There are plenty of things to do in Galway when people visit, but if you’re struggling to find all the right recommendations, we have the list for you. Discover This is Galway's ultimate guide on where you bring your group of friends for a break away in Galway..
Galway city and county is the jewel of the Irish West Coast and it offers no end of fabulous activities and attractions that will appeal to groups of all sizes. Now if you are traveling for a hen or stag party we have another article that will better suit your party throwing needs and to see that hit the link here but do that after checking out the list below as I'm sure you'll find something of interest.
Places to go, where to stay, nightlife, things to do can all be found here to ensure that all non-locals passing through Galway have an amazing time. Here's our top picks of where to bring your group of friends in Galway..
Activities
1. Wildlands
Get your group adventures started at Wildlands. Here, you and your pals can compete in Celtic-themed Challenge Rooms, zoom through air on the Zip 'n' Trek course, climb the Fun Walls, bounce around on Net Adventures and so much more. When you're ready to catch a breather, the delicious food options onsite Olive Kitchen are perfect for helping you re-fuel and prepare to take on more activities. Make sure to try out one of their signature pizzas - they are absolutely delicious!
above: photo courtesy of Wildlands
2. SWING Golf
Try out the latest TrackMan technology and compete against friends on some of the world's most famous golf courses at SWING Golf. This versatile state-of-the-art space can accommodate a range of group sizes and ensure that everyone enjoy a memorable time together. When you're not playing, spectators can watch on from the nearby lounge area with dartboards and pool tables. They also offer a number of food and drink packages for groups so be sure to check them out.
3. Slieve Aughty Equestrian Centre
Switch up your group get together and go horse-riding through Galway's natural woodland at Slieve Aughty Centre. They offer trail and horse riding treks that are tailored to the rider's ability, (beginners to advanced). If you are interested in making a few days out of it, your group can opt to stay in their eco-lodges which sleeps groups of up to up 23 people and experience more of the activities available such as yoga sessions, outdoor walks and arts & crafts.
4. Virtual Reality World Galway
Providing loads of fun for people of all interests and skill levels. Galway’s VR World offers custom-built virtual reality booths, Ireland’s first Katwalkers, VR Racing Cars and VR Escape Rooms which are all kitted out with the latest technology. You and your friends can travel to exotic climates, drive fully simulated racing cars, fight zombies and put your adrenaline to the test with heart-pounding horror games, in addition to competiting in fun multiplayer experiences.
5. Killary Adventure Centre
The adventure breaks at Killary Adventure Centre are perfect for friend groups who want to get away and enjoy a chill activity based get together. Their outdoor activities include Ringo Rides, Kayaking on Ireland's only fjord. Your group can also take on the famous Turf Challenge, test your nerve on the High Ropes or enjoy a day of more gentle pursuits with Clay Pigeon Shooting and Archery. The choice truly is yours.
above: photo courtesy of Killary Adventure Centre
6. Galway City Karting
Featuring a track that has been designed specifically with karters enjoyment in mind, Galway City Karting has established itself as a top visitor attraction in Galway. Timing is everything because your individual lap will be professionally timed by their Tag Heuer System and at the end of your sessions, each member of your group will receive a print out copy of your times so someone will definitely be walking away with bragging rights!
7. Aran Island Ferries
With Aran Island Ferries leaving from The Docks each morning (April-September), or leaving from Rossaveel year-round, bring your friends along on a dream island experience on the famous Aran Islands. Whether your group opts to see the islands by foot, bicycle or pony and trap, there are plenty of sights to be explored, a warm welcome to be received and plenty of craic to be had.
8. Go On a Food Tour
Take your foodie friends along on a food tour with the enthusiastic guides at Galway Food Tours. Their tours range from daytime, evening, whiskey, craft beer and ‘sweet tooth’ tours so you’ll be sure to find the one that suits you and your friend group. All tours last between two and two and a half hours with a food and cycling tour that lasts 4.5 hours. Walk, chat and eat your way through Galway with your friends as you explore the local cuisine on offer.
To see what other tours Galway has to offer check out the Top Tours of Galway.
above: photo courtesy of Galway Food Tours
9. Go Quizzing
Test your friends' trivia and general knowledge at one of Galway’s many speed and pub quizzes and be in for the chance to win some class prizes. Every Tuesday, WOMP Events brings their common knowledge to The Ol' 55 and less frequently host themed quizzes that cover all manner of topics, check out their website to find out more. On Mondays, SpeedQuizzing at Taylor's Bar & Beer Garden is always tons of fun and The Skeff on Eyre Square hosts their own SpeedQuizzing every Thursday night with the incredible DJ Baldy Mick.
10. Browse the Ever-changing Events Lineup
In Galway, there’s always something to see, be it a movie, a show or a music gig! Before your holiday, we highly recommend checking the lineup at Pálás Cinema, Eye Cinema or Town Hall Theatre, as an evening out in the cinema or a trip to the theatre could be the perfect way to wrap up a day in Galway. Naturally enough they'll be loads more taking place throughout your holiday so for an ultimate list of everything that's going on in Galway, please tap right here.
Where to Stay in Galway City
Imperial Hotel
At the centre of all the fun, Imperial Hotel is perfect for groups coming to immerse themselves in all of the Galway city action. To help your group start their holiday on the right footing the Imperial has a group package that you can all avail of which will get you an overnight stay in one of our spacious guestrooms, and a 3-course meal in the 1810 Restaurant and Bar with a complimentary bottle of beer. To enquire or book this offer, please tap here.
Kinlay Hostel
Taking care of groups of all sizes, you and your friends can enjoy a personalised service from Kinlay Hostel to ensure you all enjoy a stress free and fun-filled time in Galway. They are the best hostel in Galway for groups and can even help you plan your holiday itinerary and give discounts to some of Galway's most popular attractions. Their rooms range from twins and triples to six bed and ten bed dorms. book your stay here.
above: photo courtesy of Kinlay Hostel
Galway Bay Seaview Apartments
A spectacular stay and views are guaranteed at Galway Bay Seaview Apartments in Salthill. They offer a range of self-catering apartments which cater for groups up to six people. These apartments throughout are stylishly furnished with all the amenities you could possibly want! This is the perfect home away from home accommodation where a comfortable and relaxing stay awaits. book your stay here.
The Harbour Hotel
Ideally located near all the city's main attractions, The Harbour Hotel can perfectly assist all your group accommodation needs. To accommodate your whole gang, their deluxe triple rooms have a double and a single bed or three single beds, and you can also contact them directly to request an extra bed, interconnecting or adjacent rooms. Home to the fantastic Dillisk on the Docks bar and restaurant, this hotel has everything you need for a Galway group getaway. book your stay here.
The Connacht Hotel
Thanks to the comfort of The Connacht Hotel's onsite self-catering apartments, your group can enjoy Galway at your own pace while also being able to access the hotel’s outdoor dining area, swimming pool, Rueben’s Restaurant, and Bar Solo. These apartments can accommodate up to 6 people, with sofa beds available on request. You can enjoy all this and more, with the advantage of extensive free parking and a regular bus route into town. book your stay here.
Eyre Square Hotel
Another hotel in the heart of Galway that can appease your group requirements is Eyre Square Hotel. With rooms finished to a high standard, this hotel is designed with the comfort of their guests in mind. Located next to all the city's main transport depots, this hotel can offer a guide to all the top tours and attractions the City of Tribes has to offer. book your stay here.
above: photo courtesy of Eyre Square Hotel
Where to Stay outside Galway City
Clifden Station House Hotel
Located in the heart of Clifden, Clifden Station House Hotel's self-catering apartments are ideal for all extended breaks in the west. They offer a choice of two and three bedroom deluxe apartments with ramp access apartments available also. Guests staying here can enjoy full use of the hotel facilities including the swimming pool and leisure facilities, which are exactly what you'll want after a day exploring Clifden's gorgeous countryside. book your stay here.
Aran Islands Camping and Glamping
If you really want to get your friends away from the day-to-day, take them for a break away via ferry to the island of Inis Mór. Here, Aran Islands Camping & Glamping overlooks the beach and offers premium beachside solar power lodges which are great for group holidays. Able to accommodate 4-6 people in their glamping pods, and a campsite nearby, why not offer your friends an escape for the weekend and explore Galway from a different angle? book your stay here.
The Lodges at Glenlo Abbey Hotel
The perfect home away from home for groups of up to 6 people, the Lodges at Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate offer your party autonomy and privacy, whilst still benefiting from all of Glenlo’s sumptuous amenities. They offer a choice of luxurious self-catering lodges depending on your group size and requirements. Each lodge has its own private entrance and patio area for you to relax and unwind, you can also avail of a barbecue for al fresco dining! book your stay here.
Lough Rea Hotel & Spa
Away in East Galway, the Lough Rea Hotel & Spa can provide everything that a group holiday or weekend away in Galway could ask for. Home to a spa, rooftop bar and restaurant, you and your friends will have limitless options for enjoyment right at your fingertips. Their triple rooms can accommodate your group with ease and their spa is always running amazing offers so you are guaranteed a relaxing and restorative break. book your stay here.
Nightlife
Electric
A good time can be had at beloved Galway dance and night club; Electric. Here, you and your friends have your pick of dance floor across its areas such as; the rooftop Garden, Factory and Main Floor. Every weekend, they host an ever-changing lineup of DJs and artists on the decks throughout the entire nightclub, with both big names and local legends making appearances. Always adding something new to their schedule, if you want to go dancing, Electric will never let you down.
above: Electric, by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
Cuba
The new home of alternative music in Galway, Cuba reopened their doors upstairs at McGettigans and we for one couldn't be happier. The space comes alive with the beats of DnB, Hip Hop, World Music, Dubstep and House & Techno giving the people of Galway the chance to dance the night away. Weekly, the nightclub books a diverse lineup of live performers and DJs drawing big names in the alternative music scene. Cuba is definitely one to bring your pals to!
Busker Brownes
Enjoy a late night with friends at one of the Latin Quarter’s most well loved bars - Busker Brownes. This is party central all week long so it’ll come as no surprise for you to learn that it remains to be the destination for many of Galway’s student population. Their line up of live music includes bands playing every Sunday and DJs on Friday and Saturday nights and with a dance floor to boot, you’ll be throwing shapes until the early hours.
The Front Door
With a late bar and live music 7 days a week, The Front Door is the place to have a great night with friends. Spread over two floors with five bars on all levels there is a reason that The Front Door is the beating heart of Galway’s social scene. With a special cocktail lounge, a dedicated gin bar and a whiskey bar, it's guaranteed to be the perfect venue for your night out. The contemporary Irish pub always has a hive of activity buzzing until 2am at night.
Róisín Dubh
The Róisín Dubh is the music and comedy venue that will never let you down for events that you can bring your friends along to. The Silent Disco on Tuesdays and Wednesdays keeps everyone entertained with two channels of music you love and all your guilty pleasures streaming through the headphones. Keep an eye out also as you never know, maybe you’ll all find your favourite artist playing on the RD stage. Find more about all their upcoming events here.
Coyotes
A party atmosphere with DJ’s playing everything from house and techno, cheesy pop and classic crowd pleasers is what you will find at Coyotes late night bar and club. Open late 7 nights a week the team of mixologists will have classic cocktails for you and your friends to try. The VIP Lounge, beer garden and cocktail bar span over 4 floors making Coyotes the ultimate party venue.
For more on all Galway has to offer, check out our website via the link here and get ready to have an awesome Galway escape.
Feature photo by @chaoshengzhang
Published on Updated on
