Located at the crossroads of many of Ireland's tourist attractions, Galway is the country's fourth-largest city, after Dublin, Cork and Limerick. One of our top destinations, less than 2 hours by air from France, Galway offers a dynamic center with a young population, picturesque streets adorned with beautiful facades, lively pubs and colorful stores. Known as the capital of Irish music, Galway attracts a large number of young travellers. From Galway, one of our top 10 cities in Europe to retire to, you can also reach Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher or the Burren, which explains the large number of agencies scattered around the city. Here's a closer look at the must-sees in this unique city.
1. Galway Museum
A visit to the Galway City Museum is a must when visiting this city in the province of Connacht, if only to enjoy its terrace on the famous Spanish Arch, a beautiful wall located on the promenade along the river Lough Corrib. It offers spectacular panoramic views over Galway Bay. Photo obligatory! On the visitor side, the museum presents a captivating collection of objects recounting the town's history, including farming tools, remnants of ancient machinery, military equipment and even medieval stones acquired by artist Claire Sheridan. Quite simply, it's a must-see for history buffs!
2. What to do in Galway Visit Lynch's Castle
Located in the heart of the city, Lynch's Castle is now the headquarters of Allied Irish Bank. Dating back to the 14th century, although most of the present structure was built in the 16th century, the castle is best known for its bas-reliefs of coats of arms and its fascinating history. Indeed, in the 15th century, the town's mayor, James Lynch, is said to have been forced to pronounce the death sentence and execution of his own son, having killed a young Spaniard invited by the inflexible father, who was in business with a Spanish merchant. It has been suggested that the term "lynch" may have its origins in this event.
3. Galway Market
Every Saturday, on the outskirts of the medieval church of St. Nicholas, the Galway Market is a lively market that always attracts visitors. It's packed with artisans and florists offering a wide and varied range of products, from clothing to jewelry and leather goods. Fast-food stalls also offer delicious take-away food, including the falafel stand, renowned for the quality of its products. It's also an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in local Galway life. Note that during the Galway Arts Festival in July, this market extends over three days, from Friday to Sunday. In short, it's a must-see on any trip to this part of the country!
4. What to do in Galway Visit galway Cathedral
Galway's Catholic cathedral was built between 1958 and 1965 near the Salmon Weir Bridge, the famous "salmon dam bridge" built in the 19th century to link the cathedral to the courthouse. Today, it is one of the most recent stone cathedrals on the European continent. Dedicated to the Virgin of the Assumption and St. Nicholas, the cathedral impresses with its imposing proportions, the height of its nave and its remarkable dome, which rises to over 44 meters. In short, the majestic character of this building reflects the importance of Catholicism in Irish life.
5. Kenny's Bookshop & Art Gallery
Kenny's Bookshop & Art Gallery is a veritable institution, not only in Galway, but throughout Ireland. This legendary bookshop was founded in 1940. Even today, it is renowned for its prints, antiquarian and second-hand books. Its stock of books is the largest in the country. A section of the building also houses an art gallery dedicated exclusively to contemporary Irish painters, making this a true cultural landmark in Galway.
6. What to do in Galway Seethe Bridge Mills
Dublin and its mythical Ha'Penny Bridge are well worth a visit: the city of Galway boasts its own Bridge Mills! This emblematic bridge, a relic of a mill, has been enabling locals to cross the River Corrib for over four centuries. In fact, it dates back to the Middle Ages and is thought to have been built in the 16th century. Today, the sight of this picturesque building, whose stone structure has been magnificently restored, undoubtedly merits a pleasant pause when discovering the Irish city. Particularly during the summer festivities commemorating its medieval roots, with banquets, period costumes, music and entertainment to delight every family. It's undoubtedly one of Galway's must-see symbols.
7. Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher are one of those must-see destinations, sometimes so crowded that you might be tempted to avoid them. Yet it would be a mistake not to discover them. With its raw, imposing cliffs stretching for 8 kilometers, some reaching heights of over 200 meters, nature reveals a grandeur so striking that it would be a shame to pass up this incredible site, located less than 80 km from Galway. The Cliffs of Moher offer breathtaking panoramas, with clear views of the Aran Islands and Connemara mountains. Although the site is often crowded with visitors, many stop at the first cliff. Walkers can then continue their exploration all the way to the tip of the cliffs, enjoying changing views of this jagged landscape where birds have made their home in the crevices.
Discover the wonders of Inis Oirr and the Cliffs of Moher on a day trip from Galway by booking here.
8. What to do in Galway Enjoy Connemara
In Connemara, angling is a widespread activity, and it's not uncommon to come across anglers in the rivers, their legs up to their knees. This region offers a majestic yet authentic atmosphere, home to probably some of Ireland's finest restaurants and hotels. The wild landscapes of Connemara, which tops our list of the 17 most beautiful places to visit in Ireland, are breathtakingly beautiful, characterized by striking contrasts: light-colored mountains rising from peaty soil, dark lakes surrounded by fir trees, and valleys where flocks of sheep graze in semi-liberty. Along the coast, Connemara is sometimes reminiscent of Brittany, with its small fishing villages, secluded coves and romantic beaches. At the heart of the region lie the Twelve Bens, gentle hills with an almost lunar charm, offering probably the most spectacular scenery in the region.
We recommend booking this Connemara tour from Galway. You'll discover the hidden gems of Cong village and Kylemore Abbey.
9. Docking on the Aran Islands
The Aran archipelago, in the middle of Galway Bay, is made up of three islands: Inishmore (the largest), Inishmaan and Inisheer. They are an extension of the Burren limestone and contain some of Ireland's oldest archaeological ruins. A visit to the Aran Islands could well be one of the most memorable moments of your trip. Rocks swept by violent winds and battered by merciless waves: nature is still wild here, with magnificent landscapes criss-crossed by low stone walls, bordered by superb coastlines and vertiginous cliffs. In this land of tradition, Gaelic is still spoken and time seems to stand still. You'll also find the remains of monasteries, fortifications and churches everywhere.
Click here to book a day cruise to the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher from Galway.
10. What to do in Galway Taste Irish cuisine
Irish cuisine may not enjoy the same renown as other continental cuisines, but it has many simple and delicious specialties. It draws on its rich terroir and flagship ingredients. Among the latter, the potato occupies a prominent place, emblematic of Irish rural gastronomy, alongside cabbage, barley, pork and mutton (with a flock of almost 4 million sheep, almost equivalent to the population). Historically, fish and seafood were neglected by the locals, but numerous chefs and associations have brought these products back into the limelight, with some twenty Michelin-starred restaurants in the country. Just the thing to recharge your batteries before planning a road trip to the Emerald Isle.
11. Drink a Guinness
In Ireland, Guinness goes far beyond the status of a simple brand to become a veritable symbol of national identity. This emblematic Irish beer, present in every corner of the world, from San Francisco to Boston, from Cape Town to Cairo, from Paris to Beijing, is renowned for its alleged restorative properties. Its dark color is the result of roasting barley grains at a temperature of 232°C. It is ubiquitous in most pubs and is an essential part of Ireland's heritage. Founded in 1759, the Guinness brewery, once located in Dublin's St. Jame's Gate, is no longer in operation. It' s simply unthinkable to come to Galway without treating yourself to a trip to the pub to toast with one (or more) pint(s) of Guinness. Cheers!
What to do in Galway when it rains?
Let's face it, Galway can get "a few" showers! On a rainy day, you can visit the Galway Museum to soak up the city's history, or pay your respects in the city's cathedral. Then, after browsing the shelves of Kenny's Bookshop & Art Gallery and doing a bit of shopping, head for the city's fine restaurants and pubs for long evenings.
Where to stay in Galway?
The heart of the old town, between Quay Street and Eyre Square, is obviously the ideal place to put down your suitcases. Alternatively, consider the Claddagh district or cross the River Corrib to settle in.
- The most economical: WOODQUAY HOSTEL
In the heart of the city center, this youth hostel has been welcoming travelers since 1991 in single or shared rooms. A safe bet that you can book right here.
- The most charming: THE HERONS REST
A beautifully located B&B on the banks of the River Corrib, right in the center of Galway, renowned not least for its excellent breakfast. Find out more here .
- The most luxurious: THE HARDIMAN
Built in 1845 on Galway's famous Eye Square, the Hardiman (ex-Hotel Meyrick) opened its doors to the public in 1852. It's certainly the city's most famous hotel, with its 19th-century charm. Tempted? Book your stay here in just a few clicks.
Book in advance below the trendiest activities to do during your stay in Galway:
If you're tempted by our selection, take a look at our airfares and book now!
