22 Best Things To Do In Galway, Ireland in 2024

Galway’s glorious location on the western coast of Eire is without doubt one of the predominant causes for the town’s reputation with guests. With quick access to the best beaches and pure landmarks of Eire, the checklist of issues to do in Galway is neverending. 

I’ve managed to slim it right down to 22 of the most effective sights in and close to the Irish metropolis. From historic landmarks within the coronary heart of city to unbelievable pure sights simply outdoors the town, this checklist covers every part 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 for those who’re on the town for a few days or a few weeks as a result of there’s no approach you could possibly be bored right here!

Better of Galway, Eire Fast Information

• Should See: Galway Cathedral, Saint Nicholas Collegiate Church, Lough Corrib, Salthill Promenade, Quay Road, Eyre Sq.
• The place To Keep: Woodquay Hostel, The Hardiman, Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate – the place we stayed
• Enjoyable To Do: Wild Atlantic Way Road Trip, 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Fabulous seashores, mesmerizing Irish castles, and quaint outdated city buildings are a number of the issues that may enchant you in Galway. I’ve lined all the town’s best-known landmarks and sights, in addition to all of the unbelievable locations value visiting which can be solely a brief drive away from the port metropolis. 

1. Strolling Tour of Galway Previous City

A walking tour of the old town of Galway is one of the best 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 way in which. 

Guided strolling excursions of medieval Galway are nice for first-time guests as a result of you possibly can study quite a bit in regards to the metropolis’s wealthy historical past. Native guides will inform you in regards to the tales and legends of Galway whereas taking you to all the most effective spots within the metropolis. 

A self-guided tour can be a great way to see the town. You’ll be able to hit all the primary spots, and for those who learn up on the native historical past, will probably be virtually as for those who had been guided round by knowledgeable. The Latin Quarter, Lynch’s Fort, Eyre Sq., Quay Road, Store Road, and Galway Cathedral are sights to not miss in Galway Previous City. 

Sensible Data: 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 gained’t be a bit of cake if you must depend on buses to get you round, and I might advocate arranging a guided tour in case you are 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 biggest of the three islands, and as such is dwelling to essentially the most historic ruins and the most effective dramatic landscapes. Dun Aengus is on this island, the prehistoric ruins that overlook the Atlantic Ocean and which served as one of many filming areas for the Banshees of Inisherin movie. 

Sensible Data: 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 necessary landmarks in your entire metropolis. 

The cathedral’s inside is much more grand than its exterior. With gorgeous stained glass home windows, ornate ceilings, and beautiful work and statues on the partitions, it’s simple to see why that is a very powerful 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 Data: Galway Cathedral is open each 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 help this story, nevertheless it’s one of many best-known tales of Galway. The Lynch Memorial Window, which was uncovered at a home on Lombard Road the place the homicide occurred, 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 Data: 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 most effective vacation spot for all outside lovers in Galway. With climbing paths, scenic views, mountains, and wildlife, that is by far the most effective place for nature excursions near Galway. And when you have a automotive in Eire, it’s going to take you lower than 90 minutes to achieve the nationwide park. 

Connemara is standard for birdwatching, largely due to its puffin inhabitants. Their breeding season is from March to August and it provides the most effective possibilities to see the cute creatures. 

The nationwide park has some unbelievable hikes and you’ll select from a wide range of trails ranging in problem from simple to extraordinarily difficult. Kylemore Abbey is without doubt one of the nationwide park’s finest historic buildings, providing free excursions of its Victorian gardens. 

Sensible Data: Connemara National 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 Fort 

The jap fringe of Galway Metropolis is dwelling to the Merlin Fort ruins. The tower is in an enormous park, which provides a plethora of superbly landscaped strolling trails. And though the fort tower is the spotlight of the park, the expertise of discovering it whereas weaning by way of the park’s strolling paths is simply as great. 

Come right here to find the pure fantastic thing about Irish landscapes, and roam across the expansive woods so near the town. Merlin Fort 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 Data: Merlin Fort 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 a good way to conclude a day crammed with exploration of the town’s historical past and pure magnificence. 

Pub tradition is huge in Eire, so you continue to get to take part in actions conventional within the metropolis. Quay Road homes a number of the finest and oldest pubs in Galway, and it’s a terrific vacation spot for a enjoyable evening out. 

Sensible Data: 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 way in which. 

Funfair and Leisureland are each reverse Palmers Seaside on the Salthill Promenade. Leisureland has a mini-golf course and an indoor pool, however Funfair provides theme park rides. A Ferris Wheel journey with scenic views is the proper detour throughout walks on Salthill Promenade. 

Sensible Data: It takes roughly 45 minutes to stroll your entire 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 one in all solely two remaining arches of Galway’s Entrance Wall. 

Though the Spanish Arch stays an necessary historic landmark within the metropolis, there’s not a lot else to do right here apart from stroll below the arch and perhaps discover the quayside promenade. The Galway Metropolis Museum was housed inside part of the Arch for some time, nevertheless it was relocated to a separate constructing again in 2006.

Sensible Data: 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 biggest 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 payment. Go inside to see the gorgeous stained glass home windows and exquisite paintings. 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 Data: Saint Nicholas’ Collegiate Church is open from 10 AM till 4 PM. The doorway payment is €5 or €4. 

11. Go to Galway Metropolis Museum 

Galway Metropolis Museum is the most effective place on the town to study in regards to the historical past and custom of this Irish metropolis. The museum reveals inform the story of Galway from prehistoric to trendy occasions, with a particular exhibit on the town’s historical past throughout World Struggle 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 recent fiction in Irish. 

Come to this museum to study necessary metropolis occasions, notable individuals, and the lives of locals by way of the ages. What’s most spectacular is that there’s no entrance payment for the Museum, however guests are inspired to depart a small donation (not more than €5) in the event that they benefit from the exhibit. 

Sensible Data: 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 way in which are completely well 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 explanation why it’s off-limits to most of the people. However the causeway continues to be highly regarded for strolling, biking, and even proposals and dates!

Sensible Data: Strolling the Mutton Island Causeway may be executed at any time, freed from cost. 

13. Stroll Down Quay Road

Quay Road stretches by way of the Latin Quarter in Galway’s historic centre and it’s one of the vital necessary streets within the metropolis. Lined with eating places and pubs on both aspect, it’s the most effective place in Galway for procuring, drinks, and people-watching. 

Any tour of Galway’s outdated city will take you thru Quay St., nevertheless 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 Road turns into Excessive Road, which turns into Store Road, which then turns into William Road main onto Eyre Sq.. Strolling your entire size of this cobbled road is a should and one of many highlights of journeys to Galway. 

Sensible Data: 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 kind the Burren & Cliffs of Moher UNESCO World 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 get pleasure from views of Aran Islands within the distance. Strolling paths within the space will 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 finest. 

I like to recommend combining this visit with the journey to the Aran Islands as a result of the ferry at Doolin Pier is just a 15-minute drive from the UNESCO website. This highly rated trip from Galway takes you to the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren which is a wide ranging vacation spot in Eire.

Sensible Data: 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 most well-liked occasions in your entire 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 notably busy days on the monitor; Wednesday for the  Galway Plate, and Thursday as a result of it’s Girls’ Day. 

Sensible Data: The Races are accessible in 45 minutes by public transport from the town centre. 

16. Christmas at Eyre Sq.

Visiting Galway within the winter lets you expertise the Galway Christmas Market. The principle space for the occasion is ready up at Eyre Sq. within the metropolis centre, reworking the Irish metropolis right into a winter wonderland. 

William Road to Quay Road is embellished all through, showing much more magical than it often does. Christmas is actually a particular time in Galway, and visiting the town throughout the holidays provides a singular perspective on native traditions, one which is able to make you wish to come right here each following December.

Sensible Data: Eyre Sq. is on the heart of Galway’s outdated city, accessible by strolling paths and public transport. 

17. Wild Atlantic Means Street Journey

Wild Atlantic Way is without doubt one of the world’s longest coastal street journeys. Stretching from the Inishowen Peninsula all the way in which to Kinsale in Cork County, the epic route follows the whole thing of Eire’s western coast. In the event you’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, unbelievable seashores, and lighthouses are a number of the prime sights of Eire’s finest street journey. Galway is on the midway level of the route with quick access to a number of the prime sights alongside Cliff Coast. Learn extra: Where to Stay on the Wild Atlantic Way

Sensible Data: Wild Atlantic Means is a street journey route 1600 miles (2600 km) lengthy. It’s divided into 14 levels, and levels 8 and 9 may be executed from Galway. Compare car rental prices here.

18. Historical past Lesson at Dunguaire Fort

Set on the rocky shores of Galway Bay, Dunguaire Fort is a historic constructing in Kinvarra. The O’Hynes clan ordered the development of the fort 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 Fort is open for visits in the summertime, and it’s even attainable to attend a banquet dinner contained in the fort. It’s a superb approach of experiencing this Irish historic landmark with its picturesque environment. 

Sensible Data: Dunguaire Fort 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 biggest 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 guide 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 happening proper tours 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 using on the shore.

Sensible Data: Public transport from Galway to Lough Corrib is proscribed. Driving is the most effective and quickest mode of journey. 

20. Swim at Canine’s Bay

Canine’s Bay is one in all Eire’s finest seashores and it’s solely an hour and a half outdoors Galway. The horseshoe-shaped seashore is understood for pristine white sand and a peaceful sea. It’s appropriate for swimming, and a preferred spot for some water enjoyable in the summertime. As a result of there aren’t any huge waves right here, Canine’s Bay is nice for kids and newbies at swimming. 

The seashore is most simply accessible by cars 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 climbing paths, the place you possibly can have a complete slice of paradise all to your self.

Sensible Data: 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 be out there on-site. 

This is without doubt one of the most fascinating excursions to be executed from Galway. Along with the strolling excursions of deserted mines, guests to the household farm may also witness demonstrations of conventional Irish turf chopping and sheep herding. 

Sensible Data: Glengowla Mines are accessible by automotive and bus from Galway. 

22. Marvel at Menlo Fort

Menlo Fort is a 10-minute drive from Galway metropolis heart and the most effective close by historic landmarks. The riverfront fort ruins are lined with ivy in pristine pure environment. In the event you ever really feel like it is advisable escape the town crowds, Menlo Fort 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 fort and its ivy-covered partitions. 

Insider Tip: Be happy to leap the fence to get nearer to the fort in order for you, everybody does it. 

Sensible Data: Menlo Fort 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 provides historic landmarks, a wealthy historical past, and a number of the finest surroundings on the western coast of Eire. 

What’s Galway in Eire Well-known For? 

Galway is known for its full of life nightlife, glorious tradition, and gorgeous landscapes. With quick access 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 needs to 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 Fashionable? 

Galway Metropolis is standard for its distinctive tradition and glorious location on the western coast of Eire. A few of the nation’s best-known sights are most simply accessible from Galway.

Ideas and Data For Visiting Galway

Finest Time To Go to

Any time of the yr is an effective time to come back to Galway. Summer season is the most effective 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 gorgeous autumnal landscapes. 

Getting There

Because it at present stands, flying to Dublin after which taking a bus to Galway is the most suitable choice. There are 4 predominant airports in Eire, and the one in Dublin has essentially 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 choice provided that you propose to remain within the capital metropolis for a day or two. Moreover, Shannon Airport northwest of Limerick is nearer to Galway, nevertheless it’s serviced solely by Ryanair and Aer Lingus. 

Getting Round 

One of the best ways to get round Eire is by automotive. You can compare care rental prices here. Eire has a good railway community, nevertheless it’s not that useful for exploring Galway and its environment. It’s not an enormous metropolis and far of it’s walkable, with buses to take you to the sights outdoors the town heart. 

Nevertheless, if you wish to go on day journeys and discover extra of Eire’s west coast, renting a car is the most effective resolution. Positive, organized excursions to close by sights are all the time an choice, 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 tremendously 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. 

However, 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 Means street journey, you possibly can keep in Eire for 2 weeks or extra. 5 to seven days is the candy spot for seeing the most effective of Galway and discovering all the most effective sights on the western coast of Eire. 

The place To Keep In Galway

Keep in Galway metropolis heart for straightforward strolling entry to the entire metropolis’s finest 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. 

A few of the finest resorts in Galway for all budgets are: 

• Woodquay Hostel is a finances hostel near the outdated city of Galway. 
• The Hardiman is a cultured 4-star lodge set in a Nineteenth-century constructing on Eyre Sq.. 
• Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate is a high-end lodge in an 18th-century abbey, nearer to Lough Corrib than the Galway metropolis heart. We stayed at this lodge and it was merely divine.

So, there you could have it. All the data it is advisable 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 in depth Eire street journey.