Visit Galway, Ireland: Top Attractions and Travel Guide
When visiting Ireland, a visit to Galway is guaranteed to immerse you in the local culture. On the Wild Atlantic Way, the landscape changes from the immensity of the ocean to the tranquillity of the lush plains, all the way to the entrance to Connemara.
In Galway, the heart of Ireland beats at least as strongly as in the capital. While the city is full of historical treasures, it’s also the bohemian atmosphere and relaxed way of life that attracts visitors. Drink a Guinness in the corner of a small alleyway, pick up local nuggets in small craft shops and enjoy the gentle pace of life in the capital of the West.
Both student and tourist, Galway is a real Eldorado for travellers.
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What to see and do in Galway
Experience the Irish atmosphere
As you walk through the city’s narrow streets, you can hear the Irish humming, accompanied by the satiny melody of a fiddle or flute. It’s when you walk through the door of a traditional pub that the voices ring out even louder. Here, you are plunged straight into the heart of Irish culture. While the students sit on the terraces, the holidaymakers wander through the joyous Irish folklore. Welcome to Galway, a city that exudes authenticity!
To the rhythm of the festivities
The city’s pubs are ideal for enjoying a beer to live music, and immersing yourself in Irish traditions. Galway is home to a whole host of cultural events! With traditional music, street performances, performing arts and food festivals, Galway is alive with festivities. It’s easy to see why the locals love their city, and why it’s such a magnet for students and holidaymakers alike.
From morning to night, the city is immersed in a festive, bohemian atmosphere. A stroll through the colourful Quay Street area is a great way to soak up Galway’s artistic and picturesque spirit.
Fancy escaping for a shopping spree? Head for Shop Street and its boutiques. You’ll be able to pick up some lovely souvenirs made in the heart of the city.
Galway City Museum: a haven for the city’s history
If there’s one cultural visit not to be missed, it’s the Galway City Museum. This iconic museum is sure to delight history buffs. Reconstructions, models, historical artefacts and fascinating stories take you on a journey through the history of Galway and its people.
Continue your journey to another of the city’s curiosities, the Spanish Arch, a vestige of medieval times. If you feel like it, visit Galway Cathedral and admire its imposing dome and beautiful mosaics.
The Claddagh district and its famous ring
While the soul of Galway can be felt in the Irish pubs and medieval alleyways, it can also be found in this former fishing district, now a must-see for all travellers.
In Claddagh, you can breathe in the iodised scents of Irish ports. This quiet seaside district is home to the secrets behind the production of the famous Claddagh ring. This ring, adorned with two hands clasping a crowned heart, is a symbol of love in Irish culture.
According to custom, married people wear the ring on their left hand, with their heart facing inwards, while single people wear it on their right hand, with their heart facing outwards.
Galway Oyster Festival: the oyster takes centre stage
If there’s one event not to be missed in Ireland, it’s the Galway Oyster and Seafood Festival! It’s a chance to celebrate Irish gastronomy while listening to traditional music.
The event takes place every year in September, and heralds the start of the oyster season. Opt for a dark beer to accompany your seafood platter, and enjoy this tasty, iodised moment.
Nature getaways in Galway
Between two visits and before heading off to the city’s Irish pubs to start the festivities, treat yourself to a getaway in the heart of nature. In Galway, the choice is yours!
Salthill Beach
While the Irish are warming up with a Guinness in the town’s pubs, let yourself be charmed by the superb Salthill Beach. Don’t miss the Salthill promenade, home to one of the famous signature points of the Wild Atlantic Way!
Here, locals enjoy the peace and quiet while travellers stroll along the sand, lulled by the gentle sea breeze.
The River Corrib
Take time to bask in the sunshine and breathe in the fresh Irish air along the River Corrib. The Long Walk is a walk along the river lined with pretty houses. You’ll be under its spell in no time!
Got sea legs? Escape for a cruise on the river, and take your time to appreciate Galway’s most beautiful natural assets.
Merlin Woods
Lovers of wide open spaces will prefer to head for Merlin Woods Park, a veritable natural paradise on the outskirts of the city. Here, the sound of Celtic harps is replaced by birdsong. Look up and contemplate the Norwegian pines.
Along the signposted paths, you might even catch a glimpse of some of the forest’s inhabitants.
