Things to do in Galway: sightseeing, pubs and excursions

You are wondering What to do in Galway The gateway to Connemara, this student town on Ireland's west coast is renowned for its pubs, traditional music, and colorful streets. Here are our favorite sights, the best pubs, must-see excursions, and our local agency's tips.

In short: In Galway, stroll through the Latin Quarter, along Shop Street and Quay Street, see the Spanish Arch and the free Galway City Museum, then take a walk in Salthill. In the evening, listen to traditional music in a pub. Galway is about a 2.5-hour train ride from Dublin and serves as a base for exploring Connemara, the Aran Islands, and the Cliffs of Moher. Allow 2 to 3 days.

Things to do in Galway: the must-see attractions

The Latin Quarter, Shop Street and Quay Street

First, Galway's medieval heart is best explored on foot. Shop Street and Quay Street, both pedestrianized, are lined with colorful facades, boutiques, and street musicians. On summer evenings, in particular, the atmosphere is especially festive.

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Your ideal coastal spot?

Cliffs and sweeping panoramasBeaches, harbors and small villages

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On foot along a pathBy car with several stops

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A beautiful viewpointA cafe or pub by the water

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The wild sideThe atmosphere of the villages

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The perfect end to the day?

A sunsetA good local dinner

The Spanish Arch and Galway City Museum

On the banks of the River Corrib, the Spanish Arch is a remnant of the 16th-century city walls. Right next to it, moreover, the Galway City Museum, free, tells the story of the city and its port.

St Nicholas Church and the Saturday Market

St Nicholas' Collegiate Church, founded in 1320, is the largest medieval church in Ireland still in use. On Saturdays, a lively market sets up around it, offering local produce, pastries, and takeaway food.

Eyre Square and the Cathedral

Eyre Square is the city's main square, just a short walk from the train station. On the other side of the river, however, Galway Cathedral, completed in 1965, impresses with its dome and mosaics.

Salthill Walk

Finally, stroll along Galway Bay on the Salthill promenade. Tradition dictates that you end the walk by giving the wall at the end of the path a little kick. At sunset, the view over the bay and the Burren is superb.

The best pubs in Galway

Galway is arguably the best city in Ireland for traditional music. Indeed, sessions often start in the late afternoon and continue late into the evening.

• Tigh Coilí, on Mainguard Street: a small pub renowned for its daily sessions.
• The Crane Bar, in the Westend district: traditional music upstairs, authentic atmosphere.
• Taaffes, on Shop Street: one of the oldest pubs in the city.
• Monroe's Tavern Irish dancing on certain evenings.

To learn more, also read our guide to the traditional Irish music.

Excursions from Galway

Excursion	Distance	To have
Connemara and Kylemore Abbey	1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes drive	Lakes, peat bogs, an abbey on the shores of a lake
Aran Islands (Inis Mór)	Ferry from Rossaveal, approximately 40 minutes	Dún Aonghasa Fort on the cliffs
Cliffs of Moher and Burren	Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes drive	Cliffs 200 meters high, limestone landscapes
Kinvara and Dunguaire Castle	Approximately 30 minutes	Fishing village, castle by the water

Connemara deserves a full day, or even two. Our Complete guide to Connemara and our article on the Ireland's most beautiful cliffs will help you choose.

When to visit Galway?

Generally, summer is the busiest season, with the Galway International Arts Festival in July and the Galway horse races in late July and early August. Then, in September, the Oyster Festival celebrates seafood. In winter, on the other hand, the city lights up for its Christmas market.

To compare the seasons, also consult our guide when to go to Ireland.

How to get to Galway and how many days to plan?

• By train Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes from Dublin Heuston station. Our guide to train in Ireland detail the lines.
• By bus : direct links connect Dublin Airport to Galway.
• By car : approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by motorway from Dublin.

In practice, two days are enough for the city and one day trip. With three days, you can add Connemara and the Aran Islands. Galway is also a key stop on the Wild Atlantic Way and our route Ireland in 10 days.

Also read: Dingle Peninsula: Slea Head, stages and tips.

Frequently asked questions: What to do in Galway?

What to do in Galway in one day?

First, take a stroll through the Latin Quarter, see the Spanish Arch and the museum, have a seafood lunch, then walk up to Salthill. Finally, in the evening, end your day in a pub with traditional music.

Is Galway worth a visit?

Yes, because it is one of the most vibrant cities in Ireland, and the best base for exploring Connemara and the Aran Islands.

What day trip can I take from Galway?

Connemara remains the most beautiful excursion. However, the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher are also easily accessible from the city.

Where to stay in Galway?

Ideally, stay in the city center, around the Latin Quarter or Eyre Square, so you can walk everywhere. Salthill is quieter and overlooks the sea.

Cover photo: Robert Linsdell, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

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