Galway is home to some of the country’s best academic institutes and is bursting at the seams with culture, craic, and incredible scenery! So, here are our top five free activities in Galway that won’t break the grant.
This year marks our first academic year free from covid restrictions since 2019. Normality has returned to our campuses, and students are once again enjoying Galway’s renowned nightlife and music scene.
However, with the cost of living increasing, students may be feeling the financial strain of college life more than ever before.
So, whether you’re at that side of the month when pesto and pasta is your best friend or seeking a distraction from the mounting assignments, there are plenty of free activities in Galway, and we’ve ranked the top five.
5. Kick the wall at the end of Salthill Prom − it doesn’t cost a penny
Starting from one of Galway’s most notable and historical landmarks, the Spanish Arch is one of Galway’s most scenic routes towards Salthill.
For some fantastic views, stop along the way at the Claddagh Viewpoint overlooking the Long Walk, dotted with picturesque and colourful houses, old boats, swans, and sometimes even Dolphins.
Salthill Promenade boasts a stunning 2 km (1.2 miles) walk by the sea that ends at Blackrock Point, where you can watch Galway’s bravest divers and “kick the wall” for good luck in your upcoming exams! Visiting Salthill Promenade is surely one of the best things to do in Galway.
Address: Unnamed Road, Co. Galway, Ireland
4. Go to a free gig or trad session − Galway is full of them
Galway has a long-standing tradition of hosting a bustling and brilliant music scene, with free music to be found seven days a week.
Tigh Coili at the bottom of Shop Street is one of Galway’s most popular spots for free, world-class trad, starting from 6.30 pm every evening.
Busking is quintessential to Galway, with free gigs on Quay Street every week. To keep in the loop about these, you can follow Galway bands like Money4cans on Instagram @money4cans.
The Ol’55 Bar on Prospect Hill is one of Galway’s most eclectic bars, popular with students and musicians alike. Free gigs can be found here most nights of the week, showcasing the city’s most talented and promising musicians.
Tigh Neachtain is a pub of poetry, culture, and free gigs every Sunday from 9 pm. If you fancy getting involved yourself, there’s also an open mic night every Sunday from 9 pm in the Rosin Dubh.
3. Go to an art gallery − excellent free exhibitions
There are plenty of free activities in Galway and even more free culture to be enjoyed around the city.
Take a trip to the bright and refreshing Outset Gallery to see some inspiring contemporary Irish art.
You can also visit Galway’s 126 Artist-run Gallery to see interesting exhibitions and installations.
Both galleries host free exhibitions with refreshments and exciting guest speakers, so make sure to keep an eye on their socials. This is one of the best things to do in Galway on a rainy day.
2. Bring a friend for free at the Pálás Cinema − it’s free on Mondays
The Pálás Cinema is one of Galway city’s proudest establishments. An Irish-designed arthouse cinema, it showcases films as curated as the building’s decorative interior. Plus, you can bring a friend for free every Monday!
Why not take turns with your friends every week and see a free blockbuster or a screening of one of the cinema’s themed seasons running throughout the year?
The cinema offers a student rate for all tickets, too, making the Pálás a great place for some affordable entertainment in the city.
Address: Pálás, 15 Merchants Rd Lower, Galway, H91 F6DF
1. Browse the city’s quirky vintage stores and weekly markets − so many to choose from
Trying on vintage garments, costume pieces, and eccentric accessories doesn’t cost a thing. So, get yourself down to Planet Retro, a vintage clothing store stocked with costumes, the coolest vintage wears, fun festival pieces, hats and even more.
The store is run by helpful and cheerful staff, plays the best music, and has magical murals on the walls, making it the perfect place to get lost in dressing up, taking pictures, and catching up with friends.
To check out some reworked pieces and handmade accessories, you can also visit Public Romance Vintage. The Galway market runs every Saturday and Sunday and is one of the best free activities in Galway.
The market has something for everyone and is a great way to spend a few hours strolling Galway’s side streets and discovering the best crafts the city has to offer. This is one of the most unique things to do in the city.
Article by Súan Hanafey
