Galway is a vibrant and cultural city located on the west coast of Ireland, known for its colorful buildings, traditional music, and excellent restaurants and cafes. The city is the fourth-largest in Ireland and is the capital of County Galway.
Galway is often referred to as the “City of the Tribes,” a nod to the 14 merchant families who dominated the city’s politics and commerce from the 13th to the 17th century. The city has a rich history, and visitors can explore many historic landmarks, including the Spanish Arch, a 16th-century stone archway that was originally part of the city walls, and the Galway Cathedral, a stunning neo-Romanesque cathedral that was completed in 1965.
One of the best things about Galway is its lively arts scene. The city is home to many galleries and museums, including the Galway City Museum, which showcases the city’s fascinating history, and the Galway Arts Center, which hosts a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year.
What to See & Do in Galway
Galway is a lively and cultural city with plenty of attractions to see and activities to do. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Galway:
- Explore the City Center: Galway’s city center is a bustling area with a mix of historic and modern buildings. Shop Street, the city’s main thoroughfare, is lined with shops, cafes, and street performers. The Latin Quarter is a charming area with narrow, winding streets and plenty of pubs and restaurants to explore.
- Visit Galway Cathedral: This impressive cathedral was built in the mid-20th century and is known for its stunning stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and beautiful mosaics. Guided tours of the cathedral are available, and visitors can also attend daily Mass or enjoy a concert or other event.
- Discover Galway City Museum: This museum is housed in a restored medieval building and showcases the history and culture of Galway city and county. The exhibits cover everything from prehistoric times to the present day, with artifacts and displays on the city’s maritime history, arts and crafts, and social and political history.
- Walk the Promenade: The Salthill Promenade is a popular spot for locals and visitors to take a walk and enjoy the sea air. The promenade runs along the coast from the city center to the suburb of Salthill and is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. It’s also a great place to watch the sunset over the bay.
- Enjoy the Arts: Galway has a thriving arts scene, with plenty of galleries, theaters, and music venues to explore. The Galway Arts Center hosts regular exhibitions and events, while the Druid Theatre is known for its cutting-edge productions of Irish and international plays. The Town Hall Theatre is another popular venue for theater, music, and comedy.
- Take a Day Trip to Connemara: The Connemara region is known for its rugged coastline, dramatic mountain landscapes, and picturesque villages. Visitors can explore the Connemara National Park, take a boat tour of the fjord at Killary Harbour, or visit Kylemore Abbey, a 19th-century Gothic Revival mansion and gardens.
- Visit the Spanish Arch: This historic stone archway is located on the banks of the River Corrib and was built in the 16th century as part of the city walls. Today, it’s a popular spot for visitors to take photos and enjoy the river views. Nearby, visitors can also explore the Galway City Museum and the Claddagh, a historic neighborhood known for its traditional fishing cottages.
- Enjoy a Pint: Galway has a lively pub scene, with plenty of traditional pubs and modern bars to choose from. Tig Coili and The Crane Bar are popular spots for live traditional music, while The Salt House and Bierhaus offer a wide selection of craft beers. Visitors can also try a pint of Galway Hooker, a local craft beer named after the traditional fishing boats used in Galway Bay.
Galway is also known for its traditional music scene, and visitors can enjoy live music in many of the city’s pubs and clubs. The city hosts several music festivals throughout the year, including the Galway International Arts Festival and the Galway Traditional Irish Music Festival.
In addition to its cultural attractions, Galway is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. The city is located on the shores of Galway Bay, and visitors can take a stroll along the waterfront or enjoy a swim in the sea. The city is also a great base for exploring the stunning landscapes of the Connemara region, with its rugged mountains, picturesque villages, and stunning coastal scenery.
These are just a few of the many things to see and do in Galway. With its rich culture, lively atmosphere, and stunning natural beauty, Galway is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Ireland.