{"id":26347,"date":"2026-02-15T13:12:45","date_gmt":"2026-02-15T13:12:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/?p=26347"},"modified":"2026-02-15T13:14:59","modified_gmt":"2026-02-15T13:14:59","slug":"things-to-do-in-galway","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/things-to-do-in-galway\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Best Things to Do in Galway, Ireland"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Galway<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/a> and uncover a few hidden gems<\/a> along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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1. Delve Into Galway City\u2019s Top Highlights<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Photo Credit: Anton_Ivanov<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Galway City sits on Galway Bay, making it the perfect base for 2\u20133 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\u2019s made this town famous across Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Start at Eyre Square<\/a>, the city\u2019s heart, featuring gardens, the JFK memorial, and the historic Browne Doorway. It\u2019s also the main transport hub for buses and trains from Dublin and other cities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

From Eyre Square, head down William Street to Shop Street<\/a>, 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\u2019s Lane.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Galway Cathedral<\/a>, a 10\u201315-minute walk from Eyre Square, dominates the skyline with its massive dome and biblical mosaics and is a must-see for architecture lovers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For dinner and evening fun, the Latin Quarter shines. Ard Bia at Nimmos<\/a> serves excellent local food with views of the water. For pubs with character, head to Tigh Neachtain<\/a> on Cross Street, known for cosy snugs and occasional trad sessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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2. Walk the Salthill Prom & Galway Bay<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Salthill Promenade<\/a> 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\u2019ll enjoy sea air and sweeping bay views.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Blackrock Diving Tower<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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3. Explore Connemara National Park & Tackle the Diamond Hill Hike<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Photo Credit: Agnieszka Gaul<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Connemara National Park<\/a> near Letterfrack<\/a> is less than 50 miles from Galway City and is one of Ireland\u2019s top nature experiences. It covers 2,957 hectares of bogs, grasslands, woodlands, and mountains, including the Twelve Bens<\/a> range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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4. Take a Day Trip to Kylemore Abbey<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Kylemore Abbey<\/a>, a neo-Gothic castle reflected in Pollacapall Lough, is one of Connemara\u2019s most photographed landmarks. Located about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Galway City by car, it\u2019s ideal for a relaxing day trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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5. Visit the Aran Islands<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Photo Credit: MNStudio<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Aran Islands are three limestone outcrops at Galway Bay\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Islands to Explore<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n