Galway city is unarguably one of Ireland’s most well-rounded spots – it boasts an idyllic seaside location, an abundance of renowned restaurants, and a welcoming vibe that will make any visitor feel at home.
Thanks to local colleges NUIG and GMIT, Galway is also one of the hottest spots in the country for a student night out.
Whether it’s cocktails, live music or a buzzing nightclub you and your college pals are after, Galway has certainly got you covered. Here we talk about the 5 best student nights out in Galway City.
5. McGettigan’s
McGettigan’s has a prime location just off the famous Eyre Square and is just moments from the atmospheric Shop Street.
McGettigan’s is a popular choice for students and is especially attractive for the sports fanatics in any friends group.
McGettigan’s is well reputed for their multiple sports screens and cover a varied number of sporting events, from GAA matches to the latest World Cup fixtures. Sports coverage isn’t the only attraction that causes students to flock here – their amazing cocktail deals are ideal for a student budget!
Their “5 O’Clocktail” nights are the perfect start to a student night out, with a range of their delicious cocktails on offer for just €5 each between the hours of 5 pm and 10 pm every Thursday and Friday.
Many a student has gone for “one cheeky cocktail” after a particularly strenuous day of lectures and found themselves still there and sipping on a Sex on the Beach at 10 pm.
McGettigan’s is open on weekdays until 11:30 pm and until 12:30 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, so make like a native Galway student and kick off your night here before hitting one of the nightclubs as the night unfolds!
Address: McGettigan’s, 9-11 Prospect Hill, Eyre Square, Galway
4. The Skeff Bar
The Skeff is located in Eyre Square, Galway city’s beating heart, and has been the host of many a memorable student night out.
The Skeff is a late bar which entertains students each night of the week – live music acts and a resident DJ provide the background music to your night until 2 am Monday right through to Sunday.
The Skeff is one of the city’s greatest venues for special occasions such as 21st birthday parties, thus there is a lively crowd most night in the Skeff.
The Skeff is certainly one of Galway’s most diverse haunts for a student night out – they boast a cocktail bar, a whiskey cellar and plenty of sports screens – there truly is something to please even the fussiest student well into the early hours of the morning.
Address: The Skeff Bar, Eyre Square, Galway
3. An Pucan
An Pucan has already appeared on our countdown of bars for a date in Galway city, but it is also a firm favourite amongst Galway students – and it is simple to see why.
Friendly staff who are experts at pouring the perfect pint or creating wonderful cocktails, a fabulous outdoor area, and a mix of live music and DJ’s have cemented a night in An Pucan as one of the best student nights in Galway.
In the warmer months in particular, students will ensure An Pucan is a regular watering hole – they will start the night with a cocktail jug to share outdoors in the sun and will stay soaking in the vibes and enjoying the entertainment and banter from other patrons until the bar closes its doors at 2 am.
Address: 11 Forster St, Galway, Ireland
2. DNA
First opening its doors in 2017, the relatively new nightclub has already emerged as a superb student night out.
DNA is a large, beautifully decorated nightclub that has 4 bars spread across an impressive three levels. Glowing lights and intricate design gives DNA a cosmopolitan feel right in the heart of Galway.
Open until late Wednesday through to Sunday, DNA always provides a night of craic with plenty of stories to tell in the morning. DNA take bookings for events so keep an eye on their website to call ahead and book a table to make the most of your student night out!
Address: DNA, Ball Alley Lane, Galway
1. Carbon
Ask any Galway student where they are heading for the night and there’s a high chance they will answer with one simple word – Carbon.
The hot spot to be for any student, Carbon specialises in EDM music and has hosted several huge DJ’S since the club burst on to the scene in 2011.
Music aside, generous drink deals are a sure attraction for the broke students of Galway. Feeling the heat? Cool down with a vodka slushie for just €4. More Summer deals include €3 shots and even €3 bottles – so dangerous but so, so worth it.
Carbon is open until 2 am on weekdays and until 2:30 am on Friday and Saturday nights -if you are a student with just one night to spend in Galway make sure Carbon is at the head of your to-do list. Trust us, you won’t regret it!
Address: Carbon, 19-21 Eglinton Street, Galway
