Visit Galway, the Cultural Heart of Ireland

Have you visited Galway, the energetic and bustling city on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way? Named the European Capital of Culture for 2020, its lively atmosphere, medieval vibe, and proximity to ancient Irish heritage make it a fantastic hub for exploring the west coast.

Galway City

Visiting Galway is like hanging out with the fun, kid brother of Irish cities. A mix of shops and cafes line the maze of cobblestone streets in the city center. Musicians, dancers, and other street performers entertain passersby. Merchants are chatty and friendly and want to hear their visitors' stories. Pick up your Claddagh souveniers in Galway shops, as the famous design originated here in the 17th century.

Colorful houses line the Long Walk, a historical area overlooking the River Corrib. The Long Walk connects to Galway via The Spanish Arch, one of the city's most famous landmarks. Constructed in 1584, the Arch served as the site of merchant trade with the Spanish and a local fish market.

An area called the Claddagh lies across the river from the Spanish Arch. The site of an ancient fishing village founded in the fifth century, the Claddagh had its own king, laws, and customs. Though no remnants of the fishing village remain, the Claddagh has stunning views of the bay and the Long Walk.

The Pubs

Galway has a storied reputation as a pub town. From cozy nooks to nightclubs, there is a pub to suit every person. An abundance of excellent live music, both traditional and current, can be found any night of the week in venues all over the city. Whether you stop in for a pint or a meal, make time to experience live music when in Galway.

Galway Cuisine

Galway's culinary scene draws on the region's bounty of farmland and marine life. Among the 350 restaurants in the city are 2 Michelin starred establishments. Food festivals spotlight some of the region's gastronomic superstars, including oysters, wild salmon, meats, and farmhouse cheeses. The city was once a major European wine port. While that legacy remains, the craft beer and cider industries are growing strong.

The Arts Scene

The City of Tribes is rich in music, literature, theater, dance, and visual arts. As the festival capital of Ireland, Galway celebrates these treasures with fests throughout the year. The two biggest are the International Arts Festival and the Galway Races, held in July and early August.

Nearly 2,000 events will occur during the city's tenure as Europe's Capital of Culture. On pause for COVID-19, the "arty party" is one reason Lonely Planet named Galway the #4 city in the world to visit. Check out galway2020.ie for details.

Daytrips

Aran Islands

The Aran Islands are an unexpected favorite stop for many people. Time stands still on these three rocky outcroppings at the mouth of Galway Bay.

Blue limestone walls quilt the landscape, with dramatic panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop. The fishing and farming community's primary language is Irish.

Most visitors head to Inishmore, the largest island and easiest to access. Travelers can take a 45-minute ferry ride from Rossaveal or a 10-minute flight from Connemara airport. Once on the island, rent a bicycle, hire a pony and trap, or take a guided minibus tour to explore.

The most popular site on the island is Dun Aonghasa Fort, a prehistoric fortress dating to 1100 BC. Its sixteen-foot thick walls perch on the edge of a 300-foot cliff, with unparalleled panoramic views.

Inishmore has many ancient and natural sites, including a seal colony in its natural habitat. Stop by Kilronan Village on your return to the ferry terminal to visit the Aran Sweater Market and a couple of traditional pubs.

Cliffs of Moher

Most visitors to Ireland want to see the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, located about 90 minutes from Galway. Visit the Cliffs with a guide to bypass the crowds, which can be significant during the busy season. Or choose a boat or helicopter tour to take in the Wild Atlantic Way's stunning views without the crowds.

Connemara

The Connemara region is a part of Galway County and the Wild Atlantic Way known for its diverse landscape. Its coastline is carved with inlets and dotted with islands, making for incredible sea views. Unique beaches stretch along the coast, including the beautiful white sand beaches of Mannin Bay.

Over fifty mountains crowd the landscape, primarily in North and West Connemara. Most are climbable, but not all have marked trails. Diamond Hill in Connemara National Park has a well-maintained path and is an excellent place to take in views of the ocean and surrounding mountains.

Of the many towns and villages to explore in Connemara, Clifden is the region's unofficial capital. Picturesque and friendly, Clifden is renowned for its excellent dining and pubs. It's a great place to visit and enjoy a meal.

Tucked into the base of Druchruach Mountain, Kylemore Abbey is a magnificent lakeside castle in the Connemara countryside. An English doctor built the estate in 1867 as a gift to his wife. It now serves as a Benedictine Abbey, converted in 1920 by Belgian nuns fleeing their country during World War I. There's also a gothic church and a Victorian walled garden on the grounds.