A trip to the vibrant City of Tribes would not be complete without a visit to these ten best bars in Galway for live music and good craic.
When anyone wants to experience outstanding traditional music, eat good pub grub and immerse themselves in Irish culture, they head to Galway.
Plus, if they’re going to add good craic into the mix, they head to these ten pubs. Galway is packed full of epic pubs which offer it all.
So, let’s take a look at the best bars in Galway for live music and good craic.
10. The Quays Bar – renowned for live music and pub grub
This music bar, which is one of the best bars in Galway, is consistently winning awards for its epic atmosphere, so you need to look no further if you are searching for trad music sessions, gigs and great craic.
Grab some pub grub and a pint and marvel at the unique interior of this popular music spot.
Address: Quay Ln, Galway
9. Taylors Bar & Beer Garden – for live music in a dog-friendly pub
Located on Dominick Street, you will come across this fantastic live music bar, guaranteeing a good time in the city.
Home to one of the best beer gardens in the country, live music every night of the week, and extensive history to be discovered, this dog-friendly pub is ideal for any occasion.
Address: Westend, 7 Dominick St Upper, Galway, H91 RP48
8. Seven Bridgestreet – for music, good craic and delicious cocktails
This late bar in the heart of the Latin Quarter is a must for a great night out in Galway, with an extensive drinks menu, superb food and a host of ever-changing line-up events to ensure you always have something to look forward to.
Don’t miss the chance to see the 18-piece Black Magic Big Band on a Monday night at Seven Bridgestreet.
Address: 5-7 Bridge St, Galway, H91 A588
7. An Púcán – an award-winning bar for any occasion
This award-winning bar is a big name in Galway City, and anyone looking for a warm and welcoming west of Ireland experience can find it here, as well as one of the best beer gardens in Galway!
You can expect live music seven nights a week, great food, an abundance of craft beer options, and a beer garden for those sunny Galway afternoons, making it one of the best bars in Galway for live music and good craic.
Address: 11 Forster Street, Galway, H91 P65D
6. Monroe’s Tavern – the one that has it all
This bar has so much going on that you’ll never be too far from a live music event, with something happening almost every night here. It’s also one of the main Irish language pubs in the city.
Suppose you fancy tapping your feet to traditional Irish music or joining an Irish dancing set; this is the place to go.
It is also behind Monroes Live – a music venue, Monroes Backstage – for up-and-coming artists, and Monroes Club nights – for electronic music, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
Address: 14 Dominick St Upper, Galway, H91 WD2H
5. Garavans Bar – a pub with character and a great pint
This bar is the place to find musicians playing away throughout the day, but stay for a live music session because this is an experience you’ll want to have.
Initially, it was a Spirit grocery set up in 1937. This establishment has many stories behind it and a character to be enjoyed, so grab a beer and get cosy at Garavans.
Address: 46 William St, Galway, H91 RX54
4. The Crane Bar – a fantastic pub ticked away in the west end
Located in the city’s west end, this old pub is known to be one of the best bars in Galway for live music, so a visit here can’t be overlooked.
This reputable traditional Irish pub has a lower level loved by locals, while the upper level is dedicated to live music sessions every night at 9 30 pm.
Address: 2 Sea Rd, Galway, H91 YP97
3. Tigh Neachtain – the creative heart of Galway pubs
This wood-clad pub is the definition of cosy, with open fires to chill next to while taking in the atmosphere of this innovative bar, which attracts all those who love to be inspired by the folk music that fills the air.
There is live music throughout the week, so you will never miss your chance to enjoy a night at Tigh Neachtain, if you are interested in the best traditional Irish folk bands.
Address: 17 Cross Street Upper, Galway, H91 F9F7
2. Taaffes Bar – one of the best bars in Galway for live music
Renowned by locals and visitors for its almighty craic and regular live music sessions, Taaffes is a traditional Irish pub that was sure to make this list.
Here, at this 150-year-old pub located on Shop Street, you will find pub grub, a great pint of the black stuff, and vibrant and energetic trad sessions to get you in the Irish spirit.
Address: 19 Shop St, Galway
1. Tigh Coili – the home of trad music in Galway
One of the best places in Galway for live music and good craic has to be the famous traditional spot, the Tigh Coili Pub, which is in Galway’s bustling Latin Quarter.
This traditional Irish pub draws in the crowds who want to experience an authentic Irish traditional music session, a decent pint or two, and craic at its best. Catch their music sessions twice a day all year round.
Address: The Latin Quarter, Mainguard Street, Galway
Notable mentions
The Cellar: One of the hottest spots for live music on the weekends with top-class acts.
The Kings Head: The Kings Head is so great for delicious food and live music every night.
The Front Door: An ideal weekend spot for a lively atmosphere and pumping music.
Club Aras na nGael: This renowned music spot is the hub for Irish language speakers and is a gem to discover in the city.
Róisín Dubh: This fantastic pub in Galway’s West End has been host to the likes of Christy Moore.
FAQs about the best bars in Galway for live music
What are the best traditional pubs in Galway?
So, Tigh Ceoli, Tigh Neachtain and The Crane Bar are some of the best traditional pubs in Galway.
What are the best bars in Galway for people-watching and pints?
The Kings Head and The Quays Bar are always full of people and craic, thus, great for people watching and pints.
Does Galway have good nightlife?
Galway is renowned for its great nightlife, with plenty of traditional pubs, late bars, and nightclubs.
What can you do in Galway when it’s raining?
Heading on a pub crawl in Galway’s best bars is an easy choice when it’s raining. For more, check out our article on the best rainy-day activities in Galway.
