Galway, a harbour city on the opposite coast from Dublin, enjoys pride of place away from the capital's tourist crowds – allowing it to retain an identity that's entirely its own. It doesn't get more Irish than this coastal town, whose local population still speaks Gaelic and whose wealth of culture and atmosphere make up for a lack of major landmarks.
Nearby schools, including the National University of Galway, keep the city's population young and lively. The pub scene is strong, complete with regional beers on tap and Irish folk music performances that last through the night. Just as much fun is had when summer welcomes the Galway International Arts Festival and the Galway International Oyster Festival, the latter of which showcases the bounty of Galway Bay.
While Galway may not offer as many historic sights as other large Irish cities, there are a few landmarks worth checking off in town. Christopher Columbus is rumoured to have prayed at St Nicholas Collegiate Church, a medieval parish founded in the 14th century. During your sightseeing, make sure to stop by Eyre Square, a public park where you'll find many of Galway's main transportation hubs.
For all of Galway's urban charms, there's incredible nature to discover nearby. Hop a ferry bound for Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands home to ancient sites and windswept landscapes. Drive less than two hours down the coast and you'll reach the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland's most famous sights.
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Most popular time to visit | October-December |
Cheapest time to visit | January-March |
Local currency | € 1 = $1.16 |
Language | English |
Average weekend price | $224 per night |
Average weekday price | $227 per night |
Average stay | 1 night |
Spanish Arch
0.4 miles from downtown
Galway always has a lovely vibe, with lots to see and do and...
August 20, 2025
Galway always has a lovely vibe, with lots to see and do and plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy. We were only staying one day but got to walk the town and visit St. Nicholas's Church, the oldest structure in the city at 800 years old. The exhibits in it were great in telling the history of the city albeit in a working church. It's also good to walk along the banks of the River Corrib see the Spanish Arch, Shop St. etc.
Galway is very run down.
August 19, 2025
Galway is very run down. I went for a walk on salthill prom. The footpath was all cracks. It looked like it hasn't been updated for 30 years. Footpath around the on newcastle road was all cracks also. A lot of derelict buildings. Very disappointed. Why are the council not maintaining the city with the property tax?
Galway, is a very vibrant place to visit, with plenty to do...
August 17, 2025
Galway, is a very vibrant place to visit, with plenty to do for all ages. Great scenic walks or plenty of different shops, bars or fantastic restaurants. Can highly recommend 56 Central for breakfast, pancakes were amazing as were the scrambled egg with sour dough toast and mushrooms. For evening meals recommend Vienna restaurant large choice of meals, i had the tagliatelle di Venice which was wonderful.
The social life at night was good and the festival that was...
August 15, 2025
The social life at night was good and the festival that was on as good musicians about. Town area was good as were the walks along the promenade etc. Walk to Black Rock was good along with Salt Hill.
This city is absolutely beautiful, bustling with...
August 12, 2025
This city is absolutely beautiful, bustling with entertainment, food, drink, and scenery. You will feel very comfortable walking around here. They also have everything you need within their many shops!
Galway is colourful and bursting with life .
August 11, 2025
Galway is colourful and bursting with life . It's like a street party although some people might find the centre too crowded. Walk along the River Corrib and over the bridges. Dominick St. and Lower Dominick St. are good places to eat. Galway is a good touring base for Connemara, the Arran Islands and Co. Clare.
Galway, Ireland
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Galway, Ireland
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Galway, Ireland
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