What to do in Galway? – The Ultimate Guide to the City’s Sightseeing Highlights

The City of Galway is full of places to see, activities to try, and sights to experience. From traditional pubs to modern attractions and art galleries, this port city has something for every type of visitor. From the rugged coastlines of Connemara to lively city streets, there’s no lack of unique attractions to explore in Galway.

Located in the west of Ireland and strewn along the Wild Atlantic Way, Galway has developed over the centuries into a vibrant cultural hub and one of the nation’s most treasured locations. Whether you’re looking for a day out with the family or simply a weekend away from it all, here’s everything you need to know about what to do in Galway.

Things to Do in Galway City Centre

Galway’s city centre provides visitors with a wealth of attractions and activities. From historical sites to unique shopping opportunities, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in downtown Galway. Here are just a few of the most popular city attractions.:

1. Salthill Promenade & Blackrock Diving Tower

For fantastic views of Galway Bay, you can’t beat a visit to Salthill Promenade. Known as an ideal spot for walks due to its coastline views, a stroll along the promenade will give you a taste of the traditional architecture and local charm of the area. Its highlights include Blackrock Diving Tower – a great area for divers and photographers– and breathtaking views of Galway Bay from nearby O’Keefe’s Clearing.

2. Eyre Square Shopping Centre

Eyre Square Shopping Centre is one of the best-known shopping destinations in Galway, providing a wide range of shops, restaurants, and amenities all in one place. A great place for an afternoon out with friends or family, it offers something for everyone, from exciting new designer stores to quaint boutique shops offering one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

3. Lynch’s Castle

Lynch’s Castle, located on Shop Street, is a delightful example of 16th-century architecture in the centre of Galway City. Not only is it one of the few well-preserved castle buildings in Ireland, it also houses one of the few remaining Norman interiors in the country today. It is now open as a museum by Galway City Museum – it’s well worth a visit for its historical significance, as well as its beautiful courtyard setting.

What to Do in Galway’s Suburbs

Those looking for something a little different from the hustle and bustle of the city will be spoilt for choice amongst Galway’s many suburbs. From natural parks and beaches to quaint villages and national monuments, take some time out from the city centre to explore these attractions:

1. Connemara National Park

No visit to Galway would be complete without a day out in Connemara National Park – this is an undoubted highlight of any trip to the region. With its breathtaking views of the wild Atlantic coast, fresh sea air and rolling hills, Connemara National Park encompasses 6500 hectares and is an idyllic break from urban life. Exploring it could take days but if you don’t have much time, we recommend heading to Lough Inagh – located on the edge of Connemara National Park – it provides stunning lakeside views of the lake and surrounding countryside.

2. Quads Adventure Park

Galway is also home to Quads Adventure Park – an outdoor adventure paradise located near An Spideal village in Connemara. Visitors can try their hand at archery or test their balance on high ropes courses or even try mountain biking in Ireland’s largest four-wheel-drive course! If you’re looking for something special to do during your trip to Galway, then this should be high on your list!

3. Kylemore Abbey & Walled Garden

Kylemore Abbey & Walled Garden is another great day trip option located close to Galway City Centre. This romantic Victorian castle on the grounds of St Patrick’s Church offers visitors a glimpse into Ireland’s past – while you explore the grounds admiring its intricate architecture and extensive gardens, you can also learn all about the history of the Abbey and its surrounding areas too. Inside the castle, highlight include charming period furnishings such as furniture, rugs, and paintings throughout the 14 rooms of the Abbey – definitely worth taking a peek inside during your visit here!.

As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in Galway both within the city centre and just beyond its boundaries. Our ultimate guide should give you enough ideas for an exciting trip to this beautiful province – but with so much on offer, we’re sure that you’ll find plenty more gems during your next visit that you won’t want to miss!

So go explore! From expertly guided hikes around Connemara National Park to unique shopping trips around Eyre Square Shopping Centre, there are countless things to do in Galway – just be sure to take it all in during your stay!