A Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Galway, Ireland

Galway is one of Ireland’s oldest cities, and it has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the 12th century. It is situated on the west coast of Ireland, facing the Atlantic Ocean, and is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful scenery, and friendly locals. It’s a popular destination for tourists in Ireland, who come to experience the city’s unique atmosphere, enjoy its many attractions, and take part in outdoor activities like fishing and golf.

Galway is home to some of the most breathtaking views in Ireland. The city sits in a valley surrounded by the Aran Islands in Galway Bay, the Clare Mountains, and the rolling hills of Connemara. Its charming streets are lined with colorful buildings, and you can find many traditional pubs, restaurants, and shops. There are also several beautiful parks, including Eyre Square, which is located in the heart of the city and is a great place to relax and people-watch.

Galway is also home to a lively nightlife scene. It’s known for its many pubs and traditional music sessions, as well as its vibrant festivals and events. The city has a vibrant arts and culture scene, too, with galleries, museums, and theaters offering plenty of entertainment.

History of Galway

The city of Galway was founded in 1124 by King Tairrdelbach Ua Conchobair of Connacht. The city was initially a trading port for local fishermen, but it soon grew into a major trading center on the west coast of Ireland. During the Middle Ages, it became an important center for learning as well as a major port of call for ships from all over Europe. Over the centuries, Galway has been ruled by several powerful rulers, including the O’Flahertys and the O’Connors.

In 1651, Galway was captured by the English and made part of the Irish Free State in 1921. Since then, it has become one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations. It’s known for its vibrant culture, friendly locals, and stunning scenery – all of which make it an ideal place to explore.

Things To Do in Galway

There’s no shortage of things to do in Galway. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities or cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in Galway:

Explore Galway City

The city of Galway is full of hidden gems to explore. Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets and explore its many shops, pubs, and restaurants. Or take a walking tour to learn about the city’s history and visit its many landmarks. Popular attractions in Galway include Eyre Square, St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, Lynch’s Castle, Spanish Arch, and Galway Cathedral.

Visit the Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most famous attractions and they’re just a short drive from Galway city. These spectacular cliffs stretch for 8km along the Atlantic coast and offer stunning views of the ocean below. There are also several small islands nearby that you can explore on boat tours.

Go Shopping in Galway

Galway is home to some great shopping opportunities. The city center has plenty of small shops selling everything from traditional Irish crafts to designer clothes. You can also find several large shopping malls outside the city with plenty of stores to browse.

Take a Boat Tour

There are plenty of boat tours available in Galway that will take you out on the water for a few hours to explore the city’s coastline. You can go whale watching or just enjoy the views from aboard a luxurious yacht. You can also explore some of Galway’s nearby islands on boat tours.

Go Fishing

Galway is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. There are plenty of charter boats available that you can hire to take you out on the water for a few hours or even an entire day. You can also visit one of the city’s many freshwater lakes for some peaceful fishing away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.

Take a Day Trip

If you have some extra time during your visit to Galway, consider taking a day trip to one of the nearby towns or attractions. The Burren National Park is a popular destination that’s just a short drive away and offers stunning views of Ireland’s rugged landscape. You can also visit Connemara National Park or Kylemore Abbey if you have time.

Popular Tours in Galway

If you want to experience some of Galway’s best attractions but don’t want to plan your own itinerary, then taking a tour might be a good option for you. Here are two popular tours in Galway that you can book online:

Galway City Sightseeing Tour

The Galway City Sightseeing Tour is one of the best ways to see all of Galway’s main attractions in one day. The tour will take you around the city to visit iconic landmarks like Eyre Square, St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, Lynch’s Castle, Spanish Arch, and more. You’ll also get to explore some hidden gems like the Latin Quarter and Victoria Square. On this tour, you’ll get an intimate guided tour through some of Galway’s oldest streets as well as a chance to learn about its fascinating history and culture from your knowledgeable guide. Book a Galway City Sightseeing Tour here.

Aran Islands Tour from Galway

The Aran Islands are located just off the coast of Galway and they offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean as well as plenty of opportunities to explore ancient Celtic sites and monuments. On this tour, you’ll take a ferry to Inis Mór – the largest island in the Aran Islands – where you’ll get to explore its many attractions such as Dun Aonghasa, Dún Duchathair, O’Brien’s Castle, Seven Churches, and more. You’ll also get to visit a traditional Irish village where you can experience authentic Irish culture firsthand. Book an Aran Islands Tour from Galway here.

Conclusion

Galway is one of Ireland’s most beautiful cities – full of vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and friendly locals. There are plenty of things to do in Galway – from exploring its historic streets to taking boat tours around its coastline – and many popular tours that you can book online. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities or cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this charming city on Ireland’s west coast.