Galway

Galway county has a rich culture of literature, music and art. Creativity is part of the lives of Galway natives, and it is this feature of life in Galway that attracts visitors to the city from all over the world to celebrate the many events that Galway hosts throughout the year including the famous Galway Races, Galway International Arts Festival, Galway International Oyster Festival and the Macnas Halloween parade.

Galway city is in near distance from some of Ireland’s most exciting attractions such as the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, the Aran Islands and the wild beauty of Connemara.

Galway itself was once a small fishing village that grew in strength in the 13th century to become a prosperous walled town ruled by 14 merchant families, known as the Tribes of Galway. The old city walls are now incorporated into a modern shopping centre at Eyre Square, Kirwan’s Lane thrums with a bustling atmosphere and St Nicholas’s Church, completed in 1320, is where Christopher Columbus is said to have worshipped in 1477.

With its location right on the Atlantic Ocean, Galway has an intimate relationship with the sea. Nowhere is this more apparent than at the little seaside suburb of Salthill. Here, locals take to the 2km-long promenade for seaside strolls, and even a swim if you’re feeling brave!

Galway’s got one of the liveliest pub scenes on the island. Step inside the warm wooden nooks and crannies of Tigh Neachtain’s on Cross Street or  Murphy’s and Garavan’s.

Galway is one of the best places to visit for traditional music. It is a city that lives and breathes music, from the buzzing street buskers to the endless trad sessions all over town. Step inside a traditional music pub, and you’re guaranteed an unforgettable night. Check out great trad sessions in pubs such as Taaffes, The Crane Bar, Tigh Cóilí and An Púcán.

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