Welcome to our guide on the best places to stay in Galway, Ireland! Galway is a vibrant and charming city located on the west coast of Ireland. Known for its lively atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty, Galway is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a budget-friendly hostel, Galway has plenty of options to suit every taste and budget. In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the top accommodation choices in Galway, ranging from the city center to the scenic countryside. So, let’s dive in and discover the best places to stay in Galway!
What area of Galway should I stay in?
The best place to stay in Galway is the **city centre**. The area surrounding **Eyre Square** boasts a great selection of hotels, as well as being just a few meters away from the city’s main thoroughfare and all of its colourful pubs and restaurants. Staying in this area allows you to easily explore the vibrant atmosphere of Galway and immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture.
In the city centre, you will find a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. From luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses, there is something for everyone. The convenience of staying in this area means that you can easily walk to many of Galway’s top attractions, such as the Spanish Arch, Galway Cathedral, and the Galway City Museum.
Moreover, Eyre Square is well-connected to transportation hubs, making it easy to explore other parts of Galway and beyond. The train and bus stations are located nearby, providing easy access to destinations like the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands.
Overall, staying in the city centre, particularly around Eyre Square, offers the perfect base for experiencing all that Galway has to offer. You will be surrounded by the city’s lively atmosphere, with an abundance of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options right on your doorstep. So, whether you’re visiting Galway for its renowned festivals, vibrant nightlife, or stunning natural beauty, staying in the city centre is the ideal choice.
Is it worth staying in Galway?
Galway is definitely worth staying in because it is considered the most beautiful city in Ireland. With its picturesque medieval city center, complete with charming cobbled streets and historic buildings, Galway offers a unique and enchanting experience. The city is known for its vibrant and lively atmosphere, with street music filling the air and creating a joyful ambiance. Visitors can wander through the bustling streets, explore the many shops, cafes, and restaurants, and immerse themselves in the local culture.
One of the highlights of Galway is its reputation as the festival capital of Ireland. Throughout the year, the city hosts a variety of exciting and diverse festivals, attracting both locals and tourists. From the famous Galway International Arts Festival, showcasing a range of artistic disciplines, to the lively Galway Oyster Festival, celebrating the region’s seafood delicacy, there is always something happening in Galway. These festivals offer a chance to experience the city’s vibrant energy and immerse oneself in its rich cultural heritage.
How many days in Galway are enough?
If you are planning a trip to Galway, three days is a good amount of time to fully experience and appreciate all that this vibrant city has to offer. Galway is known for its rich cultural heritage, lively atmosphere, and stunning natural landscapes. With three days, you can immerse yourself in the city’s unique blend of history, music, and arts.
Start your exploration of Galway by wandering through its charming streets, lined with colorful buildings and bustling shops. Make sure to visit the iconic Spanish Arch and Galway City Museum to learn about the city’s fascinating history. Don’t miss a stroll along the picturesque Salthill Promenade, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Galway Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
Galway is also renowned for its lively music scene and traditional Irish pubs. Spend an evening hopping from pub to pub, listening to live performances of traditional Irish music and enjoying a pint of Guinness. The city is also home to many fantastic restaurants, serving both traditional Irish cuisine and international dishes.
While Galway itself has plenty to offer, it would be a shame to miss out on the natural beauty that surrounds the city. With three days, you can take a day trip to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, located along the Wild Atlantic Way. Marvel at the rugged cliffs, which rise dramatically from the crashing waves below, and enjoy stunning views of the Aran Islands.
Another must-visit destination is Connemara, a region of unspoiled beauty characterized by its rugged mountains, shimmering lakes, and picturesque villages. Take a scenic drive through the stunning landscapes of Connemara, stopping to explore the charming village of Cong and the stunning Kylemore Abbey.
In conclusion, three days in Galway allow you to explore the culture-filled city, as well as the wind-whipped surrounding countryside—home to some of Ireland’s most spectacular natural beauty spots, including the Cliffs of Moher and Connemara’s hills, bogs, and rocky peaks.
Where do the locals go in Galway, Ireland?
Top places to visit in Galway City include the Collegiate Church of St. Nicholas in Galway, County Galway, Ireland. This historic church, dating back to medieval times, is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. Its impressive stone structure and beautiful stained glass windows create a serene atmosphere, perfect for quiet contemplation or attending a church service.
Another popular spot is Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop, located in the heart of Galway. This beloved bookstore is a treasure trove for book lovers, with shelves upon shelves of new and second-hand books. The cozy atmosphere and knowledgeable staff make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It’s the perfect place to get lost in a good book or find a unique souvenir to take home.
The Spanish Arch, located in the Claddagh neighborhood of Galway, is another iconic landmark. This historic structure was originally part of the city walls and served as a gateway to the city’s bustling port. Today, it offers beautiful views of the River Corrib and is a popular spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic by the water.
For those looking to enjoy some outdoor activities, Salthill is the place to go. This seaside suburb of Galway offers a stunning promenade with panoramic views of Galway Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can take a dip in the refreshing waters, relax on the sandy beaches, or enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic coastline. The Blackrock Diving platform at Salthill is also a popular attraction, where thrill-seekers can take a plunge into the ocean.
Is it worth staying in Galway?
Galway is unquestionably worth visiting! Much like Dublin, it’s an Irish city with a soul that just comes to life in its pubs and quaint squares. But Galway has a different vibe than other cities in Ireland. Galway is filled with cobblestone alleys and historic landmarks (echoes of its medieval past). Walking through the streets of Galway, you can’t help but feel a sense of history and charm. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and street performances. You can easily spend hours exploring the colorful streets, browsing through the unique shops, and soaking in the lively atmosphere.
One of the main attractions in Galway is the famous Galway City Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history and culture. From ancient artifacts to modern art exhibitions, the museum has something for everyone. Another must-visit spot is the Galway Cathedral, a stunning piece of architecture that is sure to leave you in awe. And of course, no visit to Galway would be complete without experiencing the lively pub scene. The city is renowned for its traditional Irish music, and you can find live performances in many of the local pubs. So grab a pint of Guinness, sit back, and enjoy the lively tunes that fill the air.
