Galway is often considered one of the liveliest cities in Ireland. The atmosphere is vibrant at any time of day, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The city’s lively streets are filled with talented street performers, traditional Irish music, and charming pubs, creating an inviting and energetic vibe. From exploring its medieval landmarks to taking in its stunning coastal views, Galway has something to offer every type of traveler. As a must-visit destination in Ireland, here are seven of the top activities to enjoy in the city:
- Stroll Through the Old Town
- Discover Lynch’s Castle
- Visit The Spanish Arch
- Experience The Claddagh Area
- Check Out Eyre Square
- Explore the Cliffs of Moher (Day Trip)
- Enjoy the Nightlife
1
Stroll Through the Old Town
The Old Town is a historic district in the heart of Galway. I loved strolling through this area because much of it is pedestrianized, making it easy to explore on foot. High Street and William Street are particularly great for shopping and dining.
Don’t forget to visit these three iconic places in the Old Town: Lynch’s Castle, the Spanish Arch, and the Claddagh area.
2
Discover Lynch’s Castle
Lynch’s Castle is a 16th-century fortified townhouse that was once home to the influential Lynch family, one of Galway’s ruling tribes. Its ornate façade, featuring intricate stone carvings and gargoyles, offers a fascinating glimpse into both the city’s and the family’s rich history. Visiting Lynch’s Castle is a must for those interested in admiring one of the finest examples of medieval architecture in Ireland.
Price: Free admission. The building now serves as a branch of AIB (Allied Irish Banks). Most visitors admire the exterior architecture and spend a few minutes inside to view some of the preserved historical features.
Location on Google Map: 40 Shop St, Galway
3
Visit The Spanish Arch
The Spanish Arch is a historic extension of the old city walls, originally built in the 16th century to protect Galway’s quays, which were vital to the city’s maritime trade. It is one of the few remaining structures of its kind in Galway.
Price: No fee, as the arch can only be observed from the outside.
Location on Google Map: 2 The Long Walk, Galway
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4
Experience The Claddagh Area
The Claddagh area is a historic neighborhood in Galway, known for its long-standing fishing traditions and as the birthplace of the famous Claddagh ring, a traditional Irish symbol of love, loyalty, and friendship. Visiting this area offers a great opportunity to glimpse the city’s rich cultural heritage while enjoying stunning views of Galway Bay.
5
Check Out Eyre Square
My hostel was right in front of Eyre Square, which is how I discovered it’s one of the most popular spots in town. Most guided tours and day trips start here.
Throughout the year, Eyre Square hosts various events like Christmas markets, festivals, live music, and even concerts. There’s always something happening, so be sure to check it out!
6
Explore the Cliffs of Moher (Day Trip)
The Cliffs of Moher are one of the most popular attractions in Ireland, and a visit here is a must. Since it’s a day trip, you’ll likely depart from Galway. These iconic cliffs are known for their stunning beauty and dramatic coastal scenery, rising up to 214 meters (702 feet) above sea level.
I booked my trip with the Galway Tour Company via TripAdvisor, and I highly recommend them. They were punctual, and our guide was both friendly and hilarious. In my opinion, this is the best way to visit the cliffs because the journey there is just as beautiful. Along the way, we stopped at Dunguaire Castle, Poulnabrone Dolmen (a portal tomb made of massive stones), and The Burren (a National Park).
7
Enjoy the Nightlife
For many travelers I met, including myself, Galway was the city where we had the most fun at night. It’s renowned for its traditional Irish pubs, which provide tourists with an authentic Irish experience.
There are also several clubs for those who want to dance all night long. I don’t remember the names of the clubs I visited, but a quick Google search revealed that Electric Garden & Theatre, Halo Nightclub, and Carbon Nightclub are popular spots where DJs play a variety of music until the early hours.
Another great option for those staying in hostels is joining a pub crawl. It’s the perfect way to experience the best of Galway’s nightlife while meeting fellow travelers. Prices can vary, but pub crawls typically include visits to several pubs and some complimentary drinks.
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