Galway’s wonderful location on the western coast of Eire is without doubt one of the principal causes for the town’s reputation with guests. With easy accessibility to the very best seashores and pure landmarks of Eire, the record of issues to do in Galway is neverending.
I’ve managed to slim it all the way down to 22 of the very best sights in and close to the Irish metropolis. From historic landmarks within the coronary heart of city to implausible pure sights simply outdoors the town, this record covers all the pieces of curiosity in Galway.
Whether or not you’re trying to uncover Irish tradition and legends or spend your journey exploring Eire’s prettiest landscapes, Galway delivers. And it doesn’t matter in the event you’re on the town for a few days or a few weeks as a result of there’s no means you might be bored right here!
Better of Galway, Eire Fast Information
Should See: Galway Cathedral, Saint Nicholas Collegiate Church, Lough Corrib, Salthill Promenade, Quay Avenue, Eyre Sq. The place To Keep: Woodquay Hostel, The Hardiman, Glenlo Abbey Resort & Property – the place we stayed Enjoyable To Do: Wild Atlantic Method Highway Journey, Pub crawl, Galway Races, Connemara Nationwide Park Day Journeys: Aran Islands, Canine’s Bay, Cliffs of Moher Should-Strive Meals: Irish stew, soda bread, seafood, Colcannon, Barmbrack.
Finest Issues to Do In Galway, Eire
Fabulous seashores, mesmerizing Irish castles, and quaint previous city buildings are a number of the issues that can enchant you in Galway. I’ve lined all the town’s best-known landmarks and sights, in addition to all of the implausible locations value visiting which might be solely a brief drive away from the port metropolis.
1. Strolling Tour of Galway Previous City
A strolling tour of the previous city of Galway is one of the simplest ways of getting acquainted with the Irish metropolis. Uncover the medieval buildings, see the colourful storefronts within the cobblestone alleys, and attempt to spot as many statues as you possibly can alongside the best way.
Guided strolling excursions of medieval Galway are nice for first-time guests as a result of you possibly can study lots concerning the metropolis’s wealthy historical past. Native guides will inform you concerning the tales and legends of Galway whereas taking you to all the very best spots within the metropolis.
A self-guided tour can also be a great way to see the town. You’ll be able to hit all the primary spots, and in the event you learn up on the native historical past, will probably be nearly as in the event you had been guided round by knowledgeable. The Latin Quarter, Lynch’s Fortress, Eyre Sq., Quay Avenue, Store Avenue, and Galway Cathedral are sights to not miss in Galway Previous City.
Sensible Info: Strolling excursions of Galway take between 1 and three hours.
2. Tour To Aran Islands
Aran Islands are a gaggle of three limestone islands simply off the west coast of Eire. They’re simply accessible by ferries from Galway County, and even by scenic helicopter flights from Connemore Worldwide Airport.
Touring to the Aran Islands received’t be a bit of cake if you need to depend on buses to get you round, and I’d advocate arranging a guided tour if you’re on this scenario. We went to the Aran Islands by aircraft, and that’s the quickest and best. However you possibly can take a ferry as nicely.
Inishmore is the most important of the three islands, and as such is dwelling to probably the most historical ruins and the very best dramatic landscapes. Dun Aengus is on this island, the prehistoric ruins that overlook the Atlantic Ocean and which served as one of many filming places for the Banshees of Inisherin movie.
Sensible Info: A ferry from Galway Metropolis to Inishmore takes roughly 90 minutes. One-way tickets for adults are €35.
3. Tour Galway Cathedral
Galway Cathedral is without doubt one of the metropolis’s most imposing buildings and a worthy cease on any metropolis tour. It’s located on Nuns Island within the River Corrib, simply northwest of Galway’s historic centre. The huge constructing dominates the northern a part of the river island. Because it ought to, because it is without doubt one of the most essential landmarks in the whole metropolis.
The cathedral’s inside is much more grand than its exterior. With beautiful stained glass home windows, ornate ceilings, and beautiful work and statues on the partitions, it’s straightforward to see why that is an important non secular constructing within the Irish metropolis. There’s even a mosaic of John F. Kennedy, who visited Galway for a short while about 5 months earlier than his assassination.
Sensible Info: Galway Cathedral is open every day from 8:30 AM till 7-9 PM relying on the day. Entrance to the church is free.
4. See The Lynch Memorial Window
Legend has it that James Lynch fitz Stephen, the mayor of Galway within the late fifteenth century, hanged his son from a window in his home. Supposedly, the son had killed a Spanish soldier, and when the mayor discovered about this, he hung him from the window.
There may be little to no proof to assist this story, however it’s one of many best-known tales of Galway. The Lynch Memorial Window, which was uncovered at a home on Lombard Avenue the place the homicide passed off, serves as a reminder of the story.
The stones had been displayed at Dublin’s Nice Industrial Exhibition within the mid-Nineteenth century, and after they had been moved to their current location on the boundary wall of St. Nicholas Collegiate Church.
Sensible Info: The Lynch Memorial Window is a free attraction to go to at any time.
5. Day Journey to Connemara Nationwide Park
Spanning an space of seven,000 acres, Connemara Nationwide Park is the very best vacation spot for all outside lovers in Galway. With mountain climbing paths, scenic views, mountains, and wildlife, that is by far the very best place for nature excursions near Galway. And if in case you have a automotive in Eire, it would take you lower than 90 minutes to succeed in the nationwide park.
Connemara is fashionable for birdwatching, principally due to its puffin inhabitants. Their breeding season is from March to August and it presents the very best probabilities to see the lovable creatures.
The nationwide park has some unimaginable hikes and you’ll select from a wide range of trails ranging in issue from straightforward to extraordinarily difficult. Kylemore Abbey is without doubt one of the nationwide park’s greatest historic buildings, providing free excursions of its Victorian gardens.
Sensible Info: Connemara Nationwide Park is roughly an hour and a half from Galway by automotive, however almost 4 hours away by public transport.
6. See The Ruins of Merlin Fortress
The japanese fringe of Galway Metropolis is dwelling to the Merlin Fortress ruins. The tower is in an enormous park, which presents a plethora of superbly landscaped strolling trails. And though the fortress tower is the spotlight of the park, the expertise of discovering it whereas weaning by the park’s strolling paths is simply as great.
Come right here to find the pure great thing about Irish landscapes, and roam across the expansive woods so near the town. Merlin Fortress itself just isn’t an astonishing attraction, however the sight of the historic landmark is rewarding after a few hours of roaming across the forest paths.
Sensible Info: Merlin Fortress is accessible in roughly 40 minutes by bus from Galway metropolis centre.
7. An Night At The Pub
Spend a night listening to conventional Irish music whereas sipping on a pint or two of Guinness. It’s virtually a ceremony of passage in Galway and an effective way to conclude a day crammed with exploration of the town’s historical past and pure magnificence.
Pub tradition is large in Eire, so you continue to get to take part in actions conventional within the metropolis. Quay Avenue homes a number of the greatest and oldest pubs in Galway, and it’s an incredible vacation spot for a enjoyable evening out.
Sensible Info: Many pubs in Galway are open till 2 AM.
8. Sundown Stroll Down Salthill Promenade
Salthill Promenade is a seaside strolling path in Galway Bay. With charming views of the ocean on one aspect and Galway on the opposite, it’s one of many metropolis’s most romantic locations. And with loads of alternatives for detours, leisure is plentiful alongside the best way.
Funfair and Leisureland are each reverse Palmers Seaside on the Salthill Promenade. Leisureland has a mini-golf course and an indoor pool, however Funfair presents theme park rides. A Ferris Wheel trip with scenic views is the proper detour throughout walks on Salthill Promenade.
Sensible Info: It takes roughly 45 minutes to stroll the whole Salthill Promenade, from Claddagh Quay to the Blackrock diving tower.
9. Stroll Beneath The Spanish Arch
The Spanish Arch is a historic metropolis landmark located subsequent to the Galway Metropolis Museum. The arch was added onto the Sixteenth-century metropolis partitions within the 18th century, and it’s certainly one of solely two remaining arches of Galway’s Entrance Wall.
Though the Spanish Arch stays an essential historic landmark within the metropolis, there’s not a lot else to do right here apart from stroll beneath the arch and perhaps discover the quayside promenade. The Galway Metropolis Museum was housed inside part of the Arch for some time, however it was relocated to a separate constructing again in 2006.
Sensible Info: The Spanish Arch is accessible by public transport at any time of the day, freed from cost.
10. Discover Saint Nicholas Collegiate Church
Saint Nicholas’ Collegiate Church is the most important medieval parish church nonetheless in use in Eire. The church is known for a neighborhood legend, which states that Christopher Columbus worshipped there throughout his go to to Galway within the fifteenth century.
Anybody can go to this church for a small entrance charge. Go inside to see the beautiful stained glass home windows and exquisite art work. Additionally, the church units up a farmer’s market each Saturday, which is a good alternative to purchase some native souvenirs to take dwelling.
Sensible Info: Saint Nicholas’ Collegiate Church is open from 10 AM till 4 PM. The doorway charge is €5 or €4.
11. Go to Galway Metropolis Museum
Galway Metropolis Museum is the very best place on the town to study concerning the historical past and custom of this Irish metropolis. The museum reveals inform the story of Galway from prehistoric to fashionable instances, with a particular exhibit on the town’s historical past throughout World Battle I.
One other a part of the museum’s assortment is devoted to Pádraic Ó Conaire. The Irish author was born in Galway and his novel Deoraíocht is acclaimed because the earliest piece of contemporary fiction in Irish.
Come to this museum to find out about essential metropolis occasions, notable individuals, and the lives of locals by the ages. What’s most spectacular is that there’s no entrance charge for the Museum, however guests are inspired to go away a small donation (not more than €5) in the event that they benefit from the exhibit.
Sensible Info: Galway Metropolis Museum is open from 10 AM to five PM, Tuesday to Thursday. It’s free to enter.
12. Cross The Mutton Island Causeway
The Mutton Island Causeway connects mainland Galway with Mutton Island within the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll be able to’t truly make it onto Mutton Island as a result of there’s a locked gate on the finish of the causeway, however the views alongside the best way are completely definitely worth the stroll. Particularly in good climate.
Mutton Island is dwelling to Galway’s sewage therapy plant, which is without doubt one of the the reason why it’s off-limits to most of the people. However the causeway remains to be very fashionable for strolling, biking, and even proposals and dates!
Sensible Info: Strolling the Mutton Island Causeway could be carried out at any time, freed from cost.
13. Stroll Down Quay Avenue
Quay Avenue stretches by the Latin Quarter in Galway’s historic centre and it’s one of the vital essential streets within the metropolis. Lined with eating places and pubs on both aspect, it’s the very best place in Galway for buying, drinks, and people-watching.
Any tour of Galway’s previous city will take you thru Quay St., however it’s a spot it is best to go to greater than as soon as. Come right here at evening for a relaxed night at an Irish pub, or within the afternoon to see the road performers and uncover the road artwork on the medieval buildings.
Quay Avenue turns into Excessive Avenue, which turns into Store Avenue, which then turns into William Avenue main onto Eyre Sq.. Strolling the whole size of this cobbled avenue is a should and one of many highlights of journeys to Galway.
Sensible Info: It’s accessible at any time freed from cost.
14. Tour to Cliffs of Moher
Cliffs of Moher is without doubt one of the most well-known pure landmarks on Eire’s west coast. Along with Burren, the 2 landmarks type the Burren & Cliffs of Moher UNESCO International Geopark, which spans an space of greater than 530 sq. kilometers.
Come right here to admire a few of Eire’s most breathtaking surroundings. On clear days you possibly can take pleasure in views of Aran Islands within the distance. Strolling paths within the space let you expertise a number of views on the Cliffs of Moher, however the viewpoint close to O’Brien’s Tower is without doubt one of the greatest.
I like to recommend combining this go to with the journey to the Aran Islands as a result of the ferry at Doolin Pier is simply a 15-minute drive from the UNESCO website. This extremely rated journey from Galway takes you to the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren which is a wide ranging vacation spot in Eire.
Sensible Info: Cliffs of Moher are 90 minutes by automotive or two and a half hours by bus from Galway.
15. Attend Galway Races
Galway Races are the preferred occasions in the whole County Galway in the summertime. Galway’s Ballybrit Racecourse is dwelling to the longest horse-racing competition in Eire, which kicks off on the final Monday of July.
That is an iconic occasion within the metropolis, which attracts as many outsiders because it does locals from Galway. Wednesdays and Thursdays are significantly busy days on the observe; Wednesday for the Galway Plate, and Thursday as a result of it’s Girls’ Day.
Sensible Info: The Races are accessible in 45 minutes by public transport from the town centre.
16. Christmas at Eyre Sq.
Visiting Galway within the winter permits you to expertise the Galway Christmas Market. The primary space for the occasion is ready up at Eyre Sq. within the metropolis centre, reworking the Irish metropolis right into a winter wonderland.
William Avenue to Quay Avenue is adorned all through, showing much more magical than it often does. Christmas is really a particular time in Galway, and visiting the town through the holidays presents a novel perspective on native traditions, one which can make you wish to come right here each following December.
Sensible Info: Eyre Sq. is on the middle of Galway’s previous city, accessible by strolling paths and public transport.
17. Wild Atlantic Method Highway Journey
Wild Atlantic Method is without doubt one of the world’s longest coastal highway journeys. Stretching from the Inishowen Peninsula all the best way to Kinsale in Cork County, the epic route follows the whole thing of Eire’s western coast. If you happen to’re staying within the nation for some time and Galway is simply one of many locations you’re visiting, discovering even a bit of this route is an epic expertise.
Towering cliffs, unimaginable seashores, and lighthouses are a number of the high sights of Eire’s greatest highway journey. Galway is on the midway level of the route with easy accessibility to a number of the high sights alongside Cliff Coast. Learn extra: The place to Keep on the Wild Atlantic Method
Sensible Info: Wild Atlantic Method is a highway journey route 1600 miles (2600 km) lengthy. It’s divided into 14 levels, and levels 8 and 9 could be carried out from Galway. Evaluate automotive rental costs right here.
18. Historical past Lesson at Dunguaire Fortress
Set on the rocky shores of Galway Bay, Dunguaire Fortress is a historic constructing in Kinvarra. The O’Hynes clan ordered the development of the fortress within the Sixteenth century, and it comprised a defensive wall and a tower.
The tower and the wall have since been reconstructed and opened to the general public. Dunguaire Fortress is open for visits in the summertime, and it’s even attainable to attend a banquet dinner contained in the fortress. It’s a wonderful means of experiencing this Irish historic landmark with its picturesque environment.
Sensible Info: Dunguaire Fortress is accessible by bus (60 minutes) and boat (half-hour) from Galway. Tickets begin at 6€ for adults.
19. Sail on Lough Corrib
Lough Corrib is the most important lake within the Republic of Eire. The southern shore of the lake may be very near Galway and simply accessible by strolling paths from the city. In the summertime, it’s even attainable to e book a river cruise from Galway to the lake.
However the higher components of the lake are much more enjoyable, which is why I like to recommend occurring correct excursions of Lough Corrib. See the castles on the northern lake shore, boat to the island with a temple, and go to one of many equestrian facilities for horseback driving on the shore.
Sensible Info: Public transport from Galway to Lough Corrib is restricted. Driving is the very best and quickest mode of journey.
20. Swim at Canine’s Bay
Canine’s Bay is certainly one of Eire’s greatest seashores and it’s solely an hour and a half outdoors Galway. The horseshoe-shaped seaside is understood for pristine white sand and a peaceful sea. It’s appropriate for swimming, and a well-liked spot for some water enjoyable in the summertime. As a result of there are not any large waves right here, Canine’s Bay is nice for youngsters and learners at swimming.
The seaside is most simply accessible by vehicles and excursions from Galway due to restricted public transport entry, so it’s not often very crowded. And smaller seashores within the space are accessible by way of mountain climbing paths, the place you possibly can have a whole slice of paradise all to your self.
Sensible Info: Canine’s Bay is a 90-minute drive from Galway. The closest bus cease is at Ballinafad, a 20-minute drive from Canine’s Bay.
21. Tour Glengowla Mines
Simply half-hour northwest of Galway you’ll discover the Glengowla Mines. The deserted silver and lead mines are on a farm, and open to the general public for excursions in the summertime months. A small museum with mining instruments can also be out there on-site.
This is without doubt one of the most fascinating excursions to be carried out from Galway. Along with the strolling excursions of deserted mines, guests to the household farm may also witness demonstrations of conventional Irish turf reducing and sheep herding.
Sensible Info: Glengowla Mines are accessible by automotive and bus from Galway.
22. Marvel at Menlo Fortress
Menlo Fortress is a 10-minute drive from Galway metropolis middle and the most effective close by historic landmarks. The riverfront fortress ruins are lined with ivy in pristine pure environment. If you happen to ever really feel like you have to escape the town crowds, Menlo Fortress is a good vacation spot for a break.
Pack a picnic basket and are available right here for a relaxed afternoon in lush greenery. Benefit from the sounds of the speeding river and chirping birds, whereas admiring the Sixteenth-century fortress and its ivy-covered partitions.
Insider Tip: Be happy to leap the fence to get nearer to the fortress if you’d like, everybody does it.
Sensible Info: Menlo Fortress is accessible by automotive and bus from Galway Metropolis.
FAQ
Is Galway Value Visiting in Eire?
Sure, Galway is value visiting in Eire. The medieval metropolis presents historic landmarks, a wealthy historical past, and a number of the greatest surroundings on the western coast of Eire.
What’s Galway in Eire Well-known For?
Galway is known for its full of life nightlife, wonderful tradition, and beautiful landscapes. With easy accessibility to the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands, Galway is the gateway to a few of Eire’s prettiest nature.
How Many Days in Galway is Sufficient?
Three days must be sufficient for Galway. It’s sufficient time to see all the highest sights within the metropolis and make a fast day journey to the close by landmarks.
Why is Galway Metropolis so Common?
Galway Metropolis is fashionable for its distinctive tradition and wonderful location on the western coast of Eire. Among the nation’s best-known sights are most simply accessible from Galway.
Ideas and Info For Visiting Galway
Finest Time To Go to
Any time of the yr is an effective time to come back to Galway. Summer time is the very best season for heat climate and the Galway Races, however winter is most magical due to the Galway Christmas Market and snow-covered enchanting landscapes.
Spring and autumn are each equally nice for delicate (however moist) climate and fewer vacationers. Early fall is an effective time for heat climate, the Galway races, and beautiful autumnal landscapes.
Getting There
Because it at present stands, flying to Dublin after which taking a bus to Galway is the best choice. There are 4 principal airports in Eire, and the one in Dublin has probably the most worldwide connections, so chances are high you’ll land there. A bus will take you from Dublin Airport to Galway in roughly two and a half hours.
Trains run from Dublin solely and are an possibility provided that you intend to remain within the capital metropolis for a day or two. Moreover, Shannon Airport northwest of Limerick is nearer to Galway, however it’s serviced solely by Ryanair and Aer Lingus.
Getting Round
One of the simplest ways to get round Eire is by automotive. You’ll be able to examine care rental costs right here. Eire has an honest railway community, however it’s not that useful for exploring Galway and its environment. It’s not a giant metropolis and far of it’s walkable, with buses to take you to the sights outdoors the town middle.
Nevertheless, if you wish to go on day journeys and discover extra of Eire’s west coast, renting a automotive is the very best resolution. Certain, organized excursions to close by sights are at all times an possibility, however driving is healthier for exploring at your most popular tempo and having the final word freedom.
How A lot Time Do You Want
How a lot time you want for Galway relies upon significantly on what you wish to do. If you wish to go to the town landmarks and do one or two day journeys, three days is loads of time.
Then again, if you wish to discover extra of the west coast of Eire and probably even attempt to comply with the trail of the Wild Atlantic Method highway journey, you possibly can keep in Eire for 2 weeks or extra. 5 to seven days is the candy spot for seeing the very best of Galway and discovering all the very best sights on the western coast of Eire.
The place To Keep In Galway
Keep in Galway metropolis middle for simple strolling entry to all the metropolis’s greatest landmarks. For an extended keep within the metropolis and entry to different areas of Galway County, take into account staying on the shore of Lough Corrib and even nearer to Connemara Nationwide Park.
Among the greatest motels in Galway for all budgets are:
Woodquay Hostel is a finances hostel near the previous city of Galway. The Hardiman is a refined 4-star resort set in a Nineteenth-century constructing on Eyre Sq.. Glenlo Abbey Resort & Property is a high-end resort in an 18th-century abbey, nearer to Lough Corrib than the Galway metropolis middle. We stayed at this resort and it was merely divine.
So, there you will have it. All the knowledge you have to plan a visit to Galway in Eire. That is actually a magical vacation spot that may be a trip by itself or on a extra intensive Eire highway journey.
Plan extra of your Irish trip with these detailed journey guides