I just got back from another trip to Ireland. I always forget that the country is bigger than it seems. This ultimately means that unless you have a lot of time, you won’t be able to visit everything on your list. I think the town of Galway is definitely worth prioritizing, and its central location makes it fairly easy to include.
The second we drove into Galway I felt “at home”. The town is buzzing and the locals are very open and welcoming to the tourists (definitely not the vibe in other parts of the world). This little town has gorgeous coastal scenery, lively pubs and restaurants, as well as lots of cultural hotspots. I seriously regret that we didn’t stay in this town for some of our nights in Ireland.
Here are my top 10 things to do, based on personal experiences and what I think you shouldn’t miss when visiting.
Top 12 Things to do in Galway
1. Stroll Down Shop Street
You can’t go to Galway without wandering down Shop Street. This walkable street is the heart of the city. Not surprisingly you will find colorful stores, buskers playing traditional Irish music, and plenty of places to grab a bite or shop for souvenirs. Seriously, it took us forever to find a place to eat because there were so many different and tempting pubs/restaurants.
Book worms will love Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop. Even though I’m not a book lover it was still worth a quick peak in.
2. Explore the Latin Quarter
Just off Shop Street, the Latin Quarter, is where you’ll find more action of Galway. Cobbled streets, colorful pubs, and art galleries give this area its bohemian vibe. It’s also the best place to experience Galway’s pub scene.
I stopped by Tigh Neachtain, a cozy pub with great traditional music and it quickly became a favorite spot for a pint of Guinness.
3. Visit The Claddagh
The Claddagh was one of my favorite spots in Galway for taking photos (shocker that I love good photo spots right?). This coastal scene is just a short walk from the city center. It offers stunning views of Galway Bay.
If jewelry collectibles are your thing, then you should pop into one of the local shops and get a Claddagh ring.
I loved wandering along the waterfront, watching the swans, and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere while the sun set.
4. Visit the Galway City Museum
For a little culture and history, head to the Galway City Museum. It’s free to enter, and the exhibits give a great insight into Galway’s history, from its medieval past to the present day.
The museum also offers fantastic views of the Spanish Arch and the River Corrib, perfect for snapping some photos.
5. Take a Walk Along Salthill Promenade
One of my favorite things to do was taking a walk along the Salthill Promenade. This is another coastal walkway that stretches for about 2 miles along Galway Bay. The views are especially nice at sunset.
Be sure to join in on the local tradition of “kicking the wall” at the end of the promenade for good luck!
6. Day Trip to the Aran Islands
While technically not Galway, you can leave from here if you have a day to spare. Take a ferry from Rossaveal to the Aran Islands. I visited Inis Mór, the largest of the islands, and it was like stepping back in time.
Rent a bike and explore the rugged landscapes, ancient forts like Dún Aonghasa, and charming stone-walled fields. It’s an unforgettable escape from the city.
7. Catch Some Live Music
Galway is known for its lively music scene just about every night. I wandered into The Crane Bar, and it quickly became a highlight of my trip.
I’m not one that will turn on Irish music at home, but when in Ireland I love it to really set the vibe. Side note, my husband was upset that there weren’t more riverdancers in the streets.
8. Visit the Cliffs of Moher from Galway: A Must-See Day Trip
Visiting the Cliffs of Moher from Galway is an easy and scenic day trip; it’s just about a 1.5-hour drive away. We visited on a rainy day in the fall, and still found the experience enjoyable.
I highly recommend getting there early to beat the crowds. There’s plenty of parking at the visitor center, and the parking fee (around €10 per adult) includes access to the visitor center and the cliff trails.
The best viewpoints are near O’Brien’s Tower, where you get sweeping views of the cliffs and the Atlantic.
I walked the trail towards Hag’s Head, and the views just kept getting better! Definitely bring a jacket—the wind is no joke!
9. Visit Silverstrand Beach
Silverstrand Beach is a beautiful, sandy spot that is just a quick 15-minute drive from Galway city center. The city is busy, so this can be perfect for a relaxing escape. It’s a great beach for swimming, with calm waters and lifeguards during the summer months (def didn’t work for us to swim when we were there in October, though it was still enjoyable).
There is free parking right next to the beach, which makes it super convenient. I loved spending a sunny afternoon here, taking in the views across Galway Bay and enjoying a peaceful walk along the shore.
10. Explore Eyre Square
At the heart of Galway, Eyre Square is a lovely place to relax and people-watch. It’s surrounded by shops, restaurants, and bars, making it another great starting option for exploring the city.
11. Discover the Spanish Arch
The Spanish Arch is a key historical site in Galway that dates back to the 16th century. It’s right by the River Corrib and makes for a great spot to take a break while exploring the city.
Nearby, you’ll often see street performers or locals enjoying the sun. I liked sitting by the river here and watching the world go by.
12. Take a Day Trip to Connemara
Galway is the perfect base for exploring Connemara, a region known for its wild beauty. My husband and I rented a car to explore, and the rugged landscapes, mist-covered mountains, and serene lakes that were like something out of a dream.
The Kylemore Abbeyis a must-visit, with its stunning gardens and picturesque setting.
Final Thoughts
Galway is a fun and vibrant city that is really easy to explore. Its central location and experience with tourists make it an easy and enjoyable stop. The locals are welcoming and you can’t help but get an abundant serving of Irish culture, whether walking down the streets, exploring the coasts, or sitting in a pub it just feels so Irish in the best way.