Top things to do in Galway
Attractions, tours, and activities in Galway
Recommended museums in Galway
Where to find art and culture in Galway
Galway: the city's best neighborhoods
Find a great area to stay in Galway
About Galway
Including tips for the best time to visit Galway
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.
Tonight
From per night
Next weekend
From $460 per night
| Most popular time to visit | October-December |
| Cheapest time to visit | January-March |
| Local currency | € 1 = $1.07 |
| Language | English |
| Average weekend price | $184 per night |
| Average weekday price | $170 per night |
| Average stay | 1 night |
Points of interest in Galway
Stay near the top sightseeing spots in Galway
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Spanish Arch
0.3 miles from downtown
Galway reviews
What other travelers say about Galway
Haven’t been to Galway for a long time.
May 31, 2023
Haven’t been to Galway for a long time. It was our least favourite town of our travels in Ireland. It is quite run down and the town lacks character. There are much better towns around we thought such as Westport.
Beautiful part of Ireland .
May 29, 2023
Beautiful part of Ireland .Well worth a visit. The city is vibrant with lots of restaurants and shops to suit all tastes and budgets.Friendly and helpful locals all contribute to Galway being a great place to spend time in.
The Italian Quarter is a fabulous mix of bars and...
May 29, 2023
The Italian Quarter is a fabulous mix of bars and restaurants buzzing with activity and happy customers. A great atmosphere and fun. We were only there on a stopover on the way to Shannon so we didn't see so much of the town but we liked what we did see and could have stayed a lot longer.
Galway City is clean,spacious and lively and vibrant.
May 29, 2023
Galway City is clean,spacious and lively and vibrant. It has shops, historic attractions in abundance and is a city of culture and music. There are multitudinous places to eat. Your stay will always be too short.
Liked the tour to Cliffs of Moher, Aran island and wild...
May 26, 2023
Liked the tour to Cliffs of Moher, Aran island and wild Atlantic coastal route. Didn’t like the traffic into and out of Galway city center. With two universities it’s a bustling city with lots to do. A visit to the King’s Head bistro/ pub is a must!
Galway is a cute town with lots to do.
May 21, 2023
Galway is a cute town with lots to do. The latin quarter is fabulous. It's very easy to get around via bus. Lots of small businesses which is nice. The promenade is a perfect walk. Definitely a walkable town wear comfortable shoes. Galway is known as the town of festivals, always has something going on
Popular places to stay in Galway
Stay in some of the best accommodations Galway has to offer
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Waterdale Lodge Galway, Ireland
From $274 per night
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Rosewood Cottage Galway, Ireland
From $294 per night
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Ballylee House Galway, Ireland
From $170 per night
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Fuchsia Apartment Tranquil Modern Seaside Apartment on the Wild Atlantic Way Galway, Ireland
From $129 per night
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Luxury Apartment Galway, Ireland
From $150 per night
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Other accommodations in Galway
Pick from a wide variety of places to stay in Galway
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Apartments
From $63 per night
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Villas
From per night
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Cabins
From $97 per night
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Cottages
From $97 per night
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Serviced Apartments
From $70 per night
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Vacation Homes
From $97 per night
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Guest houses
From $59 per night
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Hostels
From $20 per night
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B&Bs
From $48 per night
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Homestays
From $129 per night
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Self-catering Accommodations
From $23 per night
