Ireland Travel Guide: 12 Incredible Things To Do in Beautiful Galway City

Ireland, , 83 Comments

Galway is the oldest and largest city on Ireland’s famous Wild Atlantic Way, with a soul that comes to life in its pubs and quaint squares.

Once a small fishing village, Galway grew in strength in the 13th century to become a prosperous walled town ruled by 14 merchant families, known as the Tribes of Galway.

Today, the city is one of the most enchanting in Ireland.

While the city is steeped in history, it also buzzes with an innovative vibe, thanks in part to the students who make up a fifth of the population.

Geographically, Galway is a bit of a gateway – to rugged Connemara to the north, the Burren’s limestone landscape to the south, and the Aran Islands just across the bay.

But the city itself is far more than a jumping-off point. It’s a place where cobblestone streets meet contemporary design, and traditional music spills out of modern pubs. 

Read More: A Short Guide To Visiting Wonderful Eagles Flying In Sligo, Ireland

The Claddagh

When we agreed to spend our combined birthdays in Galway, I knew we’d enjoy the time spent there, but didn’t quite expect the weekend to be such a perfect way to become more deeply acquainted with this part of Ireland.

Although the sun never made an appearance and the gusty winds had knocked off all the leaves from the trees, we were stupefied by the splendour we encountered there.

We were grateful for a chance to discover a different side of Ireland that won us over many times before.

Galway is a beautiful city, and for a change, it was refreshing to enjoy somewhat loose planning and let the cobbled streets lead us wherever they wished.

Read More: Ireland travel guide: Top 9 things to see and do in beautiful Connemara

One of many pretty streets in Galway City

Ireland travel guide: 12 fun things to do in beautiful Galway city

Colourful even on a cloudy day, Galway –  known as “The City of the Tribes” – is bursting with charm, art, local legends and music.

Are you making plans to visit Ireland and take a trip to the wonderful West? A visit to Galway should definitely be on anyone’s travel list. 

And once you visit, you’ll see for yourself that it’s pretty hard not to fall under Galway’s spell.

Here you can relax at Eyre Square, wander around Galway University grounds, go on brewery tours and step inside Lynch’s Castle (now AIB Bank), situated between Shop Street and Abbeygate Street.

In this blog post, we would like to share some of the best things to do in the city

Read More: A local’s guide to Sligo: 7 amazing things to do on a Lough Gill loop drive

Wooden Heart toy store.

#1. Wander Around the Latin Quarter: A Historic Gem

Situated on the left bank of the River Corrib, the Latin Quarter, a hook-shaped district of cobblestone streets,  is a popular place to grab a bite, capture colourful facades or just simply stroll through it.

In the lively Latin Quarter, you’ll find cities best-known pubs,  affordable, yet a tad noisy traveller hostels,  independent stores and various attractions.

Galway’s Latin Quarter is a cultural part of the city, and its little side streets are great for a little wander while you enjoy the street artists, known as buskers, playing fantastic music.

The main street is called Quay Lane, and you can’t beat the amazing energy bouncing from the area. Take time to chill out with a pint in one of the outdoor seating areas and enjoy people-watching.

*Fun Fact – look out for  Lynch Castle, located on the corner of Shop Street and Abbeygate Street – it’s an old castle that has now been transformed into a bank. 

Read More: A local’s guide to visiting iconic Kylemore Abbey in Connemara

Colourful facades of Galway city

#2. Take a Boat Trip For a Nature Connection

If you are looking for a relaxing way to explore Galway and its surroundings, why not jump on a boat?

The Corrib Princess is a cruise boat that departs from Woodquay and takes you for a ride along the River Corrib and onto Lough Corrib.

The cruise offers daily guided sightseeing trips with live commentary about Celtic mythology, Galway’s ancient past, and stories of Galway’s feuding families.

You will also get a chance to see some of the castles, including the ivy-covered remains of Menlo Castle, that were once homes to some of Galway’s most unique characters.

The Corrib Princess operates from May to September and offers a knowledgeable captain, a heated indoor cabin for those rainy days, a venue for a private party and full catering facilities.

  • Prices for the river cruise are Adult €17, Family (2 Adults and up to 3 Children under 14) €40, Student / Senior €15.

Read More: Your Guide to Exploring Burren National Park in County Clare, Ireland

Ivy-covered Menlo Castle

#3. Go on a Hunt For the Best Irish Arts and Crafts

Some of the city’s best handmade crafts can be found in a handful of shops. Galway has it all if you are looking for quirky jewellery, Aran sweaters, artisan brews, or the famous Claddagh Ring.

Check out the beautiful Wooden Heart shop, packed full of wooden toys, books, incredible dollhouses and early learning toys.

Make your way to Galway’s Farmers Market located by St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church for vintage jewellery, a great variety of food, handmade soaps and rare books.

Stop at Thomas Dillon’s Claddagh Gold to learn the story behind the ring and travel to Roundstone Music and Craft Shop, located in Roundstone and run by master craftsman Malachy Kearns, who makes a one-sided drum known as the Bodhrán (Bow-Rawn).

Read More: 11 Amazing Things To Do In Beautiful Sligo That Will Make You Stay For More

One of the best knitting shops in Galway

#4. Walk Around the Salthill Promenade For A Coastal Escape

Salthill, with its beautiful promenade, is a lovely seaside town situated 10 minutes away from Galway city. Throughout the year, you can see locals jumping off the Blackrock Diving Tower.

Here, you’ll find lots of restaurants, cafes and plenty of wide spaces to enjoy. On a clear day, it’s even possible to see the peaks of Connemara and an outline of The Burren.

Galway Atlantaquaria, run by the National Aquarium of Ireland,  is located in Salthill too. It’s a fairly small aquarium, but it focuses on displaying a wide variety of Indigenous Irish fish and invertebrates.

Top things to do along Salthill Promenade:

  • Walk or cycle along the promenade.
  • Stop for seafood at one of the local restaurants.
  • Swim or dive at Blackrock Tower.

Read More: How To Spend a Brilliant Weekend in Beautiful Killarney, Ireland

Beautiful Salthill promenade on a sunny summer’s day

#5 Visit Charlie Byrne’s Bookstore for Serendipitous Discovery

If you are a fan of independent bookstores, where the rooms are stacked floor to ceiling with books, then you have to pay a visit to Charlie Byrne’s Bookstore.

In a labyrinth of cosy rooms, you’ll be able to find any genre imaginable, all for very affordable prices. Wandering through the shop is one of the best free things to do in Galway, as there are well over 100,000 second-hand, new and bargain books.

There are so many books that in fact they are even stacked at the entrance of the shop, making it look even more appealing.

It’s easy to get lost browsing the shelves for a couple of hours, and it’s impossible to leave empty-handed, as some of the books cost as little as 3 euros, a must-go for a bookworm!

  • Address: The Cornstore, Middle St, Galway

Read More: Ireland Travel Guide: 7 Fantastic Things To See And Do In County Cork

Exterior of the bookshop

#6. Pay a Visit to the Galway City Museum

Located beside the Spanish Arch, Galway City Museum is a well-kept and comprehensive museum and makes for a great place to spend an hour or two during a visit to Galway.

The museum was originally founded in the mid-1970s, but a few decades later, a new purpose-built museum was opened.

Various exhibitions are laid out through the museum’s three floors, each dedicated to different subjects such as cities’ prehistoric pasts, artwork and marine life.

Among the highlights, you’ll find a Galway Hooker boat, named ‘Máirtín Oliver, the Civic Sword dating from the time of the Charter of King James I, as well as a fascinating collection of artefacts dating back to Prehistoric and Medieval times.

The museum also boasts fantastic views of the River Corrib, Galway Bay, the Spanish Arch and the Claddagh.

  • Admission – The entry to Galway City Museum is free
  • Opening hours | Tuesday to Saturday, from 10am -5pm (12pm on Sundays)

Read More: 10 Essential Items to Pack for an Unforgettable Trip to the Emerald Isle

Marine exhibition at the Galway Museum

#7. Snap a Photo of Fishery Watchtower

Built in 1852/53 by the Ashworth Brothers, the Fishery Watchtower is one of Galway City’s landmarks.

The yellow tower’s purpose up until the 1970s was to keep an eye on the fishing boats operating on the river.

Nowadays, you’ll find a small museum with fascinating photographs, memorabilia and artefacts from the rich history of river fishing along the River Corrib.

The museum also offers wonderful views of The Claddagh and the River Corrib.

  • Opening Hours – while the tower is closed temporarily, you can still go on guided tours.
  • Address: Wolfe Tone Bridge, Galway

Read More: Ireland Travel Guide: 9 Memorable Things To Do In Beautiful County Clare

The smallest museum ever 

#8. Stop By The University of Galway

Located on University Road, a stone’s throw away from the city centre, the University of Galway is a landmark attraction and a must for visitors to the city.

As one of the oldest and largest universities in the West of Ireland, it has one of the most photogenic campuses I’ve visited.

As the crisp air of autumn settles in, late September would be a perfect time to catch the ivy creeping up the old stone buildings, turning to a fiery red. The colour really pops against the cold grey stone of the quad.

  • Famous past alumni of the university include the former president Michael D. Higgins, Henry Arthur Blake (who served as governor of Hong Kong), and Taoiseach Enda Kenny.

Read More: Check Out This Amazing 2-week Road Trip Itinerary Through Ireland’s Southwest

Exploring Galway University grounds

#9. Admire Galway Cathedral: A Masterpiece of Architecture

Designed by J.J.Robisnon and built in the 1950s, Galway Cathedral, the Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven, is one of the youngest stone cathedrals in Europe.

The cathedral can be found on Nun’s Island, near Salmon Weir Bridge, on the site of the former city jail.

Galway Cathedral is one of the city’s largest buildings, and its dome can be seen for miles around.

The cathedral houses an impressive dome, stone walls and beautiful rose windows crafted by George Campbell.

The floor of the cathedral is made from Connemara Marble, and the light flowing through the windows creates a wonderful atmosphere.

If you wish, you can join the daily mass to hear one of the finest pipe organs in the country. Mass times on weekdays are as follows – Monday – Friday:  11:00 & 18:00.

  • Admission: The cathedral is free to visit
  • Opening hours for visitors are from 8:30am – 6:30pm

Read More: Your Ultimate Guide to Climbing Croagh Patrick in County Mayo, Ireland

The magnificent interior of the cathedral

#10. See the Spanish Arch – A Reminder of the City’s Medieval Past.

Dating back to pre-medieval times, the Spanish Arch has two remaining arches on the Ceann a Bhalla.

Located on the left bank of the Corrib River, right beside Galway City Museum, it’s one of Galway’s historical gems that, back in the day, used to house soldiers who manned cannons on the roof.

The simple arch, once partially destroyed by the tsunami in the 1800s, was originally constructed by William Martin and built in 1584.

As the arch is located at the point where the river meets the sea, it makes for a wonderful place to take in the beauty of the old Claddagh area of the city.

You can walk around and see if you can spot the Galway Hooker boats heading out in the bay, or listen to buskers playing down under the arch.

Read More: A Short Guide to Visiting Beautiful Clare Island in County Mayo, Ireland

Spanish Arch is a Historical landmark of Galway

#11. Go on a Day Trip 

Road trips in the West are always a very good idea, as this part of Ireland is renowned for its wonderful scenery.

Travelling to Galway and not taking advantage of nearby world-class attractions would be a foolish thing to do.

If you are staying in Galway for longer, you could embark on great day trips, and some of the best include the astounding Cliffs of Moher, beautiful Connemara, remote Aran Islands, Kylemore Abbey and Burren National Park.

For those exploring Ireland by car, some of the best scenic drives we would recommend:

  • Cliffs of Moher and Burren National Park trip to see the world-famous, 700ft high jagged seaside cliffs and rare flora.
  • Connemara Day trip to experience the unspoiled natural beauty and rugged landscapes.
  • Aaran Island Day Trip

Read More: 8 Amazing Things To See And Do On A Trip Around Inishowen Peninsula, Donegal

Empty roads of Connemara National Park

#12. Visit Galway for Christmas Magic

You’ll love seeing Galway dressed up for the Christmas season, looking stunning with beautifully decorated shop windows and twinkling street lights.

The annual Christmas Market is the main event taking place at Eyre Square with a traditional carousel, plenty of market stalls, a 32-meter-high wheel, Santa’s Express Train and carol singing on display.

Don’t be put off by travelling to Ireland in winter, even on the coldest and darkest days, there’s something to see and do.

Read More: How to visit Glenveagh National Park in County Donegal: The Ultimate Guide

Galways city dressed in Christmas attire

Where to Stay in Galway

If it’s your first time visiting Galway, I recommend staying in the centre of the city.

It’s an area full of top attractions, dining establishments, traditional pubs, and plenty of wonderful accommodations like my favourite place, Hyde Hotel, which is modern and stylish.

On our last trip to Galway, we decided to stay outside the city in a hotel with fantastic ocean views.

We ended up choosing the wonderful Connemara Coast Hotel for a relaxing family break and couldn’t be happier to recommend it to other travellers.

Best Areas To Stay In Galway:

  • Salthill, situated 2 kilometres southwest of the city centre, is best for beach access: the Galway Bay Hotel and the Black Cat

Read More: 7 Stunning Sligo Beaches To Visit When You’re In Need Of a Breather

The inviting Connemara Coast hotel interior

How To Get To Galway

Galway is well-connected to other cities in Ireland and can be easily accessed from all airports in the country. 

The closest airports to Galway are as follows:

  • Shannon Airport is approximately 86 km  and it takes around 1 hour to drive to Galway 
  • Knock Airport is approximately 88 km away, and it takes around 1hr 15 minutes to drive to Galway
  • Dublin Airport is 213km away, and it takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes to drive to Galway
  • By bus | You can also reach Galway by bus from all the biggest cities and airports.
  • By train | You can travel from Dublin’s Hueston station by train and be in Galway in 2 hours and 30 minutes

Read More: Your Ultimate Guide to Insanely Beautiful Wicklow National Park

And there you have it

Just a few of the many things to do in the city.

As you can see, Galway is a city that offers something for every traveller. Whether you’re a lover of history, nature, or culture, there are endless things to see and do.

Colourful shopfronts of Galway City

As this is my last blog post of the year, I wanted to take a minute and wish my wonderful readers Merry Christmas!

 May your days be filled with love, laughter, and moments that bring you peace and happiness ❤

I wish everyone health, happiness and hope in 2026. With lots of love, Aiva xx

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Now, over to you!

Have you been to Galway? Let us know in the comments!

Let us know if you are plotting a visit to Galway and have travel-related questions!

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83 thoughts on “Ireland Travel Guide: 12 Incredible Things To Do in Beautiful Galway City”

    1. Thank you kindly, dear Jo. Galway is well worth visiting for its vibrant culture, live music, friendly atmosphere, and as a gateway to stunning natural landscapes like Connemara and the Cliffs of Moher. Warmest wishes for a Christmas filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments, and thank you so much for your endless support and friendship. Lots of love, Aiva xx

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    1. You would love Galway as it is famous for traditional Irish music sessions in pubs, street performers, and a buzzing nightlife. Thanks for stopping by. Wishing you warmth, happiness, and good cheer this holiday season. Merry Christmas 🙂 Aiva xx

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  3. Galway looks and sounds positively enchanting Aiva. And it seems like you know it well, obviously having explored it many times, discovering all its charms. Wishing you and your family a wonderful Christmas and all the very best for the new year. xx

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    1. It really is, dear Miriam. The city is situated on Galway Bay, offers beautiful coastal views and serves as a perfect base for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way. Hope your holidays are full of laughter, cocoa, and people you love. Merry Christmas 🙂 Aiva xx

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  4. Definitely somewhere I’d like to visit and you make it sound lovely! I almost went a few years ago but ended up in Cork instead.
    Hopefully I’ll get there some day soon and can visit some of these spots.

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    1. I hope you get to visit Galway.  If you enjoy a lively, cultural city with easy access to dramatic Irish landscapes, Galway is definitely worth your time. Thanks for stopping by. May your home be filled with love, laughter, and peace this Christmas. Aiva 🙂 xx

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    1. You would love Galway.  It is a beautiful city with cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and a rapid river running through it, which spills out into the Irish Sea. Thanks for stopping by. May the magic of Christmas fill your heart with joy and hope 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I am glad that my favourite bookshop in the city caught your eye – it is an iconic Galway institution and a treasure trove for book lovers, with a massive selection of new and used books, a charming atmosphere, creative displays, and a welcoming environment for both adults and kids. Thanks for stopping by, and Merry Christmas to you and your family. May your holidays sparkle with moments of love and goodwill 🙂 Aiva xx

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  7. Galways gets a lot of good publicity from Ed Sheeran and your pictures really make it come to life! I especially love the festiveness of the holiday market and that bookstore looks so charming. Hope you have a Merry Christmas with your beautiful family!

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    1. The bookshop is one of Ireland’s best independent bookshops and a must-visit when in Galway, known for its “Tardis-like” feel – you would love it, dear Lyssy.

      You know, one of the most popular walking tours in the city is the Ed Sheeran tour, which follows the singer’s footsteps in the ‘Galway Girl’ video. Much of the ‘Galway Girl’ video was filmed inside O’Connor’s pub, located in Salthill, and the pub now gets visitors from all over the world who want to check out its unique atmosphere.

      Thanks for stopping by, and Merry Christmas to you and your wonderful family.

      May your days be merry and bright 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Galway city is an amazing place that offers a great traditional music scene, a beautiful setting, fantastic food, cosy pubs and great places to stay. We have stayed in Galway many times, and it yields new riches every single time. Thanks for stopping by, and Merry Christmas to you. May your celebrations be marvelously merry and bright. 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I am glad to hear you’ve been to Galway, my dear Luisa. It is one of Ireland’s most beautiful and colourful cities with a lively arts scene, numerous festivals, colourful streets, and a friendly, welcoming vibe. Thanks for stopping by, and Merry Christmas to you. Happy holidays from our family to yours 🙂 Aiva xx

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  10. We loved Galway city ever since our first view of it on our 1977 honeymoon. So many familiar scenes in your post Aiva. We are looking for a place to visit in 2026. Perhaps it will be Ireland. Happy Monday and wishing you a very Merry Christmas spent with your family. Allan

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    1. I am glad to hear that you enjoyed your time in Galway city, dear Allan. It is a brilliant city for traditional Irish music sessions and cosy pubs, offering an authentic experience. I hope you get to return to Ireland, and who knows, we might even get a chance to meet up. Thanks for stopping by, and Merry Christmas to you and your wonderful family. Wishing you all that’s merry and bright! 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Galway is great for knitting, especially for finding authentic, high-quality Aran sweaters and beautiful Irish yarns, with many standout shops.  You’ll also find hand-knits with unique patterns and machine-made options, plus knowledgeable staff to help with yarn choices, making it a solid destination for knitters and souvenir hunters alike. May this Christmas be filled with happiness in all that you do, and may this joy continue the whole year through. Merry Christmas 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I hope you get to visit Galway and complete the Wild Atlantic Way Drive, dear Marion. The city centre is easily explored on foot, allowing you to discover charming streets, shops, and river walks. May the holidays bring you happy moments that become memories forever. Merry Christmas 🙂 Aiva xx

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  15. It is funny what things stick in one’s mind. As I read your post, our 2011 stop in Galaway came to mind — because it was late September and there was what appeared to be a group of young people swimming in an area next to the Salthill Promenade – Brrr!

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    1. I am glad to hear you have many wonderful memories from visiting Galway. It’s a truly fascinating city to explore. I’ve never felt adventurous enough to join the brave souls jumping off the Blackrock Diving Tower into the bracing North Atlantic at high tide, not even in the summer – it’s way too cold! Thanks so much for stopping by, and Merry Christmas. Wishing you all the joy a holiday can hold 🙂 Aiva xx

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  16. I think this is the first time you’ve mentioned places we have actually been to – Kylemore Abbey, the Cliffs of Moher and Burren National Park, and Connemara. All so beautiful. It was many years ago and we will definitely visit again. I’ll add Galway to the list.

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    1. I am glad to hear you have been to so many beautiful places, as it is an utterly beautiful part of Ireland to explore. We are fortunate to live close enough to visit several times during the year, and we always love it. I hope you get to explore Galway one day, too. Thanks so much for stopping by, and Merry Christmas. May the true meaning of Christmas bring you peace and happiness 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. It is a unique and charming Irish city, and you would love its location on Galway Bay, which only adds heaps of natural beauty, with sea air, bay walks, and a bustling promenade. It is also a hub for higher education centred around the University of Galway and Atlantic Technological University, and that’s why students make up a significant portion of the population. Thanks so much for stopping by, my dear Linda and Merry Christmas to you and your wonderful family. May the magic of Christmas fill your heart with happiness 🙂 Aiva xx

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  18. I have never been to Galway and I have never been to Ireland. In fact I’ve never heard of Galway before. It was interesting reading and I am amazed to see how much there is to do and see in Galway, a real cultural center.

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    1. I am glad you enjoyed reading about Galway. The city is known as Ireland’s cultural heart, which boasts a lively arts scene, numerous festivals, colourful streets, and a friendly, welcoming vibe. Thanks so much for stopping by, and Merry Christmas to you 🙂 Aiva xx

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  19. Galway really does have a special charm, colourful, soulful, and full of life even on grey days. This made me want to wander those cobbled streets with no plan at all. Thanks for the inspiration, and Merry Christmas to you too!

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    1.  Galway is a compact and must-visit Irish city. It is also a fun city with traditional streets, amazing culture, great pubs, and a very vibrant atmosphere. Thanks so much for stopping by, and Merry Christmas to you 🙂 May your home be filled with laughter and love this season 🙂 Aiva xx

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      1. Absolutely agree, Aiva 😊 That vibrant mix of tradition, culture, and warmth is exactly what makes Galway so unforgettable. Your words truly capture its spirit, the kind of place where music spills out of pubs and every street feels alive. Thank you for such a lovely reply and for the beautiful Christmas wishes. Wishing you a season filled with joy, laughter, and cozy moments too. Merry Christmas! 🎄

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  20. As soon as I read “Galway,” my mind immediately went to Ed Sheeran’s “Galway Girl” song. I’ve not been to Galway before, but it looks absolutely stunning. I’ll need to head over whenever I return to Ireland some day. Thanks for sharing, Aiva! 🙂

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    1. The music video for Ed Sheeran’s “Galway Girl” song was filmed in the city, and you can even visit both pubs where it took place to check out the lively atmosphere. I also love the other song called “Galway Girl”, which was written by American singer-songwriter Steve Earle.  Galway really is a place like no other, and I hope you get to explore it one day. Thanks so much for stopping by, and Merry Christmas to you 🙂 Sending you festive cheer and sweet moments this season 🙂 Aiva xx

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  21. I’ve heard of Galway but know nothing about it. I just love the colors of the buildings in the city. So colorful and festive. I also like that ivy-covered castle. I would almost certainly fly into Dublin, but this is a journey I would make from the capital city. Merry Christmas to you and your family, Aiva. Have a wonderful holiday.

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    1. You would love the Latin Quarter & Shop Street with their maze of narrow, cobbled streets filled with independent shops, cafes, and pubs featuring bright, eye-catching facades. I find that all the brightly painted buildings and unique shop designs give the city a cheerful, artistic vibe.

      Galway is a very easy and popular trip from Dublin, accessible by convenient and relatively quick bus or train services (around 2.5 hours) or a straightforward drive (2.5-3 hours) on motorways, making it a perfect short break or day trip to experience Ireland’s west coast culture.

       Thanks for stopping by, and Merry Christmas. Wishing you all the magic and joy this season brings 🙂 Aiva xx

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  22. What a great tour of Galway, thanks, Aiva! I’ve heard of the city but didn’t know anything about it. It looks like there’s a little something for everyone here. Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and a happy new year!

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    1.  Galway is a truly wonderful Irish city to visit that offers a blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy, making it a visually striking and culturally rich destination. Plus, it is located just a short drive away from some of the country’s most beautiful mountain peaks and hiking trails. Thanks for stopping by, and Merry Christmas. May your heart be light and your holidays bright 🙂 Aiva xx

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  23. Galway looks like a charming and colourful coastal town go visit. Thanks for another great guide and all the best for Christmas and the New Year, which im sure will be packed full of adventures. X

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    1.   It’s an Irish city with a soul that comes to life in its pubs and quaint squares. Galway’s proximity to Connemara National Park and the Cliffs of Moher gives it extra appeal. Thanks for stopping by, and Merry Christmas. Wishing you a season full of smiles, surprises, and sweet moments that bring you joy 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much. Galway is a fantastic city where live music abounds at every turn. You simply cannot go a day in Galway without hearing great live music flooding the streets. Thanks for stopping by, and Merry Christmas to you and your wonderful family 🙂 Aiva xx

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  25. Galway looks beautiful with an abundance of wonderful sights to explore, especially the fishing village. Another bookshop thrown in – I know you love bookshops (like me)! 😉

    Wishing you and your family a wonderful festive season and a fantastic 2026!

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    1. You would thrive in Galway! It is the leading city in Ireland, outside of Dublin, for literary and cultural events, with the Cúirt International Festival of Literature and Galway International Arts Festival drawing some of the best talents to the city annually. Also, Galway has some of the best bookshops in Ireland. Besides Charlie Byrne’s, other great shops include the Bell, Book and Candle second-hand bookshop, Easons and Dubray’s, to name a few. Thanks for stopping by, and Merry Christmas to you and your wonderful family 🙂 Lots of love, Aiva xx

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    1. I am glad you enjoyed it. Galway is the jewel of Ireland’s west coast, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, nature, and fun. The city is a vibrant hub of activity, from its medieval streets to the rugged beauty of the surrounding countryside. Thanks for stopping by, and Merry Christmas to you and your wonderful family 🙂 Lots of love, Aiva xx

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  28. What a fun place to explore. I would visit all those places, especially the little shop with wooden toys and books. Kids need imaginative toys that encourage them to be creative, Hope you and yours had a very Merry Christmas and have a Happy New Year.

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    1. You would love Galway because it also has many wonderful charity shops where you can get books, toys, and find unique and affordable items for your home. I agree with you – kids need imaginative toys as not only do they keep them entertained, but also stimulate their cognitive, social, and emotional development.  I hope your Christmas was filled with joy and love this year! Happy Holidays! Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Galway City is a vibrant, artsy, and walkable place with a great mix of history, culture, and nightlife. Also, there’s rarely a weekend without a festival or cultural celebration in the city, which makes it even more appealing. I hope you had Christmas! Happy Holidays! Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  30. Despite the efforts of property developers, Galway downtown retains its network of narrow streets and old houses, which give it its charm. I agree that Galway’s atmosphere is what sets it apart from other Irish cities, and no tour of Ireland would be complete without a visit to Galway City.

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    1. That’s so true – it is really nice to see that the heart of the beautiful Galway city has retained its charm, with its historic shopfronts and lively pubs. But I’ve noticed many new and modern residential developments popping up in and around Salthill. I can only imagine how beautiful the views are from them. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Hope the New Year is off to a good start 🙂 Aiva xx

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  31. You have convinced me to revisit Galway! Way back when, before I mastered planning road trips in foreign countries and before I became well versed in travel planning, the husband and I visited Galway, but I failed to research enough. As you have very adeptly pointed out with this post, I have so many things still to see there!

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    1. I hope you get to return to Galway one day to explore every nook and cranny of it. It took me a good few years and multiple trips to really uncover the essence and all the hidden gems of the city. As I’ve learned by now, one visit only scratches the surface, but repeated visits allow for immersion in culture, understanding local rhythms, and exploring diverse districts, moving from “seeing” to truly “understanding” a place. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Hope the New Year is off to a good start 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much for your wonderful comment. Galway is a wonderful and colourful city to explore, and I hope you get to visit your friend one day. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Hope the New Year is off to a good start 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much and right back at you! Happy New Year to you and your wonderful family. Here’s to a fresh start, new adventures, and wonderful memories in the year ahead. You would love Galway –  situated on Galway Bay, it offers beautiful coastal walks like the Salthill Promenade and is a gateway to dramatic landscapes like Connemara and the Cliffs of Moher. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Hope the New Year is off to a good start 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much 🙂 It’s a beautiful city where you can expect lively pubs filled with Irish traditional music, street performers (buskers), and a strong arts scene. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Hope the New Year is off to a good start 🙂 Aiva xx

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