Things To Do
in Galway
Galway is a vibrant coastal city located on the west coast of Ireland. It is known for its lively atmosphere, traditional Irish music scene, and colorful array of shops and restaurants. The city is also home to historic landmarks such as the Spanish Arch and Galway Cathedral.
With its stunning views of Galway Bay and the nearby Aran Islands, Galway offers a charming blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.
- "Dia dhuit" - Hello
- "SlĂĄn" - Goodbye
- "Le do thoil" - Please
- "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you
- "Conas atĂĄ tĂș?" - How are you?
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- â Coffee: $3 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $80
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a trip to the Cliffs of Moher. Take in the breathtaking views and walk along the cliff edge for stunning photo opportunities.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby café and then visit the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre for some insightful displays about the cliffs. Afterward, stroll along the scenic coastal paths.
Return to Galway for dinner at one of its renowned seafood restaurants. End your night with a live music session at a local pub.
Visit the Spanish Arch and explore the rich history that surrounds it. Take a guided tour of the Galway City Museum to learn more about the city's past.
Grab lunch at a nearby cafĂ© and then wander through the colorful streets of Quay Street, filled with shops and artists. Donât forget to stop by the famous Galway Cathedral.
Dine at a traditional Irish restaurant, savoring local specialties. Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll along the Salthill Promenade.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene, including festivals and music events.
- Stunning natural landscapes, including proximity to the Cliffs of Moher and Connemara.
- Welcoming and friendly local community.
- Great food scene with diverse dining options and fresh local produce.
- Strong educational institutions, including the National University of Ireland, Galway.
- Unpredictable weather with frequent rain and wind.
- Higher cost of living compared to some other Irish cities.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, particularly for non-locals.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Public transport options may be less extensive than in larger cities.
Best Activities in Galway
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic hike through Connemara National Park, featuring panoramic views of mountains, bogs, and woodlands.
Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, offering stunning views of Galway Bay and the surrounding coastline.
Explore the picturesque countryside by cycling around the shores of Lough Corrib, Ireland's second largest lake.
Experience the beauty of Galway from a different perspective by taking a guided kayak tour along the River Corrib.
Head to Gtown Beach for a thrilling surfing experience, with waves suitable for all levels of surfers.
Tours
Uncover the best of Galway with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Galway
Visit one of these nice places.
Stunning cliffs offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Aran Islands.
Beautiful natural landscapes with mountains, bogs, and woodlands, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Historic castle and gardens set in a picturesque location, perfect for capturing memorable views.
Scenic waterfront promenade with panoramic views of Galway Bay and the surrounding areas.
Impressive cathedral with striking architecture, offering a unique vantage point for capturing the cityscape.
Food in Galway
Galway Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy, flavorful soup brimming with fresh local seafood and accompanied by crusty bread. A must-try dish that showcases Galway's abundant coastal treasures.
Must-Try!
A traditional Irish potato pancake that can be enjoyed in various forms, such as filled like a burrito or served as a side dish. Visit The Boxty House or An PĂșcĂĄn to savor this iconic dish.
Renowned for their exceptional quality, Galway oysters are a true delicacy. Sample these briny delights at Kirwan's Lane or The Quays to experience a taste of the local waters.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Galway better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and gourmet street food. Indulge in everything from freshly baked pastries to global street food delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Galway, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when in public places or interacting with strangers.
When meeting people in Galway, it is customary to greet them with a friendly attitude and engage in polite conversation. This reflects the warm and welcoming nature of the local culture.
When visiting pubs in Galway, it's important to observe pub etiquette by respecting the atmosphere, joining conversations in a respectful manner, and taking turns to buy rounds of drinks when socializing with others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Galway with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Galway
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Galway, Ireland is not mandatory, but it is customary to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants, especially if the service was good. However, some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, so it's important to check before tipping.
In Galway, Ireland, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payment. Contactless payment methods are also available at many establishments. It's important to carry some cash for smaller transactions, especially in more rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Galway.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Galway as the city comes alive with blooming flowers and many cultural festivals. The weather is pleasantly mild, and you can enjoy exploring the countryside and coastal areas.
Summer is peak tourist season in Galway, with long days and a lively atmosphere. The weather is generally mild to warm, and this is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities, festivals, and events.
Autumn brings beautiful fall foliage to Galway, making it a picturesque time to visit. The weather starts to cool down, but you can still enjoy outdoor activities and cultural events. It's also a great time to explore the local pubs and enjoy traditional Irish music.
Winter in Galway is cold and wet, but it can also be a magical time to visit. The city is less crowded, and you can cozy up in traditional pubs, enjoy Christmas markets, and experience the local holiday traditions. It's also a good time for indoor cultural activities and exploring the city's history and arts scene.
Galway at Night
Hiking in Galway
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park featuring mountains, boglands, and hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. Enjoy spectacular views and diverse wildlife.
Located in Connemara National Park, Diamond Hill offers a well-marked trail that leads to stunning panoramic views over the park and the Atlantic coastline.
A unique limestone landscape with a network of trails that allow hikers to explore its distinctive flora and fauna, as well as ancient ruins.
A rugged mountain range with various hiking routes that provide breathtaking views and a chance to experience the wild Irish landscape.
Numerous coastal trails along the Wild Atlantic Way offer spectacular sea views, cliffs, and unique geological features, perfect for day hikes.
A beautiful valley with several hiking options that take you through scenic landscapes, with views of the surrounding hills and Lough Inagh.
The least developed of the Aran Islands, Inis Meain offers hiking along coastal paths with stunning views of the ocean and ancient stone structures.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Galway through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Galway by plane.
Located approximately 65 km from Galway, Shannon Airport is an international airport serving the region, offering flights to various destinations in Europe and North America.
Cork Airport is situated about 140 km from Galway and is the country's second-largest airport, providing a wide range of international and domestic flights.
Officially known as Ireland West Airport Knock, it is around 70 km from Galway and serves as a gateway for international flights, primarily to the United Kingdom and other European locations.
Approximately 220 km away, Dublin Airport is the busiest airport in Ireland, offering numerous international connections across the globe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Galway, referring to individuals who identify as culturally or ethnically Irish.
Includes citizens from EU member countries residing in Galway, contributing to the local economy and culture.
Individuals from countries outside the EU, representing a diverse range of cultures and backgrounds.
This group includes individuals who have moved to Galway from other countries for work, education, or family reasons.
A significant demographic group comprising local and international students attending universities and colleges in Galway.
Individuals who have fled their home countries seeking safety and a new life in Galway.
This group includes older adults who may have lived in Galway for many years or have moved there for retirement.
The Soul of Galway
Discover the essence of Galway through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional Irish team sport that combines elements of soccer and rugby, played with a round ball and featuring 15 players on each team.
An ancient Gaelic sport played with a wooden stick called a hurley and a small ball called a sliotar. It is known for its fast pace and skillful play.
A popular team sport in Ireland, played with an oval ball, where players can carry the ball, pass it, and kick it while attempting to score points by grounding the ball in the opposing team's end zone.
Also known as football in Ireland, it is a widely played sport where two teams aim to score goals by getting a ball into the opposing team's net.
A water sport popular in Galway due to its proximity to the water, where individuals or teams propel a boat using oars.
An increasingly popular recreational and competitive sport in Galway, utilizing bicycles for transportation and sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Galway.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
With the rise of plant-based dining, many establishments in Galway offer diverse vegetarian and vegan dishes. Look to places like The Lighthouse Café and The Universal for creative meat-free creations.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can dine with confidence in Galway, as a variety of cafes and restaurants provide gluten-free options. The Dough Bros and Dela are known for their gluten-conscious menus.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Galway with these cultural adventures.
