From island-hopping adventures to exploring Ireland’s most-celebrated examples of both culinary prowess and culture, here are the five things locals love to do in Galway City.
Galway is one of Ireland’s most iconic counties. Nestled along the west coast of Ireland, Galway is forever portrayed as one of Ireland’s most bucket-list-worthy destinations.
Home to some of the world’s leading music and arts festivals and a nexus of cultural celebration, Galway is a must-visit when on the Emerald Isle.
Its endless examples of nature in full bloom is exhaustive, and those eager to dust off their hiking boots will not feel short-changed.
Whether you’re after sunset vistas or remote beaches, wild stretches where countryside meets coastline or stunning national parks, Galway is the place for you.
When in town, we want to make sure you’re making the most of your time, so here is our ultimate guide to the five things locals love to do in Galway City.
5. Indulge in Galway’s local culinary delights – delicious!
Galway city is renowned for its endless array of culinary delights. If a night on the town translates to a belly full of food, you’ve come to the right place.
A top-eat we suggest is Aniar Restaurant in Galway city. This fine-dining experience offers more than food; it is poetry on a plate. Expect your Instagram feed to become a lot more aesthetically pleasing after a visit to Aniar.
If you’re after a veggie or vegan feast, look no further than The Lighthouse Café – a Galway city staple. Intimate and atmospheric, this is the ideal place to indulge in quality cuisine or catch up with old friends.
Given its seaside setting, one of the five things locals love to do in Galway City is to indulge in its spectacular seafood.
McDonagh’s has been in the business since 1922. And, it is known to serve up some of the best fish and chips in the trade – you can thank us later.
4. Explore the Wild Atlantic Way – for awe-inspiring sights
The Wild Atlantic Way is a 2,500-kilometer tourist trail that traces the west coast of Ireland, from its most northerly tip, right down to the south.
Earmarked as an ultimate escapade on the Emerald Isle, exploring the Wild Atlantic Way is one of the five things locals love to do in Galway City.
While the route does not begin and end in the confines of the city, the trail passes straight through. This allows for ease of hopping on board and heading in either direction.
The Wild Atlantic Way makes for an excellent day trip when you’re visiting Galway City. Take a packed lunch, a camera, and some hiking boots, and you’re sure to make some memories that will last a lifetime.
Address: Upper Salthill Road, Salthill, Co. Galway, Ireland
3. Listen to some trad music – soak up Irish song
One of Galway’s most iconic characteristics is its love of ‘trad’ (slang for traditional Irish music). In fact, some of the best pub sessions can be found in this county.
Traditional Irish pubs are the staging grounds for such performances, and they exist in abundance. We suggest planning a little bar crawl through the city to maximise exposure to the ancient Irish art form.
Make sure to check out Tig Cóilí Pub in the Latin Quarter. This is one of the most coveted pubs on the Irish music scene. Intimate and family-run, Tig Cóilí offers some of the most authentic vibes you’re likely to experience, making it one of the top things to do in Galway.
Address: Mainguard St, The Latin Quarter, Galway, Ireland
2. Soak up the culture – including art, music, and cuisine
Galway city is known worldwide for its cultural prowess. It is the 2020 European Capital of Culture which means if it wasn’t on your bucket list already, now’s the time to add it in.
From music and art festivals, traditional Irish music to authentic cuisine, it is safe to say, Galway is a place like no other.
Whether you’re taking a weekend away on the remote and rural Aran Islands, or traipsing the city streets, culture is what defines Galway, and the locals love it.
1. Embrace adventure – get your blood pumping
Both Galway city and county offer an abundance of adventure. If you’re in the market for a walking tour which will share with you centuries of local history, or want to eat your way around the city, it is safe to say that Galway has it all.
Care to break off the trodden tracks? No problem! Not far from the city, nature is in full bloom and coastal walks, adventure centres, and outdoor activities reign supreme.
From scuba diving to kayaking, even the most ambitious adventurer will be challenged.
Needless to say that with so much on offer, embracing adventure is one of the five things locals love to do in Galway City.
