A Guide to Galway: What to Do, See, and Experience

Galway is a city on the west coast of Ireland and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. It is known for its charm, vibrant culture, and stunning scenery. With its cobbled streets and colorful buildings, Galway has a unique atmosphere that draws visitors from all over the world.

The city of Galway dates back to the 12th century and has a rich history. It was once ruled by the O’Flaherty clan and later became part of the Kingdom of Ireland in 1585. During this time, Galway was an important trading port and was known for its strong fishing industry. In the 19th century, the city experienced a period of rapid growth and development and became an important commercial center. Today, Galway is home to over 75,000 people and is one of the largest cities in Ireland.

Galway is known for its friendly atmosphere and welcoming locals. It is often referred to as the “City of Tribes’ due to its long history of welcoming different cultures and communities. The city also has a vibrant arts scene with many galleries, museums, and theaters. There is no shortage of activities for visitors to enjoy in Galway, from exploring its unique street art to visiting its many traditional pubs.

What to Do in Galway

Galway is a great destination for visitors looking for a memorable experience. There is no shortage of things to do in the city, from exploring its stunning natural beauty to taking part in its lively cultural events. Here are some of the top things to do in Galway.

Explore the Streets of Galway

One of the best ways to experience Galway is to take a stroll through its bustling streets. The city has a vibrant atmosphere and is filled with colorful buildings, beautiful churches, and cobbled streets. There are plenty of interesting shops to explore in the city, offering everything from traditional Irish crafts to modern art. Take a stroll along Quay Street and explore some of Galway’s oldest buildings, such as Lynch’s Castle or the Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven. Be sure to stop at one of the many traditional pubs along the way for a pint or some Irish music.

Visit the Salthill Promenade

The Salthill Promenade is one of the most popular attractions in Galway and offers stunning views of Galway Bay. The promenade stretches for 2 kilometers along the coast and is lined with colorful buildings and traditional shops. During the summer months, the promenade is filled with people enjoying a stroll along the beach or a game of beach volleyball. The promenade is also home to some of Galway’s most popular attractions, such as Leisureland Aquarium and The Irish National Sea Life Center.

Visit Connemara National Park

Connemara National Park is located just outside of Galway city and offers visitors an opportunity to explore some of Ireland’s most stunning natural scenery. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including red deer, foxes, badgers, and birds. The park also has several walking trails with beautiful views of Galway Bay. Visitors can also explore some of Connemara’s historical monuments such as Kylemore Abbey, Aughnanure Castle, or Kylemore Lough.

Experience Traditional Irish Music

Galway is known for its lively music scene, with traditional Irish music being one of its most popular attractions. There are plenty of pubs in the city that offer live music every night, such as Taaffe’s Bar, Tigh Neachtains, or Tig Coili. Visitors can also attend one of Galway’s many festivals that take place throughout the year, such as the Galway Arts Festival or Trad on The Promenade.

Take a Day Trip to Inishbofin

Inishbofin is an island off the coast of Galway that is easily accessible by ferry from either Cleggan or Rosaveel. The island offers visitors a chance to explore its stunning scenery and rich history. Visitors can explore some of Inishbofin’s historical sites such as Cromwell’s Castle or St Colman’s Church. The island also has some beautiful beaches and coves where visitors can relax and enjoy the views. Inishbofin is also home to some unique wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and puffins.

Popular Tours in Galway

For visitors looking for an unforgettable experience in Galway, there are several popular tours that offer unique insights into the city’s culture and natural beauty. Here are two popular tours that visitors can book online to make their trip even more special:

Galway City Walking Tour

Explore the cobbled streets of Galway on a guided walking tour. This tour takes visitors around some of the city’s most famous landmarks such as Lynch’s Castle and The Claddagh Ring Monument as well as some lesser-known gems like St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church. During this tour, visitors will learn about Galway’s fascinating history as well as its vibrant culture. The tour also includes stops at some traditional pubs where visitors can enjoy an authentic Irish experience. Book a walking tour in Galway here.

Connemara Tour from Galway

Explore some of Connemara’s most stunning natural beauty on this guided tour from Galway City. Visitors will get to experience some breathtaking views of Connemara National Park as well as visit some of its most iconic landmarks such as Kylemore Abbey and Aughnanure Castle. During this tour, visitors will learn about Connemara’s rich history as well as its unique culture and wildlife. The tour ends with a stop at the picturesque town of Clifden where visitors can enjoy some traditional Irish cuisine and local shopping.Book a Connemara tour from Galway here.

Conclusion

Galway is an enchanting city that offers visitors a unique experience they won’t soon forget. From exploring its cobbled streets to experiencing its vibrant culture, there is no shortage of things to do in Galway. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city.