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A balmy, bohemian city with a love of traditional music – Galway is hard to resist. The spirit of Ireland’s west coast beats through the bustling streets, from mellow old pubs boasting turf and cosy corners, to shops selling Claddagh rings, Aran sweaters and bog-oak carvings.
On the flipside, you’ll find boundary-pushing chefs who are passionate about local ingredients, chic design stores, rolling street music and a seriously vibrant film scene (Galway is a UNESCO City of Film).
Visit during one of its famous festivals such as the Galway Oyster Festival, the Galway Arts Festival or the Galway Film Festival, and it genuinely feels like the entire city is one big party. But there are plenty of tranquil moments to be cherished in this medieval gem, too. Wander down age-old alleys, walk the coastal promenade to the seaside town of Salthill, or stroll over one of the River Corrib’s four bridges. Either way, stay a while, you won’t be sorry.
Galway bay, Galway city
Amazing things to do
Charming old pubs, local markets, superior seafood and bracing coastal walks – let Galway get under your skin.
A warm welcome
It’s all about local ingredients in Galway – find out what inspires Jess Murphy, head chef at Kai Café and Restaurant.
Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival
Galway tastes amazing
Galway boasts some of the best oysters in the world, here’s how to enjoy them…
Crashing waves, swaying bog grasses, ancient stonewalls crisscrossing fields and blazing white sands – Galway city is the gateway to some of the most incredible scenery on the island of Ireland. Try Connemara for starters. This romantic region, dubbed by Oscar Wilde as a place of “savage beauty” gets deep into the soul with its peat-scented pubs, tobacco-coloured hills, native ponies and coral beaches.
Or experience life on the edge with a trip to the Aran Islands. Famed for their strong literary history, traditional culture, rocky landscapes and soaring cliffs, the three islands offer a unique glimpse into a way of life shaped by the Atlantic Ocean.
Connemara National Park, County Galway
A land of tradition
From charming fishing villages to scenic landscapes, experience the romance of Connemara.
The Aran Islands, County Galway
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Galway highlights
Don't miss these things to see and do
Monroe's Tavern
Monroe’s is a spacious pub located in Galway City. It is a great place for an afternoon bite to eat or casual coffee. There’s always rousing music, a tasty menu and warm welcome.
Galway
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Medieval Galway Tour
Take a walking tour of medieval Galway City with an experienced regional guide and member of the Approved Tourist Guides of Ireland on the Medieval Galway Tour. On the tour, see the remnants of the medieval period and learn about the city's past.
Galway
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Galway City Museum
Galway City Museum, Spanish Parade, Galway City is situated on the banks of the river Corrib, close to The Claddagh and Galway Bay. Here visitors can soak up the archaeology, history and culture of Galway while also enjoying spectacular sea views.
Galway
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Joyce Country Sheepdogs
A visit to Joyce Country Sheepdogs Farm, in County Galway, includes sheepdog demonstrations, a talk on hill sheep farming, a chance to see hill sheep and rams and meet Seamie and Síle, the donkeys.
Galway
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The g Hotel & Spa
The stylish g Hotel & Spa is one of the most iconic hotels in Galway City. Offering 101 spacious bedrooms and suites, designer lounges and popular restaurant, delicious dining and gorgeous destination spa, the g Hotel & Spa has it all.
Galway
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An Púcán
An Púcán now open just off Eyre Square, with live music daily, remarkable whiskeys, extensive food menu, smoking areas, big sports screens, late bar, Dj's and more.
Galway
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The Quays Bar
For nearly 400 years, The Quays Bar has been providing Galwegians and visitors alike with great food and drink as well as live music. This historic establishment is located in the heart of Galway City.
Galway
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