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Things To Do |
Where To Stay |
Typical Costs |
How To Get Around |
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FAQ
Key Takeaways About Visiting Galway
Galway is compact and walkable. Most major attractions are within 15 minutes on foot.
The best months to visit are May to September for festivals and mild weather, with average summer highs around 18 to 20 degrees Celsius.
Plan day trips to the Cliffs of Moher and Connemara National Park for unforgettable landscapes.
Budget travelers can manage €70 to €110 per day. Mid-range comfort averages €150 to €250 per day.
Best Things To Do In Galway, Ireland
Explore Eyre Square
Located in the heart of Galway, Eyre Square is your starting point. I remember sitting here with a takeaway coffee, listening to street musicians while watching locals rush past. It feels like the city’s living room.
Stroll Through the Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter is Galway’s colorful soul. Expect cobbled lanes, artisan shops, and live traditional music almost every evening. The energy here after 7 pm is electric yet intimate.
Visit Galway Cathedral
Galway Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St. Nicholas, opened in 1965 and is one of Europe’s youngest stone cathedrals. Entry is free; donations are welcome.
Walk the Salthill Promenade
This seaside promenade stretches about 2 km along Galway Bay. Locals say you must kick the wall at the end for good luck. I did it and instantly understood why people fall in love with Galway’s coast.
Day Trip to the Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher rise 214 meters above the Atlantic and attract over one million visitors annually. Tours start around €45 per person.
Book via:
GetYourGuide |
TripAdvisor
Discover Connemara National Park
Connemara offers wild boglands, mountains, and scenic drives. Hiking Diamond Hill provides panoramic views across the Atlantic.
Where To Stay In Galway
Luxury Hotels
Expect prices from €250 per night in peak season.
Book through:
Booking.com |
Expedia |
Hotels.com
Mid-Range Accommodation
Guesthouses and boutique hotels cost between €120 and €200 per night.
Budget Options
Hostels from €30 per dorm bed. Private Airbnb or Vrbo apartments from €90 per night.
Typical Costs and Suggested Budget
Coffee: €3.50 to €4.50
Pub meal: €18 to €25
Bus ticket within city: around €2.40
Guided day tour: €45 to €70
Money Saving Tips
- Book accommodation at least 2 months in advance for summer.
- Use public buses instead of taxis.
- Choose lunch specials in pubs for better value.
How To Get To Galway and Get Around
Getting There
Most visitors fly into Dublin Airport and take a direct bus to Galway, about 2.5 hours. Tickets average €15 to €20.
Getting Around
Galway City is highly walkable. For nearby areas, local buses and rental cars are available. If exploring Connemara, I recommend renting a car for flexibility.
How To Stay Safe In Galway
Emergency number in Ireland: 112 or 999
Galway University Hospital: +353 91 524222
Galway is generally very safe. As I experienced personally, late nights in the Latin Quarter feel lively but not threatening. Still, avoid poorly lit alleys after midnight and keep valuables secure.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Galway
Pros
- Rich live music scene
- Friendly locals
- Stunning coastal scenery
- Excellent base for western Ireland exploration
Cons
- Unpredictable weather
- Higher prices in summer
- Limited nightlife variety beyond pubs
Frequently Asked Questions About Galway
How many days do you need in Galway?
Two to three days is ideal. One day for the city, one for the Cliffs of Moher, and another for Connemara.
Is Galway expensive for tourists?
It can be mid range expensive, especially in summer. Budget travelers can manage with hostels and public transport.
When is the best time to visit Galway?
May through September for festivals like the Galway International Arts Festival in July.
Is Galway safe at night?
Yes, generally safe. Stay in busy areas and use licensed taxis if needed.
Final Personal Insight
Galway surprised me. It is not just about scenic cliffs. It is about conversations with musicians, sea breeze on Salthill, and spontaneous laughter inside small pubs. If you value culture over crowds, Galway delivers an authentic Irish experience that feels intimate yet globally welcoming.
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