Galway: Travel Guide
Read our travel guide on Galway in Ireland. Includes best things to do and see, tips on where to stay, how to get, or when to go.
Without any doubt, Galway is one of the most fun cities you can visit in Ireland.
It features traditional streets, amazing culture, great pubs, and a very vibrant atmosphere.
It's located on the west coast of Ireland in County Galway and is well-connected with the rest of the country.
For us, Galway is a city of long walks along the promenade, high-pitched seagull calls, lively busking scene, traditional Irish pubs, great seafood, medieval heritage, and endless views of the Atlantic Ocean.
It was one of the highlights of our Ireland road trip and a great place to rest up before continuing the journey along the coast to Mayo and Sligo.
There are plenty of things to see and do in Galway any time of the year, so you don't have to think twice whether this city is worth seeing or not.
Whether you drive along the Wild Atlantic Way or make your way from Dublin, we hope this post will help you plan your trip to Galway.
So here's everything you should know about Galway before you go.
Best Things to Do
One of the best reasons to visit Galway is that there is always something going on.
There are plenty of activities for all types of visitors in the city center.
You will find much to see and do here, from traditional architecture, lively bars, interesting museums, exciting events, and easy walks.
So what is there to see and do in Galway?
The Latin Quarter
Without any doubt, the Latin Quarter in Galway is a fascinating place to visit.
Situated in the heart of Galway, it's a cultural hub of the city beloved by locals and visitors alike.
It covers the area between the Spanish Arch, O'Brien's Bridge, Middle Street, and St. Nicholas Church.
When visiting the Latin Quarter, you will find tons of places to eat, pubs to enjoy Guinness beer, and shops to explore.
Quay Street
The beating heart of this area is the iconic Quay Street, which is often packed with tourists and gets very lively during the evening.
If you enjoy vibrant culture, buskers, Irish music, cozy restaurants, Irish beer, crowded areas, and a chance to socialize, you're in for a treat.
But make no mistakes here. Quay Street is a typical tourist experience and is not for everyone.
Hall of the Red Earl
When walking around the Latin Quarter, make sure also to visit the Hall of the Red Earl.
Dating back to the 13th century, it's the earliest surviving structure within the boundaries of Galway's medieval settlement and one of the most important archaeological landmarks in the city.
It's a small but interesting site located on Druid Lane beneath a modern office building hidden away from the hustle and bustle of Quay Street and definitely worth stopping by for all history lovers.
There are some informative boards at the excavation site so that you can learn more about its significance.
It takes about 10 minutes, and even if it's closed, you can see it through the glass panels that surround it.
Hall of the Red Earl is free to visit.
Lynch's Castle
One of the medieval landmarks in Galway, Lynch's Castle, is an interesting place to see for multiple reasons.
It used to be the home of the Lynch family, and its origin dates back to the 15th century.
The building underwent many renovations since then, and eventually, it was transformed into a bank in the 20th century.
If you are not aware of Lynch's Castle's history, this structure is easily missed.
Today, you can walk into the bank's lobby, where you will find an old fireplace and some panels explaining the history of the building.
Or you can just admire the facade's stonework and gargoyles from the street. If you need to withdraw money, ATMs are conveniently located here.
Spanish Arch
Located on the banks of the River Corrib, the ruins of the former city wall known as the Spanish Arch is today one of the main attractions in Galway.
It was constructed in 1584 to help protect the dock area and prevent intruders from entering the city.
The origin of the 16th-century arch goes to pre-medieval times, as a Norman wall has stood here since the 12th century.
It was known as Ceann an Bhalla, which means the Head of the Wall. The name 'Spanish Arch' comes allegedly from the Galway's trading relationship with Spain, though the real origin remains still shrouded in mystery.
Despite its popularity, there is not much to see and do here, as not much remains of this old fortification.
Still, we believe Spanish Arch is worth seeing, as it's a lovely stop when walking along Galway's waterfront.
There are also some benches here, so it's an ideal spot to sit and watch the world go by. Don't forget to read the old plaque that tells you about the Spanish Arch's history.
Galway City Museum is no longer located in Spanish Arch, but it was moved to a modern building only a few meters from here.
Galway City Museum
Situated only a short walk from the Spanish Arch, Galway City Museum tells the story of Galway, the city, and its surroundings.
The museum houses many interesting exhibitions focusing on rich history, archaeology, and heritage.
On three floors, you will have a chance to learn about prehistoric times, the medieval era, and the Irish civil war, and even enjoy some contemporary art.
The main highlights are Civic Sword from the early 1600s, 18th-century Great Mace silverwork, and a traditional brown-sailed boat.
Galway City Museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday. The museum has no entry fee, though a small donation is suggested.
We don't have to mention that Galway City Museum is one of the best places to visit in Galway on a rainy day.
Eyre Square
If you're traveling to Galway by bus or train, chances are that Eyre Square will be the first place you visit here.
Also known as John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, this is a popular green public park in the heart of Galway.
Even though it's just a city park, it's a good meeting spot near the bus and rail stations.
If you're interested in shopping, visit the Eyre Square Centre on the park's southern edge.
Events
One thing is certain. Galway events calendar is packed to the brim year-round. No wonder Galway is often referred to as the cultural heart of Ireland.
And what are the most popular events in Galway?
Summer is known for The Galway Sessions, which celebrate traditional Irish music, Galway International Arts Festival, and Galway Races.
Spring is known for Galway Early Music Festival, hosting Irish and international artists and promoting medieval, Renaissances, and Baroque music.
In winter, it's the Galway Christmas Market, which is not surprising, as similar festive markets take place across many European cities.
Autumn brings the Galway International Oyster Festival, one of Ireland's most interesting food celebrations.
While this is a great way to see Galway, these cultural events bring some inconveniences. If there's something big going on in a city, the hotels fill up quickly, and rates go up.
Make sure to book your reservations in advance or try to avoid these dates if you're not interested in similar events.
City Tours
Whether you are an independent traveler or not, taking a walking tour is one of the best ways to learn more about Galway.
Not surprisingly, one of the most popular guided tours in the city is Galway Food Tour.
If you're a foodie, this tour is a culinary delight.
Another popular activity is the Galway Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour which will allow you to visit some of the most famous places in the city from a double-decker bus.
Consider taking a Scenic Cruise of the Corrib River on a picture-perfect day.
Here you will have a chance to experience beautiful scenery and even see the Corrib Lake, the largest lake in the Republic of Ireland.
You can also always join a regular Galway City Walking Tour or one of the free walking tours.
Pubs and Restaurants
There are many nice places to eat a drink in Galway, so finding your favorite restaurant should be a matter of a few moments.
As mentioned above, make time to visit the Latin Quarter neighborhood during your visit to Galway for good eats, live music, and a pint of beer.
You can find endless debates about what is the best pub in Galway, so we suggest going with your instincts on this one.
If you're still not sure, The Front Door, Tigh Neachtain, Dail Bar, Taaffees Bar, and An Pucan are usually solid choices for first-time visitors.
The pub scene is vibrant and tends to get very lively on weekends, but sometimes it can be difficult to get a seat.
In this case, just try the next pub, as there is always one behind the corner.
Alternatively, you can find some good pubs and restaurants along the Salthill Promenade.
Galway Cathedral
The Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, simply known as Galway Cathedral, is one of the most impressive buildings in the city.
Despite its classic look, central dome, stone walls, and almost medieval feeling, this is a modern-day version of a cathedral.
Honestly, this piece of information really took us by surprise after seeing it for the first time and then reading about its history a few moments later.
It was built on a former prison site in the late 1950s and completed in 1965. By the way, the stories of how the church was built were our favorite.
The cathedral is fairly large and has many interesting places to walk around.
When inside, you can marvel at stunning mosaics and stained glass windows, appreciate wonderful interior design, take photos, attend a mass (check the time), or light a candle.
Even if you're not into churches, Galway Cathedral is worth seeing (even if it's just for the walk along the river and the panoramic view).
If you want to see more similar buildings during your holiday, make sure to visit St. Canice's Cathedral in Kilkenny and St. Colman's Cathedral in Cobh.
There is no entry fee; a small donation is appreciated, though.
Salthill Promenade
Known for its long walkway along the Atlantic Ocean, relaxed atmosphere, cute beaches, and enchanting smell of sea air, Salthill Promenade is one of the most famous places in Galway.
It's popular among walkers, joggers, cyclists, and dog walkers and gets especially busy on dry, warm, and sunny days.
It comes without any surprise that summer's long and clear days are the best time to visit Salthill Promenade.
Still, it's a good place to visit even if the weather doesn't go in your favor, as you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city center here.
Either way, it's a nice walk along the coast. If you are not in a hurry, make time to grab a coffee, sit on the bench, watch the people go by, and listen to the sounds of the sea.
Don't forget that you're still in the city and not on Dingle Peninsula, so keep your expectations realistic to avoid disappointment.
Salthill Promenade is also easily accessible by car from the city center, and you don't have to worry about parking too much.
There are plenty of on-street parking spaces along the promenade and two large free parking lots (Salthill Car Park and Atlantaquaria Car Park).
Galway Atlantaquaria
Ireland's largest native species aquarium, Galway Atlantaquaria, is well-organized with informative displays and a good variety of sea life.
It offers an educational and engaging experience of the local world of water for all ages, but it's especially popular among families with kids.
Here you will learn about the local species such as rays, jellyfish, small sharks, crustaceans, and more.
If you're interested in the aquatic diversity of life in the ocean, rivers, and lakes, it's a good place to visit.
It's located in Salthill, so you can enjoy a walk along the famous promenade and then pay a visit to the aquarium.
The aquarium is open every day from 10 AM to 5 PM (6 PM on weekends), and it takes about an hour to see everything.
Single admission is €14 per adult, and you can also purchase family tickets.
Best Day Trips from Galway
Thanks to its fantastic location, Galway is also an ideal base for exploring County Galway and County Clare.
Whether you've arrived in Galway for nature or history, there are plenty of amazing places you should incorporate into your itinerary.
Here are some ideas for fun day trips from Galway.
Connemara National Park
One of Ireland's most beautiful national parks, Connemara, is the highlight of every trip to County Galway.
We absolutely loved the Diamond Hill area for its amazing trails, epic views, and incredible landscape consisting of mountains, hogs, grasslands, heaths, and woodlands.
There are several trails with varying lengths for all ages and abilities, but the best hike is arguably the Diamond Hill Walk.
If you've enjoyed the Wicklow Mountains, make sure to include this national park in your itinerary as well.
Kylemore Abbey
If you make it all the way to Connemara National Park, Kylemore Abbey should be your next stop.
This 19th-century Benedictine Monastery was originally built by Mitchell Henry and called Kylemore Castle.
It is only a short drive from the entrance to the national park, so you can easily visit both places in one day.
It also features a neo-Gothic church and a Victorian walled garden.
Without any doubt, Kylemore Abbey is a top attraction in County Galway.
Sky Road
On the way to Connemara National Park and Kylemore Abbey, you can make a short detour and drive along the scenic Sky Road.
This is a relatively short drive, but the views along the way are well worth your time.
It's part of the Wild Atlantic Way, though it's not as famous as Skellig Ring or Slea Head Drive.
The circular route starts in Clifden, about 80 kilometers west of Galway, and features places such as Pointe Amharc Atlantach Fiain Sky Bothar View or Clifden Castle.
By the way, if you're still looking for more wonderful places to explore in the western part of County Galway, check out Dog's Bay, Aasleagh Falls, and Killary Harbour as well.
The Burren
Southwest of Galway was hiding in plain sight, one of the biggest surprises of our Ireland road trip.
This unique karst landscape is situated in an area known as the Burren, only a short drive from Galway.
If you have a car, you can reach the edge of this area in less than thirty minutes.
There are plenty of amazing places to see in the Burren.
We hiked Mullaghmore Loop Walk in the Burren National Park, took a guided tour to Doolin Cave, and discovered fragments of ancient history at Poulnabrone Dolmen.
Then there is also the Kinvara village, Fanore Beach, scenic route R477, Corcomroe Abbey, and much more.
If you're looking for a great day trip from Galway, the Burren should also not fly under your radar.
Cliffs of Moher
For many visitors, the iconic Cliffs of Moher are among the main reasons to visit the Emerald Isle.
These spectacular cliffs rise over 200 meters above the waters of the Atlantic Ocean at its highest point.
This area is today known as the Cliffs of Moher Experience, and even though there is a small entry fee, it's definitely worth visiting.
Travelers visiting Ireland on a budget and avid hikers can opt for Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk, which connects Doolin with Hags Head.
Either way, Cliffs of Moher are by far the most popular day trip from Galway.
Aran Islands
The group of three islands in Galway Bay consisting of Inishmore (Inis Mor), Inishmaan (Inis Meain), and Inisheer (Inis Oirr) is known as Aran Islands.
The islands are situated just off the coast and can be relatively easily reached by boat from Galway (or Doolin).
Due to their remote location, there is no road bridge like at Valentia Island on the Ring of Kerry.
The journey from Galway's docks to Inishomore, the most popular and most visited of the three, takes about 90 minutes.
Whether you rent a bike or decide to explore this remote area on foot, expect to find here panoramic views behind every corner, iconic stone walls, Dun Aengus hill fort, stunning cliffs, sandy beaches, the unique Wormhole, MV Plassy Shipwreck, O'Brien's Castle and even great wildlife watching opportunities.
Visiting Aran Islands during the off-season is an ideal way to escape crowds if you're looking for peace and solitude.
Clonmacnoise
Ireland is known not only for its natural beauty but also monastic history.
One of the finest examples of this ancient heritage in Ireland is Clonmacnoise, situated in County Offaly, about an hour's drive east of Galway.
It was built on the Shannon River in the 6th century CE and quickly became one of Ireland's top centers of religion and learning.
Three centuries later, it was the most famous monastery in the country, visited by scholars from all over Europe.
Today, these ruins are one of the most popular stops on the way from Dublin to Galway.
If you're looking for similar sites in Ireland, don't forget also to visit Glendalough Monastic Site in County Wicklow.
How Much Time Do I Need
It's always difficult to say how much time you should spend in Galway, as there are plenty of things to see and do in the city and its surroundings.
In general, a full day in Galway is more than enough for most visitors.
In fact, if you're pressed for time, we could even argue that even as little as a half-day for sightseeing is perfectly fine.
On the other hand, we would say that two full days in Galway is ideal for those who prefer slow travel.
Either way, we recommend staying in the city overnight to see the Bohemian side of Galway, explore the restaurant and pub scene, and really get the most out of the trip.
We've already established that the superb location makes Galway a perfect base for exploring the nearby attractions.
In this case, you can easily stay three, four, or even five days in Galway without getting bored.
This way, you can see some of Ireland's most beautiful places during the day and still have easy access to all pubs, restaurants, and accommodations Galway has to offer once you come back.
When to Go
Galway is a year-round destination, and the best time to visit depends on your travel preferences.
Still, summer is considered the best time to visit Galway as the weather in Ireland is warm and pleasant during this period.
Days are long, and you will be able to enjoy a greater variety of activities.
The main downside is that it's also the busiest time of the year. It means the accommodation prices are at their highest and the crowds at their largest.
Spring is popular among visitors seeking a more relaxed experience.
We visited Galway County in May during a stretch of wonderful and relatively warm days.
This month really felt like the city (the wildflowers in the Burren and the entire country) was waking up after a long winter.
Similarly, autumn should be a good time to visit Galway as well.
Despite the cold and wet days, visiting Galway in winter is perfectly fine.
In fact, it might be an ideal time when to visit Ireland if you want to explore the local pub scene and other cities on the island.
Don't forget that the bad weather in the off-season is manageable when visiting mostly the cities, but it's not that great for a road trip and outdoor adventures.
What to Pack
Plenty of walking is required to make the most of everything Galway has to offer, so good and comfortable shoes are important.
We traveled only with a carry-on-size bag and used our trusty runners whenever possible.
A quality rain jacket should be right on the top of every Ireland packing list.
It will come in handy not just here but pretty much in any other destination you're about to visit.
The weather is unpredictable in Ireland, so it never leaves our daypack. Speaking of which, a comfortable small daypack is another essential item that can really make or break your trip.
With only one bag, we had to make sacrifices, but it was worth it.
For instance, we brought only hiking pants instead of jeans. It might not be stylish, but there are many pros of traveling light.
In the worst-case scenario, don't forget that you can buy pretty much everything you can think of in Galway.
How to Get Around
For typical visitors, the best way to get around Galway is on foot.
The city center is fairly compact, there are some pedestrian-only streets, and even places such as Salthill are not that far (a 20-minute walk).
Simply put, most things to see and do in Galway can be reached on foot.
Galway has a good and extensive public transport network if you stay in the suburbs.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi, join a hop-on hop-off bus tour, or use a bike-share program if walking is not your thing.
How to Get There
Galway is located on the west coast of Ireland and is well connected with the rest of the country.
With so many transport options, Galway has never been easier to get to.
Since we wanted to drive around the entire island, we decided to rent a car in Ireland. It was a great decision, and here you can read our best tips on driving in Ireland.
Car
Dublin, set in the east of Ireland, is connected with Galway via M6, and the journey one way takes about 2 hours.
Limerick is south of Galway, and the trip via M18 takes under 90 minutes. Near Limerick is Shannon and the international airport.
Cork is even further south, so be prepared to spend about two and a half hours on the way. You will find Sligo in the north, about a two-hour drive from here.
Travel Resources
When renting a car, we use Rentalcars.com.
Parking
Finding parking in Galway is relatively easy but not cheap.
As visitors with a rental car, we didn't want to overcomplicate things and used one of the safe and secured Q-Parks in the city center (Q-Park Eyre Square).
The standard rates are pretty expensive, but we still believe it's worth it as you don't have to worry about your car while exploring the city.
You could also try to stay in a hotel with private parking, but this option is not often available.
Still, you can always ask the front office staff whether the hotel offers deals with nearby parking lots.
If you're staying near the Salthill Promenade, finding free parking should not prove to be complicated.
Train
If you plan to visit Galway from Dublin (Heuston Station) or Limerick, it's worth considering taking a train.
Irish Rail has direct routes to both cities, making it a great way to travel between these popular destinations.
Just make sure you reserve a direct line to save time and money. It's worth booking your tickets online.
Even though you can reach pretty much every major city in Ireland by train from Galway, these routes, such as Galway - Cork or Galway Sligo, are indirect and often more time-consuming.
Bus
In this case, it makes sense to take a bus instead. One of the most popular routes from and to Galway is Route 51.
Bus Eireann runs it and connects Galway with Ennis, Limerick, Shannon Airport, and Cork.
Route 350, also run by Bus Eireann, is a popular way to get from Galway to Cliffs of Moher or vice versa.
Getting around Ireland by bus is generally safe, comfortable, and relatively affordable.
However, you also need to figure out how to get to your next destination.
Air
Shannon Airport is the nearest airport to Galway. You can rent a car, take a bus, or arrange private transport to get from the airport.
Boat
We can't fail to mention that you can also get to Galway by ferry from other parts of Ireland, but this option is suitable only for a fraction of visitors.
Tours
Lastly, you can always visit Galway on a day trip from pretty much any other major city in Ireland. However, the most popular day trips to Galway depart from Dublin.
Organized tours are perfect for those who are short on time or don't want to worry about transportation or itinerary.
The main advantage of Galway tours is that they usually include some interesting stops along the way and often even go to places such as the Cliffs of Moher.
Here you can reserve an extremely popular and well-rated Galway Tour from Dublin, including stops at the Cliffs of Moher.
Where to Stay
No matter what your budget, preferences, or travel plans are, there is a great choice of accommodations waiting for you in Galway.
If you're visiting Galway for the first time, we suggest staying directly in the City Center in order to have everything within easy reach.
There is no shortage of mid-range hotels in the heart of the city, so it's very easy to find a place to suit your needs within this area.
Budget travelers will appreciate the selection of relatively good hostels, though they might not be as inexpensive as you would expect.
For a more quiet experience, you could stay in one of Galway's popular suburbs, such as Salthill.
For that homely Irish welcome, we suggest spending a night in one of the charming bed and breakfasts outside Galway.
Here are our tips on the best hotels in Galway.
Budget | The Nest Boutique Hostel - One of the best hostels in Galway is located in the Salthill. It offers affordable clean rooms, comfy beds, easy waterfront access, a fully equipped kitchen, and even small private parking.
Mid-range | Leonardo Hotel Galway - With its hard-to-beat location right in the city center, contemporary rooms, helpful staff, and buffet breakfast, this is one of the best mid-range hotels in Galway.
Luxury | Glenlo Abbey Hotel - If you're looking for a luxurious hotel experience during your stay in Galway, this 5-star hotel situated only a short drive from the city center will exceed your expectations. It's expensive, but the service is impeccable and worth the price.
Staying Safe
Galway is still a relatively small city with a low crime rate. It's popular among tourists and generally considered to be safe to visit.
The general rule of thumb is to use your common sense to avoid potentially dangerous situations.
We wandered Galway's street (even after dark) and never felt threatened in any way, though you should always be aware of your surroundings.
The risk of petty crime exists here as in any other city, but if you watch your belongings in crowded areas, you should be fine.
As mentioned earlier, Galway has an active nightlife, and there are plenty of bars and pubs to explore, so the city gets busy, especially on the weekends.
There is not much to say except to drink responsibly, have fun, and stay safe.
We already covered the topic of parking in the text above. Just remember never to leave your belongings in your car.
Here you will find more tips on staying safe in Ireland.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
Is Galway Worth Visiting?
Without any doubt, Galway is one of the most exciting cities in Ireland, and it is worth seeing for many reasons.
Sure, it's busy and touristy, especially on the weekends and in the peak season.
However, we could argue that the lively atmosphere and the sense that something is always going on is one of Galway's best-selling points.
Another major draw of Galway is its fantastic location, as it's basically a gateway to both north and south of Ireland.
To help you with inspiration, we rounded up in this post some of the most stunning places you can visit from Galway on a day trip any time of the year.
All things considered, Galway is definitely worth visiting and surely one of the highlights of every Ireland road trip itinerary.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
