Top Things To Do In Galway Ireland

Galway is a county in the west of Ireland that is full of history and culture. It is the largest city in the province of Connacht and is known for its vibrant nightlife, stunning scenery, and vibrant culture. Galway has been a major center of trade and commerce since medieval times and its harbor has been a popular destination for Irish immigrants since the 16th century. The city is also home to some of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks, from the Claddagh Ring to the Spanish Arch. With its many attractions, Galway offers visitors an array of experiences and activities to enjoy.

History of Galway Ireland

Galway is one of Ireland’s oldest cities, with its origins dating back to the 12th century. The city was founded by Viking traders who established a trading port in the area and named it Galvia, which means “stony shore”. The city was then taken over by the Anglo-Normans in the 13th century and went on to become an important center of trade, commerce, and culture. In 1396, it became a city when Richard II of England granted it a charter. The city was soon a thriving port, with merchants from all over Europe trading goods through its harbor.

In the 15th and 16th centuries, Galway was one of the most important ports in Europe, and many Irish immigrants made their way to the city in search of a better life. Over the centuries, Galway became a melting pot of cultures, with the Irish, English, French, Spanish, and Dutch all having a strong influence on the city. Today, Galway remains an important center of culture and commerce, and its unique mixture of old and new makes it an ideal destination for tourists looking for an authentic Irish experience.

Facts About Galway Ireland

Galway is the third largest city in Ireland and the sixth largest city in the country overall. It has a population of over 79,000 people and is known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions. It is home to several universities, including National University of Ireland Galway and the University College of Galway. The city also has many historic monuments, such as the Cathedral of St Nicholas, which dates back to 1320. The city is also home to some of Ireland’s iconic landmarks, such as the Claddagh Ring and the Spanish Arch.

What to See in Galway Ireland

Galway has many attractions to offer visitors, from historic monuments to beautiful parks. Some of the must-see attractions in Galway include:

Galway City Museum

Located in Galway’s historic city center, the Galway City Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of the city. The museum holds collections of artifacts from prehistoric times right up to modern day and features interactive displays that bring history to life. It is also home to the award-winning exhibit “The Galwegian Story” which tells the story of Galway’s people and their journeys through the centuries.

Lynch’s Castle

Lynch’s Castle is one of Galway’s most iconic landmarks. The castle was built in the late 15th century by the Lynch family and served as their family home for centuries. Today, it houses a museum that tells the story of the Lynch family and their contribution to Galway’s history. The museum also displays artifacts from the castle’s history, including weapons and furniture that give visitors an insight into what life was like during this period.

Spanish Arch

The Spanish Arch is one of Galway’s most recognizable landmarks. Built in 1584 by Philip II of Spain as part of his campaign to colonize Ireland, it was once part of the city’s massive defensive wall system. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and offers stunning views across Galway Bay.

Galway Cathedral

The Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas is one of Galway’s most impressive historic monuments. The cathedral was built in 1965 and is one of the largest churches in Ireland. It features stunning stained-glass windows, a magnificent organ, and beautiful paintings that tell the story of Galway’s religious history.

Salthill Promenade

The Salthill Promenade is one of Galway’s most popular attractions. It stretches along the coast for two kilometers and offers stunning views across Galway Bay. The promenade is also home to a variety of cafes, restaurants, shops, and galleries that offer visitors a taste of local culture.

Activities in Galway Ireland

In addition to its many attractions, Galway also offers visitors plenty of activities to enjoy. Some popular activities in Galway include:

Take a Walking Tour

One of the best ways to explore Galway is to take a walking tour. There are several different tours available that will take you through the city’s historic streets and show you some of its most iconic landmarks. Walking tours are a great way to get an insight into Galway’s history, culture, and people.

Visit Connemara National Park

Connemara National Park is located just outside of Galway City and offers visitors stunning views across the landscape. The park is home to a variety of wildlife including deer, badgers, foxes, geese, swans, and otters as well as a variety of birds and plants. It also has several walking trails that are perfect for exploring on foot or by bike.

Experience Irish Music

Galway has long been associated with Irish music and is home to some of Ireland’s best traditional music venues. Visitors can experience traditional Irish music at pubs such as Tigh Neachtain or Taaffes Bar or at festivals such as Cúirt International Festival of Literature or The Galway Arts Festival.

Go Shopping

Shopaholics will love exploring Galway’s many shopping districts such as Shop Street or Quay Street where they can find everything from designer clothes to handmade crafts. There are also plenty of markets around the city where you can find fresh produce as well as local crafts and souvenirs.

Visit Eyre Square

Eyre Square is one of Galway’s most popular attractions and offers visitors plenty to do. The square is full of shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, pubs, and galleries as well as several statues that are perfect for taking photos with. There are also plenty of events held in Eyre Square throughout the year such as outdoor concerts or markets that are perfect for experiencing local culture.

Popular Tours in Galway Ireland

Galway City & Cliffs Of Moher Tour

This popular tour takes visitors on a journey through some of Galway’s most iconic attractions including the Cliffs of Moher. The tour departs from central Galway City and takes you through some stunning scenery before heading south towards Doolin where you can take in views across the ocean from atop the Cliffs Of Moher. After enjoying views from the cliffs you will continue on to Connemara National Park where you can experience some breathtaking landscapes before heading back to central Galway City. Visitors can book this tour here.

Connemara Day Trip from Galway

This day trip takes visitors on a journey through some of Connemara’s most stunning scenery including Kylemore Abbey & Gardens and Connemara National Park. The tour departs from central Galway City and takes you through some beautiful landscapes before arriving at Kylemore Abbey where you can explore its grounds and learn about its history. After taking in views from Kylemore Abbey you will continue onto Connemara National Park where you can take in views across the landscape before heading back to central Galway City. Visitors can book this tour here.

Conclusion

Galway is an exciting destination for any visitor looking for an authentic Irish experience. There are plenty of attractions to explore in the city such as beautiful monuments like Lynch’s Castle or stunning parks like Salthill Promenade. There are also plenty of activities to enjoy like taking a walking tour or experiencing traditional Irish music at one of Galway’s many pubs or festivals. And don’t forget about two popular tours; one which takes you around Galway City & Cliffs Of Moher or another which takes you through Connemara National Park. No matter what your interests are there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city!