48 Hours in Galway
We share some of the best things to see and do in this thriving medieval city by the sea
Located on the western coast of Ireland, at the halfway point on the Wild Atlantic Way, Galway is a cosmopolitan seaside city worthy of a long, leisurely visit. But if you have only two days to explore this historic and vibrant city, here’s how to experience the best of Galway with traditional Irish offerings, local live music, breathtaking coastlines and an almost unmarred way of life.
How to get to Galway
If you are traveling from a major city in the US, Dublin is your best bet for a direct flight. Once you arrive in Ireland’s capital, grab a taxi or save a few euros with the DublinExpress, and then head to Heuston Station to jump on a train to the Galway (Ceannt) stop. Depending on the time of the year and how far in advance you book your ticket, prices will range from 15 to 30 euro for round-trip fare (as of publication time). For easy ticket purchases and route maps, consider the IrishRail website.
Where to stay in Galway
Ireland, and Galway specifically, present wonderful opportunities to skip typical hotels and stay in charming bed-and-breakfasts and guesthouses. Not only do visitors get to experience the rustic charm of the Irish countryside but they also get direct access to recommendations from friendly locals (and many times over a traditional Irish breakfast with smoked salmon and farm-fresh eggs). Balcony House on College Road and Sli Na Mara in Salthill offer a comfortable stay and convenient access into the city center.
What to see and do in Galway
The best way to see Galway is on foot, which is ideal for whirlwind travels. This compact city’s pedestrian-only streets and hidden cobblestone alleys prove that renting a car simply isn’t necessary. There are many unique parts of town to hit up, but most shops, museums, restaurants, and cafes can be found on lively Quay Street—the place to shop—and nearby Shantalla, The Docks, or Salthill. Salthill may be a little outside the city center, but its ocean views, sandy beaches and promenade walk make it worth the extra effort.
To take in even more nature, both untamed and manicured, from Galway’s peninsula, book a tour through the scenic Wild Atlantic Way into Connemara National Park. It is here where you’ll also find Kylemore Abbey, a 1,000-plus-acre estate known for its gardens, resident horses, and walking paths.
Other top attractions include the Galway City Museum, which explores the archaeology, history and culture of the city; Eyre Square (officially John F. Kennedy Memorial Park), a popular grassy gathering spot for visitors and locals alike; and the beautiful stone-clad Galway Cathedral on the banks of the River Corrib.
What to eat and drink in Galway
Lunch and dinner are best spent in the Latin Quarter with its abundance of patios and crave-worthy seafood options. Everything is locally caught from the Atlantic, seasonal, and, most importantly, delicious.
A highlight is the fresh catch of the day at Kirwans Seafood or locally sourced fish dishes from Gemelle’s, where an extensive wine list and homemade sauces, relishes and breads complement your meal. After dinner, take in live music from one of the many gin bars or pubs on High Street, including The King’s Head. This establishment has been wining and dining guests in an authentic medieval building since 1649.
Craving a bit of authenticity and Galway gastronomical history? O’Connell’s Bar in Eyre Square has held the locals’ heart for more than 150 years. Grab a pint of Guinness or a shot of whiskey, pin a dollar to the bar (a tradition), and then gravitate towards the walls, as this popular pub tends to become standing room only on the weekends.
The best souvenirs to buy in Galway
If you’re looking for your own piece of Ireland to take home, Galway is famous for the Claddagh ring and of course Irish wool both have roots in Galway. The Claddagh ring originated in the local fishing village of Claddagh and has been produced in Galway since 1700. You’ll also find quintessential Irish wool clothing here, too. The Aran Sweater Market, direct from the neighboring Aran islands, has been creating and selling authentic Irish wool products since 1892 right on Quay Street, paying homage to the ancient craft of weaving and hand-knitting.Galway is the perfect way
With so much to see, eat, and do, this itinerary is just a small sampling of the many hidden wonders of Galway. After all, the highlight of the City of Tribes—once led by 14 merchant families—is its people, who are always happy to share their favorite places and spread a bit of that old Irish luck.