Medieval city, Galway attracts for its dynamism. Indeed, his university allows him to keep an image of youth and celebration which is one of the charms of the city. Galway is the starting point for many tourist sites, such as the Lakes of Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher or the Aran Islands. Discover the must-see places to see in and around Galway!
Stroll through Old Town Galway
Mostly pedestrian, the center of Galway is very conducive to the bucolic stroll. Start with a short stroll through Eyre Square. You can admire its fountain in the shape of a sail, typical of traditional boats, and take advantage of this green space to stroll or do your shopping on market days. The most fervent among you will visit medieval St. Nicholas Church or Notre Dame Cathedral. It is also possible to push up to the more prosaic Spanish Arch, a vestige of Galway's glorious commercial past.
The Notre-Dame cathedral
Discover the Claddagh district
Once a simple fishing village nestled against the walls of the old town, Claddagh is now one of the must-see neighborhoods in Galway. Here, the tradition of traditional fishing is perpetuated thanks to the inhabitants and is associated with a discreet modernity, which welcomes the influx of tourists attracted by the magnificent view of the bay. Those looking for the famous Claddagh Ring will be disappointed as it can be found at the Claddagh Ring Museum in the Old Town. But they will be amply rewarded by the serenity that emanates from the place!
Claddagh in Galway
Stroll on Salthill Beach
The charm of Ireland comes from the perfect syncretism between the ability to integrate new cultures and respect for traditions. This characteristic of the Irish people is undoubtedly the result of the latent force of the local nature and its peaceful beauty. To be convinced, simply stroll on Salthill beach. Its always fine sand and its often low sky are appreciated especially outside the vacation period, when the beach reclaims its rights over the human tides which invade it periodically.
Salthill Beach
Visit Doughiska Castle
East of Galway, nothing new. But if you choose to get lost in the maze of trails Merlin Park Woods Forest, you will for sure come across one of the most impressive castles in the region. Built by the powerful Lynch family and then abandoned for centuries, the building is a sober 3-story tower where only a few loopholes once let light filter through. By its imposing size and its warlike appearance, Doughiska castle seems to watch over the surrounding forest and the small people who live there. A mystical and a little scary visit to do absolutely!
Doughiska Castle in Merlin Park
Explore the Aran Islands
While in Galway, it would be a shame to limit oneself to the mainland. Always oriented towards the ocean, the city faces three islands less than 18 km from the coast. Each of them jealously watches over its own natural and archaeological treasures, including unique testimonies of our primitive history, some of which date back to the Iron Age. We particularly recommend Inishmore, where you can visit the remains of the "Black Fort" or Dún Dúchathair in Gaelic, guarded by its inaccessible cliffs and its horses in freedom. A must see site in Galway!
Inishmore
Explore Connemara National Park
Connemara is a magnificent region where peat reigns supreme. Gaelic is spoken there more than English, which adds to the mysterious aspect of this region. Connemara National Park protects over 2 hectares of wildlife where peaceful lakes are popular with fishermen and tourists alike. Hikes are offered in July and August. Take the opportunity to stroll between the twelve peaks (the Twelve Bens). Do not hesitate to inquire at the visitor center.
Connemara
Admire the Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher are 8 miles long. The path puts you as close as possible to the precipice which culminates at 214 meters. Below, the rollers of the Atlantic Ocean throw themselves against the rock faces and send out sprays of water. Impressive ! Once the ride is over, take the time to visit Atlantic Edge, a unique interpretation center on the cliffs. With the help of images, exhibitions and experiences, you will learn all about this magical landscape.
The Cliffs of Moher
Have fun at Galway festivals
Every year in May, the galway music festival attracts many visitors who come to listen to medieval music, mainly from the 12th and 13th centuries. In June, it is at harp festival that must be attended. It takes place in Galway for a week and allows you to listen to this enchanting instrument, one of the symbols of Ireland with the shamrock.
Irish harp
Useful information
To better prepare your stay and the essential visits to see in Galway, here is some additional information:
- To get to Galway from France you will need to take a flight to Dublin, Clifden or Cork. From the capital, we urge you to take the train. It is barely more expensive than the bus (around 24 euros round trip) and the journey is much more comfortable.
- On site, do not hesitate to rent a bike because the journeys are relatively short and pleasant. Several bus lines crisscross the city and reach the various sites of interest around Galway. You can also opt for a taxi, which is faster, more direct and relatively inexpensive in the country.
- Many of the sights to see in Galway are free because here nature or architecture are sufficient spectacles to arouse the admiration of the traveler. Even some monuments are freely accessible, such as the Cathedral or the Municipal Museum.
- Generally, life is very affordable in Galway but beware of seasonal increases all the same and book your accommodation in advance during the summer season.
- Remember to consult the climate forecast for the region to determine the best period for your visit. (for example we do not recommend the month of November with 26 days of rain on average)
Ruins in Connemara
The must-sees of Galway… What next?
S'il ya so much to do and see in Galway, it is above all because the city is an Irish city. Like the rest of the country, the region is full of exceptional natural sites, sublimated by a human presence as ancient as it is discreet. Traveling through Ireland, we become aware of all the power of this nature which thrives between mineral and vegetable and, often, we ask for more.
From the Giant's Causeway on the northern Antrim plateau to the wild peninsulas of Kerry, Ireland is a veritable kaleidoscope of the sumptuous manifestations of Nature. So do not hesitate to cross it from North to South, you will be amazed! Ireland is also a land rich in men and women, where strangers are always greeted with a fresh pint and a smile in city pubs. Spend a night in Dublin or Belfast and you will see how hospitality is a way of life here!
