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Galway blends the energy of a lively city with some of the most dramatic Atlantic scenery in Europe. From medieval streets buzzing with live music to remote beaches with turquoise waters, this corner of Ireland packs an extraordinary range of experiences into a compact region.
This article explores the best things to do, covering city centre highlights, wild Connemara drives, and island escapes. Let’s dig into the top attractions and uncover a few hidden gems along the way.
1. Delve Into Galway City’s Top Highlights
Photo Credit: Anton_Ivanov
Galway City sits on Galway Bay, making it the perfect base for 2–3 nights of exploration. The compact, walkable city centre lets you cover the main sights on foot in a day while soaking up the bohemian atmosphere that’s made this town famous across Europe.
Start at Eyre Square, the city’s heart, featuring gardens, the JFK memorial, and the historic Browne Doorway. It’s also the main transport hub for buses and trains from Dublin and other cities.
From Eyre Square, head down William Street to Shop Street, where colorful shopfronts, buskers, and medieval stonework create a lively scene. This leads into the Latin Quarter, the bohemian soul of Galway, with cobblestone lanes like Quay Street and Kirwan’s Lane.
Galway Cathedral, a 10–15-minute walk from Eyre Square, dominates the skyline with its massive dome and biblical mosaics and is a must-see for architecture lovers.
For dinner and evening fun, the Latin Quarter shines. Ard Bia at Nimmos serves excellent local food with views of the water. For pubs with character, head to Tigh Neachtain on Cross Street, known for cosy snugs and occasional trad sessions.
2. Walk the Salthill Prom & Galway Bay
The Salthill Promenade is a 1.8-mile seaside walk from the city centre edge along Galway Bay toward the Atlantic. Start from Claddagh (closer to town) or near the aquarium by Galway Business School. You’ll enjoy sea air and sweeping bay views.
The Blackrock Diving Tower tradition dates to the 1920s. On clear days, see across Galway Bay to the Burren hills in County Clare, which makes a stunning backdrop for an evening stroll. This walk suits families with kids, couples, or solo travellers wanting to stretch their legs after exploring town.
3. Explore Connemara National Park & Tackle the Diamond Hill Hike
Photo Credit: Agnieszka Gaul
Connemara National Park near Letterfrack is less than 50 miles from Galway City and is one of Ireland’s top nature experiences. It covers 2,957 hectares of bogs, grasslands, woodlands, and mountains, including the Twelve Bens range.
The park has no through road; explore it entirely on foot from the visitor centre. Stop there for an exhibition and a short film explaining how this spectacular scenery formed over millions of years.
From the summit on a clear day, see panoramic views of the Twelve Bens, Tully Mountain, Kylemore Abbey, and the Atlantic with glimpses of Inishturk and Inishbofin islands. Gentler options include the Sruffaunboy and Nature Trails near the centre, suitable for families or those wanting a nature stroll.
4. Take a Day Trip to Kylemore Abbey
Kylemore Abbey, a neo-Gothic castle reflected in Pollacapall Lough, is one of Connemara’s most photographed landmarks. Located about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Galway City by car, it’s ideal for a relaxing day trip.
5. Visit the Aran Islands
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The Aran Islands are three limestone outcrops at Galway Bay’s mouth that offer a portal into Gaelic culture far from modern Ireland. This Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) region is reachable by ferry from Rossaveal (about 40 minutes from Galway City) or by seasonal services from Galway Docks.
Islands to Explore
- Inis Mór (Inishmore): This is the largest and most visited of the Aran Islands. It’s home to Dún Aonghasa, a 4,000-year-old stone fort perched on cliffs, as well as the Wormhole (Poll na bPéist), which is famous for Red Bull Cliff Diving.
- Inis Meáin (Inishmaan): This is the quietest island, offering traditional knitting heritage and fewer visitors. It’s ideal for solitude among stone walls and ruined churches.
- Inis Oírr (Inisheer): This is the smallest island, and it’s also closest to the mainland. It’s known for the Plassey shipwreck, castle ruins, and lighthouse walk, and is manageable for half-day trips.
6. Join a Cruise of Killary Fjord
Killary Harbour, about 10 miles inland from the Atlantic along the Galway–Mayo border, is Ireland’s best-known fjord. Framed by Mweelrea and Maumturk ranges, it offers dramatic water-level scenery.
Leenaun village is the gateway, with cafés and bars for pre/post-cruise breaks. Cruises typically last 90 minutes with commentary on history, wildlife, and fishing. Watch for dolphins and seals, which are common near the Atlantic.
7. See the Sights on Iconic Connemara Drives
Connemara offers jaw-dropping drives through some of Europe’s most dramatic coastal and mountain scenery. Rent a car in Galway or join tours to explore the Wild Atlantic Way.
Sky Road from Clifden
The Sky Road is a 10-mile loop starting in Clifden, offering elevated views of the Atlantic Ocean. For the best experience, drive clockwise to keep the sea views on your left side throughout the route.
Approximately 3.4 miles into the drive, you’ll reach the main viewpoint, where you can enjoy stunning vistas of the ocean and nearby islands. Along the way, consider detouring to explore the ruins of Clifden Castle and the sandy shores of Eyrephort Beach.
The Connemara Loop
A 57-mile route from Maam Cross. The landscapes shift constantly. Expect to see bogs dotted with sheep, dark lakes reflecting mountains, Atlantic coves with blue water, and the jagged Twelve Bens.
8. Get to Know Galway’s Beaches & Off‑Shore Islands
Beyond Salthill, County Galway, lie beautiful Atlantic beaches and small islands perfect for day escapes.
Dog’s Bay and Gurteen Bay near Roundstone are twin crescent beaches boasting turquoise water and white shell-sand that resemble the Caribbean. These beaches offer activities such as swimming, kitesurfing, and gentle coastal walks, making them ideal for photographers, beach lovers, and families in calm weather. About 1.5 hours from Galway City, they provide a scenic getaway from the town.
Omey Island, near Claddaghduff, is a tidal island accessible via a sand causeway at low tide, so it’s important to check tide times before crossing. The island features ruined buildings, a buried medieval church, and walking routes, giving it a remote feel despite its proximity to the coast.
9. Let Loose with Trad Music, Pubs & Galway Nightlife
Galway is one of Ireland’s top cities for traditional music, with live sessions most nights. Iconic trad pubs include:
- The Crane Bar on Sea Road, a small, atmospheric venue with sessions upstairs and downstairs, where it’s best to arrive early
- Tig Chóilí on Mainguard Street, located in the heart of the Latin Quarter, offers daily authentic tunes
10. Castles, Mines & Other Unique Galway Attractions
The Galway area holds quirky stops that add variety to any trip, great for rainy days or a break from scenery.
Menlo Castle is a 16th-century ivy-covered ruin located on the River Corrib, just 10 to 15 minutes from the city centre. It was once the home of the Blake family and was burned in 1910. Today, it stands as a photogenic ruin accessible by a peaceful forest path, making it ideal for photographers, history buffs, and those seeking a quiet walk.
Glengowla Mines is a restored 19th-century silver and lead mine near Oughterard, about 40 minutes from Galway. Visitors can enjoy guided underground tours through marble-lined shafts, explore a museum featuring mining equipment and geology exhibits, and watch blacksmith’s forge demonstrations and sheepdog shows.
Galway Atlantaquaria, Ireland’s National Aquarium, is located on the Salthill seafront and houses over 1,000 marine species in a massive 120-tonne Ocean Tank. It features native Irish species, including sharks and rays, interactive Touch Pools where visitors can handle starfish and crabs, and scheduled feeding times. This attraction is particularly great for families or for days when the weather is wet.
Discover the Top Things to Do in Galway
Whether you spend a weekend exploring city highlights or a full week driving the wild Atlantic coast, Galway offers experiences that linger long after your visit. The blend of vibrant town life, ancient history, spectacular scenery, and genuine Irish hospitality makes this corner of Ireland unique in the world.
Start planning your trip today! Book accommodation early and leave room for the unexpected discoveries that make Galway so special.
