the River Corrib and the Eglington Canal, or along the promenade to the diving platform at Salthill, or out along the causeway to Mutton Island.
• 53.276198 -9.054004 1 Town Hall Theatre , 1 Courthouse Square H91 VF21 , ☏ +353 91 569 777 (Box Office) . The THT features plays, music, dance, comedy and of course panto. They run three venues: the main auditorium is only 400 seats, so it's cosy and suits many performances but is a bit small for grand occasions. Studio Space also in the square is 52 seats. Black Box, 500 m north on Dykes Road, has 600 seats and is more suitable for a rock concert. ( updated May 2020 )
• Druid Theatre is a small independent theatre at Flood St towards the Quays.
• Taibhdhearc na Gaillimhe , 19 An tSráid Láir (Middle St), Gaillimh H91 RX76 , ☏ +353 91 562 024 . Box Office Tu-F 10:00-17:00, Sa 12:00-17:00 . This is an Irish language theatre, which has produced some of Ireland's most celebrated actors. ( updated May 2020 )

• 53.278 -9.055 2 River cruises , Waterside, Galway , ☏ +353 91 563 846 . May-Sep: daily 12:30 and 14:30, and Jul Aug: Su-F 16:30 . Corrib Princess is a 157-seat river boat that sails from Woodhead Quay, east bank of the river just above the weir, for 90 min cruises up the Corrib into the lough. Adult €17 . ( updated May 2020 )
• Kayaking is a choice of gentle paddles on the upper river and lough, sea kayaking, and white water on the lower Corrib right in the heart of the city. The white water flow depends on recent rainfall and the status of the locks above. There's a standing wave at O'Brien's Bridge to test your sense of humour, and the Eglinton Canal rejoins the river at the Jury Drop: it faces Jurys Inn Hotel, where onlookers can express their verdict on your skill.
• Rugby Union: Connacht Rugby are one of the four Irish professional teams playing in the United Rugby Championship (formerly Pro14), the European and predominantly Celtic tournament. Their home stadium is The Sportsground, capacity 8000, a mile northeast of the centre.
• Gaelic games: the County GAA team plays Gaelic football and hurling at Pearse Stadium (capacity 26,200), in Salthill 2 km southwest of city centre.
• Football: Galway United were promoted in 2023 and now play soccer in the Premier Division, the Republic's second tier. Their stadium is Eamonn Deacy Park (capacity 5000) 1 km north of city centre. The playing season is March-Nov with games usually on Friday evening.
• Galway International Arts Festival features music, theatre and exhibitions for two weeks in late July. The next is July 15–28 2024.

Learn [ edit ]

• The National University of Ireland , Galway.
• Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology , Galway.

Buy [ edit ]

• Eyre Square Centre is the big mall next to the railway and bus stations. The shopping area runs south from the square to the river, as Williams St, Shop St, High St, Mainguard St and Quay St. The old buildings and busy atmosphere make it an attractive area to stroll.
• Middle Street, parallel to Shop Street, is good for creative independent outlets, including the Irish-speaking theatre "An Taibhdhearc," the Cocoon designer studio, Charlie Byrne's Bookshop and Kenny's gallery / bookshop.
• Galway Market is in Church Lane next to St Nicholas Church. It's open Sa 08:00-18:00, Su 14:00-18:00.
• Sheridan's Cheesemongers on Kirwans Lane is a great place to get wine, pates, bread, and of course cheese.

Eat [ edit ]

• See "Buy" above for Eyre Square supermarket and Galway Market.
• 53.271353 -9.053377 1 Kirby's , 3-5 Cross St Lower H91 FX30 , ☏ +353 91 569 404 . Daily 12:00-22:30 . Great food and service for a good price. ( updated May 2020 )
• McCambridges , 38-39 Shop St H91 T2N7 ( off Eyre Square ), ☏ +353 91 562 259 . M-Sa 08:00-19:00, Su 10:00-18:00 . Deli food hall downstairs does take away sandwiches, upstairs restaurant serves good sit-down meals. ( updated May 2020 )
• Fat Freddy's , The Halls, 15 Quay St , ☏ +353 91 567 279 , [email protected] . Daily 12:00-22:00 . Longest established cheap-and-cheerful place: pizza, burgers, and the like. ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.271 -9.054 2 McDonagh's , 22 Quay St H91 N902 , ☏ +353 91 565 001 . M-Sa 12:00-23:00, Su 14:00-21:00 . Famous fish and chip shop, takeaway or eat either at the communal cafe tables or in the restaurant. ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.27513 -9.052711 3 McSwiggans , 3 Eyre St , ☏ +353 91 568 917 , [email protected] . Daily 12:00-22:30 . Big restaurant on the two floors above the bar but rightly popular and gets crowded. Traditional fare. ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.269557 -9.053781 4 Ard Bia at Nimmo's , Spanish Arch, Long Walk H91 E9XA , ☏ +353 91 561 114 , [email protected] . Cafe Tu-Su 10:00-15:30; restaurant Tu-Sa 18:00-22:00 . Delicious food and atmosphere, gets rave reviews. Restaurant is a splurge and you'd better book, cafe brunch is less pricey. ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.27 -9.058 5 Oscar's Seafood Bistro , 36 Dominick Street Lower H91 V253 , ☏ +353 91 582 180 . M-Sa 17:30-21:30 . Gets rave reviews for its seafood, vegans also catered for. ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.259 -9.076 6 O'Reilly's ( formerly Lohans ), 232 Upper Salthill Road H91 PTD9 , ☏ +353 91 522 610 , [email protected] . Daily 09:30-21:00 . Mostly traditional Irish fare with a leavening of Med dishes. ( updated May 2020 )
• Grain & Grill is within Maldron Hotel, see Sleep. Serves food daily 08:00-21:00.
• Others worth trying are Finnegans on Market St, Kirwan's Lane Seafood, and Goya's bakery next door for cakes.

Drink [ edit ]

• Galway Hooker is the local beer, brewed since 2014 at Oranmore at the head of Galway Bay. It's a chemical-free pale ale: "We couldn't afford chemicals." They don't do brewery tours but the product is widely available.
• An Pucan , 11 Forster St H91 P65D ( by railway and bus stations ), ☏ +353 91 376 561 . Lively bar with music and dancing, it's the food that reviewers seem most to enjoy. ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.2726 -9.0529 1 Taaffes Pub , 19 Shop St . Daily 10:30-00:30 . Great authentic Irish experience. You can find trad music there almost any night and there's a friendly atmosphere. Food only to 17:00. ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.272167 -9.053281 2 King's Head , 15 High Street H91 AY6P , ☏ +353 91 567 866 . Daily 11:00-22:00 . Bar with restaurant on three floors, often has live music. ( updated May 2020 )
• Freeneys , 19 High St H91 TD79 ( next to King's Head ). Daily 10:30-23:30 . Fine traditional pub, often much quieter than its neighbours midweek, indeed at first glance from the street it doesn't look like a pub. They pour a good Guinness but where Freeney's excels is in its collection of Irish whiskeys. ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.271399 -9.054048 3 Tigh Neachtain , 17 Cross St ( The bright cornflower-blue one, corner with Quay St ), ☏ +353 91 568 820 . Su-Th 10:30-23:30, F Sa 10:30-00:30 . A local favourite: good grub, whiskey and atmosphere. ( updated May 2020 )
• Busker Brownes , 5 Cross St Upper H91 FX30 ( part of Kirby's Restaurant ), ☏ +353 91 563 377 . M-Sa 10:00-02:00, Su 12:00-02:00 . Four bars: the original Busker's and Slatehouse, while the large Hall and small Mezzanine bars are often booked for events. Also, Kirby's upstairs turns into a late bar after dinner. Live bands nightly from 22:30. Decent bar food. ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.27116 -9.053922 4 The Quays , 11 Quay Street , ☏ +353 91 568 347 . M-Th 09:00-00:30, F-Su 09:00-03:00 . Lively pub, the interior is done up like a church. Also calls itself a "gastropub" (which frankly it's not, you won't starve but few visitors rate the food) and a "music hall" which is on the mark, there's always live folk and other styles of music. ( updated May 2020 )
• Monroe's , 14 Dominick Street Upper H91 WD2H ( white frontage is very prominent from Spanish Arch ), ☏ +353 91 583 397 . M-Th 10:00-23:30, F Sa 10:00-02:30, Su 12:00-23:30 . Has traditional music every night and set dancing on Tuesdays. ( updated May 2020 )
• Roisin Dubh , 9 Dominick Street Upper H91 X266 ( opposite Oscar's Restaurant ), ☏ +353 91 586 540 . Su-Th 15:00-00:00, F Sa 15:00-01:00 . Pub with two stages, mostly alternative and rock gigs and comedy. ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.269865 -9.060383 5 The Crane Bar , 2 Sea Rd H91 YP97 , ☏ +353 91 587 419 . M-Th 10:30-23:30, F 10:30-01:00, Sa 12:30-01:00, Su 12:30-23:30 . Great pub, music nightly: trad downstairs or various styles upstairs, where you need to grab your seat not much after 21:00. Bar is cash only. ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.272 -9.062 6 Cookes Thatch Bar , 2 Newcastle Rd ( near University Hospital ), ☏ +353 91 521 749 . Daily 12:30-23:00 . The last thatched pub in Galway city, dating back to the 1600s. (Within the county are Powers at Oughterad, and Morans at Kilcolgan). Has trad music on Wednesday and Sunday nights. ( updated May 2020 )
• Others worth a look: Blue Note on West William St, Tigh Chóilí on Mainguard St, and Front Door on Cross St.

Sleep [ edit ]

As Galway is a popular destination, there's a large selection of accommodation in all price brackets.

Budget [ edit ]

Where else would you find so many decent hostels right in the centre? In any other city, the chain business hotels and financial firms would have bought the land from under them.

• Snoozles Hostel ( formerly Barnacles ), 10 Quay St H91 FXY4 , ☏ +353 91 568 644 , fax : +353 91 568 644 , [email protected] . Basic hostel in quirky 400-year old building has dorms and private rooms, sleeps 110. They've another branch on Forster St (sleeps 130) which is far more expensive. Dorm €20 . ( updated May 2020 )
• Galway City Hostel , Frenchville Lane, Eyre Square , ☏ +353 91 535 878 , [email protected] . Very central hostel, upgraded in Nov 2019, clean and well-run. A bit cramped for storage. Dorm €20 ppn includes breakfast . ( updated May 2020 )
• Kinlay House Hostel , Merchants Road, Eyre Square H91 F2KT , ☏ +353 91 565 244 , fax : +353 91 565 245 , [email protected] . Affordable, clean and central hostel, refurbished in Jan 2020. Dorm €30 . ( updated May 2020 )
• Sleepzone , Bóthar Na mBan H91 TD66 ( 200 m north of Eyre Square ), ☏ +353 91 566 999 , [email protected] . 200-bed hostel, clean and well-run. In summer they run tours to Connemara and The Burren, which have affiliated hostels. Dorm €30 ppn . ( updated May 2020 )
• Woodquay Hostel , 23/24 Woodquay H91 P8RP , ☏ +353 91 562 618 , [email protected] . Woodquay Hostel is a small, friendly independent hostel in the city of Galway. One of the oldest hostels in the town, with a great reputation. Dorms €15 ppn . ( updated Aug 2020 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

Bed and breakfasts [ edit ]

Even by Irish standards, Galway has a ridiculous abundance of B&Bs. Two clusters are on College Road by the lough, within 1 km of the centre, and in Salthill where you'll probably want your own car.

• 53.273262 -9.062357 1 Desota House B&B , 54 Newcastle Road, Cookes Corner H91 F5Y3 , ☏ +353 91 585 064 . Six rooms all en suite. No children. B&B double €130 . ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.26 -9.088 2 Rockbarton House Hotel , 5-7 Rockbarton Park, Salthill H91 F68E , ☏ +353 91 522 286 . Called a hotel but really a comfy small B&B near Blackrock Beach, excellent hostess. ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.258984 -9.090263 3 Coolin House B&B , Threadneedle St, Salthill H91 K2N9 , ☏ +353 91 523 411 . Small B&B open Apr-Oct, has private parking. B&B double €90 . ( updated May 2020 )
• Marless House , 8 Threadneedle Rd, Salthill H91 AK85 ( next to Coolin House ), ☏ +353 91 523 931 . A Georgian-style family home in a quiet residential area, Great welcome, and rooms cosy and immaculate. B&B double €90 . ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.258418 -9.102011 4 Claremount House B&B , Upper Salthill Rd H91 DT99 , ☏ +353 91 584 741 . Family-run B&B next to Galway Golf Club and Salthill Promenade. All rooms are en suite, great welcome and service. B&B double €100 . ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.277686 -9.040363 5 Asgard Guesthouse , 21 College Rd H91 XR8P , ☏ +353 91 566 855 , [email protected] . Pleasant B&B by lough 500 m from city center. Rooms small but clean and comfy, free Wi-Fi. B&B double €90 . ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.276091 -9.004658 6 Almara House , 2 Merlin Gate, Old Dublin Rd H91 R2V8 ( 3 km east of centre ), ☏ +353 91 755 435 , [email protected] . Clean B&B with friendly helpful hosts. B&B double €100 . ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.265445 -9.072269 7 Tara House , 138 Salthill Road Lower H91 P400 , ☏ +353 91 527 966 . Clean friendly B&B with private car park. En suite rooms have TV, wifi, hairdryer, ironing, tea and coffee making facilities. Ground floor accommodation available. B&B double €120 . ( updated May 2020 )

Hotels [ edit ]

• 53.270759 -9.054586 8 Jurys Inn , Quay St H91 E8D7 , ☏ +353 91 566 444 , [email protected] . Good mid-range chain, great service. B&B double €150 . ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.287936 -9.046892 9 Menlo Park Hotel , Headford Rd H91 E98N , ☏ +353 91 761 122 . Hotel with 54 rooms in quiet area 2 km from centre, friendly staff and lovely rooms. B&B double €130 . ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.283 -9.036 10 Travelodge Galway , Joyce Roundabout, Tuam Road H91 HX8Y , ☏ +353 91 781 400 , fax : +353 91 781 798 , [email protected] . Reliable chain hotel, great service, 1.5 km from centre. ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.267 -9.068 11 Wards Hotel , 17 Lower Salthill Rd H91 NY13 , ☏ +353 91 581 508 . Basic small hotel, usually clean but sometimes smelly. ( updated May 2020 )
• Galmont Hotel ( formerly Radisson Blu ), Lough Atalia Rd H91 CYN3 , ☏ +353 91 538 300 . Good modern hotel overlooking the lough, short walk to city centre. B&B double €110 . ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.286025 -9.045067 12 Maldron Hotel , Sandy Road, Headford Point H91 ET6N , ☏ +353 91 513 200 , [email protected] . Modern hotel 1.5 km north of centre. Free car parking and easy access from M6 and M17. B&B double €160 . ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.28 -9.022 13 Connacht Hotel , Old Dublin Road H91 K5DD , ☏ +353 91 381 200 , [email protected] . Good modern hotel two km east of centre. Onsite dining, coffee shop and meeting rooms. Free parking (though limited) and free Wi-Fi. B&B double €150 . ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.27105 -9.05415 14 Residence Hotel ( formerly Spanish Arch Hotel ), 14 Quay Street H91 P628 , ☏ +353 91 569600 , [email protected] . Boutique hotel in Latin Quarter. 20 bedrooms. Good ratings for comfort and service, but there's often loud music downstairs until 02:00. Double (room only) €150 . ( updated May 2020 )

Splurge [ edit ]

The plentiful mid-range options mean that the upscale group are cheaper than in many other cities. Most are clustered around Eyre Square and adjoining Forster Street very close to the bus and railway stations; this area is often noisy on weekend nights. There's a scattering further out.

• Eyre Square Hotel , 8 / 10 Forster Street H91 TCP0 , ☏ +353 91 569633 . Very central comfy 3-star hotel. It doesn't have parking, but is next to bus and railway station. B&B double €190 . ( updated May 2020 )
• Hyde Hotel ( The Forster Court Hotel ), Forster Street H91 PY7E ( just north of Eyre Square ), ☏ +353 91 564 111 , [email protected] . Stylish boutique hotel with restaurant. Very central, occasional street noise. B&B double €160 . ( updated May 2020 )
• The Hardiman ( formerly Meyrick Hotel ), 14 / 15 Eyre Square H91 NFD2 , ☏ +353 91 564 041 . Victorian hotel, the modern rooms are good, but the older rooms are a bit, well, old. Service standards variable. B&B double €180 . ( updated May 2020 )
• Imperial Hotel , 35 Eyre Square H91 X529 , ☏ +353 91 563 033 . Comfy central hotel, great service, some noise from the square. B&B double €170 . ( updated May 2020 )
• Park House Hotel , 18 Forster St H91 PCF8 , ☏ +353 91 564 924 . Grand old place, clean and friendly. Very central, ask for a back room if you're bothered about street noise. Parking may be available. B&B double €200 . ( updated May 2020 )
• Victoria Hotel , Victoria Place H91 KVW0 ( off Eyre Square ), ☏ +353 91 567 433 . Central 3-star hotel, under renovation in spring 2020. B&B double €170 . ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.282072 -9.032961 15 G Hotel , Old Dublin Road H91 V0HR , ☏ +353 91 865 200 . Swanky five-star hotel, 1 km from centre, with spa. Great comfort and service. B&B double €250 . ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.258214 -9.084921 16 Galway Bay Hotel , The Promenade, Salthill Rd Lower H91 W295 , ☏ +353 91 514 644 . Great service, rooms dated but comfy enough. Has a spa and leisure centre. B&B double €180 . ( updated May 2020 )
• 53.258638 -9.087299 17 Salthill Hotel , Promenade, Salthill H91 DD4V , ☏ +353 91 522 711 . Good spacious hotel with leisure centre and pool. B&B double €200 . ( updated May 2020 )

Stay safe [ edit ]

Galway is a safe town by any standards, but give the swerve to damnfool drunks.

Connect [ edit ]

As of April 2021, Galway has 5G with all Irish carriers.

Go next [ edit ]

• South across Galway Bay is County Clare , and the spare limestone terrain of The Burren , which meets the Atlantic at the Cliffs of Moher .
• If you wish to hear Irish being spoken as a first language, visit towns like Carna, An Spidéal, Carraroe, Barna, all west of Galway City in the Connemara area. English is also spoken in these towns if you are not confident enough to speak Irish just yet, but as a visitor you can appreciate hearing the Irish language being spoken in one of the few areas where it is a thriving first spoken language and has priority over English.
• The Aran Islands are reached by ferry from Connemara.

• UNESCO Creative Cities
• Has custom banner
• Has map markers
• Has mapframe
• Maps with non-default size
• Listing with Wikipedia link but not Wikidata link
• Do listing with no coordinates
• Eat listing with no coordinates
• Drink listing with no coordinates
• Sleep listing with no coordinates
• Has Geo parameter
• County Galway
• All destination articles
• Usable cities
• Usable articles
• City articles
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

Are you sure you want to leave the feed?

Oops... something went wrong!

Looking for inspiration? Planning a trip? Or just want to scroll yourself happy? We'll show you an Ireland that's tailor-made for you.

• #Landscapes
• #CultureandHeritage
• #OutdoorActivities

Oops... no internet connection

While offline, you can still add items to My board. New travel reccomendations will only show up once you’re back online.

See what Ireland has in store for you

Items without a physical location are not shown in map view.

Looks like your board is empty

Look out for the little heart icon around Ireland.com. Simply tap the heart to add items to your board!

Board settings

Collection cover image.

Visible to people you share your board with

Share board

Share a link to your My Ireland board and inspire friends, fellow travellers and family. Only you can add or remove items from your board.

Sign in Sign up Forgot your password?

Create an account.

Access My Ireland across all your devices by logging in.

Sign up Not got an account?

Terms of use | Privacy policy

Login Got an account?

Location access

• View offers and deals nearby
• Find travel inspiration based on your location
• Get local weather forecasts and essential information

Enable location access

Location access on ios.

• 1 Open the website settings for this website in your browser.
• 2 Select Location settings.
• 3 Choose Allow.
• 1 Open the My Ireland website.

• 2 Select the icon below.

• 3 Select Website Settings.

• 4 Change Location status to Allow.

Notifications

Travel times.

Tell us when you are travelling to Ireland and we'll show you tailored reccomendations during of your trip.

• Recommended events during your stay
• Helpful travel reminders and updates

You have unsaved changes. Save before leaving?

We take your privacy very seriously and only ever process your data with your permission. If possible this is handled anonymously and we will never store your data for longer than is required. For more information on how we handle your personal data, please read our privacy policy.

Remove data

To securely remove all data associated with your profile, please contact our Data Protection Officer.

Reset your board

This will remove all the items you have previously liked from your board. Please note, you can’t undo this action.

Are you sure you want to reset your board?

• Created date 19 July 2023

Delete account

Sorry you’re leaving. Just a reminder – if you delete your account, you won’t be able to post in Community. And it’s permanent so you can’t undo it in the future.

Delete your account

• No. Keep my account
• Yes. Delete my account

Destination

Galway city

Galway is laid back, relaxed and ready for a party.

• #CityBreaks
• #WildAtlanticWay

Ireland in your inbox

Sign up to receive free email newsletters from Tourism Ireland, including regular tailored updates on holiday ideas and insider tips.

We will use your email address to send you personalised content straight to your inbox based on how you interact with this website and our advertisements on other websites.

Something went wrong...

Success! Thank you for subscribing to our Newsletter!

I understand that by signing up, I will receive personalised email content based on my use of Tourism Ireland’s website, emails and Tourism Ireland’s advertising on other websites, cookies and tracking pixels. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking 'unsubscribe' in our emails. Find out more information on "How we handle your personal data" in our privacy policy .

A balmy, bohemian city with a love of traditional music – Galway  is hard to resist. The spirit of Ireland’s west coast beats through the bustling streets, from mellow old pubs boasting turf and cosy corners, to shops selling Claddagh rings, Aran sweaters  and bog-oak carvings.

On the flipside, you’ll find boundary-pushing chefs who are passionate about local ingredients, chic design stores, rolling street music and a seriously vibrant film scene (Galway is a UNESCO City of Film).

Visit during one of its famous festivals such as the Galway Oyster Festival , the Galway Arts Festival or the Galway Film Festival , and it genuinely feels like the entire city is one big party. But there are plenty of tranquil moments to be cherished in this medieval gem, too. Wander down age-old alleys, walk the coastal promenade to the seaside town of Salthill, or stroll over one of the River Corrib’s four bridges. Either way, stay a while, you won’t be sorry.

Galway bay, Galway city

Amazing things to do

Charming old pubs, local markets, superior seafood and bracing coastal walks – let Galway get under your skin.

It’s all about local ingredients in Galway – find out what inspires Jess Murphy, head chef at Kai Café and Restaurant.

Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival

Galway tastes amazing

Galway boasts some of the best oysters in the world, here’s how to enjoy them…

Crashing waves, swaying bog grasses, ancient stonewalls crisscrossing fields and blazing white sands – Galway city is the gateway to some of the most incredible scenery on the island of Ireland. Try Connemara  for starters. This romantic region, dubbed by Oscar Wilde as a place of “savage beauty” gets deep into the soul with its peat-scented pubs, tobacco-coloured hills, native ponies and coral beaches.

Or experience life on the edge with a trip to the Aran Islands . Famed for their strong literary history, traditional culture, rocky landscapes and soaring cliffs, the three islands offer a unique glimpse into a way of life shaped by the Atlantic Ocean.

Connemara National Park, County Galway

A land of tradition

From charming fishing villages to scenic landscapes, experience the romance of Connemara.

The Aran Islands, County Galway

The Aran Islands

Escape into the Atlantic with a momentous island visit.

Your portable Ireland guide

Take your plans with you and get local offers while you're in Ireland. Discover new things nearby and access your saved places, even when you're offline.

Installing on iOS

Press the Share button

Select Add to Home Screen

Press the Add to Home Screen button

Want to see more?

Here are some great reads to get you started

6 charming towns of the Wild Atlantic Way

Republic of Ireland

Traditional music in Ireland

10 reasons why Ireland is always in season

Hidden gems along the Wild Atlantic Way

Kylemore Abbey

Explore Ireland's west in 48 hours

5 ways to tour the Wild Atlantic Way

Galway tastes amazing!

Galway City

Off the beaten track: Dublin to Galway

Ireland’s fairytale castles

Galway highlights.

Don't miss these things to see and do

Medieval Galway Tour

Galway City Museum

Connemara National Park

Galway Food Tours

Galway Farmers Market

Dunguaire Castle

Galway Atlantaquaria

Accommodation

The g Hotel & Spa

The Quays Bar

A tragic tale and epic romance; Hollywood’s scriptwriters have nothing on the legendary love story behind Kylemore Abbey

Visit County Galway and explore the spectacular Connemara National Park. It covers some 3,000 hectares of scenic mountains, expansive bogs, glorious grasslands and enchanting woodlands.

For an unforgettable culinary experience, walk and eat your way around Galway City with Galway Food Tours. Choose from a range of tours and discover the best of Galway's food and drink.

Galway Farmers Market can be found every Saturday and Sunday by St Nicholas' Church in the centre of Galway city. Visitors will find hundreds of stalls selling fresh produce and locally produced crafts.

Dunguaire Castle, located on the Burren's edge in Kinvara village, has dominated the Galway Bay shoreline for centuries. Join in a memorable medieval banquet during summer evenings.

Visit Galway Atlantaquaria, Ireland’s largest native species aquarium at the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way in Salthill, Galway City.

The stylish g Hotel & Spa is one of the most iconic hotels in Galway City. Offering 101 spacious bedrooms and suites, designer lounges and popular restaurant, delicious dining and gorgeous destination spa, the g Hotel & Spa has it all.

For nearly 400 years, The Quays Bar has been providing Galwegians and visitors alike with great food and drink as well as live music. This historic establishment is located in the heart of Galway City.

Getting to Galway

Fly to Ireland West Airport or Shannon and you’re just a drive away. Or head to Dublin or Belfast and take the scenic cross-country route. Coming by ferry? Cork and Dublin are your closest ports. But Belfast is a pretty easy distance.

Open navigation

Epic coastlines, magnificent beaches and lofty mountain peaks, marvel at the epic scenery in County Galway.

Visit the City of the Tribes and discover the rich history of its medieval stone walls. Listen to talented buske...

Galway is the place where culture and nature meet. Get lost in a swirl of culture and colour on Quay St, step into the wild of Connemara and dive into adventure in Killary Fjord.

Hop on a boat to the Aran Islands, explore the walking trails of Connemara and enjoy unbeatable craic in Galway City.

Uncover a vibrant culture and medieval past in one of the most colourful counties in Ireland.

From the year's biggest festivals to intimate gigs, discover what's on in Galway.

Will you stay in a thatched cottage, a grand manor, or a trendy city hotel? From country retreats to old-style splendour, B&Bs to lodges and more places to stay in Galway.

Have Galway to yourself as you explore these coastal hidden gems.

Subscribe now to receive destination inspiration, travel tips, upcoming events and all the best things to do around Ireland.

Galway Travel: A Guide To Visiting The City

About galway.

Galway is one of the most culturally-rich destinations in Ireland . It was named the European Capital of Culture for 2020 by Creative Europe.

This amazing city is packed with fun things to do, a wonderful vibe and a rich history. While I was living in Dublin, I visited Galway numerous times. It’s one of my favourite places in Ireland.

It’s less travelled than Dublin, so visiting Galway feels like a more local experience. If you visit in the off-season, you may even find that you’re one of the only tourists around.

Let this Galway travel guide inspire you and help you plan your next trip to the Emerald Isle!

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Unlike Ireland’s east coast, the west coast is commonly known for its dreary weather. However, most people are quick to judge this area and assume that the weather is worse than it actually is.

Don’t worry! There are bright and sunny days, and it doesn’t rain as much as everyone assumes it does — even though it may rain for a few minutes every day.

Most tourists will visit Galway in March, July, and August. This is when the city is at its busiest, so keep this in mind when you’re planning your Galway travel experience.

During winter, there are fewer tourists because it’s a lot colder and some tourist attractions may be closed.

Spring and autumn both have pretty great weather and if you plan your trip right, Galway won’t be overrun by travellers.

Peak Season

Galway’s peak season is summer (mid-June to August) since this is when the weather is nicest and most people have the time off. March is another popular and overly busy time to visit due to St. Patrick’s Day.

The prices during this season are at an all-time high because everyone is visiting and hotels can charge more. Travellers can expect that the city will be at its busiest during these months.

Avoid visiting during this time if you can, unless you really want to attend the St. Patrick’s Day Festival in Galway. The bright side is that Galway’s festival is less busy than Dublin’s.

Shoulder Season

The shoulder season in Galway is both the springtime (besides the few days surrounding St. Patrick’s Day) and autumn. The weather is great during these months, despite the rain every once in a while!

Prices during this time are more levelled-off, especially for hotels. Accommodations have no reason to raise prices since not as many people are trying to visit during this time.

Travelling in Galway during the shoulder season isn’t crazy-busy and the weather averages 10°C so you don’t need to wear a jacket in the middle of the day.

Galway’s off-season is the winter, as is the same with most places in Ireland. Wintertime in Galway isn’t the most pleasant and days are pretty short with the sun starting to set as early as 3:30 p.m.

The temperature during this time isn’t the best for city exploring because it averages 5°C. The only good news is that Galway doesn’t experience any snow whatsoever!

If you’d like to experience visiting Galway with the least amount of tourists possible, then you’re welcome to visit in the winter. There are a lot of cosy pubs that could warm you up with some nice Irish Stew .

Neighbourhoods

Where to stay.

Luckily, there is a multitude of great areas to stay in Galway. You pretty much can’t go wrong — there really isn’t a bad neighbourhood. If you’re just spending a weekend in Galway , you may want to consider being more central, but if you have longer, anywhere will do!

Every neighbourhood listed below offers a mix of either bed and breakfasts, Airbnbs, hotels, and hostels. There’s accommodation for every type of traveller.

The Claddagh

This is the area where the traditional Irish ring got its name!

The Claddaugh is one of the neighbourhoods in Galway with the most history. If you’re a history buff, that’s an automatic win for you.

This area used to be a fishing village and it dates back hundreds of years ago.

This Claddagh, in particular, is extremely pretty because it’s located right on Galway Harbour, which is one of the must-see sites in the city.

No matter where you stay in this area, you’re sure to look out your window and see a wonderful view.

Most hotels here are upper mid-range, as they cost around €90. There are also some local bed and breakfast options if you prefer a more homey feel during your stay in Galway city.

Click here for hotels in the Claddagh area.

Though slightly farther outside of the city than The Claddagh, Salthill is still worth considering when booking a place to stay. It’s also located right next to the water and therefore offers some pretty nice coastal views.

What makes Salthill so great is that there are quite a few beaches in the area that you could easily visit.

If you’re lucky enough to not be visiting in peak season, you may even find that you have a beach to yourself.

This is a more affordable area to stay with most accommodations costing around €65 on average. You won’t be short on places to eat since there are a lot of restaurants, pubs, and bars nearby.

Click here for hotels in the Salthill area.

Galway City Centre

If you want to stay right in the middle of the hustle and bustle when visiting Galway, then stay in the city centre. Most places to stay in this area will cost around €100 unless you opt to stay in a hostel, or an Airbnb.

From the city centre, you could easily walk to almost any Galway attraction, including busy Quay Street or Eyre Square.

You also won’t have to spend as much on public transportation if you stay here, and you’ll be just a short walk away from pubs and nightlife.

Click here for hotels in Galway City Centre.

This neighbourhood is the farthest away from the city centre, but is close enough that you can still easily get to and from — by bike, bus or car.

Oranmore is a good option if you’re looking for a quieter, authentic western Ireland experience, and it’s a top option for families visiting Galway.

Oranmore is home to a picturesque castle, a large park, and hiking trails in the forest of Merlin Woods Park. Plus, lots of livestock, wheat fields and sports clubs.

Click here for hotels in Oranmore.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

There is a multitude of fun things to do and see in Galway . No matter what kind of traveller you are, you’ll find something that interests you.

Since Galway is a city, there are lots of fun shopping streets to explore, but as it’s also on the coast, you’ll find lots of outdoor activities as well. Here are three must-sees in Galway:

Galway Harbour

This beautiful harbour is one of the most picturesque areas of Galway city. A vibrant array of colourful houses line the harbour and boats come in and out of the area.

If you find that you have amazing weather during your trip to Galway, then be sure to pack yourself a picnic and sit by the harbour to fully soak up the views.

You’re missing out if you don’t add this into your Galway travel itinerary, even if you’re only going to be there for a day!

Quay Street

Quay Street is a bit like Galway’s own version of Grafton Street in Dublin, but it’s lined with an abundance of pubs, restaurants, and shops.

If you’re lucky, you may even witness some of Galway’s local street performers (buskers) for free on the street!

Some of the best street performers in Ireland can be found here.

Eyre Square

This huge square, also known as John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, is often considered one of the city’s main hubs. There may even be a market during your visit to Eyre Square!

It’s completely free to explore the relaxing square, which is filled with stores, fountains, and a playground for young ones.

TOP TOURS IN GALWAY

There are numerous fun tours in Galway city, and there’s a tour for everyone — no matter what kind of traveller you are.

Whether you’re a foodie or a history buff, there’s a tour for you! Below are a few of the top-rated tours in Galway.

Irish Food Trail Galway

If you consider yourself a foodie, you have to do this tour in Galway city!

The tour is hosted by a local and he will spend 3 hours bringing you around Galway to some of the best hidden pubs and restaurants.

This tour is recommended for couples, solo travellers, and families with children over the age of 12. Click here to learn more.

Galway's Legendary Walking Tour

A great way to learn about Galway’s history is to take an introductory walking tour.

This 90-minute tour will teach you all about the Lynch family of Galway, the Claddagh, and more. You’ll also learn more about the historical sites of the city.

This tour is family-friendly and everyone under age 16 is free! Plus, the tour is limited to 10 people so you’re bound to have a personalised experience. Click here to learn more.

The Claddagh Ring Experience

As mentioned earlier in this post, the Claddagh legend came from Galway! This is a great tour to learn more about the culture of the city.

This awesome 2-hour Airbnb experience will teach you all about the history of the Claddagh and you’ll even visit a ring workshop and a famous jeweller.

The tour ends with coffee, tea, and dessert at a local bakery. This tour is family-friendly and is perfect for couples and solo travellers alike. Click here to learn more.

BEST DAY TRIPS FROM GALWAY

If you find that you’ll have more than a few days in Galway city, then I highly recommend taking advantage of its prime location to visit some of the surrounding sites.

Many of Ireland’s natural gems are in western Ireland, and Galway is the perfect location to serve as a home-base.

Here are some of the best day trips that you should consider.

Cliffs of Moher

This Galway guide wouldn’t be complete without mentioning a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher!

These gorgeous green cliffs set against the rocky blue waves provide a perfect photo opportunity for any traveller.

The Cliffs of Moher are by far the most popular site for tourists to visit in all of the Emerald Isle.

Tickets start at €10 and you can easily get there in 1.5 hours by driving or by taking Bus Eireann 350, which takes slightly longer.

Another option is to book a day tour with one of Galway’s many tour companies, like this one .

Kylemore Abbey

This beautiful abbey was built in 1920 and is a Benedictine monastery. It was originally built for nuns that were fleeing from Belgium during WWI.

It takes around 1 hour to get to Kylemore Abbey from Galway by car. There’s also an option to take 2 different buses, but this takes closer to 3 hours.

Book a day tour to learn more and to have your transportation easily sorted out. Click here for details.

Aran Islands

The Aran Islands are a small group of three islands located right off Ireland’s western coast.

The islands include Inishmore (the most popular island to visit), Inisheer, and Inishmaan.

There’s an abundance of forts and historical sites to visit on these islands, including Dun Aengus and O’Brien’s Castle.

One of the smallest churches in the world is also here —Teampall Bheanáin.

Luckily, it’s easy to get here from Galway with this affordable day tour .

WHERE AND WHAT TO EAT

Galway’s food scene is one of the best in Ireland. The city is mainly known for its seafood dishes, so if you’re a fan of seafood, you’re in great luck.

Since Galway is located right on Ireland’s coast, many of the seafood restaurants get their fish from local fisherman early in the morning and will serve it to you later in the city centre.

Your Galway travel adventure wouldn’t be complete without trying seafood in at least some form! Here are some dishes you won’t want to miss.

If you’re looking to try the best oysters in Galway, you’ll want to visit McDonagh’s. Three oysters will only cost €5.50 ($6).

The oysters come straight from Kelly Oysters which have been at the forefront of the oyster business in Ireland for over 50 years. The oysters are caught right in Galway Bay.

Fish and Chips:

Though fish and chips may be seen as a traditional English dish, Galway is also known for it! This dish is fried fish with a side of french fries.

Be sure to try it at McDonagh’s, which has its own fish and chip shop in addition to their seafood restaurant. The price fluctuates depending on what type of fish you order, but cod starts at €6.40 ($7).

All the best food in Galway revolves around seafood! 

The best place to get mussels in Galway is at Oscar’s Seafood Bistro. An average meal here will cost around €15 ($17), but you’re paying for local, high quality food.

Best Restaurants in Galway

Dela Restaurant: This is farm to table restaurant located right in Galway that sources its ingredients locally. Dela Restaurant has a casual and modern atmosphere, with prices ranging from €12 to €23 ($14 to $26). See the brunch menu .

Crust Bucket: Don’t let this funny name deter you from eating here, this is a great place to eat in Galway! Crust Bucket is a quirky pizza place inside of a double-decker bus with prices ranging from €10 to €12 ($11 to $14). See the menu .

Pullman Restaurant: This is a more upscale restaurant located in an old converted Orient Express train car! It’s a one-of-a-kind dining experience. The atmosphere is luxurious and dinner will cost €61 ($69) for two courses or €69 ($78) for three courses. Click here to learn more.

BEST PUBS IN GALWAY

The pubs in Galway are amazing and a lot of them are known more for their live local music rather than their food! You’re sure to be entertained no matter which pub you choose to eat at in Galway.

Here are a few of the best pubs to stop in at when visiting Galway.

O’Connell’s

This is one of the most popular pubs in Galway. Located conveniently right near Eyre Square, O’Connell’s has its own beer garden and a casual atmosphere.

You’ll want to visit for the beer garden itself which feels like its own hidden section of Galway! It used to be a grocery store but converted to being just a pub around 50 years ago.

While you’re there, try to order some of their pizza, which is beyond delicious. It will be a highlight of your Galway travel experience.

Taaffes Bar

Taaffes Bar is located right near Eyre Square as well.

This pub is particularly well-known for its live music. No matter what time you visit, there was always some form of live music being performed.

Taaffes Bar is located in a 400-year-old building, but the pub has only been up and running for around 150 years. This is a great pub to visit if you want to run into some locals!

Tigh Neachtain

Tigh Neachtain is one of the most cozy pubs in Galway, with fireplaces throughout. You’ll also find live music here.

Unlike Taafes Bar and O’Connells, Tigh Naechtain is located near Quay Street in the city centre of Galway.

This pub in particular dates back pretty far and the Neachtain family has been running it for over 100 years. The current location was once home to the founder of the first theatre in Galway.

LIVE MUSIC VENUES

Since Galway is known as a cultural hub of Ireland, it’s of course also known for its live music venues. The best live music in Galway can be found inside pubs and restaurants mostly. Here are three top spots.

Monroe's Tavern

If you want to experience some local trad music, you 100% have to go to Monroe’s Tavern. It’s located right down the road from the Spanish Arch and next door to Oscar’s Seafood Bistro.

They also serve some great food and have open fireplaces. Monroe’s Tavern even has Irish dancing on Tuesday nights. Find it on the map, here.

Róisín Dubh

Some say that Róisín Dubh is one of the best live music venues  in the world . If that doesn’t sell you on this venue, I don’t know what will!

It’s located just a five-minute walk from Monroe’s Tavern and they also serve traditional pub food. Find it on the map, here .

Tig Chóilí is another excellent spot in Galway to listen to some trad music. There are live music sessions scheduled twice every day.

Despite having scheduled times, Tig Chóilí is specifically known for its spontaneity! Oftentimes, musicians may come into the pub to grab a pint and instead end up performing from their table. Find it on the map, here .

FESTIVALS IN GALWAY

As the cultural hub of Ireland, Galway has so many fun festivals throughout the year. From food to arts to literature, Galway has a festival for everything!

Keep in mind that if you’re visiting Galway during a festival, the city might be a lot busier than normal. Here are a few of the most interesting and fun festivals that the city offers.

Vodafone Comedy Carnival

This is considered to be the biggest festival of comedy in all of the European Union. It’s been running since 2006.

The festival takes place over a whole week, during which, 10 shows a day take place. This festival only sells tickets to anyone over the age of 16.

Some of Ireland’s best comedians come to take part in the Vodafone Comedy Carnival every October. 

Tickets start around €20 ($23) depending on the shows you choose to attend.

Cúirt International Festival of Literature

If you’re a fan of literature, this is the festival for you.

This is one of the oldest festivals in Galway, running since 1985. 

The Cúirt International Festival of Literature promotes poetry, non-fiction, literary fiction, and more. It’s a week-long festival in April.

You purchase tickets per show and each show costs anywhere from €6 ($7) to €25 ($28).

Galway International Arts Festival

The Galway International Arts Festival dates back to 1978 and features music, theatre performances, and more during July.

This festival normally takes place over approximately 10 days and it’s the biggest arts festival in all of Ireland. It’s recommended for couples and solo travellers.

Like the other festivals on this list, you buy tickets separately for each performance that you’d like to see.

Depending on the popularity of the artists, tickets can range anywhere from €30 ($34) to €55 ($62).

HIKING IN GALWAY

Though there aren’t any hikes directly in Galway city, you can easily travel about 30 to 60 minutes out of the city and find some amazing trails.

If you’ll be in the area for more than a few days, definitely go on one of these hikes to get the most out of your Galway travel experience.

Below are a few of the top-recommended hikes near Galway city — all offering breathtaking views.

Knockma Hill

This is a 2.5-mile trail about 30 minutes from Galway’s city centre. Unfortunately, it can’t be reached by public transportation.

The trail here is called Knockma Nature Reserve Trail and is considered moderate.

It’s forested and you’ll feel like you’re in a mystical place — there’s an abundance of fairy doors throughout the forest too.

There’s a legend that says Connacht’s Queen is buried somewhere on this hill, so you can be on the lookout during your hike.

Diamond Hill

At Diamond Hill, there are two trails to choose from. These beautiful trails are located right in Connemara National Park.

Though these trails are an hour’s drive out of the city centre, the views are worth it.

Upper Diamond Hill Trail is best for intermediate hikers and is approximately 3.8 miles long. Beginner hikers may choose to hike Lower Diamond Hill Trail which is only 1.6 miles long.

The views at the top are unmatched as they offer views of the coastline and the Twelve Bens mountain range.

Portumna Forest Park

This beautiful park filled with trails is only a 50-minute drive from Galway city.

It’s made up of four different trails, all with varying degrees of difficulty. Each offers great views of the water and cover a decent amount of the park.

Beginners should opt towards the Forest Friendly Walking Trail which is around 1 mile long and takes 20 minutes.

Intermediate hikers will want to go on either the Bonaveen Walking Trail or Rinmaher Walking Trail, both of which are around 6 miles long.

Top Beaches in Galway

Since Galway is located right on the water, there are quite a few great beaches in the area.

Most of these beaches aren’t meant for swimming but do provide a great place for walking or jogging. Here are three good options:

Salthill Beach

Salthill Beach is technically one beach that’s made up of tinier ones, so you’ll be able to find an area just to yourself if you want.

It’s fun to go swimming here and the water is a beautiful shade of blue. Keep in mind that lifeguards aren’t on duty year-round.

Ballyloughane Beach

This beach is a 10-minute drive or a 20-minute bus ride away from Galway’s city centre and can provide a perfect escape from city life for a little bit.

Ballyloughane Beach isn’t a swimming beach, but it is a great place to walk the shoreline and just feel at one with nature.

If you’re looking for a place to bring your kids, this is a place that they’ll love. It’s also an area that isn’t usually busy.

South Park is another coastal beach area that isn’t necessarily for swimming! You can walk straight to Salthill from here within 15 minutes.

This beachy area provides great views of the harbour and there’s a playground that’s great for the kids.

Be sure to also walk Nimmo’s Pier to get some great views of the water.

COST OF TRAVEL IN GALWAY

If you’re okay with giving up luxury stays to save money, it can be quite budget-friendly and cheap to visit Galway.

One night in a hostel dorm will only cost around €18 ($20), while hotel rooms average around €90 ($100), depending on the area you choose to stay in.

Bed and breakfasts are a good mid-range option, costing around €70 ($75) per night.

Airbnbs in Galway can cost anywhere from €30 to €100 ($33 to $113), but the nice thing about staying in an Airbnb is that you can save money by cooking your own food.

Transportation won’t cost more than €10 ($11) a day, especially if you have a Visitor Leap Card.

Choosing to eat at local restaurants will allow meals to cost around €7 to €10 ($8 to $11) while expensive restaurants can put you out upwards of €60 ($67) per meal.

Budget $40 / Day

This would get you one night’s stay in a hostel dorm, budget-friendly meals, and allow you to visit a lot of the free sites in Galway.

Mid-Range $150 / Day

A budget like this would allow you to stay in The Claddagh neighbourhood in a bed and breakfast with meals at some of the great pubs in the area.

Top-End $300 / Day

With $300 a day, you could stay directly in Galway’s city centre and eat at some of the finer places in the city, including a nice dinner at Pullman Restaurant.

Transportation

Getting around galway.

Galway’s public transportation is quite reliable and you’ll most likely use it at least once a day while in the city, especially if you’re staying a bit away from the centre.

If you purchase a Visitor Leap Card , you can save around €0.50 per ride, so be sure to buy one to save money. Staying outside of the city centre will most likely require you to at least use public transport to get to and from the city.

If you’re staying closer to the city centre, you’ll most likely be able to rely on walking or biking.

• Public Bus: The bus in Galway is pretty reliable since traffic is normally not that heavy. It can get you pretty much all around the city in a timely manner. With a Visitor Leap Card, one way will cost €2 ($2.20). If you don't purchase one, you'll have to pay €2.50 ($2.80) with exact cash.
• Metro: Unfortunately, there are no metros in Galway.
• Uber: Galway does not have Uber, but it does have taxis which are reliable and affordable.
• Taxi: For taxis, you have to pay based on how far you take them. These prices change depending on the time of day. You can either opt to hail taxis yourself or download the Free Now app (formerly My Taxi) which is a great way to easily order taxis all around Ireland.

Also be aware of the fact that drivers are on the left side of the road, not the right. It could be especially dangerous to cycle in the city centre, so always wear a helmet .

• Walking: Galway is an extremely walkable city! you can walk pretty much everywhere and just use public transportation a few times. Once you're in the city centre, you could save major money by walking to everything you want to see. All the top sites are close by each other.

The bus is a great option through Bus Eireann for only around $16, depending on the time of day you're travelling to Galway.

You could also opt to take a taxi, but Shannon Airport is an hour away from Galway— this option could easily put you out over $100! Another option is to drive if you had planned on renting a car anyway. If you're flying into Dublin International Airport, your best option is to take a City Link bus to Galway for €16 which will take around 2 hours.

IS GALWAY SAFE?

Ireland, in general, is pretty safe for travellers, and since Galway is a small city, there isn’t much crime. The overall risk for travelling in Galway is quite low.

There aren’t any particular neighbourhoods that are at higher risk for crime, though it’s probably best to be especially alert while in the city centre for pickpockets.

Use normal safety precautions, especially at night and try to stick to well-lit areas.

Consult local travel advisories and the current political climate before planning your trip to Galway for safety precautions, and ask your hotel receptionists if it’s safe to walk around at night.

ALL GALWAY POSTS

10 Best Airbnbs in Galway, Ireland

Weekend in Galway: The Perfect 2 Day Itinerary

25 Best Things To Do in Galway, Ireland

10 Best Pubs In Galway, Ireland

Best Places to Stay in Galway, Ireland

The Aran Islands: A Complete Travel Guide

SHARE THIS PAGE

Keep in touch.

Galway   Travel Guide

Courtesy of upthebanner | Getty Images

Why Go To Galway

County Galway, located on the western side of Ireland, is a land of rugged beauty, home to the stunning Cliffs of Moher , the fabulous Wild Atlantic Way route and the romantic Aran Islands . Most visitors use Galway City, a lively university town, as their base. From here, many of the best Ireland tours bring travelers to these must-see natural wonders. With such a youthful vibe, the city is home to a great nightlife scene, with pubs, theaters and, of course, music. The summer brings fantastic festivals, including the Galway International Arts Festival and Galway International Oyster Festival. 

In 2014, Galway became one of just five UNESCO Cities of Film and it was named the European Capital of Culture 2020. It is also where the famous Irish Claddagh ring, composed of two hands clasped around a heart with a crown above it (symbolizing love, friendship and loyalty), was designed more than 400 years ago. And as Galway is Ireland's only bilingual city (20% of residents speak Irish or Gaelic), it's a great place to hear the language. 

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

• # 10 in Best Places to Visit in Ireland
• # 19 in Best Cheap European Vacations for 2023-2024

Best of Galway

Best hotels in galway.

• # 1 in Glenlo Abbey Hotel
• # 2 in The g Hotel & Spa
• # 3 in Jameson Court Apartments

Best Things to Do in Galway

• # 1 in Wild Atlantic Way
• # 2 in Aran Islands
• # 3 in Cliffs of Moher

Popular Tours

From Galway: Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher including Cliffs of Moher cruise.

(1966 reviews)

from $ 82.26

Cliffs of Moher and Burren Day Trip, Including Dunguaire Castle, Aillwee Cave, and Doolin from Galway

(1722 reviews)

from $ 54.84

Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Galway

(973 reviews)

Galway Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time visit Galway is between July and October. Not only is the weather perfect for touring the city's outdoor attractions, but there's also a full event calendar. Expect mild high temperatures in the mid-60s; and plan to pack layers if you're hoping to visit the area's coastal attractions, such as the Cliffs of Moher , where there is little to shield you from the wind. Spring and fall are considered the "midseason" for tourists, and visitors will find great bargains for accommodations . Winter can be chilly, with temperatures that dip into the mid-30s. 

Weather in Galway

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Bring layers The weather can be unpredictable in Ireland, so it's good to be prepared.

Pack good walking shoes Ancient sites, uneven streets and slippery trails require quality footwear.

Visit the Galway Discover Ireland Centre Expert guides can help you make the most of your time in town with advice and tips. You can find it on Forster Street in the city center.

How to Save Money in Galway

Take a free walking tour with the Galway Civic Trust This free, guided tour begins at the Hall of the Red Earl in Druid Lane (off Quay Street) from May to September, every Tuesday and Thursday at 2 p.m. and covers the medieval history of the city.

Rely on your own two feet It's so easy to get around Galway on foot, so forgo expensive cabs.

Plan a market visit Pick up fresh supplies at the Galway Market on the weekend and make a picnic meal instead of eating out.

Culture & Customs

Everyone speaks English in Ireland, but there are two official languages: Irish (Gaelic) and English.

The official currency in the Republic of Ireland is the euro (EUR). Since the euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates often, be sure to  check what the current exchange rate  is before you go. Major credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops.

As for tipping, all industries in Ireland have a mandated minimum wage so tipping isn't a large part of the culture. Some restaurants will add a service charge of 10 to 15 percent to the bill, so no tip is expected. If there is no service charge, it's customary to tip 10 to 15 percent. Taxi drivers don't expect a tip, but many travelers will round the bill up to the nearest euro or leave 5 percent if the driver was especially hospitable. One place to never worry about tipping? The pub. 

What to Eat

Galway, with its location on the water and its proximity to local farms, is blessed with an abundance of fresh foods. Like most cities in Ireland, it has its fair share of excellent pubs, but there are also plenty of restaurants to appeal to every appetite.

For an upscale Irish food experience, The Pig's Ear is well-regarded by critics and visitors alike. It features dishes like Earl Grey tea-cured Irish salmon, shepherd's pie and other favorites, but in an elegant and refined way. Ard Bia at Nimmos is widely heralded as one of the city's best dining spots. Located in an 18th-century building next to the Spanish Arch , it offers a wide range of dishes inspired by local ingredients. A West Coast monkfish stew, red lentil cakes and hand-rolled tagliatelle are just some of the options on the wide-ranging menu. And in a city filled with historic pubs, Tigh Neachtain might be Galway's most famous. Serving up drinks since 1894, this pub is a cozy spot filled with diverse patrons and is known for its strong music scene. When the weather's nice, many visitors enjoy people-watching from Tigh Neachtain's patio on Quay Street.  

Getting Around Galway

The best way to get around Galway is by foot. There are lots of tiny streets and pedestrian-only areas, so it's easy to get anywhere within the central business district on your own two feet. Another convenient, inexpensive option is the city's bike-share program. However, if you're hoping to explore the Wild Atlantic Way or the Cliffs of Moher on your own, you may want to rent a car. If you'd rather let someone else do the driving, you'll find several tour companies offer sightseeing packages, several of which are featured in our list of the best Ireland tours . What's more, the city's bus system, Bus Éireann offers seasonal service to some of the more far-flung attractions, including the Cliffs of Moher.

The closest airport to Galway is Shannon Airport (SNN), which sits about 60 miles south of Galway. Bus Éireann provides service from Shannon Airport to Galway; tickets start at 60 euros (about $72) per adult. Major car rental companies, such as Hertz, Avis and Europcar, are also available for hire at the airport. Dublin Airport (DUB) is another option that's located approximately 130 miles east of Galway. Bus Éireann, along with a handful of other operators, also offers service from Dublin to Galway. Ireland West Airport Knock (NOC) is another option about 60 miles north of Galway, though it offers limited daily arrivals and departures from cities like London and Liverpool. From Knock, you can rent a car or hop on Bus Éireann to Galway. If you're looking for a more scenic route, consider taking the train from Dublin to Galway, which takes about 2 ½ hours. Irish Rail runs trips several times a day. Fares start at 16.99 euros (around $20) for adults when you book online. 

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens will need to show a valid passport upon arrival in Ireland. Passports must be valid for the duration of your stay, but validity for six months after your arrival date is recommended. Visas are not required for business or tourism trips, unless trips extend beyond three months. For more information on entry and exit requirements, visit the State Department's website . 

You'll find Shop Street in downtown Galway.

Explore More of Galway

Things To Do

Best hotels.

You might also like

# 5 in  Best Destination Wedding Spots in Europe

# 2 in  Best Places to Visit in Ireland

Cambridge, MA

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

21 Best Things To Do In Galway City And Beyond

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: April 10, 2024

If you’re in search of the best things to do in Galway City and beyond, this guide should come in handy.

Now, as we say in  every one of our ‘best of’ guides, what one person thinks is incredible another may think is terrible.

So, in this guide, we’ll bring you a mix of everything from hikes and walks to historical sites, top-notch tours and unique places to visit in Galway.

Table of Contents

The best things to do in Galway City and beyond

Click to enlarge

Galway is home to some of the most notable tourist attractions in Ireland , like Kylemore Abbey, Connemara and the Aran Islands.

However, it also boasts plenty of scenic corners that never make it onto shiny tourist handbooks, as you’ll discover below.

1. The Leenaun to Louisburgh Drive

Photos via Shutterstock

OK, so this drive starts in Galway but takes you into Mayo. It takes you from the gorgeous little village of Leenaun on the Killary Fjord to the often-overlooked town of Louisburgh in Mayo.

The route takes you through the magnificent Doolough Valley – a place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into another world.

Even during the busier months of the year, the Doolough Valley is  relatively  quiet and it’s a joy to drive/cycle through.

Looking for a Galway itinerary?  Hop into our Galway road trip guide, or just keep scrolling!

2. The Sky Road

One of the best things to do in Galway (in my opinion) is to grab a cup of coffee to go from one of the cafes in Clifden and drive or cycle along the Sky Road .

The Sky Road is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the Connemara region. It’s a circular route around 11km long that takes you out west from the buzzy little town of Clifden in Galway .

The scenery you’ll be treated to as you spin along the Sky Road will etch itself upon your mind… as will the wind. It gets  fierce  blustery up here!

3. The Diamond Hill hike

The Diamond Hill hike is one of the more popular walks in Galway , mainly due to the views it treats you to on a fine day.

There are 2 walks here: The Lower Diamond Hill walk (3 km long and takes 1 to 1.5 hours) and the Upper Diamond Hill trail (7 km long and takes 2.5 to 3 hours to complete).

Those who reach the summit on a clear day can kick-back while soaking up outstanding views of Connemara National Park and beyond.

As this hike is one of the more popular things to do in Galway during the summer months, it can get  very  busy, so arrive early.

4. Kylemore Abbey

The fairytale-like Kylemore Abbey tends to top most guides on the best things to do in Galway for good reason.

Built in 1867, Kylemore Abbey boasts an almost endless number of tales of romance, tragedy, spirituality, and innovation.

The abbey is now home to the Benedictine nuns, who’ve been living there since 1920. You’ll get an eyeful of it from the car park when you arrive.

You can then take a tour of the abbey itself and the grounds. If you’re wondering what to do in Galway when it rains, the abbey tour is a handy go-to!

5. Beaches galore

There’s  endless  beaches in Galway , however, it’s  generally the various beaches in Connemara that tend to grab much of the attention.

I’m talking, of course, about Dog’s Bay , Gurteen Bay , Renvyle Beach , the Mannin Bay Blueway .

Although the ones above attract visitors by the bucket-load (terrible pun, I apologise…) there’s plenty of other great beaches worth a look, like:

• Silverstrand Beach Barna
• Trá an Dóilín
• Glassilaun Beach
• Lettergesh Beach
• Traught Beach
• Salthill Beach

6. The Aran Islands

Another of the best things to do in Galway is to explore the Aran Islands . There are three – Inis Oirr , Inis Mor and Inis Meain .

Inis Mor is attraction a lot of attention lately after it was used as a filming location for the Banshees of Inisherin .

Some of the most notable attractions on Inis Mor include Dun Aonghasa  and the Wormhole .

Inis Oirr is a joy to cycle around on a fine day with notable attractions including the lighthouse and the Plassey shipwreck.

Inis Meain is the middle island and it’s one of the quieter places to visit in Galway. You’ll find forts and glorious coastal scenery here.

7. Galway Cathedral

A visit to  Galway Cathedral is one of the more popular things to do in Galway City. Although it looks like it was built a couple of hundred years ago, it’s actually not that old.

Construction on the cathedral finished in the late 1950s, which makes it the youngest of Europe’s stone cathedrals.

Visitors to the Cathedral can expect Renaissance details combined with Romanesque and Gothic traditions, an impressive mix of art, along with gorgeous rose windows.

If you’re wondering what to do in Galway when it’s raining, a trip to see the cathedral’s impressive interior never fails to dissapoint.

8. Trad pubs in Galway City

Photos courtesy Failte Ireland

You’ll often see drink-related activities listed in many guides on what to do in Galway.

And for good reason. Galway is home to some of the best pubs in the land.

The cosy (but very busy) Tigh Neachtains is, in my opinion, the best of the many (and I mean many ) pubs in Galway City .

The Crane Bar is another great spot, especially if you’re looking to attend a trad music session.

Related reads: Check out our guide to the best restaurants in Galway or our guide to the best brunch in Galway !

9. Inishbofin Island

A visit to Inishbofin is one of the more off-the-beaten-path things to do in Galway. You’ll find the little island of Inishbofin just off the coast of Connemara, not far from the village of Cleggan (it’s a handy 30-minute ferry ride).

This gorgeous island boasts a rich history along with breath-taking Atlantic coast scenery. Look at the views in the photo above… a little slice of magic.

There’s also several brilliant looped walks on the island that’ll treat you to a clatter of scenery while also bringing you past award-winning beaches, ancient sites and plenty more.

Tip : Grab the ferry to Inishbofin from Cleggan Pier. If you’re feeling peckish, nip into Cleggan and try a bit of seafood. Oliver’s Seafood Bar, in particular, is brilliant!

10. Castles galore

If you’re wondering what to do in Galway that many people who visit the city tend to miss, carve out some time to drop by Menlo Castle .

You’ll find the 16th century Menlo Castle on the banks of the River Corrib, a handy 12-minute cycle or a 10-minute drive from Galway City.

Once home to the richest family in Galway in 1592 (the Blakes), Menlo is now a picturesque ruin that’s covered head to toe in ivy. Well worth dropping by.

If you fancy discovering other castles nearby, hop into our guide to the best castles near Galway that are worth a visit.

11. Derrigimlagh Bog

Photos by Gareth McCormack via Tourism Ireland

There are plenty of places to visit in Galway, particularly around Connemara, that visiting tourists tend to overlook. One of our favourites is the Derrigimlagh Bog walk (pictured above).

This trail follows a boardwalk that takes you through a blanket bog and that offers some mighty mountain views on a clear day.

One of the highlights is the Alcock and Brown landing site (on the left above). The pair crash landed into the bog in 1919, marking the finish of the world’s first non-stop flight across the Atlantic Ocean.

12. Clifden 

If you’re wondering what to do in Galway over a summer weekend, base yourself in Clifden and explore all around you.

It’s arguably one of the most picturesque small towns in Ireland and you’ve Connemara and beyond to explore by day and a buzzy little village to retire to at night.

There’s plenty of lively pubs (like Lowry’s) and a there’s a load of great restaurants in Clifden to choose from. Here’s some guides to dive into:

• 7 gorgeous hotels in Clifden worth your €
• 11 b&bs in Clifden that have racked up rave reviews
• 17 of the finest Airbnbs in Clifden

13. The Salthill Prom

If you’re looking for things to do in Galway City that’ll take you away from the crowds, take a wander out to Salthill .

The 3km-long seaside promenade runs from the edge of the Galway City along Salthill and offers fine views out over Galway Bay.

There’s plenty of other things to do in Salthill to keep you busy and there’s also  plenty  of brilliant restaurants in Salthill to nip into.

The Blackrock Diving Tower is a now-iconic feature in Galway and can be found along the Salthill promenade.

The tower was erected in 1942 after the near-death of a diver (up until then there was a springboard in place).

14. The Aran Island cruise

There’s some very unique things to do near Galway City if you’re willing to brave the choppy Atlantic.

There’s a tour from Galway City (affiliate link) that takes you out on a cruise to the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands. It’s an 8.5-hour tour and it costs a very reasonable €55.

You’ll depart from the docks in Galway and then be treated to views of the breath-taking Clare coastline and a chunk of Connemara before setting off to Inis Mor Island (you’ll have 4.5 hours on the island).

You’ll then leave the island and get to see the Cliffs of Moher from right below! Grab a ticket her e (affiliate link).

15. Omey Island

Omey Island is one of the best-kept secrets in Galway. You’ll find it in Connemara, near Claddaghduff, and it can only be reached at low tide (check tide times in advance!).

You can reach the island by foot, bike or car and it’s the perfect place for those of you looking to things to do in Galway that’ll take you away from the crowds and that’ll immerse you in an area of immense natural beauty.

There’s a number of different walks that you can head off on around Omey but  please  make sure you understand the tides before visiting.

16. Killary Fjord

I’ve wanted to give this a crack for ages! The Killary Fjord is one of those places that looks like it’s been whipped straight from a painting.

It’s beautiful, unspoiled, and, when there aren’t 5 coaches pulled up in the village of Leenaun, peaceful.

There are several different companies offering boat tours of the harbour and those that climb aboard can soak up spectacular views of the surrounding scenery.

If you’re on the lookout for unique things to do around Galway, give one of the Killary boat tours a bash.

17. Aasleagh Falls

There are few sounds that rival the soft ‘plops’ that emit from a waterfall the size of Aasleagh Falls (it’s pretty small!).

You’ll find the waterfall a stone’s throw from Leenane village on the River Erriff, just before the river meets the Killary Harbour .

You can park the car at a lay-by close to the falls and there’s a pathway that allows visitors to make the short stroll to the waterfall. Stretch the legs and gulp down lungfuls of fresh air.

18. The ‘main’ Galway City attractions

Although many of the best things to do in Galway City can be visited on the hop-on-hop-off bus tour (affiliate link), the city is  very  walkable.

One of the more notable attractions is the Spanish Arch which is an extension of Galway’s medieval walls. These walls were designed to protect mooring ships at the nearby quay while they unloaded their goods.

The Arch is right next to Galway City Museum – another handy option for those of you wondering what to do in Galway when it’s raining!

This museum is the go-to spot for everything and anything relating to Galway’s rich history and heritage.

Other popular spots in the city include the colourful Long Walk and the home of  the Claddagh Ring – Thomas Dillons.

19. The Quiet Man Bridge

Our next stop, the Quiet Man Bridge, is one is for those of you that have watched the movie ‘The Quiet Man’ starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara.

A good chunk of the movie was filmed in Cong in Mayo, but several scenes were shot around Connemara.

You’ll find the Quiet Man Bridge around 8 km past Oughterard, on the N59 heading west. Even if you haven’t seen the movie this is worth a quick stop off.

20. Glengowla Mines

Photos courtesy Keith Geoghegan via Failte Ireland

At a 35-minute drive from the city, the Glengowla Mines are one of the more unique things to do near Galway.

 You’ll find the Glengowla Mines deep beneath a mountain in Connemara. It’s here that you can embark on a journey of discovery that’ll uncover how lead and silver were mined here in the 1800s.

Visitors to the mines can:

• Explore the caverns of marble
• Gaze at the stunning crystals of quartz and fluorite
• Learn about the conditions the miners worked under before the mines shut in 1865

If you’re looking for places to visit in Galway with the kids, then the working farm here, where you can see Connemara Ponies, a sheepdog, lambs, and more, is the perfect spot to take them.

21. The Galway Christmas Market

If you’re wondering what to do in Galway in November and December, you can easily plan your trip around the Galway Christmas Markets.

Arguably one of the stand out Christmas Markets in Ireland, the Galway festivities has been kicking off earlier and earlier over the years.

It now begins in early November, bringing with it stalls, amusements and some very impressive lighting.

There’s plenty of things to do in Galway City around Christmas – see our Galway hotels or our Galway B&B guides for places to stay.

What to do in Galway: Where have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out some brilliant places to visit in Galway from the guide above.

If you have a place that you’d like to recommend, let me know in the comments below and I’ll check it out!

FAQs about what to see in Galway

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What to do in Galway with kids?’ to ‘What’s on this weekend?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best things to do in Galway?

In my opinion, the best things to do in Galway City and beyond are the Diamond Hill hike, Kylemore Abbey, the drive from Leenane to Louisburgh and the Aran Islands.

What is Galway best known for?

It’s arguably best known for its breath-taking Connemara region and the city’s lively pub scene, however, many of the more popular places to visit in Galway, like the Spanish Arch, are widely known.

Is Galway Ireland worth visiting?

Yes, yes and yes again. Galway is a glorious corner of Ireland and you can spend a weekend exploring the city, Connemara and some of the finest food in the land.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Friday 24th of February 2023

Thank you for your really helpful article!

Andrea Elizabeth Foster

Friday 3rd of January 2020

Fab website. Recently visited Galway and completely fell in love with the place! Cannot wait to visit again! Possibly my favourite place in the world!

Galway Tourist Map, Ultimate Guide to Top 40 Things To Do

Use the galway attractions map for a flexible and personal tour of galway city, galway tourist map and galway attractions including :.

• Complete the Galway Self Guided Walking Tour below using the Galway map of tourist attractions
• Visiting the Latin Quarter
• Attending the Galway Christmas Market
• Spending time at the Spanish Arch & Medieval city walls
• Relaxing and people watching on the Popular Galway Quay Street
• Soaking in the culture at the Medieval Kirwan Lane
• Visiting the popular and fun Galway Eyre Square
• Take a walk to the Lynch Castle & Memorial Window
• Shop at Shop Street
• Pop into the famous Charlie Brynes Book Store
• Go to the Galway City Museum
• Walk along the Salthill promenade
• Visit the Galway Cathedrals
• Learn about Claddagh
• Walk to the Salmon Weir Bridge
• If Galway is just one of your stops in Ireland, the Getting around Ireland guide is helpful to visit Over 100 Attractions in Ireland (including Games of Thrones sites) and The 9 Glens of Antrim

Galway fun things to do

• Jump into the Atlantic Ocean at Salthill Pier
• Get your hair cut at the oldest Barbershop (Reggie Healy’s)
• Take the ferry to Aran Islands (rent a bike to explore)
• Take the self guided walking tour of Galway tourist attractions using the map outlined below
• Galway day trips to Cliffden, Connmara and Cliffs of Moher , Village of  Doolin , Village of Cong, Burren National Park,  Climb Croag Patrick Mountain – a pilgrimage in honor of St Patrick, Westport Athenry castle, Adare Village and manor
• Partake in Galways favorite luxury food shop, McCambridges
• Dance in the dark at Roisin Dubh
• Rent a boat and go fishing
• Festivals of Galway and Galway Calendar of Events

Galway Tourist Map – Self Guided Tour of Galway Attractions Items 1 – 40 on the map below

Download the interactive galway tourist attractions map.

Easy to use map of Galway Tourist Attractions . Use the map with the corresponding attractions guide below for your personal self guided walking tour of Galway

Download the PDF Galway Ireland Tourist Attractions Map HERE

Using the galway tourist map.

Use the Galway Tourist Map (above) for Top things to do and attractions to visit. Click on the map pins for additional information, images and videos of the specific Galway attractions. Use the Galway tourist map to skip sites and create your own flexible custom self guided walking tour of Galway .  The shaded area in orange is the outline of the Latin Quarter and the shaded area in pink is the outline of the Saturday Galway Market

Video of Galway City

Video of some of the most popular attractions on the Galway tourist map

A little about Galway’s Rich History

Galway is steeped in history with its cobblestone streets, street entertainment, medieval walls, outdoor markets, friendly pubs and vibrant city life along the canal, it’s no wonder that it is a favorite seaside destination. Galway is a must if you are visiting the west coast of Ireland.

Galway City: The Beginning

The earliest known history of Galway was in 1124AD when the native Irish clan, the O’Connell’s built a fort near the mouth of the Galway River ie: “Fort At The Mouth of the Gaillimh” and present day River Corrib. This was followed by wars with several clans and was captured by the O’Flaherty clan until 1232, when Richard Mor de Burg (Burkes) invaded and occupied the fort.

Under Richard de Burg, the town was liberated and a fortified wall system was built to protect it from future invasions. It was Richards Son, Walter, who wanted to build the wall to prevent attacks from the recently disposed O’Flaherty and O’Hallaran clans. The project was funded by a new trading tax on all goods arriving in the city (now doesn’t that sound familiar, a tax funded project in medieval Ireland). Remnants of the wall and gate are seen throughout Central Galway including the Spanish Arch

Medieval Galway

Galway received its own charter and independence from the Burkes in 1484. The first mayor was elected, Peirce Lynch (from Lynch Castle), from one of the 14 ruling families. Politics and trade was controlled by 14 mercantile families; 12 Anglo-Norman and 2 Irish, commonly referred to as the “Tribes of Galway”.  Galway prospered over the next 100 years trading in fish, wool, leather, fruit and wine with other European countries such as France and Spain

Galway City Decline and Resurrection

In the 17 th and 18 th century wars in Ireland led to the siege in Galway and surrendering to the Cromwellian forces in 1652. The tribes lost their power to Protestants. Further unrest occurred including surrendering after the deposition of King James I, fear of a French invasion, laws that expelled the dominant catholic population and Galway Corporation. The harbour fell into disrepair and the economy declined. It took 100 years before the economy recovered somewhat after the relaxation of the Penal Laws . The penal laws stripped Catholics of their rights. The recovery was short lived as the Great Irish Famine devastated the fragile economy. Galway restarted to regain some of its former glory in the 20 th century

Start of Galway Self Guided Tour and Tourist Map (attractions 1 – 40 below)

Visit Galway’s top 40 attractions using the easy to follow Galway Tourist map above. Click on the map pins of the interactive of PDF map for additional information, images and videos of the attractions. The attractions guide below is numbered to correspond with the numbers on the Galway map

The Latin Quarter

Located in central Galway, it includes medieval narrow cobblestone streets, lively and energetic street entertainment, popular attractions, shopping, markets and over 16 pubs with live entertainment and excellent restaurants. The Latin Quarter is a must visit with a variety of things to do in Galway City. The Latin Quarter boundary is outlined in orange in the Galway tourist map above

1. Spanish Arch and Medieval Walls is the first attractions in the Galway tourist map

Galway started as a small settlement and was eventually fortified by walls and several gates. The most prominent is the Spanish Arch that protected the ships and goods moored at Galway Bay . Soldiers in the Watch tower kept a lookout for unfamiliar ships in Galway Bay. The Arch suffered damage caused by a tsunami that followed the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Remnants of the medieval wall can be found throughout central Galway and incorporated into modern buildings. You will find remnants of the medieval wall in the shopping center at Eyre Square where it is holding up the glass rooftop, at Kirwan’s Lane and of course at St Nicholas’s church 

Starting at the Spanish Arch, you can take the “Old Long Walk” in the 18th century. The “Old Long Walk” is a breakwater built by the Eyre family in the 18 th century as an extension of the quays. Today it is a popular walking path along Galway Bay . Along the way you will find private residences and a couple of restaurants overlooking the bay, including the Galway Museum. You may also see the famous “ Galway Hooker ” boats for which Galway is well known

Galway Hooker

The Galway Hooker is a traditional Galway boat design to address the high winds on the west coast of Ireland. Unique to the west coast of Ireland you are likely to see this in Galway Bay.  Easily identified with its single main sail, two forward sails and a single mast

2. Galway City Museum

Visiting museum is a great way to learn about the city. Visit the exhibitions, talks and attend a workshop to learn about Galway’s history and heritage. Take a walk through prehistoric and medieval Galway. The display provides insight into the growth of Galway from a very tiny village to a thriving city. Located right next to the Spanish Arch, it has both permanent and temporary exhibitions. Learn about Galway’s UNESCO City of Film Status. Admission is free

3. Pálás Cinema

If you are looking for an unusual thing to do in Galway Ireland, visit the independent three screen film house and restaurant occupying the garden of an 1820 merchant house in the Latin Quarter.  Watch classic and new films as well as independent international and Irish films. The program is available HERE

4. Galway Quay Street Click on the map pin attractions of the Galway tourist map for images of Quay Street

Walking down Quay street in Galway is a trip back in time. Walk the cobblestone streets with old buildings shops, restaurants, services, and pubs. There are many things to do on this street. It is well known for its nightlife and is part of the Latin Quarter. It has some of the best fish and chips and seafood restaurants In Ireland and is more touristy than some of the other streets. Its a great attractions on the Galway tourist map to stop for some snacks

5. Kirwan’s Lane

A well preserved medieval street with relics from the 16 th and 17 century showcasing Galway’s heritage. The street is named after one of the 14 “Tribes of Galway” families who controlled the town from the 13 th to the 19 th century. Recently restored, you will find parts of the medieval wall alongside cafes, restaurants and unique shops displaying Irish craftsmanship. Kirwan street is home to “Slate Nunnery” that was given to the Dominican nuns by John Kirwan in 1686.  Busker Browne’s Pub contains remnants of the nunnery walls. On this street you will find the 18 th century acclaimed 100 seat theater, built by Richard Martin for his wife

6. Hall of Red Earl, Courthouse and Town Hall

This is the next stop on the Galway Tourist Map of attractions. It was uncovered by accident during an expansion of an adjacent building in 1990, this archaeological site has been dated to the 13 th century medieval period. It is the oldest building excavated and was built by the Richard de Burg, the Red Earl.  It was Galway’s original tax office, court house and town hall. Interesting artifacts found include pipes and gold cufflinks. The exhibition showcases the history and guides are available to answer questions. Admission is free

7. Charlie Brynes Book Store This may be a nice stop and break as you follow the attractions on the Galway tourist map

A pleasant stop as you follow the Galway self guided tourist map. For book lovers, a wonderful spot in central Galway is to visit the Charlie Byrnes book store. An extraordinary independent bookstore with 100,000 new and used books located on Middle Street

8. High Street is the next attractions on the Galway Tourist Map

Another fabulous and fast paced pedestrian street with a variety of things to do. High Street is full of pubs, restaurants, street entertainment and music as well as shopping

9. Healy Barber Shop

One of the oldest and longest serving barber shops in Galway; so take a break from the attractions of the Galway tourist map and treat yourself and get a haircut!

10. Kings Head Pub

Located on High Street, it dates back 800 years and was home to Thomas Lynch the last Mayor of Galway in 1654. Above the 1612 fireplace, you will find marriage stones, complete with the family coat of arms, from the prominent “Tribes of Galway’s” families. Excavations revealed an adjoining building identified as the 5 story Stubber’s (Banks) Castle

10A. Stubbers Castle

This is the interesting stop on the Galway tourist map. After the execution of Charles I, the home of the Mayor of Ireland was seized by the Cromwell Army and trusted follower Colonel Peter Stubber. Stubber became the town’s Military Governor and it has been suggested that he was the masked man who wielded the axe executing the King of England. Once the monarch was restored in 1660, Stubbers disappeared. It is believed that he lived a quiet life in County Louth until his death in 1685

11. National Irish Language Theater

It was founded in 1928 on Middle Street and is dedicated to Irish language original works and production. The Taibhdhearc na Gaillimhe commonly known as Taidhbhearc (pronounced ‘on tive-yark’) is a cultural institute in Galway and the oldest operating theatre in Galway City

12. Shop Street

A fun next stop on the Galway tourist map. The main road in Galway, Shop Street fills your senses with its vibrancy and energy. You may need to amble up and down this street several times to fully absorb the atmosphere

13. Abbeygate Street

Lower Abbeygate Street is a welcome respite from the crowds where it’s a little quieter and you will find cute cafes and shops

14. A historic attractions in the Galway Tourist Map – Lynch Castle

Home to one of the most prominent of the “Tribes of Galway” clans, this was the most lavish of the tribal clans fortified homes built in the 15 th century. In its 169 year rule of Galway, the Lynch family provided 84 Mayors to the city. The Castle’s architecture has Spanish influences, as Spain was Galway’s main trading partner. On the corner of Shop and Abbeygate Street, it was built in gothic style. This includes window carvings, gargoyles, finely detailed moldings and the Lynch family crest displayed on the outer façade. The only preserved medieval building still in use today, it was bought by AIB Bank and serves as a branch of the bank with a small museum onsite

Tragic History

Visit the birth of the term “lynch mob” at this stop of the Galway tourist map. In 1493, the son of the Mayor of Galway, Walter Lynch was found guilty for murdering a Spanish sailor in the care of the Lynch family. The altercation was allegedly over his girlfriend. The sentence for Walter Lynch was death by hanging. Walter was very popular and believed to be not guilty. In protest the towns people surrounded him as he walked to his execution in order to protect him. This is where the term lynch mob originated. Don’t forget to visit the Lynch Memorial Window showing the actual site of the execution

15. William Street

The street is an offshoot of Eyre Square. It is a bustling, colorful street with lots of activity where the buildings are no higher than 4 stories. Once again you will find shops, buskers, and pubs. A great stop as you take a break from the attractions on the Galway tourist map

16. Oscar Wilde and Eduard Wild Statue

On William Street you will come across the statue of Oscar Wilde and Estonian writer Eduard Wilde, sitting on a bench in conversation. While they share the same last name, they never met. The statue was presented to the city in 2004 to recognize Estonia joining the EU

17. Popular attractions on the Galway Tourist Map – Galway Ireland’s Eyre Square

This is Galway’s central square, park and major shopping center and is pronounced as “air” square and it is surrounded by popular streets such as Williamsgate and Shop Street. Adjacent to the park you will also find the Galway’s Irish Railway Station. Eyre square is the largest shopping mall with over 70 shops, restaurants, cafes with local and brand retailers. The side streets of Shop Street and Williamsgate Street are filled with local Irish retailers where you will find coveted crystalware, knitwear and unique shops

Townsfolks have been gathering here since medieval times when it was a bustling market in front of the town gate, known as Green gate. Young men gathered for archery, jousting or other swordsmanship events. The area has remained the central gathering place for locals and now tourists over the millennium. The land was privately owned and donated to the city by the Mayor Edward Eyre in 1710 and hence the area was named after him

The square was the location of John F. Kennedy’s speech to 100,000 attendees in 1963. The last speech he made before his assassination and is officially known as John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, though it is still referred to as Eyre Square

The area has undergone a number of renovations and transformations over the decades. In 2007 it was the recipient of the Irish Landscape Institute Design award. Attractions in Galway’s Eyre Square include:

Attractions on the Galway Tourist Map includes famous monuments in Galway Eyre Square Click on the map pins on the Galway tourist map for additional information and images of the attractions

• 17A. Two Cast Iron Cannons – in recognition of Galway’s contribution to the Irish Regiment in the British Army
• 18. Padraic O’Conaire Statue – An Irish writer and journalist born in Galway and orphaned at the age of 11
• 19. John F. Kennedy Bust – In honor of his visit and his Irish roots
• 20. Browne Family Doorway – One of the 14 “Tribes of Galway” clans, The original 1627 entrance of the Browne family home that was located on Lower Abbeygate Street
• 21. Fountain Statue of Galway Hooker – Central to the 1984 Quincentennial fountain is a sculpture of a traditional and unique fishing boat called the Galway Hooker that was developed to counter the strong seas of the west coast
• 22. Statue of Liam Mellows – An Irish Republican who participated in the Easter Uprising and the War of Independence. He was executed for his belief in 1922. A prolific writer, his works include 26 books, 473 stories, 6 plays and 237 essays

23. Galway Christmas Market

An event managed by Galway Tourism , a four week market in Eyre square starting in November. It has been running for over 10 years with over 50 vendors and 650,000 visitors every year

24. Galway Market – St Nicholas Market on Church Lane

Outside of St Nicholas Church is a unique souvenir and gift market with food trucks and vendors. It has been trading for centuries and has interesting items such as fairy doors, paintings, jewellery, scarves, and wooden carvings and of course fresh produce

25. Lynch Memorial Window

Just outside St Nicholas Collegiate Church, a memorial panel below a window acknowledges the location of the hanging of Walter Lynch. Walter was believed to be not guilty and the Mayor, his father James Lynch could not find anybody to carry out the sentence handed down by the courts.  Determined to follow the law, James was forced to hang his own son. Unable to save his son from a murder charge, James hung Walter from the window of what is now the remnants of the wall of another home of the Lynch family. The act of hanging is now referred to as “to Lynch”. The place where he was hanged is marked by a memorial and is known as Lynch Memorial Window

26. St Nicholas Collegiate Church

The next stop in the Galway self guided tourist map of attractions is located in the medieval center of Galway, the church was built in 1320 from local materials such as limestone and Connemara Marble. It was much bigger than what was required for the small town of Galway. The original church was expanded by the Frenches and the Lynchs of the Tribes of Galway in the 16 th century and is considered to be Ireland’s largest and oldest medieval working parish. Historically the church was also used as an election venue for the Mayor of Galway holding debates and the voting venue. The church is dedicated to St Nicholas of Myra who is the patron saint of seafarers and of children (Santa Claus)

Additional Information:

• Statue of Jane Eyre – The character inspired by Charlotte Brontë was an actual person.  A virtuous parishioner who donated £300 in 1760 to feed 36 poor for ever. Nobody knows what happened to the donation
• James Kearney Statue – the young boy who was run over by a horse and cart while playng outside the church
• Baptismal font from the 16 th century – It is over 400 years old with dogs carved into its sides
• Adam Bures Grave Marker – A Crusader from the 13 th century

Many carvings and sculptures outside of the church windows include foliage, mermaids, a dragon, a lion and even an ape. You will also find a Gargoyle water spout high on the roof edge

It is said that Christopher Columbus worshipped here in 1477 on his journey to find the New World.  The churches most unwelcome visitors were Oliver Cromwell’s army in 1653 who used the interior of the church as a horse stable and destroyed many of the statues and carved figures

27. Galway Market and St Nicholas Market on Churchyard Street

The St Nicholas market joins the Galway Market on Saturdays where you will find both locals and tourists between Shop Street and Market Street. A lively atmosphere with everything imaginable that will awaken your senses.  Fresh produce, fresh herbs, spices, gourmet stands with olives, fresh pasta, cheese, homemade sauces, homemade baked items including cake. For the hungry, there are fresh sausages being cooked as well as mussels in garlic sauce at the various food stalls. You can also find novelty souvenirs include hats, leather goods and candles. A favourite Galway Ireland thing to do is visit the Saturday market. A map outlining the border of this market is in pink on the Galway Tourist interactive or PDF map above

28. Nora Barnacle House

Nora was the wife of the famous Irish writer James Joyce. The house located at 8 Bowling Green, was built in the 1800’s and has been restored and gives us a view of life in the 20 th century. A tiny house with two rooms and a small backyard.  The main floor room was multi-purpose functioning as a kitchen, dining room and bedroom.  The kitchen consisted of an open fire and until 1940 it had no plumbing so water was pumped from across the street. In the summer the kitchen was moved outdoors to the backyard. The upper room was a communal bedroom, a very common practice in those days. The tiny house accommodated Nora, her mother and her 6 children until she left for Dublin in 1904. Nora’s mother Annie continued to live in the house until her death in the 1940’s

29. Salmon Weir Bridge

It was built in 1818 and is the oldest surviving bridge to connect the courthouse with the county gaol (prison) on Nun’s Island. The Galway Cathedral was built on the site of the prison. This is an amazing site where the sea flows at 4 million gallons/sec at full flood tide, and 100,000 gallons/sec at low flood tide. On of the favourite Galway Ireland things to do is watch the salmon swim upstream. Between April and July each year, you will find salmon swimming upstream in the fast waters below the bridge. They are swimming towards their spawning grounds in Lough Corrib. Downstream from the bridge is the Salmon Weir, the original stone and wood gates of the Weir have been replaced with steel gates allowing the salmon safe passage on their 6.5 km journey from the Atlantic ocean to Lough Corrib

30. Galway Cathedral (The Catholic Cathedral of The Assumption Our Lady into Heaven and St. Nicholas)

The last stone cathedral built in Europe, it was built on the site of a notorious goal or prison known for its unusual cruelty. The prison was closed in 1939. The church was opened in 1965 and showcases Irish craftsmanship with its copper dome roof stone and wood carvings. It is one of the most impressive buildings in Galway

31. Galway Arts Center

Galway thriving art community can be seen at the Galway Arts Center . Display of Local and international arts and entertainment. The 3,000 sq ft space allows for displays spread over 3 galleries as well as classes and workshops that you can attend. The revolving exhibition means that there is always something new and interesting. Admission is free. For the art lovers there are several other galleries you may want to visit in central Galway including: Vanda Luddy Art Gallery on Abbeygate Street, 126 Artist Run Gallery on St Bridgest Place and the Galway City Museum next to the Spanish Arch

32. The Fishery Watch Tower Museum

It was built in 1852 as a lookout tower monitoring fishing boats on the river ensuring that no illegal fishing was taking place. The watchtower stopped functioning as a lookout tower in the 1970’s when the fishing industry collapsed. One of Galway’s smallest museum housing exhibits with vintage photographs, fisheries exhibits with extraordinary views of the River Corrib and Galway Bay.  The museum is free to enter and as an added bonus, free guided tours are also available

33. Claddagh

A small fishing village just outside of the Galway City Walls where the Corrib River and Galway Bay meet. It is one of the oldest known fishing villages in Ireland where locals have been suppling fish for millennia until the end of the 19 th century. The women tended the house while the men fished. They were given sole rights by the King to fish in Galway Bay. Anyone caught fishing in the Galway Bay risked having their nets and boats destroyed and as such Claddagh prospered under the monopoly.

Claddagh Decline

Disease and young people leaving for the city resulted in a decline of the population. In 1927, there was an outbreak of Tuberculosis and many of the cottages were considered to be a health hazard. The inhabitants were ordered to evacuate and were resettled elsewhere. Their cottages were demolished. The last cottage was destroyed in 1934  The thatched cottages of the original village were demolished in the 1930’s and replaced with council housing. At that time there were about 468 cottages and 820 fisherman with 80 boats supplying fish to the local markets.

Claddagh Ring

Claddagh was known for its special “Hooker” boats The Claddagh ring is world famous symbol of this location. Legend has it that Richard Joyce was captured by Algerians enroute to the West Indies. He was sold as a slave and taken to Morocco where he learned to be a goldsmith from his master. Eventually he was released at the age of 14 on the decree of the King of England that all his citizens be released. Richard returned home to Galway and set up a goldsmith shop and created a symbol of love and friendship: the Claddagh ring.  The ring depicts two hands clasping a heart which is topped with a crown

Galway Tourist Map includes Attractions Outside of Central Galway

34. salthill promenade.

Located on the Atlantic Ocean coastline, the promenade was featured in the song “Galway Girl”. Known locally as ‘the prom’ it is approximately 3km from the Spanish arch or you can take Bus Éireann number 401 towards Parkmore Industrial Estate. The Salthill Promenade walk itself is a 2 km seaside walk with views of Galway Bay. Amble, run, and cycle on the promenade. Attractions along the path include the Blackrock Beach and the Salthill Diving Pier. When tidal conditions are suitable, you will see locals jumping off the Pier into the Atlantic. Tradition dictates that you kick the wall at the end of the promenade or you can simply get some fish and chips and sit on the beach

35. Salthill Beaches

The beaches in Salthill are extremely popular with the locals and one of the top things to do in the seaside town of Galway. The two top beaches are Blackrock Beach and Ladies Beach

36. Circle of Life Commemorative Garden

This is a unique garden dedicated to organ donors and overlooking Galway Bay. Easily accessed and close to the Salthill Promenade, the name is derived from the five 2m stones forming a circle. It represents the connectivity and interdependence of humans. The admission is free to this tranquil oasis in Quincentennial Park, Salthill

37. Menlo Castle

Home of the Blake Family, a member of the Tribe of 14, the castle was built on the banks of the River Corrib in 1569. On July 26, 1910 while Sir Valentine and his wife were in Dublin for an eye operation, the castle caught fire. Their disabled daughter Eleanor along with two maids perished in the fire. The castle was left in ruins with all contents destroyed. Today the outer walls are overgrown with vegetation and slowly being reclaimed by the surrounding landscape.

The Castle can be reached by bus from central Galway. Though deserted, once you enter the gate, the dirt road will take you to the castle. You will find joggers and dog walkers including students on a stroll from the nearby National University of Ireland. To get to Menlo Castle, you can walk from central Galway or take bus number 404 towards Oranmore (Opp Oran Town Centre) using Bus Éireann

Additional attractions and map around Galway

• Galway to Cliffs of Moher , ( public transport Bus Eireann number 350 to Cliffs of Moher Coach Park )
• From Galway Eyre Square to Doolin , use Bus Eireann number 350 to Doolin Hotel . Explore Doolin village or stay at the hotel. From Doolin village walk to the to Cliffs of Moher Cliff Walk . The walk from the village is an uphill coastal walk to the cliff tops
• Galway to Aran Islands ( public transport Bus Eireann route 424 to Rossaveal Ferry port , then take the ferry to Aran Islands)
• Galway to The Burren National Park, take Expressway Bus #51 from Galway Eyre Square to Ennis Station. It is 9 stops and will take about 1.5 hours to Ennis. At Ennis Station take Bus Éireann route 333 to Corofin Village. The village is 5 stops from Ennis and will take approximately 30 minutes travel time. In the village of Corofin, disembark and walk 2 minutes to the Burren National Park Information Center. From the information center, take the free shuttle bus to the park

Galway Ireland Train Station

• The train station is located in the center of the city in Eyre Square (refer to Galway tourist map)
• Select Ceannt railway station as the rail stop in Eyre Station
• Train services for Dublin, Limerick and Atherny
• There are two platforms 1 & 2. Platform 2 can only be reached from Platform 1
• Platform 1 is for trains to and from Dublin Heuston
• Platform 2 is a shorter and it is for departures to Limerick

Galway to Dublin

• By car from Galway to Dublin it’s a 2 hour drive west along the M6
• By train from Galway to Dublin using Irish Rail from Heuston station in Dublin to central Galway, it takes about 2.5 hours and has 8 stops along the way dropping you off at Cleannt Station in Eyre Square, Galway
• City Links – City Links website has a travel planner and you can purchase your ticket online
• Bus Éireann – Expressway bus number 20X on Bus Éireann , book and purchase online
• This is my favorite journey planner for all of Irelands public transportation, click HERE . The planner will give you rail and bus options or a combination for travel in Ireland
• Dublin Walk 1  – Top 18 Attractions, guide to  Dublin City Center , North of the River Liffey Dublin
• The Book of Kells and Trinity College in Dublin. Trinity College is the oldest university in Ireland with the historic Long Room,and the old library with over 200,000 of the very old books. It is the most impressive library in the world
• In Dublin visit the Little Museum of Dublin, Grafton Street, St Stephens Green and Kilmainham Goal (the prison where many rebels from the Easter Rising were held before their execution)
• Dublin Walk 3  – Top 16 attractions, guide to  Historic Old Dublin

Other Attractions in Ireland

Use the Getting around Ireland guide to visit Over 100 Attractions in Ireland (including Games of Thrones sites) or The Glens of Antrim

Additional Ireland Attraction Guides:

• Getting around Ireland – Using Public Transportation in Ireland
• Cliffs of Moher – A very popular tour, a complete guide to the 16 attractions along the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk
• Doolin – A quaint popular village in County Clare. Stop overnight and walk to the Cliffs of Moher from Doolin or enjoy the many other attractions in and around Doolin
• The Ring of Kerry – A spectacular 111 mile scenic route on the Iveragh Peninsula. Start at either Kenmare or Killarney for a circular route of three hours without stops. Jaw dropping views of the Atlantic ocean, charming villages and wild sweeping mountains makes this a popular must see attraction in Ireland. Use the map and attractions for the complete self guided tour of the Ring of Kerry
• The Dingle Peninsula – It is a 30 mile long clockwise loop that takes about 4 hours to complete. The area is the bedrock of Irish culture with signs in many villages and towns indicating that Irish is the predominant language in the area. The picturesque landscape includes rolling hills, craggy shorelines and sandy beaches. The PDF map and attractions guide explores the attractions of the Dingle Peninsula
• The Ring of Beara – An 85 mile circular route, similar to Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula, however it is far less travelled. In that sense, it is a better drive as there are far less cars on the road. I found the Ring of Beara far more dramatic than either the Ring of Kerry or the Dingle Peninsula. It is not as popular because the tourist buses are not able to navigate the narrow roads with hairpin bends or the Healey Pass.
• Galway – Use the Galway Ireland guide for a flexible and personal tour of over 40 attractions Galway City
• Aran Islands – For a truly authentic Irish experience visit the Aran Islands. They are located at the mouth of Galway Bay. You can catch a ferry from either Doolin or Rosseeval port (Shuttle from Galway to Rosseeval ferry port)
• The Glens of Antrim – Driving route for the nine Glens of Antrim in Northern Ireland. The guide includes options for public transportation, walking trails in The Glens and Game of Thrones Attractions
• Over 100 Northern Ireland Attractions – Visit over 100 attractions along the east and north coast of Ireland along the Antrim and Causeway Coastal Route. Travel by car or public transport from the Mourne Mountains to Londonderry. Includes game of thrones sites, castles and walks along the route
• The Burren – Explore the karst moonscape bedrock of The Burren located in the southwest region and close to the Cliffs of Moher. Attractions in the Burren include ancient tombs, underground caves, walks on an unusual landscape and The Burren National Park

Related Posts

Flight delay compensation, claim up to €600 in cash

Doolin Ireland, Top attractions in Doolin

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Galway

Written by Meagan Drillinger and Shandley McMurray Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

On Ireland's western shores, along the banks of the River Corrib, lies the medieval city of Galway (Gaillimh). Small and intimate, this charming coastal city gives tourists a taste of all the delights for which Ireland is well known, including a wide array of tourist attractions to keep them busy during their trip.

From the rugged beauty of nearby natural wonders like the Wild Atlantic Way to the historical museums and cathedrals popular with visitors within the city's borders, there's no end to the enjoyment you can find in Galway's best attractions.

Are you an arts buff? You're in luck. Galway's arts and music scene is second to none in the country. Festivals take place throughout the year and contribute to the area's bohemian vibe. Once a trading port for much of Ireland, Galway's Spanish influence remains a part of the culture. Architectural fragments of its long and storied past are located throughout town, including the medieval wall that once surrounded the city.

Of late, the country has been having a bit of a culinary renaissance, and foodies are delighted. Much of the buzz has been coming from the local chefs of Galway, who are taking advantage of the delicious natural resources this fertile island and its surrounding waters offer. Arrive hungry!

Find out more about this lively city with our list of the top attractions in Galway.

1. Walk through Eyre Square

2. tour the wild atlantic way, 3. sample fresh food at galway market, 4. find calm at st. nicholas' church, 5. admire the galway cathedral, 6. take a cruise on the corrib princess, 7. see the spanish arch and visit galway city museum, 8. dive off cliffs at the aran islands, 9. stop for tea in clarinbridge, 10. head to another world at the burren, 11. book a day trip to the cliffs of moher, 12. get some sun at coral strand, 13. marvel at the history of ballynahinch, 14. drive the connemara loop, 15. explore clifden and the sky road, where to stay in galway for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in galway, galway, ireland - climate chart.

Beginning a tour of Galway at the historic Eyre Square makes perfect sense as it represents one of the most important gathering spots since medieval times. Also known as John F. Kennedy Memorial Park , after the US President of Irish descent, the square links the center of the city with a popular shopping area. This former home to food markets is a favorite of pedestrians. The public artwork takes tourists through several important eras of Irish history.

A dramatic rust-colored fountain sculpture represents Galway Hookers , traditional sailing vessels of the area. Visitors can almost feel the wind whipping at their sails. In addition, Brown's Gateway is built into a structure on the Northwest side. As the doorway to an old patrician mansion, it stands as a memorial to one of the original Tribes of Galway. There's a striking monument to the Irish language poet Pádraic O'Conaire (1882-1923), who is represented sitting on a rock.

West of Eyre Square there's a modern shopping center of the same name, which has become a popular place to stroll and soak up Irish culture. Be sure to make your way to the atmospheric Shop Street (continues on from Williamsgate Street just off Eyre Square), which, weather permitting, is generally brimming with buskers, also known as avant-garde street performers.

Traversing the Wild Atlantic Way is one of the top things to do in Galway. This 2,600-kilometer-long route following Ireland's west coast, from Kinsale in the south to Derry in the north, is where visitors are treated to the most spectacular views.

Dramatic cliffs tower over the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean, idyllic beaches beckoning swimmers to the icy water below. The breathtaking Cliffs of Moher is a highlight on the journey, as are the captivating Dingle Peninsula , Horn Head , and Achill Island .

Towns passed along the way include a few must-stops like Greencastle , Westport , and Doolin . Each boasts a unique personality, interesting attractions, adorable cottages, and tasty restaurants.

Whether you choose to walk, cycle, or drive, you'll be happy you visited this iconic route. Come prepared for all types of weather, as you'll likely spend a lot of time wandering outside to get an up close and personal view of the majestic sites. And be sure to pack plenty of snacks, water, and a camera, of course.

For some local flavor and a bit of a bohemian vibe, head to Galway Market, a favorite of both tourists and residents for produce, food, and crafts. Whether you're looking for handmade hats, fresh doughnuts, or veggies straight from the farm, you'll find it here, served with a smile.

Conveniently situated on Church Lane by St. Nicholas Church, this centuries-old, bustling venue has hundreds of stalls. Often, you can get the chance to taste some of the deliciously fresh Galway seafood.

Food vendors offer an assortment of flavors, and of course there are sweets for all. The friendly folk are usually up for a gab, so be sure to strike up a conversation. You'll be happy you did.

Hours vary according to season; make sure to check their website before heading out. During the Christmas season, it is especially festive.

Address: Church Lane, Galway

Official site: http://galwaymarket.weebly.com/

Adjacent to the Galway Market, you'll find the Anglican/Episcopal St. Nicholas' Church. It was built in the 14th century and, although much altered in later centuries, has preserved the aspect of a medieval parish church. Where else can you find a church dedicated to St. Nicholas of Myra (Santa Claus), patron saint of children and mariners? Attending a service will transport you to the spirit of yesteryear.

Exterior highlights are the gargoyles, which are rarely seen in Ireland, and the triple gables of the west front. Inside are tombs and memorials to many names you might recognize. Throughout the centuries, famous people are said to have visited St. Nicholas, including Christopher Columbus who perhaps worshipped here during a visit to Galway in 1477.

Address: Market Street, Galway

Official site: www.stnicholas.ie

A short eight-minute walk from St. Nicholas' Church takes visitors to Galway Cathedral overlooking the River Corrib. This is a beautiful site, especially at night. Along the way, literature buffs may wish to make a stop at the smallest museum in Ireland, Nora Barnacle's House (Nora was James Joyce's wife).

Built in the late 1950s, the cathedral was (and still is) the youngest of Europe's grand stone cathedrals. It was designed by J.J. Robinson in a blend of styles; Renaissance details mix with Romanesque and Gothic features. The cathedral also displays a superb collection of art, including a large Crucifixion mosaic by Patrick Pollen, beautiful rose windows, and a statue of the Virgin by Imogen Stuart.

Address: Gaol Road, Galway

Official site: www.galwaycathedral.ie

Cruising along the River Corrib is one of the best things to do in Galway. For a guaranteed good time, book a trip aboard the Corrib Princess. The 90-minute ride gives a scenic overview of the area and panoramic large windows for all to enjoy the sites. Again, pack a camera and be sure it's fully charged!

Three bridges span the river. The farthest upstream, built in 1818, is the Salmon Weir Bridge , where in spring, hundreds of salmon can be seen making their way up river to the huge expanse of Lough Corrib. O'Brien's Bridge in the middle is the oldest and dates from 1342. The Claddagh Bridge (a swing bridge), at the south end of the town, takes its name from an old fisherman's quarters and guild on the right bank, an area that's now given way to modern buildings.

Claddagh , just outside Galway, is known as the oldest fishing village in Ireland. The famous ring, symbolized by two hands clasping a heart, is said to have originated here and was traditionally handed down from mother to daughter.

Official site: http://www.corribprincess.ie/

About 10 minutes after working your way back along the riverside from Woodquay, you'll come upon the famous Spanish Arch . It's an iconic place to visit to rendezvous with friends and is one of two remaining arches from the original front wall. This in turn leads to Spanish Parade, once the favorite promenade of Spanish merchants.

Take a few photos and continue walking. After a few more minutes, you'll arrive at the Galway City Museum , a modern glass structure built to reflect the surrounding city walls. The museum displays both permanent and touring exhibitions covering Galway's heritage, history, and archaeological treasures. Residents of the area have donated many personal items to the collection of more than 1,000 pieces and are proud of the historical importance it represents.

Address: Spanish Parade, Galway

Official site: www.galwaycitymuseum.ie

If time permits, the Aran Islands should be far up on the sightseeing agenda. Located just off the coast of Galway, these delightful isles boast several worthwhile tourist attractions, including an outdoor museum scattered with Celtic churches of significant historical importance, the spectacular Dun Aonghasa and Cliffs of Aran (venue for an annual cliff diving contest), and the setting of the film Man of Aran .

The Aran Islands are also known as home to the aptly named Aran sweater, a traditional, Irish knit made of wool and sometimes referred to as the fisherman's sweater. Pick one up to stay warm on a cool afternoon.

In addition to these attractions, the islands offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. Regular ferries connect the islands to the mainland, and there's a plane service from Galway airport.

Consistently voted one of the prettiest villages in Ireland, the tiny, picturesque village of Clarinbridge lies just over 17 kilometers (about 20 minutes by bus or car) south of Galway city.

Located on the mouth of the Clarin River at the end of Dunbulcaun Bay, this destination represents the easternmost part of Galway Bay. The town was named after the ancient bridge of the same name that crossed the river.

The area's famous Oyster Festival includes live music, dancing, and a gala ball. Make plans to visit the festival, taking place annually since 1954, during September. Wander the historic streets, stop in for tea at a local restaurant, and breathe a sigh of relief that you're lucky enough to spend time in this charming town.

The Burren is one of the most serene, otherworldly tourist attractions in Ireland, which is why you really must visit. Most famous for its unique rocky outcroppings and other creative limestone formations, this impressive site is located 40 minutes from Clarinbridge, in the northern section of County Clare. Its name comes from the Irish, Boíreann, which, fittingly, means "a rocky place."

While most of Ireland is blanketed in a green so vivid you'll think it's been painted, the Burren features more rock than grass, or even soil. In other words, it's quite barren. Visit in spring for an even more magical view, as the dramatic rocks are emphasized by wildflowers abloom in all their brightly colored glory.

Burren National Park is a protected part of the region, spanning 1,500 hectares of land in the southeastern section of The Burren. It boasts numerous plant habitats and a bevy of creatures that call these rocky escarpments home.

Important archaeological sites such as the Celtic high cross in Kilfenora are also found here. The beautifully-preserved Corcomroe Abbey is one of the most popular attractions in the area. Hiking, fishing, photography, and caving are other top things to do in the area.

Fans of local products will be well advised to visit the Burren Perfumery. Taking their inspiration from the surrounding landscapes, the company's organic cosmetics and fragrances have a cult following and are shipped worldwide. The small café makes for a nice rest stop and is covered with scented roses in season.

Address: Burren National Park, Co. Clare

Official site: www.burrennationalpark.ie

No matter how many times you've seen photos of the Cliffs of Moher, nothing can ever compare to the real thing. This is a destination that delivers all you were hoping for and more. The breathtaking destination stretches for eight kilometers along the coast and embodies all the characteristics that have made the Wild Atlantic Way famous.

Crashing, crystal blue waves roll in and out of the majestic cliffs, often producing a mesmerizing trance. If you didn't know how cold the water was, it's pretty enough to make you want to jump right in!

On a clear day, Galway Bay and the Aran Islands can be seen in the distance. Make sure not to miss the incredible views of this spectacular landscape from O'Brien's Tower , a short climb worth every step. You'll definitely want to have a camera on hand.

A convenient way to visit the site is on the full-day Cliffs of Moher Day Trip from Galway, which takes visitors through charming fishing villages on their way to this UNESCO-listed site.

Location: Liscannor, Co. Clare

Official site: www.cliffsofmoher.ie

Driving out of Galway City along the coast eventually will lead you to the edge of Mannin Bay. Here is where travelers will discover Coral Strand, a coastal jewel that overlooks the Mannin Bay Blueway. Upon closer inspection, you'll discover that the sand is actually made up of finely ground coralline algae, which crunches like very small gravel under your feet.

The views here are truly spectacular out over the shimmering blue bay. In fact, the water is so pure here that you'll see straight to the bottom. This is a top spot for visitors and residents for kayaking and, when the weather is warm, swimming and snorkeling. The rocks create fascinating tide pools complete with scuttling crabs.

Continuing along the Wild Atlantic Way, you will pass by the remarkable Ballynahinch Castle. Today the castle serves as one of the best hotels in Ireland. But its history dates back much further and is an important part of the history of Galway.

Ballynahinch's history dates back to 1546, when a small castle was built on the lake by Donal O'Flaherty, who was the husband of Grace O'Malley, the infamous Pirate Queen of Ireland. In the 1590s, the estate was purchased by The Martins, who were one of the 14 merchant Tribes of Galway, who had control over much of the order of society in Galway city. The Martins are who built the present-day structure of Ballynahinch, which was built in 1756.

Over the decades, the castle hosted many important political figures and other celebrities. In fact, in 1923, His Highness the Maharaja Jam Sahib of Nawanager visited Ballynahinch, fell in love with it, and purchased it. The estate and house changed hands a few more times until it was finally purchased by the Irish Tourism Board in 1949 and then, ultimately, sold to private ownership in the middle of the 20th century.

The Wild Atlantic Way has many spectacular detours, but when visiting Galway, the one not to miss is the Connemara Loop. This scenic drive will take you in a loop around the North West portion of Galway, which is known as Connemara.

This historic section of the country is one of its most important in terms of history and culture. It is in this part of Ireland that you will encounter many of the Connacht Irish-speaking Gaeltacht communities. In fact, this is the largest Gaeltacht in the country.

In addition to history and culture, this is arguably one of the most remote and beautiful stretches of the country. It is known for its stunning mountains, like the Twelve Bens, and its many peninsulas, hidden coves, and lakes. Connemara National Park can be found here, as well, which is a dramatic series of rolling mountains and plunging V-shaped valleys. The drive around the loop is 45 kilometers and the largest community here is Clifden.

Speaking of Clifden, this small town on the coast of rural Galway is worth a stop, whether for lunch or a look around. The capital of Connemara, and the largest town in the region, Clifden is undeniably charming and beautiful, tucked at the base of the mountains and overlooking the rugged Atlantic.

Clifden is buzzing these days with shopping, cafés, restaurants, and plenty of places to hear live music. But one of the best things to do in Clifden is to drive the beautiful Sky Road. A winding scenic drive rises up from the low-lying village high into the mountains, featuring dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean as far as the eye can see.

Luxury Hotels:

• Travelers wanting to stay in a room with a view and a short five-minute drive from the center of town would like the Galway Bay Hotel . Situated with excellent water views, the hotel has a gym, pool, steam room, and sauna. The on-site restaurant is known for the excellent seafood on its menu.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Just a short walk from the action of Eyre Square, tourists will find good value at the Park House Hotel . This four-star historic hotel has a quaint boutique feel, and offers a full Irish breakfast. On-site secure parking is also available.
• Jurys inn Galway has affordable rates and a lovely view of Galway Bay. Located just steps from the Spanish Arch and contemporary in feel, this hotel is within walking distance to most sites and offers parking, an attractive amenity in what can be a congested area.

Budget Hotels:

• Galway has more than its share of budget hostels, some of which are hotel style, with private rooms and bathrooms. Snoozles Quay Street Tourist Hostel is one such spot located in the heart of the Latin Quarter. Free Wi-Fi and breakfast add to the appeal, as do the comfortable common areas complete with computers, games, and a full kitchen.
• Hotels in this range include the Travelodge Galway, a great-value budget hotel featuring comfortable beds, free parking, and Wi-Fi. The location is about a mile from the city center.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Ireland's Charming Capital of Dublin: Most visitors to Ireland will want to explore the highlights of Dublin at some part of their trip. The good news is that unlike the twisty, narrow roads covering most of the country, tourists can drive or catch the train from Galway to Dublin in just over two hours. A wide selection of hotels await their stay. Once tourists have explored the charming capital, they'll find the city is a great base for some day trips from Dublin to other parts of the Emerald Isle.

Southern Castles, Museums, and More: Continuing south from Dublin will bring tourists to the city often called the second capital of Ireland. Located on the banks of the River Nore, Kilkenny offers many architectural gems and things to do. No trip to Ireland can be considered complete without a drive around the dramatic and iconic Ring of Kerry and all the magic it has in store for those who visit.

More on Ireland

Galway Tourism aims to provide extensive online information for visitors to Galway and the entire of the West of Ireland. We are independent of Fáilte Ireland, the National Tourism Development Authority of Ireland, not for profit, operated on a part time basis and free to all businesses and organisations operating in the local tourist industry.

Claim your listing

Galwaytourism.ie also offers opportunities for businesses and organisations operating in Galway to list their profile within the directory. To get listed simply send an email with the title, description and website address of your business or organisation to info[at]galwaytourism.ie and we will confirm your submission if all is in order.

Best Rate Hotels

To provide the best experience, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting, may adversely affect certain features and functions.