Galway is a vibrant city in the west of Ireland, located on the coast of Galway Bay. It’s one of the fastest-growing cities in Europe and has become a popular tourist destination due to its many attractions and activities. From exploring historic streets to casino gaming, there are plenty of things to do in Galway that will keep you entertained during your stay. In this article, we’ll discuss 11 of the top things to do in Galway.
About Galway in a Nutshell
Galway is a city in the west of Ireland, located on Galway Bay. It’s a great destination for a holiday as it has a lot to offer visitors. The popularity of the city has been growing steadily over the past few years, making it one of the most visited cities in Ireland. The streets are lined with colorful buildings, and the atmosphere is bustling with life. From pubs to restaurants, there’s something for everyone in Galway. Let’s take a look at 11 things to do in Galway:
1. Explore the Streets and Shop Along the ‘Lanes’
Galway is a city full of fascinating locals and unique shops. The cobblestone streets are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and you can find plenty of souvenirs in one of Galway’s many lanes – small pedestrian thoroughfares that run between larger roads.
2. Visit the Spanish Arch and Long Walk
The iconic Spanish Arch is a must-see for anyone visiting Galway, located at the entrance of the city’s harbor. From there, you can take a stroll along the Long Walk, an 18th-century promenade that runs alongside the Corrib River. Moreover, there’s a lively market every Sunday where you can pick up unique handmade trinkets and souvenirs.
3. Take in Some Culture at the Galway Arts Festival
Every summer the city hosts this renowned performing arts festival, featuring theater, music, and visual art performances. The next date is Mon, Jul 17, 2023 – Sun, Jul 30, 2023, so make sure to mark your calendar and get things organized if you’re planning to visit during this time.
4. Visit the Casinos Galway Has to Offer
Galway has a few exciting casinos where you can try your luck at gaming and poker:
Claude’s Casino
Located at 230 Upper Salthill Rd, Galway, Claude’s Casino offers a classic gaming experience with slots and tables. You can also take part in poker tournaments at the casino as well as a nice food and drinks menu.
Caesars Palace Casino
This larger casino offers a more modern gaming experience, with a variety of slots, video poker machines, and live gaming tables. If you want to test your luck here, make sure you have a slot machine guide to support you, because the goddess of luck is not always kind!
5. Check Out Quay Street
Quay Street is the main artery of Galway City, lined with pubs, restaurants, and shops. It’s a great place to people-watch and get a feel for the city. You better come hungry, because there are plenty of delicious places to eat. You can also find quirky souvenirs and handmade crafts along the street.
6. Enjoy a Pint of Guinness at Taaffes Bar
This traditional pub has been around since 1894 and is known for its great selection of beers and live Irish music. From the pub’s front window, you can take in beautiful views of Galway Bay. Their beer menu includes local favorites like Smithwick’s and Guinness, plus a few international craft beer choices.
Address: 19 Shop St, Galway
7. Tour the Dunguaire Castle
Located on the shores of Galway Bay, Dunguaire Castle is a 16th-century castle is a popular tourist attraction. You can take a guided tour of the castle and its grounds, where you’ll learn about the history of the area and get some great views of Galway Bay. There are also regular events at the castle, such as music and theatre performances.
8. Go to the Races at Galway Races
This annual horse racing festival is one of the most popular events in Galway, drawing large crowds from all over Ireland and beyond. The next event is scheduled for Mon, Jul 31, 2023 – Sun, Aug 6, 2023. In addition to the races, there will be food and entertainment throughout the day.
9. Take a Boat Trip Down the Corrib River
The River Corrib is an iconic symbol of Galway, running through the city and out to sea. You can take a boat trip down the river, with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and plenty of wildlife to spot. It’s a great way to explore the city from a different perspective.
10. Visit Eyre Square
Eyre Square is a popular public square in the city center that has been a hub of activity since 1846 and is home to several monuments and sculptures. Take a walk through the square, where you can find a large fountain, a memorial to Irish political leader Michael Collins, and other interesting art pieces. It’s also a great place to grab a bite to eat, with plenty of restaurants and cafés in the area.
11. Shop at the Galway Market
This lively weekly market is a great place to explore the local culture, with vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry and crafts to fresh produce. It’s also a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts. The market takes place every Saturday, from 10 am until 4 pm.
Galway is a vibrant and exciting city, full of culture, history, and plenty of things to see and do. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a weekend of sightseeing, this city has something to offer everyone. So come and explore all that Galway has to offer, and you won’t be disappointed!
