The Top Attractions and Experiences in Galway, Ireland

Visiting Galway City and looking for things to do? This lively yet quaint city near the Atlantic Ocean has a variety of attractions you won’t want to overlook. The harbor city is home to poets, artists, and musicians—all of whom contribute to the creative buzz that pulses through Galway’s charming streets.

The historic Latin Quarter still showcases remnants of the city’s medieval walls, but the stone lanes are now filled with unique boutiques, specialty coffee shops, and inviting pubs that regularly host traditional music sessions and crowds of locals out for a bit of craic (Irish for fun).

Explore the scenic center, discover interesting sights farther off the beaten track, and plan an unforgettable day trip to experience all of the best things to do in Galway.

See the Center of Galway on Foot

The center of Galway is small and easy to navigate on foot. Taking a self-guided stroll through the downtown area is the best way to orient yourself. Galway is a walker’s paradise; many areas are pedestrian-friendly and restrict vehicle traffic. Therefore, skip the bus tours and devote your first half-hour in town to wandering through the central area to get your bearings.

Explore Medieval Galway

Medieval Galway is hidden in plain sight, and seeking out traces of its historical past is one of the most engaging things to do in town. The Browne Doorway on the northwestern side of Eyre Square is an early example of Medieval Galway that most visitors encounter. Another notable site is Lynch’s Castle in Shop Street, a fortified town house that served as home and office for a wealthy merchant. In fact, merchant families were the “tribes” that gave Galway the nickname “City of the Tribes.” Nearby, you can visit St. Nicholas’ Church, a centuries-old building packed with history. From there, make your way to the Corrib and see the famed Spanish Arch, along with part of the city walls. The most intriguing section of these walls can be found in the Eyre Square Shopping Centre.

Walk to Salthill

From the Spanish Arch, cross the Corrib on Wolfe Tone Bridge, take a left onto Claddagh Quay, and then, via Gratton Road, walk to the Seapoint Promenade. A stroll to the local beach resort area will guide you through the multiple layers of Galway: the merchant city, the working-class area of Claddagh, and finally to the beaches of Salthill, with its seaside views, restaurants, and funfair activities. Expect to hear “Galway Girl,” penned by US country star Steve Earle, on repeat and be sure to pack your swimsuit to leap off the iconic Black Rock diving tower.

Visit the Market

Every Saturday, market stalls pop up around St. Nicholas Church, offering an eclectic mix of handmade crafts and food with organic and international flavors. From fresh vegetables grown nearby to a bewildering assortment of hats, plus South African sausages and locally caught fish, there is something for everyone. On a sunny weekend, it’s the perfect place to pause for lunch before you continue to explore the sights around town.

Eat Oysters from Galway Bay

Galway’s location on the west coast of Ireland is both tantalizing and stunning. The area along the Atlantic is home to the renowned Galway Native Oyster. Each year, during late September, visitors flock to the harbor city to indulge in seafood at the Galway International Oyster Festival. Even if you arrive outside of the festival period, you can still find oysters at many local restaurants, particularly in Salthill. This cherished local delicacy is a must-try, so don’t hesitate to savor a few.

Find the Columbus Connection in St. Nicholas’ Church

Legend has it that famed explorer Christopher Columbus first conceived the idea of sailing westward to India while in Galway, inspired by some strange fruit washed ashore. Variations of this legend exist, and its authenticity remains questionable. A subtle stone monument near the Spanish Arch (where Columbus likely visited during trade voyages) serves as a reminder of this tale. A popular story claims that Columbus prayed in Galway’s St. Nicholas’ Church prior to crossing the Atlantic.

Admire the Cathedral

In addition to the historic St. Nicholas Church mentioned earlier, you should also stroll along the Corrib and cross over Salmon Weir Bridge to reach Galway Cathedral. This impressive Catholic structure stands as a testament to Byzantine architecture with some unique features. Look for the rare depiction of St. Joseph at work along one wall, with the Virgin Mary sweeping behind him, or visit the Chapel of Resurrection, where Irish revolutionary Patrick Pearse and US president John F. Kennedy are represented as emerging saints.

Settle in for a Live Trad Session

While there are plenty of amateur musicians busking on the streets, Galway is also renowned for its traditional music sessions. Order a pint and enjoy live Irish music at Taaffes Bar, which hosts Trad sessions seven days a week. Another popular venue for live music any day of the week is Tig Chóilí. Both bars are located on Shop Street in the heart of the city, making it easy to hop between them to enhance your musical experience.

Drive to Dunguaire Castle

One of the best castles in Ireland is located just a stone’s throw from Galway and sits regally along the shore of Galway Bay. Dunguaire Castle, constructed in 1520, is a beautifully restored fortified tower house that now features a small museum. During summer months, you can even participate in a medieval banquet inside the castle halls, immersing yourself in what it might have been like to live there nearly 500 years ago.

Catch a Ferry to the Aran Islands

The rugged Aran Islands are among the best islands in Ireland and lie just off the coast of Galway. Catch a ferry from Galway Harbor to discover the unspoiled beauty of the windswept Aran Islands, and take the time to explore the ancient ruins scattered throughout. After the lively atmosphere of Galway, these islands provide an ideal day trip to reconnect with Ireland’s natural wonders.