All about Galway
Galway or City of Galway (Cathair na Gaillimhe) with of a population of approximately 75,000, is the fifth largest and the fastest-growing city in Ireland. Located on the west coast of Ireland, it sits on the River Corrib between Lough Corrib and Galway Bay.
A medieval town with hidden gems among its winding streets, Galway city is a treasure trove of great bars, fine restaurants, quirky vintage stores and tiny bookshops. Take your taste buds on an adventure at the market by Church Lane, chat to the locals or learn about Galway's history in the City Museum, located just behind the famous Spanish Arch.
Galway's thriving creative culture is evident in annual festivals like the Cúirt Festival of Literature, the Oyster Festival, the Film Festival and of course the Galway Arts Festival in July. This 12-day surge of creativity and uniquely Irish madness attracts musicians, artists, writers and performers of all trades.
The summer festivities continue at the Galway Races. This vibrant and lavish event brings out flamboyance and fun, especially at the famous Ladies’ Day competition.
Enjoy strolling the medieval streets, relaxing in Eyre Square or visit many of the blue flag beaches at Salthill and Silver strand, both only a few minutes from the city centre.
Outside the city, the awe-inspiring Twelve Bens mountains overlook Connemara, a region that is home to a national park, Irish-speaking Gaeltachts, stately homes transformed into welcoming hotels, spectacular beaches and cozy coastal villages like Roundstone and Ballyconneely. While in Connemara you should try to fit in a visit to Inishbofin or the Aran Islands. Wherever you choose, you’ll find a warm welcome, great food and inviting pubs.
The impressive Kylemore Abbey and Gardens are also worth a visit, close to Diamond Hill in the Connemara National Park, or you can go underground and explore the marble chambers at the Glengowla silver and lead mines, preserved as a monument to Ireland's industrial heritage. Meanwhile along the coast, picturesque Spiddal, Roundstone and Clifden are must-see destinations, particularly in late summer, when horse racing on the beach at Omey Island and the Clifden Regatta make for unforgettable family holidays.
And if it’s activities you’re after, you’ll have a plethora to choose from. Take your pick from hiking, biking, horse riding, swimming, sailing, diving, golf, deep-sea fishing or dolphin watching, to name but a few.
