Galway Travel Guide 2026

Published on December 11, 2024 · Written by Vanessa White

Top Travel Resources for Galway

Galway was the last stop of our trip to Ireland, and it was the place I was most excited about. I had heard so many fantastic things about Galway, and I was looking forward to experiencing it first-hand.

Galway is among the most popular destinations for tourists visiting Ireland, although it felt significantly more laid-back than Dublin. Galway has a more bohemian feel, which could easily be attributed to its large student population, as it is a university city.

Despite its youthful vibe, Galway, known as the City of Tribes, has a rich historical past. Today, you will still find cobblestone streets, historic pubs, buildings, and most notably, the Spanish Arch, which now symbolizes the relationship between the Spanish and Gaelic people.

Galway is also a notable launch pad for visiting some of Ireland’s most beautiful landscapes, including the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara, the Aran Islands, and the Wild Atlantic Way. Learn more about how I spent my four-day trip in this lovely city.

Essential Things to Know Before You Visit Galway

Here are some essential things to know before you visit Galway, Ireland.

Airport

Shannon Airport (SNN) is the closest airport to Galway, an hour and a half’s drive from the city. Most people who visit Ireland come to Galway via bus, train, or car from Dublin. It’s smaller than Dublin Airport but still provides access to local flights. Use Skyscanner to find the best flights.

Transportation

Transportation is relatively straightforward. There are reliable city buses operated by Bus Eireann, which connect you to different parts of the city and surrounding towns. There is also a central train station called Ceannt Station. The journey from Galway to Dublin takes around 2.5 hours and costs 20-40 euros.

Health and Safety

Galway City is a popular and busy city, so it’s essential to practice standard precautions as you would in any urban area. The surrounding areas and countryside are incredibly safe. Make sure to arrange travel insurance before your trip.

Currency

Since the city is in Ireland, residents and tourists use the Euro. While most places accept debit or credit cards, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

Walkability

Galway is a very walkable city. Once in the city centre, you can reach most tourist attractions on foot, as everything is very close together. There are also many scenic walking trails, especially along the canal and the Salthill Promenade.

Weather

Galway’s climate is very similar to Dublin’s. You can expect warm weather with scattered rain and cold, damp winters. The city experiences higher rainfall and stronger winds, so come prepared with layers and waterproof gear.

Things to Do and Places to Visit in Galway

If you’ve got an Ireland itinerary, here’s what should be in your Galway section.

Eyre Square

Eyre Square is a public park in the city centre. In 1965, following the former American president’s visit to Galway, its name was officially changed to John F. Kennedy Memorial Park. You can find beautiful gardens, fountains, and statues within the square. It is also conveniently located next to the Galway Rail Station, fantastic cafes, pubs – including O’Connell’s Bar, where Ed Sheeran’s Galway Girl music video was shot – and plenty of shopping.

Spanish Arch

The Spanish Arch is one of Galway’s most historic landmarks. It was initially built as an extension of the city walls to protect Galway from maritime attacks. It is now the place where many Spanish boats once docked and traded with the Irish. Today, it is a popular hangout spot with the River Corrib flowing downstream.

The Claddagh

The Claddagh is a popular jewellery store known for its Claddagh ring, named after a nearby old fishing village. The ring features two hands holding a crowned heart – a symbol of love, friendship, and loyalty. The shop also sells many other Irish jewellery pieces, including the trinity knot and the Celtic cross.

Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter refers to Galway’s historic downtown neighbourhood – a bustling area known for its colourful storefronts and cobblestone streets. It offers plenty of shopping, lively pubs, and great restaurants, especially on Quay Street.

Galway Cathedral

The Galway Cathedral stands on the banks of the River Corrib. Built in 1965, it features a striking mix of Renaissance and Romanesque styles, a majestic dome, vibrant mosaics, and exquisite stained glass.

Day Trips from Galway

One of the many reasons people visit Galway is its proximity to so many fantastic day trip destinations. You can book day tours in advance to secure your spot.

Aran Islands

The Aran Islands are three small islands off the coast of Galway Bay. Known for their ancient sites, including Dun Aonghasa and The Seven Churches, they are reached by ferry across the Atlantic Ocean – an experience in itself.

Connemara National Park

Connemara National Park is approximately an hour and a half’s drive from Galway City. Depending on your activity level, there are leisurely nature paths and steep mountain hikes, plus beautiful landscapes and wildlife.

Kylemore Abbey

Nestled at the foot of Druchruach Mountain, Kylemore Abbey is among the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland. Built initially as a private home, it was eventually sold to the Benedictine nuns after they fled Belgium during World War I. Hiking trails, wildlife, and the Victorian interior make it well worth the visit.

Cliffs of Moher

Located in County Clare, the Cliffs of Moher stretch eight kilometres along the Atlantic Coast and offer panoramic views of Connemara and the Aran Islands. I joined a small tour group that let us view the cliffs from the ferry, look up from below, and stand on top – helping grasp their sheer scale.

Food and Drink to Try in Galway

Scones

Scones are a beloved pastry across Ireland. Popular flavours include currant, lemon, and blueberry, traditionally served with clotted cream and homemade jam. The best scone I had in Ireland was at Scon in Eyre Square – grab the raspberry-and-white-chocolate flavour.

Murphy’s Ice Cream

Murphy’s Ice Cream started in Dingle and has become an institution – made with all-natural local ingredients and Kerry cow milk, in flavours like Irish Brown Bread, Chocolate Whiskey, and Dingle Sea Salt. Find their Galway location in the Latin Quarter.

Galway Bay Mussels

Harvested from the Atlantic West Coast, Galway Bay mussels are larger and richer than other varieties. Typically cooked in a broth of wine, herbs, and aromatics – pair with a cold pint of Smithwick’s Irish Ale.

Oysters

Galway Bay is one of Ireland’s most popular oyster-harvesting areas. McDonagh’s in the Latin Quarter serves raw oysters with a wedge of lemon to balance the flavours.

Irish Cheese

Ireland is known for its high-quality dairy, and its cheese is no exception. Look for local farmers’ markets or Irish restaurants promoting regional varieties.

My Final Thoughts: Visit Galway, Ireland

Galway wasn’t initially on my radar. However, as I told people about my upcoming trip to Ireland, it became clear that I would not want to miss it. When I got to Galway and the surrounding areas of County Mayo and County Clare, I thought, “This is the real Ireland.” When you see a postcard from Ireland, this is what you see – from the rolling green hills to the crisp Atlantic breeze and sheep running through open fields. I was in awe at every turn. Book your accommodation in advance for the best rates.

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