Galway is a very vibrant city with an endless supply of things to do, no matter what sort of visit you’re having. Spend all weekend in the pub, or amongst the rolling hills. Gain some culture, or some nature. Make friends or get some much-needed alone time. There’s something for everyone here in Galway. Take a look at our top picks for things to do below.
1. Visit the Galway City Museum
There is lots to do around the city, with everything from pubs and restaurants to the Royal Panda Ireland right outside the doors to the museum.
The centrepiece of the city centre, Galway City Museum is your authority on everything Galway. The modern building is filled with collections of prehistoric and medieval items of Galway history as well as interesting aspects of Galway’s social history. Explore the 1798 revolution or learn about the myths and legends of Galway. Learn about the science of the sea or ask about The Galway Hooker.
2. Browse the market
The famous Galway weekend market is the perfect place to find a cheery, happy-go-lucky environment to shop in. A friendly face is always available to offer you cheese, charcuterie, curries, and sushi. Held under the shadow of St Nicholas’ Medieval Church, loads of colourful stalls offer even more incredible flavours. Grab a few supplies and head on the road to have a picnic. Keep a look out for McCambridge’s, Griffin’s Bakery or Sheridan’s Cheesemongers for picnic essentials.
3. Roam the Salthill Promenade
The Salthill Promenade’s location on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean makes it a much-loved spot for some horizon gazing. Galway’s intimate relationship with the sea is due to the Salthill Promenade and can be seen in everything Galway does, from its love of seafood to its history showcased in the Galway City Museum.
Take that picnic from the market and stroll the 2km-long promenade made up of clear waters and silver fine sand. There is a tradition that you must kick the wall at the end of the promenade to bring good fortune, so it might even be advantageous to visit.
Once you’ve seen the Salthill Promenade, you can take a road trip into the stunning views around Galway. Hike around the Cliffs of Moher, roam the Burren or island hop across the Aran Islands and witness the beauty they each have to offer.
4. Enjoy a festival
Whether it’s rain or shine, summer, or winter, you can bet there’ll be some event bringing everyone together in Galway.
The Galway International Arts Festival showcases the best of Irish and international art, exhibiting them in Galway. Recent highlights include Mirror Pavilion by John Gerrard, Medicine by Enda Walsh starring Domhnall Gleeson, the Heineken Big Top and the city centre Festival Gallery. The 45th annual Galway International Arts Festival will take place July 11 to 24 2022.
The Galway Film Fleadh is in its 33rd tour this year, showcasing the brilliance of Irish cinema. Over another week-long festival, there will be outdoor screenings, talks and awards in this star-studded Oscar-qualifying festival. Watch old favourites like Spirited Away or indulge in the Irish cinema of Death of a Ladies’ Man with Gabriel Byrne, Jessica Pare and Brian Gleeson, and of course featuring the music of Leonard Cohen.
If none of those interest you, perhaps you’ll be swayed by the glamour of the Galway International Oyster Festival. Held in September, you can enjoy live music, a buffet dinner, wine, and all the oysters you can carry.
Enjoy the Mardi Gras themed events with a mysterious mask or watch the live oyster opening competitions, all with a glass in one hand and an oyster in the other.
