Things to do in Galway

Welcome to Galway: Ireland’s Enchanting Coastal Gem

Galway, Ireland’s vibrant cultural heart, combines breathtaking landscapes with rich history and a lively arts scene. Whether you’re exploring medieval castles, dramatic cliffs, or charming streets filled with music, Galway offers an unforgettable journey. From the rugged beauty of the Cliffs of Moher to the historic Kylemore Abbey, this city and its surroundings promise magic at every turn. Let’s explore the must-see attractions that make Galway one of the most irresistible destinations in Europe.

Standing proudly on the shores of Galway Bay, Dunguaire Castle is a medieval fortress that exudes timeless charm. Built in the 16th century, it has long been a gathering place for poets and writers. Visitors can explore the castle’s interiors, climb its tower for stunning views, and even partake in traditional Irish banquets held here. One of the most visited fortresses in Europe, alongside the awe-inspiring Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany, and Prague Castle in the Czech Republic, the castle is currently closed to the public due to administrative reasons. Although no tour of the interiors is allowed at the moment, access to the exterior area is free, offering an extraordinary setting for scenic pictures and Instagrammable shots.

Arguably one of Ireland’s most iconic landscapes, the Cliffs of Moher rise majestically above the Atlantic, offering unparalleled ocean views. Stretching for nearly 14 kilometres and towering over 200 metres above the waves, they create a dramatic scene that has inspired countless visitors. Walk along the safe, paved path overhanging the sea and enjoy the breathtaking panorama offered by Ireland’s West Clare shore. Reminding the striking coastal scenery of Normandy, France, these stunning rock formations attract visitors from all over the world for their rugged beauty, dramatic cliffsides, and diverse birdlife. A UNESCO-recognised heritage site, the cliffs are a signature point of the charming Wild Atlantic Way tourist trail.

A 1.30-hour ferry ride from Galway, the Aran Islands feel like stepping back in time. The three islands—Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer—boast ancient stone forts, untouched landscapes, and a deep-rooted Gaelic culture reflected in arts, architecture and folkloristic tradition. The most famous attraction, Dun Aonghasa, is a prehistoric fort perched on a cliff edge, offering breathtaking views. Thanks to their exceptional microclimate and limestone-rich terrain, the Aran Islands host a surprising blend of Arctic, Mediterranean, and alpine flora. Much like the Burren, these islands are celebrated for their extraordinary mix of plant and animal life, creating one of Ireland’s most distinctive ecological landscapes. Like the rugged landscapes of the Isle of Skye in the UK and Gotland in Sweden, the Aran Islands are one of the most scenic archipelagos in Northern Europe, attesting to the rich cultural heritage developed by the islanders who inhabit them.

For nature lovers and outdoor activities enthusiasts, Connemara National Park offers an unforgettable escape into Ireland’s wild heart. Spanning nearly 3,000 hectares in County Galway, the park is a mosaic of rugged mountains, sweeping boglands, tranquil lakes, and windswept heath. It’s home to the iconic Twelve Bens mountain range, whose jagged peaks rise dramatically above the landscape, offering panoramic views for hikers tackling trails like the Diamond Hill Loop. The park’s rich biodiversity includes insect-eating plants like sundew and butterwort, as well as native wildlife, such as Connemara ponies, red deer, and skylarks. Visitors can explore four marked walking routes, ranging from gentle woodland strolls to strenuous hill climbs, all beginning at the Visitor Centre near Letterfrack.

If you’re drawn to dramatic scenery and remote hiking, Connemara shares its spirit with other European gems, like France’s Mercantour National Park, north of Nice and Monaco, near the Italian border, for instance, blends alpine peaks with ancient petroglyphs and Mediterranean flora, while Jotunheimen National Park in Norway offers glacier-fed lakes and towering summits in a similarly untamed setting. 

Built in the late 19th century by Mitchell Henry as a gift for his wife Margaret, the castle’s history is steeped in love and loss. Today, it serves as a Benedictine monastery, where nuns continue a legacy of prayer, education, and craftsmanship. Travellers can wander through the beautifully restored Victorian Walled Garden, explore the neo-Gothic church built in Margaret’s memory, and enjoy woodland trails that reveal panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. The abbey also features artisan shops, handmade chocolates, and seasonal cultural events, making it a rich and immersive stop along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

For those drawn to monastic heritage and dramatic landscapes, Austria’s Melk Abbey, only a one-hour drive from Vienna, and the evoking Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey in France – a tidal island crowned by a medieval abbey, famed for its mystical atmosphere and Gothic spires- offer a striking counterpart. 

Galway’s city centre is a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and contemporary charm. Anchored by the bustling Latin Quarter, it’s a place where cobbled lanes like Kirwan’s Lane and Quay Street brim with character, lined with colourful shopfronts, artisan cafés, and traditional pubs echoing with live Irish music. Eyre Square, the city’s central hub, offers green space and monuments that reflect Galway’s rich past, while the nearby Spanish Arch and Galway City Museum add layers of heritage to your stroll. Street performers, weekend markets, and independent boutiques make Shop Street a lively artery of local life, perfect for browsing and people-watching.

The beating heart of Galway’s nightlife and arts scene, the Latin Quarter is famous for its cobbled streets, historic pubs, and lively atmosphere. This part of the city is packed with colourful storefronts, charming cafés, and the echo00-es of traditional Irish music filling the air. Whether you're stopping for a pint of Guinness or exploring hidden artisan shops, the Latin Quarter is a must-see during your stay in Galway. Those drawn to vibrant old-town districts will love wandering through Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, Spain’s lively historic neighbourhood, or getting lost in the maze of cobbled streets in Prague.

The Galway Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St. Nicholas, is an architectural masterpiece. Completed in the 1960s, it blends Renaissance, Gothic, and Romanesque styles, creating a stunning visual impact. Inside, visitors can admire intricate stained-glass windows, a magnificent dome, and the spiritual serenity that makes it one of Ireland’s most beautiful churches. Similar to the most renowned Notre Dame in Paris and Westminster Cathedral in London, the Galway Cathedral is a must-see for those who appreciate grand ecclesiastical architecture.

A cornerstone of Galway’s cultural and intellectual life, the University of Galway offers visitors a compelling blend of history, architecture, and riverside charm. Founded in 1845, the university’s campus stretches along the scenic banks of the River Corrib, with its iconic Quadrangle building—crafted from local limestone in Tudor Gothic style—serving as a visual and historical anchor. The grounds are dotted with museums, art installations, and nature trails, making it a rewarding stop for travellers interested in Ireland’s academic heritage.

Beyond its scholarly reputation, the university plays a vibrant role in Galway’s arts scene, hosting public lectures, exhibitions, and performances throughout the year. Highlights include the James Mitchell Geology Museum and the Zoology and Marine Biology Museum, both open to curious visitors. The River Corrib Greenway offers a peaceful walking route through campus, with views of Menlo Castle and remnants of Galway’s Victorian railway.

For those drawn to historic universities across Europe, Heidelberg University in Germany, just one hour from Frankfurt, offers a similarly atmospheric experience, nestled in a romantic old town along the Neckar River.

Like most gastronomic traditions, such as Lyonnaise or Bavarian cuisine, Galway’s culinary scene is a vibrant reflection of the city’s character—creative, coastal, and distinctly Irish. Thanks to its seafront location, Galway draws on the freshest seafood, with oysters, mussels, and crab often featured on menus from the iconic Spanish Arch to Salthill’s seaside cafés. Locally sourced lamb, beef, and root vegetables form the backbone of hearty Irish stews, while artisan producers elevate traditional fare with a contemporary twist. The city’s weekend street markets brim with organic cheeses, home-baked breads, and handmade chocolates, making them a must-visit for foodies. Meanwhile, cosy pubs serve up comfort classics—think creamy chowder and Guinness-infused pie—alongside pints and live folk music. Galway’s food festivals, especially the International Oyster Festival each autumn, celebrate its maritime bounty, making the city a top destination for travellers with an appetite for authentic, soulful cuisine.