Visiting Galway?
With the large number of tourists who visit Galway every year, we thought it would be helpful to provide a brief guide to the city. We've provided a list of "must sees" in and around Galway, including some more "off the beaten path" places the big tourism sites may not include. Also see our list of suggested rainy day activities (we do get a bit of it here!). As always, if we can be of any assistance to you as you plan your holiday here in Galway, or if we can help in any way once you arrive, please give us a ring or send us an email. If you are here on a Sunday, you are very welcome to join us for worship and fellowship. We hope you enjoy your time in our marvelous city...Galway: Ireland's Cultural Heart!
Galway City's "Must Sees"
- St. Nicholas' Church -- Founded in 1320; visited by Christopher Columbus. This was once the central structure in mediaeval Galway.
- Hall of the Red Earl -- Remnants of the earliest surviving settlement structure within the medieval walls of Galway, it is one of the city's most significant archaeological landmarks.
- Salthill Prom / Blackrock Diving Board -- Iconic walkway along Galway Bay; take a plunge into the brisk waters of of the Bay from one of the spring boards or platforms.
- Spanish Arch -- Originally an extension of the town wall constructed in 1584. The arches were partially destroyed by the tsunami generated by the 1755 Lisbon Earthquake.
- Galway Cathedral -- One of the largest and most impressive buildings in the city. Construction began in 1958 on the site of the old city jail.
- Shop Street -- Get a flavour of what gives Galway City its unique, ecclectic character. Buskers and street performers of all sorts line this pedestrianised street filled with great shops, restaurants, and cafés.
- Galway Market -- Galway's famous bustling market has been trading in Church lane by St Nicholas' Church in the centre of the city for literally centuries. You will find dozens of stalls selling fresh produce and locally produced artisan crafts. A great variety of wholesome food is also available. The market is open Saturdays and Bank Holidays from 8.00am to 6.00pm, and Sundays 2.00pm to 6.00pm.
Out from Galway City
- Connemara -- One of the most unspoiled regions of Ireland, this area of western County Galway is the site of breathtaking scenery and rugged beauty.
- The Aran Islands -- A group of three small islands at the mouth of Galway Bay where Irish is still the first spoken and written form of communication. Take a ferry out to one, two, or all three of these little gems for a glimpse into what rural Irish life used to be.
- Clonmacnoise -- Founded circa A.D. 545, it was a major centre of religion, learning, craftsmanship and trade by the 9th century; visited by ancient scholars from all over Europe. Many of the high kings of Tara and Connacht were buried here.
- The Cliffs of Moher -- Rising 120 metres (390 feet) above the Atlantic Ocean, and with a maximum height of 214 metres (702 feet), these oft-photographed cliffs rank as one of the most visited sites in all of Ireland. Home to a plethora of wildlife. On a clear day from high atop O'Brien's tower, visitors can view the Aran Islands and Galway Bay, the Maum Turk Mountains and the Twelve Pins to the north in Connemara, and Loop Head to the south.
Rainy Day Activities
- Galway City Museum -- An impressive collection of exhibits relating to the history and heritage of Galway City. Best of all...admission is FREE!
- Galway Atlantaquaria -- The National Aquarium of Ireland, a fun place for kids and interesting for adults as well. Local species of rays, sharks, cuttlefish, octopus, and more are featured.