Galway

Planning Your Trip to Galway

Essential Information

• Country: Ireland
• Timezone: GMT +1 (IST – Irish Standard Time)
• Languages Spoken: English, Irish (Gaeilge)
• Currency: Euro (€)

Galway Weather & Climate

Galway enjoys a temperate oceanic climate. Expect mild summers (June-August) with highs around 18-20°C, but be prepared for rain! Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are cooler and wetter (8-15°C). Winters (December-February) are chilly (7-9°C) with frequent rain and wind. Rainfall is pretty consistent throughout the year, so pack accordingly!

Galway City Overview

Galway, a buzzing city on Ireland’s west coast, is famous for its bohemian vibes, incredible live music, and stunning natural surroundings. Eyre Square is the city’s central hub, full of shops and restaurants. Don’t miss the Claddagh, a historic fishing village where the Claddagh Ring originated. Galway is a cultural hotspot, hosting many festivals. It’s also perfectly located for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way, Connemara, and the Aran Islands. Galway effortlessly blends its medieval history with a modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit Galway

Seasonal Pros and Cons:

• Summer (June-August):
  • Pros: Warmest weather, perfect for outdoor activities.
  • Cons: Peak tourist season, higher prices, more crowds.
• Shoulder Seasons (April-May & September-October):
  • Pros: Fewer crowds, pleasant weather, many festivals.
  • Cons: Unpredictable weather.
• Winter (November-March):
  • Pros: Fewest tourists, cozy pubs, unique landscape views.
  • Cons: Cold, wet weather, shorter daylight hours, reduced attraction hours.

Getting to Galway & Visa Information

Flights: Ireland West Airport Knock (NOC) is closest (1.5-hour drive). Shannon Airport (SNN) is also about 1.5 hours south. Dublin Airport (DUB) is further (2.5-hour drive/bus). Buses and trains connect the airports to Galway.

Trains: Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann) runs regular services from Dublin and other major cities to Galway Railway Station.

Visa Details: Ireland is in the EU. Many nationalities can enter without a visa for tourism. Always check the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs website for the latest visa requirements based on your country.

Airport Transfers: Citylink and GoBus offer frequent bus services from Dublin Airport to Galway. Taxis and private cars are available too.

Galway Fun Facts & History

The Claddagh Ring, a symbol of love, loyalty, and friendship, was born in Galway’s Claddagh fishing village. Two hands clasping a heart beneath a crown make up its iconic design. The way you wear it tells your relationship status!

Famous People from Galway

• Lady Gregory: Playwright and Abbey Theatre co-founder.
• Máirtín Ó Direáin: Renowned Irish-language poet.
• Nora Barnacle: James Joyce’s wife and muse.

Top 10 Galway Attractions

1. Galway Cathedral: Impressive 20th-century cathedral with diverse architectural styles.
   • Address: Galway Cathedral, Cathedral Square, Galway
2. Eyre Square (John F. Kennedy Memorial Park): Central park with gardens, monuments, and a lively atmosphere.
   • Address: Eyre Square, Galway
3. Spanish Arch: Historic city wall remnants offering scenic River Corrib views.
   • Address: Spanish Arch, Galway
4. Galway City Museum: Exhibits on the city’s history, archaeology, and maritime heritage.
   • Address: Galway City Museum, Spanish Parade, Galway
5. The Claddagh: Historic fishing village, home of the Claddagh Ring.
   • Address: The Claddagh, Galway
6. Salthill Promenade: Seaside promenade with beaches, amusements, and Galway Bay views.
   • Address: Salthill Promenade, Salthill, Galway
7. St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church: Medieval church with a rich history (dating back to the 14th century).
   • Address: St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, Lombard Street, Galway
8. Kirwan’s Lane: Narrow lane with historic buildings, boutiques, and restaurants.
   • Address: Kirwan’s Lane, Galway
9. Lynch’s Castle: Ornate 16th-century building, a prime example of Irish domestic architecture.
   • Address: Shop Street, Galway
10. Aran Island Ferries: Take a trip to the Aran Islands by ferry!
    • Address: Docks, Galway

Galway Hidden Gems

• The Hall of Mirrors: A unique shop with a secret entrance!
  • Address: Shop Street, Galway
• The Crane Bar: A legendary traditional Irish music venue.
  • Address: Sea Road, Galway
• Rusheen Bay: Perfect for watersports.
  • Address: Barna Road, Galway

Galway Local Festivals & Events

• Galway International Arts Festival (July): Theatre, music, dance, and visual arts extravaganza.
• Galway Film Fleadh (July): Irish and international cinema showcase.
• Galway Races (July/August): Week-long horse racing festival.
• Galway Oyster & Seafood Festival (September): Seafood celebration with tastings and live music.
• Baboró International Arts Festival for Children (October): Arts for children.

Galway Day Trips & Nearby Attractions

• Connemara National Park (1.5-hour drive): Rugged mountains, bogs, and coastline.
• Aran Islands (Ferry from Galway or Rossaveal): Explore Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer.
• Cliffs of Moher (1.5-hour drive): Dramatic cliffs overlooking the Atlantic.
• Kylemore Abbey (1.5-hour drive): Beautiful neo-Gothic castle.
• Aughnanure Castle (30-minute drive): Sixteenth-century tower house.

Best Photography Spots in Galway

• The Spanish Arch at sunset.
• The colorful houses along Quay Street.
• The view from the top of Salthill Promenade.
• The iconic Claddagh Ring statue.
• The interior of Galway Cathedral.

Where to Stay in Galway & Getting Around

Recommended Length of Stay

3-4 days is ideal to explore Galway city and take a day trip.

Top Galway Hotels (By Budget)

Budget-Friendly Galway Hotels

• Woodquay Hostel
  • Address: 15 Woodquay, Galway
• Sleepzone Hostel
  • Address: The Small Crane, Galway
• Kinlay Hostel
  • Address: Merchants Road, Galway

Mid-Range Galway Hotels

• The House Hotel
  • Address: Lower Merchant’s Road, Galway
• The g Hotel & Spa
  • Address: Wellpark, Galway
• Harbour Hotel
  • Address: New Dock Road, Galway

Luxury Galway Hotels

• Glenlo Abbey Hotel
  • Address: Kentfield, Bushypark, Galway
• The g Hotel & Spa
  • Address: Wellpark, Galway
• Park House Hotel
  • Address: Forster Street, Galway

Getting Around Galway City

• Public Transport: Bus Éireann operates local bus services.
• Taxis: Readily available.
• Bikes: Galway is bike-friendly with rentals available.
• Walking: The city center is compact and easy to walk around.

Preparing for Your Galway Trip

What to Pack for Galway

Waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes are essential! Layers are best for unpredictable weather. Don’t forget a travel adapter!

Useful Travel Apps for Galway

Google Maps for navigation. Citymapper for public transport. TripAdvisor for restaurant reviews. Learn Irish for some phrases with the “Learn Irish” app

Galway Safety Tips & Cultural Etiquette

Be aware of your surroundings. Learn basic Irish phrases. Respect local customs. Tipping is customary in restaurants and taxis.

Galway Food, Fun & Finds

Top Galway Restaurants

• Kai: Creative dishes with seasonal ingredients.
  • Address: Sea Road, Galway
• Ard Bia at Nimmo’s: Eclectic menu.
  • Address: Spanish Arch, Galway
• The King’s Head: A pub with great food!
  • Address: High Street, Galway

Must-Try Galway Dishes

• Galway Oysters: Fresh from Galway Bay.
• Seafood Chowder: Creamy soup with local seafood.
• Boxty: Traditional potato pancake.
• Guinness Stew: Hearty stew with Guinness beer.

Galway Nightlife & Entertainment

• The Quays: Lively pub with live music.
  • Address: Quay Street, Galway
• Taaffes Bar: Traditional Irish music pub.
  • Address: Shop Street, Galway
• Róisín Dubh: Live music and comedy venue.
  • Address: Dominick Street Upper, Galway

What to Buy in Galway

• Claddagh Ring: The iconic Irish ring.
  • Address: Thomas Dillon’s, Galway
• Aran Sweater: Hand-knitted sweater.
  • Address: Aran Sweater Market, Galway
• Celtic Jewelry: Silver and gold jewelry.
  • Address: Many shops along Shop Street, Galway