Galway city is one of the most beautiful cities in Ireland. The city is famous for its narrow winding network of cobbled streets. It is a medieval city on the banks of the river Corrie and known as the City of Tribes.
The coastline is rugged, and stone walls are an eyecatching feature that separates fields and farmlands.
Galway started as a small fishing village and became a walled town in 1232 when the Norman leader Richard du Burgo captured the city. One of the most notable features of the walled town is the famous Spanish Arch which can be seen today and is part of the original walls.
In 1396 a charter was granted by Richard II, which transferred governing power to 14 families, which were known as the 14 Tribes of Galway. Galway became a thriving port. Ships docked and sold their wine and spices. Christopher Columbus landed here on route across the Atlantic in 1492. A tsunami partially destroyed the Arch in 1755.
Galway is famous for its many festivals, including the Arts Festival, Galway Film festival, International Oyster Festival, Galway Races and many more fringe festivals.
Galway is renowned for buskers and street performers entertaining tourists with their musical and theatrical talent. If you’re looking for things to do in Galway, you’ll find no shortage of fun when you visit this wonderful place.
Here’s a list we’ve compiled of the best things to do in Galway.
1. Relax and Shop in Eyre Square
Phone Number: + 353 (0)91 568302
Location: Eyre Square, Galway, Ireland.
Website: eyresquarecentre.com
Eyre Square is a park within Galway City which is near Eyre Square Shopping Centre and adjacent to Galway Train Station. There is always a great atmosphere in the park with groups chatting and having picnics in the park. The shopping centre is opened every day and is perfect if you want to spend the day shopping or just to get a bite to eat.
2. Take in The Views at The Spanish Arch
Location: 2 The Long Walk, Galway
Website: galwaytourism.ie
The Spanish Arch is one of Galway City’s most historical gems, dating all the way back to pre-medieval times. There is a rich history behind the Spanish Arch, built in 1584 but an extension to the 12th Century Normal built town wall. The Spanish arch was also partially demolished by a tsunami in 1755 but in the 1800s the Eyre family added the long walk extension. It’s a beautiful place to sit by the sea and just have a drink or a bite to eat.
3. Explore Sea Creatures at Galway Atlantaquaria
Phone Number: (091) 585 100
Location: Seapoint Promenade, Galway, H91 T2FD
Website: nationalaquarium.ie
Galway Atlantaquaria is Ireland’s largest native species aquarium located at the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way in Galway City. Featured exhibits include the largest indoor Fin Whale Skeleton, The Splash and many more. Inside there are beautiful displays for the jellyfish which really stand out with the colourful LED lights everywhere you look you will be amazed.
4. Visit Galway Cathedral
Phone Number: (091) 563 577
Location: Gaol Rd, Galway, H91 A780
Website: galwaycathedral.ie
Galway Cathedral is one of the largest and most impressive buildings in the city. Construction began in 1958 and was based on the site of the old city prison. It was the last major stone cathedral to be built in Europe. When it was constructed similar buildings were using concrete. It also hosts a variety of art, rose windows and more.
5. Learn About Galway’s History in Galway City Museum
Phone: (091) 532 460
Location: Spanish Parade, Galway, H91 CX5P
Website: galwaycitymuseum.ie
Galway City Museum is located beside the Spanish Arch on the banks of the River Corrib in Galway City. The Museum was founded in the 1970s. They collect, preserve and display material that relates to the history of Galway City which includes Archaeology, Art, Geology, Natural History and more. Admission is free for visitors.
6. Take a Ferry to The Aran Islands
Phone Number: (091) 568 903
Location: 37-39 Forster St, Galway, H91 FXA6
Website: aranislandferries.com
From Galway City take a shuttle bus to the ferry terminal in Rossaveel. Here you will depart on the ferry to the Aran Islands. While you’re on the way over there enjoy the journey with the beautiful views of Galway Bay. When you reach the islands, enjoy the culture, heritage and language that is unique and unlike anywhere else. Cycle or walk around the island taking in the beautiful scenery.
7. Explore Barna Woods
Phone Number: (091) 536 400
Location: Galway
Website: galwaybarnawoods.com
Barna Woods is an area of mixed woodlands located in Barna in Galway. The woods are around 3 miles from Galway city centre near Galway Bay. It is part of a wider recreational amenity that includes Cappagh Park. The woodlands are great for wildlife especially birds, bats and small mammals. They are a hotspot for nature so keep an eye out when you explore the woods.
8. Raise The Stakes in Galway City Karting
Phone Number: 087 920 5300
Location: Liosban Industrial Estate, Tuam Rd, Galway, H91 PC81
Website: galwaycitykarting.ie
If you had enough of the sightseeing and want to feel a rush of adrenaline then Galway City Karting is for you. The indoor track is over 20,000 sq ft and has been designed for maximum fun. They have karting for juniors from 7 years and up so it’s really for everyone. Spectators are also welcome to any events you have with friends or family so nobody is left behind.
9. Escape From The Great Escape Rooms
Phone Number: (091) 536 979
Location: 27 Abbeygate Street Upper, Galway, H91 TN66
Website: greatescaperooms.ie
The Great Escape Rooms is a new and entertaining way of having fun. The game is simple you have one hour with your team to observe your surroundings, solve clues and work as a team to make connections. It is a game of teamwork to race and solves the puzzles to get yourself out before the one hour runs out.
10. Walk to Salthill Promenade
Location: Salthill, Galway.
Website: discoverireland.ie
Salthill is a beautiful town in Galway and a beautiful walk from Galway City. Salthill’s main attraction is the promenade which covers almost 3km of coastline overlooking the stunning Galway Bay. It is the perfect location for jogging, strolling or rollerblading.