Galway is one of Ireland’s most charismatic cities, offering incredible water views alongside brightly painted pubs and Michelin-starred seafood restaurants—think of it as Dublin’s bohemian little sister. While the city center draws travelers in with live music and food crawls, the greater County Galway is ripe for outdoor exploration. Take a guided day tour to Irish gems like Connemara National Park and the Cliffs of Moher, or stick a little closer to home with a ferry ride to the ancient, impossibly green Aran Islands. No matter what kind of experience you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Galway.
The university city of Galway is bustling year-round, but summer is the most popular time of year to visit. In summer, international visitors arrive to explore Galway and beyond, including the Wild Atlantic Way and sites like the Cliffs of Moher. Galway is known for events and festivals such as the Galway Christmas Market in November and December, Galway International Arts Festival in July, Galway Races in July, and Galway International Oyster Festival in September.
Galway is a walkable city with a pleasant, pedestrianized city center. It's possible to see its top attractions—from museums to shopping to pubs with live music—on foot. Those looking to explore beyond the city center and into County Galway have several options including buses, group tours, private tours, and car rentals. Many visitors choose to rent a car and drive along the coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way in County Galway and beyond.
Galway, on the west coast of Ireland, is well known within the country for its fresh seafood. While you’ll find dishes like fish and chips or Irish oysters on menus across the country, some of the freshest catch is in Galway. You can also visit seafood producers in Galway, such as oyster farms. Check out the Taste the Atlantic seafood trail for ideas on where to eat seafood in County Galway.
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Galway is famous as the gateway to the natural beauty of the west of Ireland. Galway City is home to a pedestrian-friendly center with shopping, galleries, and historic sites, while County Galway is the gateway to popular destinations including the Cliffs of Moher and Aran Islands.
...MoreGalway is a university town with a bustling arts scene, vibrant pub culture, and quality museums. The city is best explored on foot, including local landmarks Eyre Square, the Latin Quarter, and the Spanish Arch. Venture to the Westend to discover live music venues, charming pubs, and interesting shops.
...MoreYes. Galway is worth visiting. This university town is famous for live music, fresh seafood, historic sites, and a welcoming atmosphere. Check out Galway Cathedral, Galway City Museum, and Galway Arts Centre on a visit. The city is also a gateway to the coast, including the Cliffs of Moher.
...MoreIt's easy to explore compact Galway on foot. The city center is a network of pedestrianized streets lined with restaurants, pubs, live music venues, and shops. It's a popular nightlife destination and is a gateway to the natural beauty of the west of Ireland including the Cliffs of Moher.
...MoreGalway offers plenty for teenagers to explore, including vintage clothing stores, live music venues, and art galleries. Teens can tour the city by bike, join a food tour, or people watch in Eyre Square. The city is also a gateway for coastal outdoor adventure including kayaking and surfing.
...MoreGalway offers several landmarks for indoor entertainment if it’s raining. Visit the Galway Arts Centre, Galway City Museum, or Galway Cathedral. Browse the stores along Shop Street, sample fresh seafood at a local restaurant, or check out one of the city’s famous bookstores such as Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop.
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