Whether you're a local looking to cool off or a visitor exploring the vibrant streets of Galway, finding the best ice cream in town is a must-do treat. From traditional gelato shops to quirky ice cream parlours serving up unique flavours, Galway offers a delicious variety of ice cream spots that will appeal to your sweet tooth. Here’s your guide to the best places for ice cream in Galway, perfect for sunny days, family outings, or a refreshing treat after exploring the city.
Looking to get an ice cream in Galway? Galway may be better known for oysters, trad music, and moody skies, but on those sunny days, it transforms into an ice cream lover’s dream. Whether you’re in the mood for vegan ice cream, old-school soft serve, or sea-salted artisan scoops, there’s something here to suit everyone.
above: The Creamery | photo by Ciarán MacChoncarraige.
The Creamery
Vegan options available.
See their menu here.
A staple on Salthill’s seafront, The Creamery is everything you want in a classic ice cream shop: bright, buzzy, and always serving up a warm welcome. On a sunny day, treat yourself to their irresistible homemade ice cream and gelato, made using the finest ingredients. Offering a wide variety of flavours and toppings, you can opt for their signature The Creamery Sundae, the addictive Chocolate Devine Sundae, or the sweet Fruit Sundae. Better yet, vegan options make this a crowd-pleaser for everyone in your group.
Address: The Promenade, Salthill.
Over the Moon
See their menu here.
This cheerful shop in Eyre Square Shopping Centre lives up to its name. Known for its eye-catching décor and whimsical ice cream flavours, think bubblegum, birthday cake, Dubai chocolate and rainbow sprinkle overload, it’s a hit with kids and the young at heart. Pro tip: try their milkshakes on a scorcher. Known for making some of the finest homemade Italian style gelato in Galway, we bet that you’ll be over the moon after your visit.
Address: Shopping Centre, Eyre Square.
above: Raviolo Verde | photo by Ciarán MacChoncarraige.
Raviolo Verde
Vegan options available.
See their menu here.
You might come for the pasta, but don’t overlook the homemade Italian gelato and soft ice cream. Raviolo Verde, best known for its authentic Italian fare, also scoops a small-batch gelato that rivals the scoops you’ll find in Rome. Creamy, smooth, and deliciously refreshing. If you're in Oranmore and need a cool pick-me-up, we can’t think of anything better than a takeaway ice cream from Raviolo Verde. Options here include wafer cones, gelato, milkshakes, and deluxe sundaes.
Address: Carraig Láir Shopping Centre, Oranhill, Oranmore.
above: photo courtesy of Murphy's Ice Cream.
Murphy’s Ice Cream
See their menu here.
No ice cream roundup in Ireland would be complete without Murphy’s Ice Cream. This iconic Dingle-born brand has made waves across the country with its artisan, Irish-ingredient-focused flavours like Dingle Sea Salt, Irish Brown Bread, and Butterscotch. Made with milk from Kerry cows, every scoop is a love letter to the island’s terroir. This ice cream store is easy to spot while walking through Galway city thanks to its complementary blue and white storefront, and the friendly staff who you’ll sometimes see handing out ice cream samples to passersby.
Address: 12 High Street, Galway City.
Centra
Hear us out! This isn’t your average convenience-store soft serve. We believe Centra slings some of the city’s most nostalgic, no-fuss cones, ideal for an impromptu treat while running errands. Sometimes, simplicity hits just right. Think of your childhood 99 cones, because this is exactly what they serve! With locations throughout the county, if it’s sunny outside take this as your sign to take home a delicious ice cream cone topped with sprinkles or a flake.
Locations: Tuam Road, Ballybritt, Raven Terrace, and Westside.
above: photo courtesy Capones.
Capones
See their menu here.
An unexpected contender, Knocknacarra’s Capones is an Italian-American style eatery with a side hustle in seriously good ice cream. On their dessert menu the milkshakes and sundaes are creamy, velvety, and perfect as a follow-up to pizza or pasta. For takeaway, pop round for a classic 99 cone topped with both sprinkles and a flake. Hidden gem status: confirmed.
Address: Unit 1, Kingston Hall, Kingston Rd, Knocknacarra.
Gino’s Gelato
Vegan and gluten-free options available.
See their menu here.
Gino’s Gelato brings an authentic Italian gelato experience right to the heart of Galway. Their freshly made gelato is crafted daily using organic milk and no artificial additives, just pure flavour. Expect classics like Belgium chocolate, pistachio, and hazelnut alongside seasonal specials and creative combos. If you’re not in the mood for a cone, try their crepes, waffles, or indulgent milkshakes.
Address: 24 William Street, Galway City.
Above and main image courtesy of Gino's Gelato.
