Galway is one of Ireland’s most popular cities to visit as it is famed for its vibrant city center, fantastic attractions, and beautiful Connemara marble. There is plenty to see and do both in Galway and nearby, and we here at Road Affair don’t want you to miss out on anything! From abandoned riverside castles to quirky pubs and Celtic gardens, you’ll find all the best things to do in Galway right here on this list. So what are you waiting for? Start scrolling to plan your ultimate vacation to Western Ireland!
Visit the Galway Cathedral
The Galway Cathedral is easily one of the top places to visit in Galway for tourists. Also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, this iconic green-domed Catholic church along the banks of the River Corrib serves as a landmark in the city as it was built on top of the old city gaol (prison) in the 1960s. It has become known as one of “the last great stone cathedral to be built in Europe” and offers tourists a chance to come inside and marvel at its gorgeous stained glass windows, mosaics, and statues. Two artworks stand out at this cathedral, including Patrick Pollen’s large mosaic of the Crucifixion of Christ and Imogen Stuart’s statue of the Virgin. The Galway Cathedral also regularly hosts concerts as part of its Summer Concerts series, which range from organ concerts to Irish dance shows and choir performances. Those interested in catching a show should keep their eye on the Galway Cathedral Recital website.
Take a City Tour
The best way to get a feel for the city and its attraction is by taking a walking tour of Galway. You can do this in a few ways, either by booking a walking tour of Galway, a public tour of the city landmarks, or by embarking on a self-guided tour.
If you’re interested in exploring Galway on a self-guided tour, then there are a few points of interest you need to add to your itinerary. Start your self-guided tour off at the famous Spanish Arch, which is one of two of the last remaining entrances of the medieval defensive walls into the city. The archway dates back to the 1500s and serves as a reminder of city defenses during Medieval times. Make your way along the water to Kirwan’s Lane, a skinny stone street lined with 16th and 17th-century stone buildings. There are plenty of pubs and shops along this quaint street, which is fitting since it leads you directly into one of the most lively parts of the city, the Latin Quarter! You’ll most likely spend a fair bit of time in the Latin Quarter as it is a hub for local treasures, artworks, and souvenirs. You’ll find plenty of jewelry stores boasting Claddaugh rings and Connemara marble, along with knitwear stores, galleries, pubs, and restaurants.
After a wander through the shops (and maybe even a pint or two) continue through the Latin Quarter (down Shop Street) until you find Lynch’s‘ Castle and the Statue of Oscar Wilde and Eduard Vilde (less than 100 meters apart from each other). Lynch’s Castle is the oldest building still used in daily commercial business in all of Ireland. While it’s described as a castle, it is actually just a large stone building, but inside you can enter for free and explore a small museum. Down the street, you’ll find the bronze Statue of Oscar Wilde and Eduard Vilde of the Irish and Estonian writers sitting side by side, seemingly engaged in conversation (even though the two writers never met). After snapping a picture of one of Ireland’s most notable writers, continue down the road to Eyre Square.
Eyre Square is one of the most popular Galway attractions as it’s one of the busiest green spaces in the city center. The cannons in the square were actually a gift from the British Army after they were taken from the Russians during the Crimean War in the 1850s. Also located in the square are a bust of John F. Kennedy and a statue of notable Irish writer Pádraic Ó Conaire. As you continue through the square you’ll also notice a row of 14 flags, each of which represents one of the original 14 tribal families from the area. Quincentennial Fountain is one of the newer additions in the park, which showcases an abstract interpretation of the famous “Hooker” boats in Galway. Finish off your self-guided tour by making your way to the Galway Docks where you can stroll and check out the fishing vessels or even catch a glimpse of an Irish Navy Ship.
If you want to avoid the hassle of navigating the city on your own, then there are a few other options for exploring Galway. The first is this one-and-a-half-hour guided walking tour of the city, which will take you to many of the above-mentioned attractions and more all while sharing information about the city’s past. If walking the city isn’t your idea of a fun tour, then consider booking a ticket for Galway’s hop-on hop-off bus tour.
Learn About Galway’s History at the Galway City Museum
If you’re looking for free things to do in Galway and want to learn more about the city’s history, then kill two birds with one stone at the Galway City Museum. This free museum is the perfect place to spend a rainy afternoon wandering and learning about local history and art. There are six permanent collections at the museum, including inspiring collections like Prehistoric Galway, Post Medieval, and the 1916 Rising, War of Independence, and Civil War. You’ll also learn more about famous Irish writer Pádraic Ó Conaire and about what life was like in Galway during the 19th and 20th centuries.
The Galway City Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Sundays from 12 p.m. until 5 p.m. The museum is located right next to the Spanish Arch.
Enjoy a Pint at One of Quay Street’s Vibrant Pubs
Take a stroll down Quay Street and you’re almost guaranteed to hear live music, laughter, and the clinking of pint glasses. This lively street located in the heart of the city is lined with vibrant pubs and shops. For a unique experience, pop into The Quays Bar and Restaurant. Here, you’ll find a great selection of brews along with medieval church pews and live music. Another great bar for live Irish music on the Quay is the 1520 Bar, which offers a classic cozy pub feel with great bar bites and meals. Alternatively, you could opt to join one of Tribes Tours Galway’s pub crawls!
Take The Kids on the Galway Tourist Train
The Galway Tourist Train is a fantastic family-friendly way to explore the city with kids. Jump on board the miniature train and enjoy a guided tour through Medieval Galway all the way to Salthill, passing by top attractions like Lynch’s Castle, St. Nicholas Church, Wolfe Tone Bridge, and the Spanish Arch. Visitors can hop on and off as they like and explore nearby attractions like the Famine Memorial and Mutton Island. The full route lasts about 45 minutes and leaves from Eyre Square in front of the Skeff Bar or from the Salthill Aquarium. The Galway Tourist Train runs from April until November and runs a special Christmas-time tour in December. The train runs from 11 a.m. until 3 or 4 p.m. depending on the month. Tickets are available on board and more information can be found on their official Facebook page.
Learn to Speak Gaelic at Áras na nGael
There is a hidden gem tucked in behind the Galway Arts Center, and that would be the Gaelic-speaking bar of Áras na nGael. For those who don’t know, County Galway is home to the highest number of Irish speakers (also known as the Gaelic language) in the country, and roughly 49% of locals in the county speak Gaelic as their first language! So instead of creating a space where only Gaelic speakers are welcome, Áras na nGael created the ultimate crash course setting to learn more than Slàinte (cheers to health). All of the bartenders speak Gaelic and there are always rich cultural events taking place, like live open trad sessions, live music, and mini-festivals. This is especially a great place for anyone who has just moved to the area and wants to meet new people and learn the local language. All are welcome to sign up for their Monday Irish Beginners Course on their official website. If you don’t want to sign up for lessons, you can still learn a few new phrases from the bartenders and locals, or try out some sayings from language websites on your phone. Whether you can’t speak a lick of Gaelic or you’re fluent, you’ll enter this local hidden gem and be greeted with a warm welcome!
Explore the Abandoned Riverside Castle Ruin of Menlo Castle
While there are several fantastic castles near Galway to visit, there is something magical about a forgotten castle ruin covered in lush moss and ivy. Menlo Castle on the banks of the River Corrib is just that – a forgotten and overgrown 16th-century castle with breathtaking views.
Menlo Castle is located across from the National University of Ireland, close to Kayakmor Menlo Pier, and is a local favorite landmark. The home belonged to the Blake family, described in 1592 as the richest family in Galway, and they resided in the castle from 1600 until 1910. There is a lot of mystery and folklore surrounding the castle, but tales of nearby dancing fairies and fairy rings came to light from a local midwife, which has made some locals suspicious of the reason for the downfall of the castle. In Ireland, fairies are not described as cute creatures, but instead, feared beings that could disrupt a household and steal your child away.
In 1910, Menlo Castle became engulfed in flames and killed the Blake’s daughter and two maids in one of the worst fires in Ireland in over 50 years. The body of their daughter Eleanor was never found and the fire destroyed most of the interior, prompting the Blakes to gut the home and move on. Some believe this was the work of fairies while others put it down to bad luck. Regardless, the home was never again reconstructed and has been left to nature for the past 100 years.
Today, you can enjoy a lovely stroll along the river and explore the ruins. To get to the castle, drive 10 minutes north to Bothar Nua. There is no sign postage, but on Google Maps Satellite mode, you can see the lane that leads to the castle from the road known as The Orchard. Simply park and walk on down.
Relax on a Cruise on the River Corrib
The River Corrib is Europe’s second fastest river and there are few other ways to experience the beauty of County Galway than with a scenic river cruise on the Princess Corrib.
The cruise takes visitors on a leisure boat ride up the River Corrib from the heart of Galway, passing countryside attractions like Menlo Castle, the Galway Cathedral, and Lough Corrib (Ireland’s largest lake). Visitors can enjoy a refreshing pint or Irish coffee from the on-board bar, and opt to enjoy the open air of the top deck or sit in the heated and covered saloon. The saloon area of the boat is wheelchair accessible, but the toilets and upstairs level are not.
The Princess Corrib sails two times a day in the low season and three times a day during July and August. Visitors can catch the afternoon departure at 12:30 p.m., the late afternoon cruise at 2:30 p.m., or the evening cruise at 4:30 p.m.
Jump in the Ocean at Blackrock Beach
Summertime in Ireland hits a bit differently for everyone, depending on the type of heat you’re used to. The average temperature during the summer in Galway may only be 19 degrees Celsius, but that doesn’t stop the locals from enjoying the beach and it shouldn’t stop you either!
Whether you’re looking to cool down or just want to say you swam in Galway Bay, one activity in Galway that shouldn’t be missed is jumping off of the Blackrock Diving Board at Blackrock Beach. This pier-like tower was first built back in 1895 on the land of Colonel O’Hara, who resented the idea of people diving in the waters on his land. However, after the appeal of the local council, the area was secured for public swimming and bathing. The original springboard was very unsteady and was replaced twice before the current structure was built in the 1950s.
Today, you can jump into the icy Atlantic waters from three different heights, and there is even a changing area with hooks and benches below to store your stuff while you swim. Even if you don’t plan on swimming, set yourself up on the beach and watch the brave souls bear the cold water of the Atlantic Ocean. Maybe you’ll get inspired!
Stop in at the National Aquarium of Ireland
The National Aquarium of Ireland is easily one of the most popular family-friendly tourist attractions in Galway. The Atlantaquaria, as they call it, is Ireland’s largest native species aquarium and home to several freshwater and saltwater animals from around the world. It’s easy to spend an hour roaming through the Aquarium and admiring the sea creatures like red-bellied piranhas, stingrays, and sharks. The Aquarium also puts on feeding experiences, where visitors can watch how animals from each of the exhibits are fed and taken care of. The National Aquarium of Ireland is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Play a Round at Galway Golf Bay Resort
Golf may have been invented in Scotland in the 1700s, but the Irish have had a passion for the game since the mid-1800s. While Ireland is a popular golf destination, if you want to play a round but didn’t bring your clubs, there is no need to feel left out. You can play a round of golf at the beautiful seaside Galway Golf Bay Resort!
The golf course boasts fantastic fast greens with unmatched views over Galway Bay, plus they offer equipment rental at a reasonable price. The course was designed by World Cup and Ryder Cup golfer Christy O’Connor Jr., who aimed to seamlessly blend the adventure of golf with the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The course features challenging opening and closing holes with a course par of 72. If you’re a big fan of the sport, you may have caught bestselling author Tom Coyne and Bill Murray’s 2022 Amazon Prime special The Links Life with Tom Coyne, Bill Murray, and Family, which features the stunning 18-hole course at Galway Bay Golf Resort!
Join in on a Banquet at Dunguaire Castle
Known as one of the most photographed castles in Ireland, Dunguaire Castle is a breathtaking 16th-century castle perched on the shores of Galway Bay. The unmatched beauty of the castle and its surrounding nature is enough to blow you away, but you can do more than just snap a few pictures at this historic attraction.
Dunguaire Castle has been kept in immaculate condition for a castle of its age, which makes it a must-see in Galway for those who want to feel as though they have stepped back in time. You can tour the small castle on your own or as part of a tour group on a day trip (most day trips to Cliffs of Moher include Dunguaire Castle), but we recommend something a little more memorable. Every evening from April till October, you can join in on an authentic Medieval banquet at Dunguaire Castle, and it’s quite the experience!
Once you arrive at the castle, you will be greeted with a glass of mead and brought on a short guided tour of the castle. After, you’ll make your way up to the banquet hall where you’ll be welcomed by the sound of a crackling fire and candlelit oak tables. Once you settle in, you’ll enjoy a gorgeous four-course meal accompanied by a friendly atmosphere and entertainers who will read literature, sing, and dance. This is a great family-friendly event worth attending.
Go For a Stroll Along the Salthill Promenade
The Salthill Promenade is a great seaside walking trail for those who want to explore the city. The path runs about two kilometers from Salthill to the center of Galway, offering fantastic views of the bay, city, and Aran Islands. You’ll pass several fun and quirky attractions, like the Blackrock Diving Board, Galway’s Giant Chess Boards, and the Famine Ship Memorial. It takes around 30-45 minutes to walk, or you can rent bikes for a leisure ride along the shore. However you decide to travel on the Salthill Promenade, make sure that you keep with local tradition. When you reach the path at Blackrock, make sure to kick the wall beside the plaque as this is supposed to bring you good luck.
Learn About Local Fishing Techniques at the Fishery Watch Tower Museum
If you’re looking for a free attraction in Galway, then why not head over to Fishery Watch Tower Museum? This is easily one of the most unique museums in the country as it is held in an old Victorian draft netting station. Draft netting was a type of fishing where the fisherman would put a net between the shore and the boat, catching the fish as they swam downstream. The museum is short and sweet with a focus on local fishing techniques on the River Corrib over the years through a collection of photographs and fishing equipment. The Fishery Watch Tower Museum is set in a new-Romanesque style built in 1853 beside the famous Wolfe Tone Bridge.
Visit St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church
A visit to the 14th-century Anglican church of St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church is a must when sightseeing in Galway. This Medieval church has a very fascinating history and architectural style. The outside facade of the building features gargoyles, which is rare in Irish church design, and is crafted with limestone, sandstone, and granite from the Galway area. While the church was founded back in 1320, much of the design is from the 14th and 15th centuries when the church underwent an expansion.
In 1477, Christopher Columbus made his way to Galway before sailing to America and prayed in this very church. This is quite fitting seeing as St. Nicholas is the patron saint of seafarers and children. Columbus documented his visit to the church in his annals, which can be found in the Cathedral of Seville along with the body of Columbus. Cromwell’s troops also visited the church in the late 1600s, but they left a path of destruction behind. The Puritan troops had smashed the new stained glass windows and defaced several of the angels, barring one. This angel is now known in the church as the Smug Angel.
Browse the Galway Market
Beside St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church sits another fantastic attraction, the Galway Market! Every Saturday and Sunday, locals and tourists can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere of food, fun, and entertainment at this open-air market. There are plenty of fresh produce stalls along with some seriously incredible food stands boasting everything from fresh homemade cookies to curries and sushi. This is also a popular place to shop for a souvenir as there are plenty of locally made crafts and artisans available for purchase. The market is a great spot to stop in for an hour, chat with locals, and see some of the city buskers putting on a show.
The Galway Market is open Saturdays from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Sundays from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m. During the summer months of July and August, the market stays open from Wednesday to Friday from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m. If you are visiting Galway during the Christmas season, then make sure to stop into the market for their Traditional Christmas Market, which runs every day from December 14 to December 24 from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Spend an Afternoon at Brigit’s Garden & Café
One of the most unique attractions to visit near Galway is Brigit’s Garden & Café, which boasts 11 acres of outstanding gardens representing the four Celtic seasons.
This gorgeous attraction is cottage-core to a tee, with beautiful meadows, woodland forests, an ancient Celtic ring fort, stone buildings, and a Celtic sundial. Visitors can tour inside a Neolithic roundhouse or explore the Celtic writings and ogham trees. There is plenty to do with little ones as well, including a living willow play area, fairy houses, and a children’s discovery trail. Every acre of the gardens has been carefully planned out and offers a space for adults and children to let their imaginations roam. The gardens reflect the Celtic seasonal festivals of Samhain, Imbolc, Bealtaine, and Lughnasa, which in turn are a reflection of the life cycle from the moment we are conceived until we die. With that in mind, the gardens have been perfectly crafted to celebrate every stage in our lives but also to offer areas of reflection. As you walk through the many trails, you’ll learn more about sustainability, the local ecosystems, and Celtic traditions and folklore. After touring the grounds, make your way to the café for a bite to eat or head to the gift shop to pick up Celtic-themed souvenirs.
Take the Kids to Curry’s Fun Park
If you’re on the hunt for a fun thing to do in Galway with kids, then look no further than Curry’s Fun Park! This local favorite features plenty of carnival rides, along with junk food and games that are sure to keep the little ones busy for hours. There are plenty of familiar rides at the park, like the Merry-Go-Round, the Ferris Wheel, and bumper cars. In total, there are about 10 rides to enjoy and the park is open daily from noon until 10 p.m.
Explore the Connemara Loop
Another great activity for tourists is to rent a car and drive the Connemara Loop. This gorgeous scenic drive is part of the Wild Atlantic Way and will take you through rolling green hills, picturesque small villages, rocky mountains, and boglands of County Galway.
The route takes about two hours to drive in total, but there are several scenic spots, hiking trails, and attractions that may tickle your fancy along the way. For example, you could opt to stop in at Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden to explore the 1,000-acre estate with its historic home and gardens or at the Killary Fjord to take a boat cruise. Another popular stop is at Aasleagh Falls. A day trip around the Connemara Loop is a great way to see the countryside and meet some of the locals!
Take a Day Trip to the Aran Islands, Burren, or Cliffs of Moher
There are several fantastic day trip attractions near Galway. From the famous Cliffs of Moher to the Aran Islands and nearby castles, you’ll be hard-pressed not to spend a day in the countryside exploring the natural beauty of the Emerald Isle.
If you’re looking to visit the Aran Islands, then you can catch a ferry during the summer from Galway or from Doolin or Rossaveel year-round. You could also opt to combine the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands in a full-day tour. This 10.5-hour tour from Galway takes you to the small island of Inisheer, where you’ll visit shipwrecks and ancient ruins. After some time on the island, you’ll make your way to the Cliffs of Moher to roam the edge of the famous cliffside and learn more about them at the visitors center.
Another excellent option for combining attractions is to book a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren. Not only will you get to explore the famous cliff walk, but you’ll also be taken to the area known as the Burren, which looks as if someone dropped an ecosystem from another planet in the middle of Ireland. You’ll get a chance to tour Dunguaire Castle, along with the Gleninsheen Wedge Tomb, the Poulnabrone Dolmen, and Ballyalban Fairy Fort.
There are several other fantastic day trip locations near Galway. Check out our guide to the best day trips from Galway to explore more!
Well, there you have it, you are now an expert on what to do in Galway. All you have to do now is see how many of these outstanding attractions you can squeeze into your itinerary. Just remember that when you’re visiting Ireland, no one actually says “top o’ the morning ya”!
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