Galway
West • Ireland
Medieval Shop Street
Historic Spanish Arch
Aran Islands Stone Walls
Wild Connemara Landscape
Historic Spanish Arch
Aran Islands Stone Walls
Wild Connemara Landscape
The cultural heart of the west, Galway pulses with traditional Irish music, colourful streets, and artistic flair. This bohemian city serves as the gateway to the wild Aran Islands and Connemara's rugged landscapes. Shop Street and Quay Street form the medieval heart where buskers perform traditional Irish airs amidst centuries-old stone buildings. The River Corrib flows through the city centre, creating perfect salmon fishing spots right in the urban core. Galway's Latin Quarter buzzes with independent boutiques, traditional pubs, and contemporary art galleries. The city's proximity to Irish-speaking regions makes it a centre for Gaeilge culture, whilst the annual Arts Festival and Oyster Festival celebrate its creative and culinary traditions. Beyond the city, County Galway encompasses the mystical Aran Islands, the marble villages of Connemara, and the Twelve Bens mountain range.
The must-see experiences that define this remarkable county
Ferry to the mystical Aran Islands where ancient Gaelic culture thrives amongst prehistoric stone forts
Explore medieval Galway through the Spanish Arch, remnant of 16th-century city walls
Experience traditional Irish music sessions in authentic pubs along Quay Street and Shop Street
Walk the 2km Salthill Promenade with stunning Galway Bay views and the famous diving board
Discover Connemara's marble villages, bog landscapes, and the dramatic Twelve Bens peaks
Visit Galway Cathedral, Ireland's largest stone cathedral built in the 1960s
Browse the Saturday Market at St Nicholas's Church for local crafts and organic produce
Watch salmon leap at the Salmon Weir Bridge during the spawning season
No commercial airport; Shannon (80km) and Dublin (210km) are nearest airports. Hourly Bus Éireann services connect to Dublin (3 hours). Galway Railway Station provides direct trains to Dublin Heuston (2.5 hours).
June to August for festivals and warmest weather. The Galway Arts Festival in July and Oyster Festival in September offer exceptional cultural experiences.
Insider knowledge to enhance your visit
Book accommodation early during festival seasons, especially Arts Festival week
The best traditional music sessions start around 9pm in pubs like Taaffes and Monroe's
Rent a car to explore Connemara's scenic drives and remote villages
Visit the Aran Islands on calm days - ferries can be cancelled in rough weather
Try Galway Bay oysters and Murphy's ice cream, both local specialities
Stunning views from across Galway
Medieval Shop Street
Historic Spanish Arch
Aran Islands Stone Walls
Wild Connemara Landscape
Everything you need to know about visiting Galway
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