Visiting Galway: what are the best things to see and do in the « City of Tribes »?
Regularly referred to as « Ireland’s most Irish » city, this coastal town is a place where Celtic culture and literature have long flourished, often in the traditional Gaelic language. But today, you’re just as likely to hear Spanish, Polish or Japanese on the crowded streets of Galway, this increasingly international university town (the National University of Ireland is located here).
While autumn is less busy than the touristy summer, Galway ‘s cultural festivals never cease to enliven the city, attracting huge numbers of visitors thanks to international and local festivals all year round. Of course, Galway ‘s famous lively pubs are open every day for a good pint and a bit of craic (Irish slang for « a good time »)!
Here are some ideas for visiting Galway and what to do in the city:
1. The old town
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Jon Chica
Visit medieval Galway simply by strolling the streets. Most of the center is pedestrianized. « Start at the Browne Doorway in Eyre Square, then head down Shop Street past Lynch’s Castle (now a bank). Nearby isSt. Nicholas Church, Ireland’s largest medieval church. Continue towards the Corrib and you’ll come across theSpanish Arch, testimony to Galway’s trading past. Surprisingly, you can admire the finest part of the city walls in the Eyre Square Shopping Centre. And don’t forget Our Lady of Galway Cathedral, far more imposing than St. Nicholas Church.
2. Claddagh
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Claddagh was once a fishing village just outside the old town walls. It lies across the river from the Spanish Arch, which was the site of the fish and seafood market where locals came to shop. Today, Claddagh is popular with tourists from all over the world, who come to see the bay and the magnificent views. Many fishermen still live here and keep the old traditions alive. Claddagh is also famous for its ring, which is made here.
3. Galway Museum
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You can’t miss it, as its new architecture contrasts so sharply with the Spanish Arch. The Galway City Museum tells the story of Galway from the Viking Invasion to the present day, and exhibits all kinds of cultural objects linked to the city. Very interesting and free.
4. Pubs and nightlife
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Galway’s nightlife is also very lively. Go to some of the pubs (institutions in Ireland) to soak up the local atmosphere and meet new people. Some of the pubs here are legendary. You’ll be treated to mini-concerts by Irish bands.
5. Connemara
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Galway is the gateway to Connemara National Park, so why deprive yourself of such an opportunity? The outstanding natural beauty of this region will take your breath away. Spend a day or two exploring the mountains of the Inagh Valley or the Maumturk Mountains, the lakes (including Derryclare Lough, one of the most beautiful), and take the Sky Road through some superb villages. You’re bound to come across some Gaelic-speaking Irish.
6. Aran Islands
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While you’re in Galway, take the opportunity to discover the three Aran Islands, Gaelic lands 18km off the Irish coast, which boast numerous Iron Age remains such as forts, walls, etc., as well as magnificent cliffs, includingInishmore.
7. Kylemore Abbey
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Dawid K Photography
Located in Connemara,Kylemore Abbey, which is attached to Kylemore Castle, is a Gothic architectural masterpiece built by the wealthy Henry Mitchell in tribute to his late wife and daughter. The visit and the view of Kylemore Lake are well worth the detour.
8. Cliffs of Moher
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The Cliffs of Moher take around 1h30 by car to reach, but if you’re going to be in the area (although they’re in County Clare), you might as well go and see Ireland’s most beautiful cliffs! The starting point is at O’Brien Tower, but if you like the spot, you can walk along the 8 km of cliffs. They tower 214 m above the Atlantic Ocean. Beware: this is Ireland’s most visited natural site, and over a million tourists visit every year. So it’s going to get crowded…
9. Salthill
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Take a walk along the Salthill coastline! It’s an ideal stroll to relax and recuperate after the pub crawl of the previous day.
How do I get to Galway?
Galway is very poorly served (if at all, only in season), so you’ll need to arrive by bus or car. The best option is to land at Dublin, Cork or Knock airports. Search for your cheap flight to one of these three destinations on Ulysse.
Where to stay in Galway?
Galway isn’t a big city, so you won’t have any trouble deciding where to stay in Galway! To find a cheap hotel in Galway, use our hotel comparator.
Other sites are also worth a visit, especially for book lovers. Have you been to Galway? What have you visited that isn’t on this list?
Map of hotels and accommodation – Galway,ie