Galway City is a lively and vibrant destination on the West Coast of Ireland. A hub for both culture and craic (the Irish slang for fun), Galway is a must-visit city in Ireland. From incredible events and festivals to a vibrant food and drink scene, there is something for everyone. Are you looking for breathtaking views while on holiday? The Spanish Arch, Blackrock Diving Tower, and The Long Walk are just a handful of the iconic sights you need to see in Galway! The city is a treasure trove of boundless adventure, just waiting for your discovery! Keep reading to discover the top things to see, do, and explore in Galway City.
The Top Galway City Landmarks and Attractions: Must-see sights in Galway
Discover our list of best places to see in Galway City...
Spanish Arch
The Spanish Arch is located where the banks of the River Corrib meet Galway Bay. The Spanish Arch was built in 1584 as an extension to the town’s walls. The sight is steeped in centuries of Irish history. The arch was once the point of access to Galway and served to protect the city’s quays. It's widely accepted that the Spanish Arch got its name thanks to the close trading relationship between Galway and Spain. Today, the Spanish Arch (or colloquially ‘Sparch’) is an iconic historical site in Galway City. On a summer's day, you’ll find incredible crowds gathered by the arch, with a delightful hum of laughter and music resonating around the waters. Saturated with history, be sure to visit the Spanish Arch on your next Galway adventure.
above: The historic Spanish Arch
The Long Walk
Immortalised in both art and song, The Long Walk is perhaps one of the most instantly recognisable Galway City landmarks. This colourful row of houses on the River Corrib was constructed in 18th-century Ireland, by descendants of John Eyre. Don’t let its name deceive you; although it’s quite a pleasant walk, it’s not a long one at all… more like a 5-minute stroll! Located just behind The Spanish Arch on the edge of the Latin Quarter, The Long Walk is one of Galway City’s most photogenic sights. The row of houses together by the water make it the perfect Galway postcard! For the best view of the houses, take a walk down the Middle Arch or Nimmo’s Pier to capture the row in its entirety.
Galway City Museum
On your next visit to Galway, be sure to explore the Galway City Museum. Absolutely brimming with incredible artefacts and history, the museum is a treasure trove of learning and inspiration in Galway. The museum exhibits centuries of history from Galway; from prehistoric artefacts to a plethora of medical devices developed in Galway there is so much to uncover. The history of Galway is rich and intricate. Discover more about the artifacts and legends that create the intricate tapestry of culture and history in Galway. Touching on war, mediaeval times, legend and folklore, scientific discoveries and much more, the Galway City Museum is a must-visit attraction in Galway.
Lynch’s Castle
Lynch’s Castle is located on Shop Street in the centre of Galway City. The perfectly preserved castle is an incredible landmark which displays Galway’s intriguing mediaeval past. Built by the influential Lynch Family, one of the 14 ruling tribes of Galway, the castle was erected as a means of protection. The building features the Lynch Family’s coat of arms and other prominent carvings and religious symbols.
After the fall of the Lynch family, the castle fell into a state of neglect. In the 20th-century there was a true effort to preserve Ireland’s historic landmarks. In 1930 Lynch’s Castle was acquired by Allied Irish Banks “AIB” and was transformed into the bank branch we know today. While the restoration efforts aimed to preserve the mediaeval architecture, there were modernised facilities added as well. Still operating as an AIB Bank, the 16th-century building is open to the public and a landmark in Galway you can’t miss!
above: Lynch's Castle in the heart of Galway City
St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church
St. Nicholas’ Church has an incredibly fascinating past spanning all the way back to the 12th-century. Enduring a rich, and sometimes bloody history, St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church is about as old as Galway is! The church was founded by the Normans, when Galway was still a small town. Throughout the centuries, St. Nicholas’ has always played an important role in the landscape of Galway history. Today, the church continues to stand over 700 years later. Open for services as well as history tours, St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church is a must-visit Galway City landmark.
The Claddagh Museum
A symbol that is absolutely intertwined with Galway City is the Claddagh Ring. The Claddagh is Galway’s (and Ireland’s) most enduring symbol of love, loyalty and friendship. The ring’s origin story is one seeped in myth, folklore and tradition. Make your way to Thomas Dillion’s Claddagh Gold, a jewellery shop as well as museum to learn about this timeless emblem of Galway. The shop was established in 1750.
They are the only Jewellers with the rights to have ‘ORIGINAL’ stamped on the ring, as they are the original manufacturers of the claddagh. The museum is one of the smallest in Europe, but it’s filled to the brim with immense history and story. It even is home to some of the very first claddagh rings from the 1700s/1800s made by Goldsmiths Nicholas Burge, Richard Joyce and George Robinson. If you’re interested in Galway’s history and the story of the Claddagh, the Claddagh Museum is a must see attraction.
The Galway Cathedral
The Galway Cathedral is an incredible sight to see right in the heart of Galway. The focus of many iconic Galway skyline photos, the Cathedral is a must-visit Galway landmark. Located off the banks of the River Corrib, the Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven & St Nicholas is a tranquil and hallowed building with an incredible history. Before the cathedral was the awe-inspiring place of reverence we know today, it was once the grounds for the old city jail. Once the cathedral was completed in 1965, it earned the title of being the ‘last great stone cathedral to be built in Europe". Seeped in history and sacrament, the Galway Cathedral is a must visit Galway landmark.
above: Galway Cathedral, photographed by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
Eyre Square
Eyre Square is a lovely plot of green in the heart of Galway City. An inner-city park surrounded by incredible accommodation, pubs and restaurants, Eyre Square is a hub for all the goings-on in Galway. During the summer months the park is home to the Tiny Traders weekend market and the event garden for Galway’s International Arts Festival. In the Christmas season, the park transforms into a winter wonderland and hosts an incredible Christmas Market. All year round Eyre Square is the ideal place to catch up with friends, go for a stroll or even snap a few pics.
Salthill Prom
This is one of our favourite walking routes in Galway City. A lovely 3k stretch along Galway Bay, the promenade is one of Salthill's most beloved attractions. Perfect for a refreshing walk or run by the sea, you’ll be met with stunning views of the water and more. Make the journey to the Mutton Island Causeway to see the Mutton Island lighthouse and beautiful views of the coast. Along the prom is Grattan Beach, Ladies Beach and Blackrock Beach. If you keep on strolling you will eventually make it through the Village of Salthill and find yourself at Blackrock Diving Tower.
Blackrock Diving Tower in Salthill
The iconic Blackrock Diving Tower is at the end of your walk along the prom. Those who exhibit true grit and bravery will plunge from here into frigid Galway Bay - even on the coldest of days! The diving tower is truly emblematic of Galway, appearing in many photos and videos of the city. If you’re here on a sunny summer day, crowds will flock to the tower to dive in at high tide.
If your visit to Galway happens to be during the more frigid months, you will very likely still be met with a crowd of people going in for a dip, rain or shine! Even if you’re not into jumping into the icy waters, Blackrock Diving Tower is a lovely space to sit by the sea and soak up the atmosphere. Grab a coffee or acai bowl from Álainn and enjoy the stunning views of Galway Bay from Blackrock!
above: Blackrock Diving Tower, photographed by Mary McGraw
A Guide to Galway City’s Best Neighbourhoods
To help you make the most of your trip to Galway, we put together a list of our favourite places to discover. From Galway’s Westend to Woodquay there are so many incredible neighbourhoods in Galway City to explore…
Latin Quarter: Galway City’s Vibrant Heartbeat
The Latin Quarter has everything you’d want for the best night out in Galway. It’s where the city truly comes alive. With incredible shopping, pubs and bars, restaurants and places to stay down the cobblestone streets, there’s always something new to discover in this part of the city. Read below to see what you should expect from Galway’s Latin Quarter;
above: Galway's Latin Quarter is always buzzing with activity
For a coffee and a pastry in the Latin Quarter: Magpie Bakery, Hailed as one of the best bakeries in town, a trip to Magpie is an absolute must when visiting Galway. Although the queue is a bit intimidating, it moves at an impressive pace. We suggest trying the honey butter toast, a seasonal cruffin (yes, that’s a croissant and muffin combined… genius) and a sausage roll.
We also love... Coffeewerk +Press, and The Lane Cafe
Shops in the Latin Quarter: Charlie Bryne’s Bookshop, Charlie Byrne’s is a booklovers paradise. Wall-to-wall with any book imaginable, it’s possible to spend an entire working day here just browsing their impressive selection. Check out the staff selection shelf at the front of the shop if you’re looking for a new recommendation.
We also love… Kindf_olk, Silverwood Jewellers, Cobwebs, Planet Retro Vintage, Heart in Hands, Kilkenny Designs, Nelly, and Designs Of Ireland
Breakfast and Lunch in the Latin Quarter: Ard Bia, Adored by many, Ard Bia is the go-to brunch spot for many Galwegians. With a beautiful interior and stunning views of Galway Bay, it seems only fitting that they would also have a fantastic food menu, focused on Irish producers. If you’re there for brunch, always go for the pancakes. They are seriously good. And, you’ve gotta add a side of bacon and sausages as well, you just have to.
We also love… The House Hotel, McDonagh’s Fish n Chips, and Pizza Napoli
The perfect Pint in the Latin Quarter: Tigh Neachtains, Finding an open snug in here is akin to a lotto win, maybe it’s even better… In any case Tigh Neachtains is one of Galway city’s most beloved pubs. Warm and welcoming, this is a great place to pass the time with a few afternoon pints. Order a Guinness and sit outside on a sunny day to soak up the Galway atmosphere.
We also love… Bunch of Grapes, T. J. Clarke’s, and The Dew Drop Inn
Dinner Time in the Latin Quarter: Freddy’s, With a heart for hospitality and incredible Italian food, Freddy’s is a fantastic pick to grab a bite to eat in Galway. Great for family dining, or date night! Try one of their wood-fired pizzas; we quite enjoy the pepperoni honey.
We also love… La Vina, Ré Nao, and M.Fitzgerald's Bar
Nightlife in the Latin Quarter: The Dáil Bar, The Dáil Bar is a late night pub in Galway perfectly located in the vibrant Latin Quarter. With live music every night and a class cocktail bar upstairs, this is the perfect place to spend a late night in Galway.
We also love… The Quays, The Front Door, and Busker Brownes
Where to stay in the Latin Quarter: The Snug Townhouse, The Snug Townhouse is a great place to rest your weary head in the heart of Galway City. Located on Quay Street, The Snug Townhouse is affordable and conveniently located. This ensures you’ll be able to make the most of your trip to Galway City!
We also love… The House Hotel, and The Residence Hotel
Galway’s Westend: A Bohemian Hideaway in Galway City
Galway’s Westend is an artistic neighbourhood in Galway City. The streets are saturated with a vibrant culture that revolves around food, music, and the occasional round of pints. Here you’ll stumble upon a strong sense of community among the regular patrons and shop owners of the Westend. Keep reading to discover where to go in Galway’s Westend;
above: the vibrancy of Galway's Westend's nightlife is undeniable
For a coffee and a pastry in Galway’s Westend: Plámás, Plámás is a warm Irish language cafe in Galway. Serving up delicious coffees, and some incredible sweet treats, Plámás is a must-visit cafe. From Tuesday to Saturday, they sell some top-notch sandwiches supplied by the Hapi Bakery. This is Galway tip - order in Irish and you’ll receive a discount!
We also love… Urban Grind, An Tobar Nua, and The Secret Garden
Shops in Galway’s Westend: Ernie's Fruit and Veg, Ernie’s is an iconic shop in Galway’s Westend. Run by the man himself, Ernie Deacy, it stocks fruit, vegetables, fine foods, wines and more! You’re always met with a warm smile from Ernie upon arrival. All produce is always what's in season. We highly recommend snagging a few apples from Ernie’s when available!
We also love… Just Art It, Bell Book and Candle, and Dr. Clare’s Apothecary
Breakfast and Lunch in Galway's Westend: Dela, The queue for Dela on a Saturday morning is out the door, but it’s well worth the wait! Dela’s brunch is one of the best in town. With a farm-to-plate menu, the ingredients are fresh, local and absolutely delicious. The eggs benedict is one of our favourites. And, you can never go wrong with a fresh squeezed orange juice (especially when it’s in their famous mimosa!)
We also love… Greens & Co, Smashbird, Wooza Woodfired Pizza, and Kai
The Perfect Pint in Galway's Westend: The Crane Bar, On any given evening, traditional music pours out from the Crane Bar onto Sea Road. Pints are flowing and people are singing; it’s an accumulation of mirth, magic, and merriment in Galway’s Westend. Go to the pub for the pints, and stay for the music. Order a Guinness and a Green Spot, and enjoy.
We also love… M.P. Walsh, Bierhaus, and The Salt House
Dinner time in Galway’s Westend: Kai Restaurant, Kai on Sea Road is a foodie’s paradise. Kai is open for lunch, serving walk-ins, but if you’re looking for an incredible and unforgettable meal, book ahead for their dinner seatings. Kai is the only Michelin Green Star restaurant in Ireland, awarded for their sustainability practices. Head chef Jess Murphy takes simple ingredients in season and transforms them into absolute masterpieces on your plate. For starters always go for the Niamh’s Inis Mór Crab. For mains, Brady's Striploin steak is always a winner in our books.
We also love… Handsome Burger, Rouge, Il Vicolo, and The Universal
Nightlife in Galway’s Westend: The Blue Note, Disco lights, DJs, a dance floor, and the massive smoking area out back… What else could you want for a night out in Galway? The Blue Note is a Westend boozer we just adore. A second home to many Galway locals, the pub is a place of bohemian bliss. Call in on a weekend to boogie all night long to some class tunes.
We also love... Monroe’s, Massimo, and Bierhaus
Where to stay in the Westend: Over Massimo: Right above one of our favourite pubs is the perfect place to lodge in Galway’s Westend. Over Massimo, you’ll find seven en-suite bedrooms. The location here is unbeatable, allowing you to stay right in the heart of the action! While staying there, stop by Massimo for pints, get a pizza from Wooza, and soak up the Westend atmosphere.
Eyre Square: Your Base for the Perfect Galway Adventure
Located in the heart of Galway, Eyre Square is full of amazing places to stay, as well as some truly great restaurants and pubs. Read about our favourites here:
above: you never know who you will come across while passing through Eyre Square on a summer's day
For a coffee and a pastry in Eyre Square: Jungle Cafe: A true hidden gem, Jungle Cafe is a tropical escape in the middle of Galway City. Serving amazing coffees and food from a botanical oasis, the atmosphere here is incredible. Order a coffee and relax in the back garden surrounded by tropical plants and bamboo panelling.
We also love…Top Shelf Coffee Bar, Scón, and WYLDE Cafe
Shops in Eyre Square: Sub-City Comics, As Galway’s only and best dedicated Manga & Pop Culture store, Sub-City is a cornerstone of the Irish comic and pop culture scene. The store is full of cool goodies, merch, figurines, collectables, board games, comics, books and much more.
We also love… The Tiny Traders Village, The Galway Christmas Market, and Foxford Jewellers
Breakfast and Lunch in Eyre Square: Hyde Bar, For the perfect brunch, check out Hyde Bar. They have an immense menu of incredible food and amazing boozy brunch cocktails. Indulge in their brioche French toast, with a perfectly poured peach bellini. Or if you’re a savoury brekkie person, you can never go wrong with the eggs benedict.
We also love… Esquires - The Organic Coffee Co, Merchant Café & Bar, and Mary Mullens Bar
The Perfect Pint in Eyre Square: O’Connell’s Pub: A truly iconic Galway pub, O’Connell’s is a must visit destination in the city. The award-winning beer garden is reason enough to visit the pub. Stay for the incredible range of drinks, amazing atmosphere and late night tunes. For a more relaxed drinking experience, stay in the front of the pub, which has a more traditional Irish bar feel.
We also love… The Ol’ 55, Jack J Foleys, and The Skeff
Dinner time in Eyre Square: MacNeill’s, Located below the iconic The Hardiman Hotel in Eyre Square, MacNeill’s is a snug subterranean gastropub serving traditional Irish food with a modern twist. Try their ‘Irish Tapas’. We suggest the chicken wings, mac & cheese croquettes, and the smoked Gubbeen and chorizo jam on sourdough - it’s delish!
We also love… The Gaslight Brasserie, The Skeff, and Queen Street
Nightlife in Eyre Square: Mary Mullens, Mary Mullens’ massive beer garden is flushed with fluorescent neon signs. The atmosphere is palpable, with live music and a DJ on until late. Grab a pint and then try the in-house food truck - Lucky Peach. After you’ve devoured the Asian-inspired street food, spend the night moving and grooving to the music!
We also love… An Púcán, Murty Rabbitts, Hyde Bar, and The Skeff
Where to stay in Eyre Square: Galway City Hostel, For affordable and perfectly located accommodation, Galway City Hostel is the place to go. Right across the street from Galway Ceannt Train Station, Galway City Hostel provides award-winning accommodation! Named Ireland’s Best Hostel, this is the perfect base in Eyre Square.
We also love…The Imperial Hotel, The Lane Boutique Hotel, Kinlay Hostel, Snoozles Hostel, The Skeffington Arms Hotel, and HYDE Hotel
Shop Street & the City Centre: Discover the Best Retail and Shops in Galway
Shop Street is a long pedestrianised street that is saturated with shops, restaurants, cafes, and pubs. Shop Street is located in Galway’s City Centre. You’ll find that down each cross street there is a plethora of retail and restaurants for you to choose from;
For a coffee and a pastry on Shop Street: Fairhill, Speciality coffees, a design shop, and the occasional event, Fairhill has it all. The coffee is great, and the shop is always stocked with the coolest glassware, homey bits, and more. We suggest you get a warm drink (their mochas are a must-try) and sit upstairs. On a sunny day, avail of their outdoor seating.
We also love…Little Lane Cafe, McCambridges, and Espresso 44
Shops in Galway City Centre: Public Romance, Discover Public Romance’s two stories of curated vintage clothes. With new stock coming in regularly, there are some really stunning pieces to choose from. Public Romance sells both men's and women's clothes, as well as upcycled garments. You could spend an entire day there just looking through all of their pieces!
We also love… My Shop My Granny Likes It, AWOL Piercings, Yes Flowers, and Misnóc
Breakfast and Lunch in the City Centre: McCambridges, A trip to Galway is not complete without a visit to the deli in McCambriges of Galway at lunch time. The gourmet market style grocer has a counter dedicated to sandwiches and hot food. We suggest you try one of their gourmet sandwiches (or build your own). Oh, and be sure to order one or two of their sausage rolls!
We also love… Meltd, 56 Central, Prátaí, Salsa, Java’s Cafe
The Perfect Pint in the City Centre: Tig Chóilí, This is one of Galway City’s most iconic venues for traditional music. Tig Chóilí is best known for the perfect pint accompanied by a lively trad session. If you’re there early enough, you’ll luck out and grab a seat close to the tunes. Spend an early evening here soaking up the atmosphere and of course, a few pints.
We also love… Taaffes, Garavan’s, Freeny’s, and Sally Longs
Dinner time in Galway's City Centre: The Dough Bros, Award-winning pizzeria, The Dough Bros is an iconic Galway stop. Best known for their woodfired pizzas and top notch atmosphere, The Dough Bros have completely elevated the Irish pizza game. All their pizzas are made with the highest quality Irish ingredients, and you can tell. These guys have been voted 15th Best Pizza in the entire world! We’re huge fans of the Pep Guardijala… Don’t forget to order a side of garlic dip!
We also love… Taquila, Buddha Bar, and The Kings Head
Nightlife in Galway's City Centre: Electric, the heart of Galway’s club culture. With three floors of music and dance, Electric is the place to go for an incredible night out. The club hosts both local and international DJs, bringing you some of the best talent across the electronic music scene. If you’re looking for a dance floor in Galway, Electric is the obvious choice.
We also love… Buddha Bar, Taaffes, and Trieste Wine Bar
Where to stay in Galway's City Centre: The Abbeygate Townhouse, This boutique guesthouse is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking to spend your time exploring Galway City. Conveniently located in the heart of the city centre, these rooms are the base to land after a long day of uncovering all of Galway’s best discoveries. We suggest you check in, and then check out all Galway has to offer.
Woodquay: A Stunning Waterside Neighbourhood in Galway
Located just behind the scenic docks of the River Corrib, Woodquay is a Galway neighborhood with a wonderful array of restaurants, retail, and pubs.
above: Woodquay's canals are perfect for lounging about on a sunny day
For a coffee and a pastry in Woodquay: Brazco Coffee Academy, This little coffee shop is open for both takeaway and sit in. Brazco Coffee Academy is a warm and cosy cafe serving up great coffee with their homemade treats and pastries. Brazco also offers the chance to participate in a ‘Barista Basics’ course! Call in for a warming cup of coffee while exploring Galway.
We also love… Bar Italia Ciarlantini, Tribe Coffee, and Corrib House Tea Rooms
Shops in Woodquay: Ah Sure Look it, If you’re looking for unique and local gifts from Galway, be sure to check out Ah Sure Look It. This little shop in Woodquay has an incredible range of products from local artists, makers and designers. The bright pink storefront is vibrant and inviting. Discover the different prints, notebooks, jewellery and more inside!
We also love… The Antiques Room and Decorate Your Own
Breakfast and Lunch in Woodquay: Corrib House Tea Rooms, Breakfast with a view… Corrib House Tea Rooms offer a stunning spot for a spectacular breakfast! Overlooking the River Corrib, they have all you can ask for; wonderful service, beautiful atmosphere, and a fantastic menu. Go for the buttermilk pancakes with banana, honeycomb and butterscotch on top!
We also love… McGinn’s Hop House and McSwiggan's Restaurant
The Perfect Pint in Woodquay: McGinn’s Hop House, McGinn’s Hop House is a family owned pub we absolutely love. The bar places an emphasis on its community and offers everyone a warm welcome. With an impressive selection of beers, as well as other drinks, there’s something here for everyone. If you’re looking for a place in Galway to watch a match, we guarantee McGinn’s will have it on!
We also love… Hugh’s Bar, Hole in the Wall, and Tigín
Dinner time in Woodquay: McSwiggan’s Steak and Seafood Restaurant: McSwiggan’s is a stunning restaurant tucked away in Woodquay. McSwiggan’s have a bountiful menu, using all locally sourced, seasonal produce. Whether it’s a creamy pint of stout or a delicious Sunday dinner, McSwiggans has a friendly welcome for every customer.
We also love… Osteria da Simone, Cadell Bar
Nightlife in Woodquay: Tigín. Tigín offers great pints and cocktails all in a cosy and snug atmosphere. The live music is on 7 nights a week. Wander in any given evening and you’ll be accompanied by locals and visitors alike, in the atmospheric hum of a warm and welcoming evening. Tigin brings in local singers from around the city for some seriously good sessions. Playing music till late, Tigín is a must-visit pub in Galway.
We also love… Cadell, McGinn’s Hop House, and the Hole in the Wall
Where to stay in Woodquay: Corrib House Guest Accommodation, As well as a wonderful breakfast menu, Corrib House offers stunning accommodation options. The restored historic Georgian townhouse is in a breathtaking location, just overlooking the scenic Corrib River. The Corrib House offers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. This is the ideal spot for people looking for unique and timeless accommodation.
We also love… Woodquay Hostel, and Salmon Weir Hostel
Salthill: A Seaside Village along Galway Bay
Salthill Village is just a short walk or bus ride from Galway’s City Centre. Here you'll find a beautiful seaside village along the Atlantic. Take a stroll along the prom and soak up the sea air and stunning views. Whether you’re staying in Salthill or just taking a walk along the prom and looking for more to experience, here are our favourite places to go;
above: there's nowhere we'd rather be than in Salthill in a sunny day. Photographed by Bernice Naughton.
For a coffee and a pastry in Salthill: Kali Coffee, We adore this Salthill Coffeeshop! This cafe is tucked away in Salthill, but well worth a visit. The cosy environment is made even better by delicious filter coffee. Kali offers a tasting menu, giving you a chance to try a range; house espresso, a creamy white coffee, and a filter. When the Galway weather permits, take a breather and relax in the back garden. Chill out on bean bags or relax under their big sycamore tree with a lovely cuppa.
We also love… Ré Design, Gourmet Food Parlour, Ground and Co., Álainn, and Jungle Beach
Shops in Salthill: Ré Coffee + Design, Selling design pieces, natural wine and specialty coffee, Ré is all of our favourite things rolled into one. Come for a cup of coffee, but stay to browse all the incredible and eclectic design bits. They stock a great range of products from ceramics to soaps. Discover all the incredible retail for sale at Ré.
We also love… Go Dutch Flowers, and Mortons of Galway
Breakfast and Lunch in Salthill: Álainn, located just behind Blackrock Diving Tower, making it a great place for a post swim bite to eat. This Salthill food truck also serves a killer acai bowl. Be sure to pop over after your sea swim for a nutritious and vibrant acai bowl and a great cup of coffee.
We also love… Blackrock Cottage, The Creamery, Gourmet Food Parlour, and Chef Laura Rosso Restaurant
The Perfect Pint in Salthill: The Oslo, the original home of the beloved Galway Bay Brewery. The Oslo naturally serves an impressive lineup of international and local beers. If you’re looking for a great range of pints in Salthill, this is the place to go. Sports fans will be happy to sit and watch a match here, on Galway’s largest screen!
We also love… O'Reilly's Bar, Lonergan’s Atlantic Bar, and O’Connor’s Famous Pub
Dinner time in Salthill: Blackrock Cottage - Serving contemporary Irish cuisine in a beautifully refurbished famine era cottage, Blackrock Cottage is a must visit Galway restaurant. The menu focuses on fresh and local ingredients, pairing a beautiful atmosphere with phenomenal dining. Be sure to indulge in the carefully curated wine menu. Fusing together delicious food, and a breathtaking view, a visit to Blackrock Cottage is a remarkable dining experience.
We also love… BlackCat, OSAKA Japanese & Korean BBQ, and O'Reilly's Bar and Kitchen
Nightlife in Salthill: O’Connor’s Famous pub, This family run pub is everything you could ever ask for… music, pints, woodchips on the floor, and a roaring fireplace. The walls are absolutely covered with old photos, signage and other curiosities. The pints are flowing and there is always a real hum of atmosphere about the place. Spend an evening in Salthill here by the fireplace listening to the live music.
We also love… Oslo Bar, O’Reilly’s Bar
Where to stay in Salthill: The Nest, The Nest Boutique Hostel offers a contemporary but cosy place to stay when in Salthill. This alternative accommodation has everything you’ll need for a fantastic stay. They offer a range of private rooms, ensuite or dorm rooms to share with fellow travellers. Be sure to check out The Nest if you’re planning on staying in Salthill.
We also love… BlackCat, Galway Bay Hotel, Salthill Hotel, and The Ardilaun Hotel
Annual Festivals, Events and Things to do in Galway City
St. Patrick's Day in Galway (March)
A lively Saint Patrick’s Day in Galway with loads of incredible activities
Come to Galway to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day! The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday, along with many other St. Patrick’s Day events across Galway City and County. The city comes alive with trad music and dances, so be sure to plan your day in advance to make the most of the fun!
Cúirt International Festival of Literature (April)
One of Europe’s Oldest Book Festivals
The annual Cúirt International Festival of Literature is one of the top literary festivals in Ireland, offering a week-long celebration of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry! The literary festival always curates an incredible line up of events, with talented writers from Ireland and abroad making appearances. For the 2025 festival, authors like Sally Rooney, Paul Muldoon, and Eimear McBride are just a few of writers who will be in attendance.
above: the stage is set at Cúirt International Festival of Literature
Trad on the Prom (Mid-May to Late September)
Ireland’s No 1 Irish Music, Song and Dance Experience
For over 20 years, Trad on the Prom Galway has been dazzling audiences. A show saturated with energy, Trad on the Prom is a must-experience Galway live music performance. Delivering traditional, authentic Irish music, song, and dance with a thrilling contemporary edge, this is a show you don’t want to miss.
Galway International Arts Festival (July)
An incredible two weeks of arts and culture across Galway
The Galway International Arts Festival is one of the top things to do in Galway City in the summer, offering two weeks of music, theatre, and visual arts. From live performances from world-renowned artists at the Heineken Big Top, to smaller, and more intimate artist exhibitions, the city is completely saturated with culture and the arts. If you’re planning a trip to Galway in the summer, be sure to stay for the Galway International Arts Festival.
Galway Film Fleadh (July)
Ireland’s Top International Film Festival
The Galway Film Fleadh is Ireland’s leading film festival! The Film Fleadh is a week-long international film festival taking place every July in Galway City. A festival of discovery, the Galway Film Fleadh takes care to nurture the next generation of filmmaking talent through its young audiences festival; the Junior Film Fleadh. If you’re interested in the world of film and moviemaking, this festival is for you.
The Galway Races (Summer Festival: late July to early August; Autumn Festival: early September to late October)
Ireland’s biggest and best racing festival
If you’re looking to get dressed up and have some of the best fun in Galway City, be sure to check out the Galway Races, Ireland's biggest racing festival. This seven day summer festival features top-notch horse racing in Galway, as well as a chance to get dressed up in your race-day best. With an attendance of over 100,000 people, this is a festival you can’t miss.
above: the Galway Races is always an action packed week in Galway. Photographed by Chaosheng Zhang
Galway International Oyster Festival (Late September)
A spectacular seafood extravaganza in Galway
Galway City is famous for its delicious seafood, as well as being home to the oldest oyster festival in the world! The Galway International Oyster Festival takes place in Galway City every September. This is an extravaganza that places a particular emphasis on gourmet seafood and of course the extraordinary superfood; the oyster. With events like the ‘World Oyster Opening Championship’ and ‘The Party of Champions’ (an event celebrating the champion of the oyster opening competition), you’re sure to witness something wildly spectacular.
Galway Comedy Festival (October)
Ireland’s Largest Comedy Festival
Looking for a laugh? Galway City has plenty, especially around October. The Galway Comedy Festival is Ireland’s largest comedy festival, hosting a wide variety of performances from top comedians. This festival offers something for everyone, from stand-up comedy to comedy pub crawls, making it one of the best comedy events of the year.
Baboró International Arts Festival for Children (October)
A beloved children and family festival in Galway
Baboró is Ireland’s flagship arts festival dedicated to children and families. Running annually in October, this family-friendly festival is dedicated to bringing together incredible events for children of all ages. If you’re coming to Galway with your family, don’t miss this amazing opportunity to enjoy one of the top children’s arts festivals in the world.
Galway Christmas Market (November and December)
One of Ireland's best Christmas Markets
The Galway Christmas Market is a beloved market running in Eyre Square in winter. With dozens of vendors and amazing shops all lined up along the green, this is a great place to find the perfect Christmas gift! The square transforms into a winter wonderland, with dazzling lights and mulled wine wafting through the air. Take a ride on the observation wheel or get tickets to spend an evening in the beer tent! Christmas time in Galway is truly something else.
above: The Galway Christmas Market offers tons of family-friendly fun in Galway City
Feature image of The Long Walk by Chaosheng Zhang
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