Have you been thinking about visiting Galway, Ireland? Get the most out of your vacation by exploring the best things to do in Galway, Ireland, and the best places to visit in Galway, Ireland, below. We at Wondrous Drifter, a Web 3.0 travel startup, have big plans to shake things up in the travel business.
Table Of Content
- Aran Islands
- Circle of Life Commemorative Garden
- Cliffs of Moher
- Connemara National Park
- Diamond Hill
- Dún Aonghasa
- Eyre Square
- Forthill Graveyard
- Galway Bay
- Galway Cathedral
- Galway City Museum
- Galway Fisheries Watchtower Museum
- Galway Market
- Kirwans Lane
- Lynch’s Castle
- Salthill Promenade
- Sky Road
- Spanish Arch
- St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church
- Wild Atlantic Way
- Explore Europe
Aran Islands
Welcome to one of the most fascinating and romantic islands of Galway, Ireland.
The gorgeous and romantic Aran Islands, including Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer, are located in the southern part of Galway County and are a popular day trip for travelers.
The Aran Islands are composed of three main islands, the smallest of which is Innis Or, famed for its natural beauty.
The biggest is Innishmore, famous for its historic cliffs and features.
With their ancient forts, Celtic cathedrals, and stunning cliffs, the islands provide an insight into Ireland’s history and culture since inhabitants still speak Gaelic (and English).
Suppose you have an additional day or a little extra time. In that case, Galway is not distant from the Aran Islands, well-known for their natural beauty and old architecture.
Swimming, hiking, and cycling are among the activities available on the islands.
Tourist information is available at the Aran Island Tourist Information Office. It is an excellent spot to begin your tour.
If you want to brush up on speaking Irish Gaelic, this is a fantastic location to do it!
Address: Galway, Ireland
Circle of Life Commemorative Garden
Relax in the garden and take a moment to appreciate the beauty and contemplate life.
In Salthill, facing Galway Bay, the Circle of Life Commemorative Garden is placed near the Promenade.
Five 2-meter-tall standing stones form the garden’s centerpiece, known as the “Circle of Life.”
Each with a carving and inscription symbolizing man’s various phases of his life’s journey.
Beautiful plantings and expressive inscriptions dot the landscape of this garden, honoring organ donation.
While you’re here, explore the area and read the graffiti.
These, together with the garden’s many other stone elements, sculptures, and inscriptions, are intended to create an inclusive place of beauty and inspiration for all.
A lovely park to fritter away a few moments on another crazy day.
Salthill’s bustling streets conceal a hidden treasure.
During your vacation to Galway, the garden is a lovely place to rest and think.
Whether traveling alone or with family, it’s well worth a visit.
Address: Galway, Ireland
Cliffs of Moher
Spectacular views await you at the Cliffs of Moher.
A beautiful view of Ireland’s southwest coast can be seen about 50 miles southwest of Galway.
The Cliffs of Moher’s spectacular landscape has been described as “beautiful” and “absolutely awe-inspiring” by visitors.
It’s an excellent day travel option, and several tour companies provide this service.
Atlantic Puffins breeding on Goat Island can be observed from the cliffs between April and July.
The Cliffs alone are breathtaking.
The views of the pounding sea below, the infinite skyline, and the legendary Irish shorelines are the most stunning you will see in your lifetime.
There are walled locations for people terrified of heights and un-walled sites for thrill-seekers.
After walking the cliffs, visit the visitor center, which features interactive displays, historical photographs, a bird’s-eye view of the cliffs, and a virtual reality experience.
Go to the authorized Cliffs of Moher website for additional information on what to pack and dress, animal watching, and booking tickets.
Address: Galway, Ireland
Connemara National Park
Surrounded by beautiful rolling landscapes and a stunning mountainous background.
Beautiful bogs, heaths, and moors may be found in the Connemara National Park, located approximately 50 miles northwest of Galway.
Connemara National Park resides in Letterfrack.
It is easiest to access easily by vehicle; however, Citylink operates a service between Galway and Letterfrack.
The 5-mile Lower Diamond Hill Walk is one of the most popular routes. However, shorter and longer hikes are available, and a nature walk is suitable for children.
The area surrounding Connemara National Park is a relatively secure place to do so.
Regardless of how you turn your automobile, you will be surrounded by bizarre alpine landscapes.
Look out for the park’s herd of pure-bred Connemara ponies.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park and a delicious meal at the lovely picnic area.
Touring Connemara National Park is among the most incredible things to do in Galway if you want to get away from the city center.
Address: Galway, Ireland
Diamond Hill
From Diamond Hill, you’ll see one of Ireland’s most magnificent scenery may be observed.
The highest peak in Connemara National Park is Diamond Hill. This challenging climb is doable for anybody with reasonable fitness.
A morning spent on Diamond Hill is one of the most fantastic activities in Ireland, let alone Galway.
It’s the view of Connemara from the summit of Diamond Hill that will take you off your feet.
There are two trails here: Lower Diamond Hill and Upper Diamond Hill.
There are a variety of alternatives for novice walkers and experienced hikers at the base of Diamond Hill, thanks to the color-coded routes.
Take in the breathtaking scenery, get some exercise for all fitness levels, take in some fresh air, and finish your walk with a visit to an exciting museum.
At the top of the slope, you’ll enjoy a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding area.
It’s always worth the effort to arrive early and meet the fascinating and mysterious wild goats.
You’ll surely appreciate all the work that made this a fantastic experience.
Address: Galway, Ireland
Dún Aonghasa
One of Galway’s most popular attractions, Dn Aonghasa, is a must-see.
Visit Inis Mor (one of the three Aran Islands) and bike out to Dn Aonghasa if you’re searching for something unusual to do in Galway.
Few sites in Galway can offer a more magnificent setting than this one. Dn Aonghasa was built in 1100BC to deter attackers.
It was later re-fortified approximately 700-800 AD. Standing at Dn Aonghasa gives the impression that you are poised at the end of Ireland.
The stunning jagged cliffs, the great strength of the wind, and the pounding of the waves below send shockwaves across your body.
The journey to Dun Aonghasa is not difficult for someone in good physical condition. Care should be exercised in damp weather.
This hill fort’s beauty and majesty are emphasized by the need for caution when navigating areas of the more challenging terrain.
Stay a night, take a bike, and explore the island at your leisure; you are on vacation.
Address: Inishmore, Aran Islands, Co. Galway, H91 YT20, Ireland
Eyre Square
The Eyre Square in Galway, Ireland, is a great place to take a break from your sightseeing.
Eyre Square is a public park in the center of Galway City. It’s one of the top free things to do in Galway.
When the weather shines in Galway, this is a popular area for people to relax on the grass, picnic, or perhaps have a few beers.
The park has experienced various redevelopments throughout its history, including name changes.
While it is often referred to as Eyre Square, it was renamed John F. Kennedy, Memorial Park.
The John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, commonly known as Eyre Square, is ideally placed in the city center of Galway.
Public arts and other monuments may be seen around the area.
With a duration of many days, it ranks as the third-longest Occupy Camp in the world.
Visit the local shop street after sitting in the park. Several businesses and great bars here, street entertainers, and live music!
Address: Galway, Ireland
Forthill Graveyard
Take a quick visit to this hauntingly beautiful cemetery and pay respects to the hundreds that died.
Saint Augustine’s Hill, now Forthill Cemetary, was the site where, in 1589, Sir William Fitzwilliam, lamenting the city’s generosity, ordered the execution of nearly 300 soldiers from the Spanish Armada.
After a disastrous loss of Irish and Spanish soldiers at the Battle of Kinsale under Queen Elizabeth I’s instructions, a fort was erected later in 1602.
The fort’s goal was to safeguard the town and its harbor while also ruling over its residents.
Forthill is recognized locally as where authentic Galwegians are buried; burials are not permitted unless there is an existing space in a family cemetery.
Walking through this region is like reliving Western Ireland’s history, from the Armada through the Great Famine in the nineteenth century and political instability in the twentieth.
It’s tough to discover the cemetery, which might be on purpose.
The entire complex is encircled by a large stone fence topped with barbed wire and is located right off Lough Atalia Road, near the docks.
It is well-kept and a fascinating property to see, with much family history to learn from.
Address: Lough Atalia Rd, Galway, Ireland
Galway Bay
As you go across Galway Bay, enjoy the crisp wind.
Somewhere between the Irish counties of Clare and Galway, in the Atlantic Ocean, is Galway Bay.
It extends west from old Galway city and is bounded on the north by County Galway and on the south of the Burren area.
Moreover, Galway Bay is about 50 kilometers long and 30 kilometers broad; it is sheltered at it lies by the Aran Islands.
Suppose you ever travel over the water to Ireland. In that case, you may sit and watch the moon rise above Cladaur and the sunset over Galway Bay, even if just a few days.
Many lovely villages dot the coastlines of both Galway and Clare, which border the magnificent Galway Bay.
Let yourself have a moment of peace and forget all your stress at the breathtaking Galway Bay.
Address: Galway, Ireland
Galway Cathedral
Take a stroll around Galway Cathedral and see the fantastic architectural design.
Galway Cathedral is one of Galway’s most significant and dominant buildings, located on Nun’s Island on the west side of the River Corrib.
It was Ireland’s last great church built of stone. It includes a massive octagonal dome that compliments Galway’s skyline.
Although it appears to have been erected many hundred years ago, it is not that ancient.
The cathedral’s interior is worth visiting for its stone walls, rose and glass mosaic windows and spectacular dome and pillars done in Renaissance style.
If you’re close to the Spanish Arch, walking here is not far.
Take a stroll around the cathedral or attend mass if you choose.
It is one of the most incredible things to do in Galway if you want to view some of the city’s most renowned structures.
Visit the cathedral’s website for further information.
Address: Gaol Rd, Galway, H91 A780, Ireland
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Galway City Museum
Galway City Museum transports you back in time.
The Galway City Museum, just next to the Spanish Arch, has many intriguing permanent and temporary exhibits.
Do you want to learn more about Galway and its UNESCO City of Film designation? Or what did the city look like in the late 1800s? This is the location.
Anyone interested in Galway’s rich history and culture should visit this museum.
Explore the prehistoric and medieval collections and facets of Galway’s colonial past.
An original Galway boat and antique silverware from the early 18th century are attractions.
Galway’s history is equally fascinating as any other city in Ireland, which has a rich past.
There’s also the fantastic Medieval Stone Collection. Plaques, coats of arms, and fireplaces from the 16th century may still be seen.
Although the museum is new, its collections and exhibitions are well worth seeing.
If you enjoy museums, the Galway City Museum is a great site to learn about the city’s archaeology, art, and folklore.
Address: Spanish Parade, Galway, H91 CX5P, Ireland
Galway Fisheries Watchtower Museum
The tiniest museum ever, yet packed with fascinating facts on Galway’s fishing industry.
The Galway Fisheries Watchtower Museum reopened in 2015 following a lengthy repair process spearheaded by the Galway Civic Trust.
The structure has a small museum and exhibition room with intriguing antiques, memorabilia, and pictures from Galway’s rich history of river fishing along the River Corrib and stunning views of the River Corrib and The Claddagh.
The Fishery Watchtower, also known as the Tower Station, is the only structure of its sort in the country.
It was initially meant as a draft netting station and was erected by the Ashworth family in 1853.
Draft netting entailed stringing a net across the river with one end linked to the shore and the other pushed by a small boat.
Galway residents and visitors may continue to enjoy the city’s attractiveness, which adds significantly to the city’s architectural and cultural landscape.
It is free to visit, and you will like it. Most educational and entertaining guide, very well put out, and fantastic river view
Address: Wolfe Tone Bridge, Galway, Ireland
Galway Market
A Saturday isn’t complete unless you visit the Galway Market.
The monthly Saturday market in Galway city center is simply one of those delightful life events that make you pleased to be alive.
The famous Galway Market, which has been in operation for generations, sells not only fruits, vegetables, and flowers but also crafts, jewelry, apparel, and other miscellaneous products.
You can see the market right at the laneway between Market Street and Shop Street.
As you stroll through the booths, your senses will be captured by the cornucopia of scents, tastes, sounds, and visuals and the dynamic environment generated by the interaction of stallholders and customers alike.
This market contains everything you might want to spend an enjoyable hour or two.
There are several great food stalls and numerous unique artists and crafts, and the atmosphere is quite welcoming.
Even if you don’t intend to buy anything, it’s entertaining to stroll around the lively market.
There are many delicious food vendors and handmade delights.
Even on a wet day, soak in the ambiance; it’s an authentic flavor of ancient Galway.
What are you waiting for? Come visit us now.
Address: 1- Ireland, 7 Lombard St, Galway, Ireland
Kirwans Lane
You’ll be in heaven here at Kirwans Lane in Galway, Ireland as a foodie.
Kirwan’s Lane, one of Galway’s best medieval laneways, is located in what is now known as The Latin Quarter and has numerous vestiges of 16th and 17th-century construction.
The area has been extensively rehabilitated throughout the years, revitalizing the core of Galway’s ancient town center.
It is currently home to excellent bohemian-style cafés such as Goyas Bakery, famous restaurants like The Seafood Bar at Kirwan’s and McDonagh’s Fish and Chip Shop, Busker Browns Pub, and Judy Greenes, one of Galway’s best handmade shops.
With tons of different restaurants ready to serve you with their utmost service and the best food you’ll have.
A great way to spend your time with your family for a meal and still have an experience you will not forget.
This is a sure place to go for a fantastic and delicious meal for you to experience.
Address: 3 Kirwan’s Ln, Galway, H91 N8H4, Ireland
Lynch’s Castle
It is easy to miss in Lynch’s Castle, located between Shop Street and Abbeygate Street, AIB bank.
However, this fortified mansion is an impressive illustration of its period.
Once upon a time, Lynch’s Castle was inhabited by a member of one of the region’s great tribes, one of fourteen that governed the area.
The four-story castle features carved windows, gargoyles, and other architectural ornamentation.
The Lynch coat of arms and coats of arms for Henry VII and the Fitzgeralds of Kildare may be found on the front of the structure.
It is one of the few remaining concrete relics of Galway’s past.
It even contains a bank in a natural blend of old and new.
You may explore the bottom level during bank hours, where panels discuss the building’s history and design.
Interested in the history of this once famous castle? Ready your bags and take a trip for the thrilling history tour down the memory lane of Lynch’s Castle.
Address: Shop St, Galway, Ireland
Salthill Promenade
Get some fresh air while strolling around the Salthill Promenade.
This is a seaside resort with beautiful blue and clear water for swimming, beaches to relax on, pubs to drink at, fish and chip shops, and even an amusement park.
Galway’s connection to the ocean is inextricable due to its prominent location on the Atlantic Ocean’s coasts.
A beach is located beneath the boardwalk and has been praised by recent visitors for its cleanliness.
During the summer, you may jump onto the Blackrock diving board and have a swim.
After strolling along the river, visit Salthill, which has a variety of stores and eateries.
If hunger strikes or you’re in the mood for a pint, stop into O’Reilly’s, ideal for a quick meal.
The best spot to stretch your legs after a long drive west, the fresh air and sea wind pour life back into the spirit.
A family trip here would be a fun and exciting experience to have.
Address: Galway, Ireland
Sky Road
Spend a day wandering along the magnificent Sky Road.
While in Galway, have a coffee to go from one of Clifden’s cafés and drive or cycle up the lovely Sky Road.
As with many roads in Ireland, the route is small and twisting in sections, so use caution.
There’s nothing quite like it on a crisp winter morning.
Sky Road is one of Connemara’s most renowned tourist attractions.
It’s an 11-kilometer-long circular circuit that heads west from the charming town of Clifden in Galway.
There are several places to take photographs and just enjoy the scenery.
As you go down Sky Road, the sight you’ll see will stay with you forever.
Few sites in Ireland can compete with the raw beauty and diverse range of landscapes that people who travel along with Sky Road encounter.
This is one of the sites you should put on your bucket list since it is well worth the journey.
Address: Galway, Ireland
Spanish Arch
A once protector of incoming boats is now an ancient arch.
The Spanish Arch, located in Galway’s Latin Quarter, is one of the city’s major attractions for history lovers.
It was built in 1584 and provided a tale about its history.
The Arch was formerly a gate to defend the city’s quays when the town was walled.
It was primarily devastated by a tsunami that followed an earthquake in Lisbon, Portugal, in 1755.
The Spanish Arch survived the horrific tsunami and is today one of the main attractions of Galway, Ireland.
The neighborhood around the Spanish Arch has cafés and restaurants and would be a great spot to visit; however, not everyone likes traveling only to see an arch.
The Arch is free for everyone to explore and take photos with.
Take a moment and see how the Spanish Arch has stayed strong even after everything that it has been through.
Address: 2 The Long Walk, Galway, Ireland
St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church
Still standing for a hundred years is the St. Nicholas Collegiate Church.
The Collegiate Church of St. Nicholas, built probably in the early 14th century, is Ireland’s biggest medieval parish church.
This is located in the center of Galway, just off Market Street.
This magnificent ancient chapel contains profound memorials, particularly for WWI troops and potato famine victims.
Columbus prayed here; it’s rich in history and gorgeous. During their annual Christmas Market, you may be met by pleasant, informed parishioners inside and outside the church.
Some have described visiting the church as a journey because of its well-preserved interior and several special historical items.
Lovely chapel to visit if you need to get out of the rain!
It also appears rather beautiful from the outside, adding to the city’s appeal.
An excellent site to visit for both believers and non-believers.
Don’t forget to stop by St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church and give a moment or two in silence.
Address: St. Nicholas Collegiate Church, Lombard St, Galway, H91 PY20, Ireland
Wild Atlantic Way
If you are visiting Ireland’s west coast, the Wild Atlantic Way is a must-drive route.
This 1,500-mile journey through Ireland’s west coast, which begins in Donegal and ends in Cork, is a spectacular experience worth attaining.
Throughout the journey, you’ll come across several sites, like the Cliffs of Moher, the Doolin Cave stalactite, castles, and numerous golf courses.
A great place to rent a house and hold a party with the beach nearby and excellent Irish restaurants just around the corner. This would definitely be a top of the bucket list go-to.
Some attractions along the Wild Atlantic Way require an entry price. However, it is free to travel the route.
This path is very lengthy, but every part of it is worth seeing, so if you can only do a tiny section, most people can go for it.
Get your calendar and plan ahead for a breathtaking experience you’ll never forget.
Do you need any more convincing that Galway Ireland is worth a visit? Visit reasons to visit Galway, Ireland, at least once in your lifetime here.
Address: Galway, Ireland
