When you’re in Galway, you don’t need to break the bank to have a good weekend. The city is flourished with affordable activities and adventures. Experiencing all Galway has to offer while saving money is made easier with our weekend guide to Galway on a budget! Check out these affordable options for your time in Galway city..
Checking in… where to book
Galway is home to an incredible assortment of hostels that are within budget, making them the perfect place to land before a weekend in Galway. Kinlay Hostel located in Eyre Square is in the heart of the city buzz, you’re in walking distance from just about everything! The NEST is a boutique hostel located in Salthill. This accommodation is just a short walk from the beach, making it the perfect place to use as a base for your adventures in Galway. Here you’ll also have access to their many facilities, including kitchen space, lounge areas, and a complimentary breakfast. Across the bridge in Galway’s Westend is Above Massimo's - truly an ideal accommodation, as you’re on the doorstep to some of Galway’s best pubs and restaurants. One of the most appealing features of staying in hostels is the chance to socialise and meet new people. For even more options, check out our list of Great Value Stays in Galway here.
above: photo courtesy of Kinlay Hostel
Your first night here - what to do!
Once you’ve settled in, don't hesitate to explore all the incredible spots around the city. For a bite to eat, head into the Latin Quarter. The streets are filled with endless options for food, so no matter what you’re in the mood for, you’ll find something satisfying. For some Latin American Street Food, Crazy Corn serve a fully corn based menu that is full of arepas, flautas, tamales and papusas. Shop Street is home to Prátaí, a proper Irish chipper. Serving up fresh and crispy chips with locally made sauces, this is a must-try stop in Galway.
For a more filling meal, try Carroll’s on Dominick Street. Out back in their caravan beer garden, Birdhouse’s menu is flush with some seriously good chicken. Carroll’s also has incredible value on pints, making it an ideal place to spend an evening.
above: photo of Birdhouse
Galway’s pubs are full of a lively energy, creating an incredible buzz all over the city. With live music in most pubs, you won't have any trouble finding some tunes to listen to on a cheap night out. Tigín in Woodquay has music on nightly, creating a cosy and energetic atmosphere. Taaffes combines traditional Irish music with more contemporary tunes, appealing to all ages and crowds. These sessions take place twice daily at 5.30pm and 9.30pm. So no matter where you end up in Galway, your first night is sure to be a great one.
Spend the day exploring
Your first full day in Galway should be spent getting out and seeing all Galway has to offer. Head down to Salthill, and soak up the sea air. A short walk along the prom is an affordable way to explore Galway. If you are among the brave, you can even make your way down to Blackrock and dive off the tower! After a refreshing dip in the water, check out Álainn at Blackrock Cottage for a quick coffee and smoothie bowl.
above: photo of Blackrock Cottage
During the day, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in Galway’s history. The Galway City Museum is a free way to spend your day learning more about the city. Their goal is to “be a centre of learning, inspiration, engagement & enrichment for all our visitors by collecting, preserving & displaying the material heritage of Galway.” Admission is free, making it a great way to spend the day, without spending money.
Another affordable and delicious option for lunch is Freddy's. Their focaccia sandwiches are a delicious midday pick-me-up and are all under €10. Additionally, their sandwiches are all made with a focus on high quality ingredients. Pair that with a fresh Italian coffee and baked goods and it's the perfect lunchtime meal.
If you catch Galway on a sunny day, make your way down to the Spanish Arch, where you can find a spot on the grass and relax and soak up the beauty of Galway Bay. Spanish Arch is a perfect spot to sit and think, or simply just sit! After you’ve spent the afternoon relaxing, head on into The Crane on Sea Road, where traditional music echoes throughout the Westend, and pints are affordably delicious. An evening spent at The Crane is an evening well spent.
above: photo by Ado Lyons
Your last day
A quick coffee and breakfast on the way out is probably the best way to punctuate your time in Galway. No trip to Galway city is complete without having a traditional Irish breakfast. Cafés like Ground & Co, Gourmet Food Parlour, and 56 Central all offer a filling breakfast that will give you just the energy you need to head out on your next adventure. But be sure to come back to Galway soon!
If you’re still looking for affordable and budget friendly activities in Galway, check out our list of Free Events in Galway. This article is updated regularly, so you’ll be in the loop for all the different events going on in Galway city!
Feature photo courtesy of @Chaoshengzhang
Published on Updated on
