Pay Galway’s enchanting landscapes a visit - they're the perfect backdrop for any photograph. Whether it’s an artful shot of the iconic Blackrock or a glimpse of some of the many winding country roads, Galway offers new and unexpected vistas wherever you go. There’s always new street art popping up around the city, so make sure you keep those eyes peeled.
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Connemara
Photo by Roisin Murray and Imelda Reidy via Ireland's Content Pool
What better way to start this list than with the idyllic Connemara, where you’ll find a mesmerising horizon dominated by over fifty mountains. Set off on a hike of Diamond Hill, where the wood and cut stone path will guide the way to some of the most stunning ocean, island and mountain views imaginable. On the mountain slopes you’ll find the remains of an abandoned 19th century farm and a megalithic tomb built 5,000 years ago.
Aran Islands
Photo by @thatsnaps_photos
These three islands off the coast of Galway are a popular getaway for Irish folk as well as visitors for their unique charm, beautiful views of the Atlantic, and the quiet respite they offer. Once you've travelled along the winding roads, with dry stone walls and green fields on one side and the ocean on the other, it will be no surprise why the Aran Islands are the most popular spot for photographs in Galway.
Claddagh
Photo by @finnagram
While visitors to Galway will likely first think of the Galway Claddagh Ring, which has maintained its popularity across centuries. The Claddagh in Galway is a small riverside neighbourhood in the centre of Galway city, that overlooks the Claddagh Basin where locals’ boats bob away and swans, seagulls and ducks circle hopefully for a scrap of food.
Salthill
Photo by Fáilte Ireland
Better known for its Blackrock Diving Tower, and its lovely views of Galway Bay and the hills of Clare in the distance. Salthill is one of Galway's best-loved spots for seaside gallivanting. It's also a popular destination for plunging into the sea, no matter the time of year. Its yellow diving tower is iconic, and you're certain to see it time and again as it's a perfect photogenic Galway spot.
Kylemore Abbey
Photo by Ado Lyons
The extremely photogenic Kylemore Abbey looks good in any light, sitting as it does with mountains behind it and a lake stretching out in front of it. The walled gardens and on-site chapel are also very photo-friendly, and its romantic history adds to the lovely, idyllic beauty of the place.
Kinvara
Photo by @ciaranshoots
This humble seaside village is incredibly picturesque, with Dunguaire Castle being one of the most enchanting castles in the West and its waterside setting only adds to its Instagram appeal. If you can at all, make sure to pay a visit during the summer time, to experience Cruinniú na mBád in all its glory. This sea festival features old boats competing in a host of exciting races and events and make for great photo opportunities.
University of Galway
Photo by @chaoshengzhang
Usually overrun with the hungover heads of students, the beautiful grounds of the University really are something to behold. The stunning Quadrangle dates back to 1849, and its Tudor Gothic architectural style is still as breathtakingly haunting as it was way back then. Wander through the campus, admire the architecture and take a few cheeky snaps along the way.
Eyre Square
Photo by @galwaycityphotographs
A popular spot for hanging out in the sunshine come summertime, Eyre Square is also home to the annual Christmas Market, Tiny Traders Market, buskers and festival activities. The mural of wings by Kelsey Montague on the side of O'Connell's Bar is another fun photo op as you're strolling through the square.
Spanish Arch
Photo by @chaoshengzhang
Another edition on our list is the Spanish Arch and I'm sure you can understand why. It's a popular destination for tourists, and is loaded with Galway history. Perhaps more photo-worthy than the Arch itself, is the colourful houses of the Long Walk, and the row of people you'll see hanging out and watching the activity on the river, and the Claddagh beyond.
Latin Quarter
Photo by @upintheeire
Home to many of the city’s quirkiest and best-known stores, pubs, restaurants and hotels, The Latin Quarter is often called the cultural heart of Galway and that is in no small part down to the many historic landmarks, events and attractions it boasts. It’s extensive pedestrianised cobblestoned streets that offer a unique festive atmosphere regularly lined with street performers and entertainers, you’ll definitely get some Instagram-worthy shots.
Feature photo by Stephen Duffy via Ireland's Content Pool
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