Often referred to as the City of Tribes, Galway, Ireland is a vibrant and culturally rich city located on the country’s west coast. Its unique blend of history and contemporary vibrancy makes for a fascinating destination for travelers looking to explore all that the west of Ireland has to offer. Whether you are interested in traditional music, cultural festivals, or simply soaking in the local atmosphere, the city has something to offer everyone.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Before you set out on your adventure to the Emerald Isle, there are a few things you should know about the country and about Galway, Ireland specifically. These are our most important pointers for you as you plan your trip.
Getting There
Getting Around
Galway is a relatively compact city, making it easy to explore on foot. However, there are various transportation options available for getting around, depending on your preferences and the distance you need to cover. For short distances within the city centre, walking or cycling will be the most enjoyable. If you plan to explore the broader region, a combination of walking, public transportation, and rental vehicles may suit your needs.
Currency & Credit Cards
The euro is used in the Republic of Ireland and credit cards are widely acceptable throughout the city. Heads up! If you are planning to extend your trip to Northern Ireland, the pound is used there, not the euro.
Language
English is the primary language in Ireland, but Irish (Gaeilge) is the other official language of the country. You will probably not come across many people speaking Irish, but you will be introduced to the Gaelic language almost immediately, as all street signs are in both English and Gaeilge. As for the English speaking, just be prepared to hear some interesting slang and thick Irish brogues!
Plugs
Plugs and sockets in Ireland are three-pronged (type G) so you will need an adapter for your trip. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
When To Visit
The best time to visit Galway, Ireland is in late spring and early autumn when the weather is still pleasant but you won’t be fighting the peak summer crowds. Be sure to be prepared with a raincoat and waterproof shoes, as rainfall is frequent in every season, including the cool winter months.
stay
HOTELs
GLENLO ABBEY
Glenlo Abbey combines historic charm, luxury accommodations, and a stunning natural setting, making it a popular choice for those seeking an upscale and tranquil retreat just outside of Galway. The property offers all that you could dream of for your Galway getaway, even a golf course! A stay at Glenlo Abbey would not be complete without a dinner at Pullman Restaurant. Known as Ireland’s most unique dining experience, you can step back in time and enjoy a remarkable dinner aboard an original carriage from the Orient Express.
G HOTEL & SPA
The G Hotel & Spa is renowned for its luxurious and stylish ambiance, making it a popular choice for those seeking a contemporary and glamorous stay in Galway. It is situated on the outskirts of Galway City, providing a convenient location for both business and leisure travelers. Whether enjoying the creative design, indulging in gourmet dining, or relaxing in the spa, guests can experience a blend of sophistication and comfort at The G Hotel.
B&Bs
CORRIB VIEW COUNTRY HOUSE
Corrib View Country House is a 200-year-old period home set on the shore of Lake Corrib on the outskirts of Oughterard Connemara, County Galway. It is a haven of beauty, peace and tranquility. Guests will find a warm welcome and the opportunity to unwind in this charming and comfortable home, which is surrounded by beautiful, landscaped gardens and breathtaking scenery. The interior has an old-world feel, traditionally decorated with all modern conveniences.
ST. JUDES BED & BREAKFAST
This bed & breakfast is family-run and close to Galway’s city center, offering a range of room options and a homely atmosphere. St. Judes Bed & Breakfast is an elegantly restored 1902 family home providing luxury accommodations and personal attention in a peaceful, tranquil and safe setting.
eat
restaurants
PULLMAN RESTAURANT
The Pullman Restaurant is a dining experience that every visitor of Galway should plan for, where you will step back in time to dine aboard historic train carriages. The two dining carriages were part of the original Orient Express and one of the final journeys that one of the carriages took was to transport the remains of Winston Churchill’s remains to his final resting place at St. Martins Church, just outside Blenheim Palace. The food at Pullman is divine and the service is just as remarkable. Insider suggestion: try the espresso martini, it is exceptional!
KAI RESTAURANT
Kai Restaurant holds a Michelin Green Star and is celebrated for its farm-to-table approach, offering a diverse and carefully curated menu with an emphasis on fresh, local, and organic produce. The stone floors and familiar furniture creates a cozy atmosphere that feels just like a home and adds to the overall dining experience. If you plan to eat dinner at this incredible restaurant, you will want to make reservations well in advance.
The Dough Bros
No trip to Galway would be complete without a trip to every locals favorite pizzeria, The Dough Bros. Crowned the best pizza in Ireland and number 15 in the world, this beloved pizza has grown from food truck to pop-up to restaurant and proudly makes “pizza for the people”. There are vegan and gluten-free options available, ensuring a fresh and delicious pie for everyone who walks through their doors. You won’t think you can eat a whole pizza, but you will want to at Dough Bros!
Quay Street Kitchen
Situated on the legendary Quay Street, The Quay Street Kitchen welcomes its visitors with a lovely, intimate setting and a simple, to-the-point menu that promises excellence. With plenty of gluten free and vegan options available, their fresh and delicious food is the perfect way for anyone to start or finish their Latin Quarter experience. Don’t pass on the incredible Chocolate Bomb, as a sweet treat to wrap up your meal.
Trattoria Magnetti
Looking for incredible, freshly made pasta in Galway, Ireland? If so, be sure to plan a stop at Trattoria Magnetti during your next stroll through the Latin Quarter. Family owned and run by brothers who are following in their parents footsteps, this restaurant serves authentic Italian food using the finest ingredients sourced locally in Ireland and from select regions in Italy. They pride themselves on tradition and quality, and it shows in all their dishes.
CAfes
espresso 44
A popular spot for coffee enthusiasts, Espresso 44 is known for its excellent coffee, friendly staff, and its cozy atmosphere. Located in the heart of Galway, they pride themselves on offering their customers award-winning Fixx Coffee, available exclusively at Espresso 44. They work with the best local suppliers in Galway to bring their customers the tastiest cakes, sandwiches, snacks, fresh fruit, and healthy treats received fresh every morning. Gluten free and vegan alternatives and food options available.
Urban Grind
Urban Grind is a trendy café with a modern and stylish interior that serves up a variety of coffee blends and light bites for those seeking a contemporary café experience. They are an independent specialty coffee shop in Galway’s Westend and regularly feature guest roasters from all over Europe and Ireland . They serve brunch seven days a week, using the best local and organic ingredients, with seasonal specials that change weekly.
drink
pubs
The Quays Bar
Situated in the heart of Galway’s vibrant Latin Quarter, The Quays Bar is known for its vibrant atmosphere, live music, and traditional Irish food at their downstairs restaurant, Galway Girl. This pub is one of the city’s most famous and historic music and drinking establishments and is a great place to experience the lively spirit of Galway. For close to 400 years, The Quays has catered to both Galwegians and visitors of their beautiful city.
Tigh Neachtain
Tigh Neachtain’s is the place to go if you are looking to find that quintessential Irish pub vibe. It’s warm and inviting interior is the perfect atmosphere to sip on your drink of choice by a cozy fire, or you can pull up a chair outside and nurse a pint while you people watch. Visit this traditional pub when they have a live music session for the ultimate Galway, Ireland experience.
O'Connor's
Be prepared to be completely distracted in O’Connor’s Famous Pub. Why? You might ask. Your eyes will be completely overwhelmed by the incredible amount of antique trinkets decorating and hanging from every square inch of the place. Boasting itself as “Ireland’s first singing pub,” O’Connor’s is a cozy place to be with its open fires, dim lighting, and tchotchkes that will easily transport you to years gone by. Now, if the pub looks familiar when you enter, you must be an Ed Sheeran fan.
The kings head
Combining history with a lively atmosphere, The King’s Head is located in a building that dates back to the 13th century. It offers a mix of traditional and contemporary elements, including live music and a cozy interior. Since 1989 the Grealish family have established close links to music and the arts in Galway. The King’s Head has free live music seven nights a week on the main stage along with regular stand-up comedy and lunchtime theatre in the pocket-sized venue on the top floor.
bars
The Dáil Bar
The Dáil Bar is a popular spot with a lively atmosphere, especially during weekends. It features live music, a range of drinks, and a welcoming setting in the heart of Galway. The bar hosts live entertainment every evening with music midweek and DJs on the weekend. They are also proud to be part of the Galway Whiskey Trail, where you can discover Galway’s rich whiskey heritage with their dedicated whiskey menu and whiskey platters. Fun Fact: they claim that their pint of Guinness is renowned as one of the best in the country!
The skeff bar
The Skeff Bar is part of The Skeffington Arms Hotel and is known for its spacious and stylish setting. It’s a versatile venue, offering a cocktail bar, a sports bar, and a beer garden. Located in the heart of Eyre Square and part of the historic fabric of Galway City since 1850, The Skeff Late Bar is an entertainment institution that boasts six bars over five floors. The décor reflects The Skeff’s history but also brings it to life in the 21st century. With just under 10,000 square feet they are the largest bar in the city center and now feature Galway’s newest cocktail bar, Grace’s.
explore
tours
galway cathedral
Standing on the site of the former city jail, Galway Cathedral features stunning architecture, intricate mosaics, beautiful stained glass windows, and is officially known as the Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St. Nicholas. Construction of Galway Cathedral was completed in 1965, making it the youngest of Europe’s great stone cathedrals. It is open to the public and visitors are welcome to explore the interior, admire the artwork, attend services, or take a guided tour.
sights
EYRE SQUARE (JOHN F. KENNEDY MEMORIAL PARK)
Located in the heart of the city, Eyre Square is a popular gathering spot surrounded by shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks. It’s a great starting point for exploring Galway. It is officially known as the John F. Kennedy Memorial Park. The square has a rich history dating back to medieval times when markets took place on the green in front of the town gates.
Spanish Arch
This historic landmark is a remnant of Galway’s medieval fortifications that once formed part of the city walls. It’s located along the banks of the River Corrib and offers picturesque views of the waterway and surrounding area. The Spanish Arch once housed soldiers who kept watch and manned cannons on the roof and the name is thought to be a reference to the former merchant trade with Spain and Spanish galleons, which often docked there.
SALTHILL PROMENADE
Just a short walk from Galway city center, Salthill Promenade offers breathtaking views of Galway Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a popular spot for leisurely strolls, cycling, and outdoor activities. It is best known for its 2-mile-long promenade overlooking Galway Bay. Along the “Golden Half Mile” you’ll find a selection of great hotels, pubs, and restaurants. A great place for a hearty bowl of seafood chowder while enjoying the fresh sea air of the Atlantic.
Outdoors
Blackrock Diving Tower
The Blackrock Diving Tower is an iconic landmark located along the Salthill Promenade. It has a rich history and has been a popular spot for locals and visitors for many years. It was originally built in the early 20th century as a bathing area for residents of Galway and has since become an iconic symbol of the city. The tower is a favorite spot for swimming and diving enthusiasts and offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of jumping into the chilly waters of Galway Bay.
shops
THOMAS DILLON’S CLADDAGH STORE
Thomas Dillon’s Claddagh Gold is one of the oldest jewelers in Ireland, with a history dating back to 1750. Established by goldsmith Thomas Dillon and his son, the store is the perfect place to purchase a Claddagh ring of your own, a treasured piece of jewelry that symbolizes love, loyalty, and friendship. This shop sits as the only firm still in existence making the original Claddagh Rings, and one from Thomas Dillon’s will be the only with the “original” stamp inside.
Galway market
Held in the heart of the city, Galway Market is a vibrant outdoor market offering a diverse array of artisanal crafts, local produce, handmade goods, and international cuisine. It’s a fantastic place to sample local flavors and discover unique souvenirs. The market is set up in the area between Shop Street and Market Street. As you walk between the stalls, everyone of your senses will be captivated by the array of smells, tastes, and sounds. You will want to plan your visit accordingly, as the market vendors are only there on Saturdays.
QUAY Street AND SHOP STREET
These bustling streets are the heart of Galway’s cultural and social scene, lined with colorful shops, traditional pubs, street performers, and lively entertainment. Visitors can soak up the vibrant atmosphere and experience the city’s renowned hospitality. Quay Street is great for window shopping, people watching, pub crawling, and a great nightlife. Shop Street is the main shopping street of the town. It is mostly closed to vehicles, so you can walk about freely. You will find brightly colored storefronts and well-preserved brick buildings. It is often referred to as the San Francisco of Ireland.
day trips
cliffs of moher
The Cliffs of Moher, located in County Clare, are one of Ireland’s most iconic natural landmarks. They stretch for about 8.7 miles (14 km) along the coastline of the Atlantic and tower over the sea at heights of up to 702 feet (214 meters). The rugged cliffs showcase the raw power and beauty of nature with their dramatic drops and breathtaking vistas, offering some of the most stunning coastal scenery in Ireland. There are many visitor facilities and experiences at the Cliffs of Moher, including guided walking tours, interactive visitor centers, scenic viewpoints, and hiking trails along the cliffs edge. Visitors can even enjoy panoramic views of the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, and the Twelve Bens mountain range on a clear day.
Connemara
Venture off on a road trip up north to travel through the rugged and untouched beauty of Connemara, and explore all that the region and surrounding cities has to offer. Take in the stunning scenery of Connemara National Park, experience a “Highway to Heaven” on Sky Road, summit Diamond Hill for spectacular views of the Twelve Bens mountain range, take a ferry out to the tranquil Inishbofin Island, and on the way back down to Galway, stop for a ramble amongst the white sand and crystal-clear water of Dog’s Bay Beach, or pan for gold and gems in the Glengowla Mines.
Our favorite Connemara offering? The magnificent Kylemore Abbey, of course! At this famous Irish landmark, visitors can explore a lakeside Victorian castle, incredible walled gardens, a beautiful Neo-Gothic cathedral, and much more. Don’t forget to stop at the Craft and Design Shop for local Irish favorites and artisan goods made by the Benedictine Nuns of the Abbey.
Aran Islands
Looking for a unique experience during your stay in Galway, Ireland? Take a passenger ferry (or small plane) to the Aran Islands! The rugged and windswept islands are located at the mouth of Galway Bay and consist of three main islands: Inis Mór Island (Big Island), Inis Meáin Island (Middle island) and Inis Oírr Island (East island).
A trip to the largest and most popular island, Inis Mór, will be filled with scenic attractions and historic monuments. Fans of the movie The Banshees of Inishirin can scope out filming locations and visitors can purchase an original Aran sweater at the Aran Sweater Market, where the time-honored tradition began. Whether you’re interested in archaeology, outdoor adventure, or simply soaking up the tranquil island atmosphere, the Aran Islands have something to offer every visitor with their history and culture.
As the vibrant heart of Ireland’s west coast, Galway captivates visitors with its rich blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of its medieval city center to day trips full of breathtaking landscapes, Galway offers a journey through Ireland’s past and present. With its warm hospitality, lively atmosphere, and timeless charm, Galway invites you to experience the magic of the Emerald Isle in all its splendor. So, pack your bags, set sail for Galway, and prepare to be swept away by the beauty and wonder of this enchanting corner of Ireland.
xoL&M
Over To You
Share your adventures, memories, and recommendations for Galway, Ireland in the comments below. Whether you’ve explored the winding streets of the Latin Quarter, danced the night away at a pub to traditional Irish music, or marveled at the rugged beauty of the Cliffs of Moher, your experiences add to the vibrant tapestry of our LEO & MAUDE community. Join the conversation and let’s celebrate all things Galway, Ireland! We can’t wait to hear what Galway means to you.
