Things to do in Galway: must-sees and where to stay

In short: Galway, on Ireland’s west coast, is a lively little city known for its music and pubs. Wander the Latin Quarter and Quay Street, head down to the Spanish Arch and the Long Walk, stroll the Salthill promenade, and set off for the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara and the Aran Islands. Pack a rain jacket whatever the season.

The Latin Quarter and Quay Street

Colourful pedestrian streets, buskers and pubs with traditional music in the evening: the Latin Quarter and Quay Street are the heart of Galway.

The Spanish Arch and the Long Walk

On the Corrib, the Spanish Arch, a remnant of the old walls, opens onto the Long Walk, a quay of colourful houses and one of the city’s best-known views.

The cathedral

Across the river, Galway Cathedral, with its great dome, is one of the last large stone churches built in Europe.

Salthill

The Salthill promenade runs for several kilometres along Galway Bay: perfect for a seaside walk and the sunset.

Festivals

Galway lives to the rhythm of its festivals, including the Galway International Arts Festival in summer: book your accommodation early for those dates.

Day trips from Galway

• The Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most visited natural sites.
• Connemara, its lakes, bogs and Kylemore Abbey.
• The Aran Islands, by ferry, for their stone walls and the Dún Aonghasa fort.
• The Burren, a unique limestone landscape, on the way to the cliffs.

Getting around

• On foot: the centre is compact.
• From Dublin, the train (Heuston station) reaches Galway in about 2 h 20 to 2 h 30; direct buses also leave from Dublin airport.
• Coach tours run daily to the Cliffs of Moher and Connemara; a car gives you more freedom (you drive on the left).

All our tips for the country: Travel in Ireland.

Where to stay in Galway?

• Latin Quarter (Quay Street). Pedestrian streets, pubs and buskers: the lively heart of the city. Ideal for: first visit, nightlife.
• By the Corrib (Long Walk). Colourful houses by the water, a short walk from the Spanish Arch. Ideal for: couples.
• Salthill. The seaside promenade, about thirty minutes’ walk from the centre. Ideal for: families, quiet.

The areas and useful services are on our Galway page.