Galway Tourist Information and Tourism

(Galway, County Galway, Republic of Ireland)



Cityscape imageSet in County Galway on the Republic of Ireland's west coast, Galway is one of the fastest-growing cities in Ireland as a whole. Famous for its culture, vibrant lifestyle, traditional music and numerous celebrations, festivals and other events, Galway city has been a tourism magnet for many years.

Visitors arrive from across Europe, either on holiday or for a long weekend, to sample everything from the annual Arts Festival, the Galway Races and the county's varied architectural gems, to the glorious Irish countryside and seacoast. Local facilities are excellent, with a great choice of accommodation, entertainment, restaurants, traditional music pubs and things to see and do, both in and outside the city. Of note to visitors, the Galway Tourist Information Office can be found on Gentian Hill, close to the Salthill Caravan Park.





Picture of Eyre Square

Galway Tourist Information and Tourism: Top Sights

Galway exhibits an eclectic collection of tourist attractions, with the city's medieval remains contrasting greatly with its more modern appearance of today. A sizable student population injects a certain youthful energy into the city and after hours, the nightlife scene is well developed. By day, sightseers will be treated to attractions such as the Dunguaire Castle, Lynch's Castle and the ancient Spanish Arch, which is a remnant of the city's former defences and stands next to the Long Walk promenade. Galway Cathedral is one sight that will certainly grab your attention, while it is likely that you will spend time hanging out at Eyre Square, since this plaza forms the very heart of the city and is the perfect place to enjoy a coffee or a pint of real Irish ale. More information about Galway Tourist Attractions.

Further photo taken in Eyre SquareThe most noteworthy landmarks of the city are often created by nature, with Galway Bay being one of the most scenic and integral to local life. Just across from the bay are the three Aran Islands, which are connected by regular passenger ferries and worthy of a visit. In Galway, tourists should look out for the 16th-century Thoor Ballylee (Yeat's Tower), where Ireland's much-loved poet WB Yeats once lived and worked. Be sure to take a walk along the narrow Kirwan's Lane and soak up the medieval atmosphere, and then perhaps take a drive next-door, to the town of Athenry, where a well-preserved 13th-century castle awaits, together with an 18-hole championship golf course (Athenry Golf Club). More information about Galway Landmarks and Monuments.

Shopping photo taken in the city centreSeveral very decent museums reside in Galway, offering information about the city's history, arts scene and past industries. The Galway City Museum is amongst the best and was founded as recently as July 2006, and is easy to find, standing right next to the Spanish Arch. Another cultural highlight in the city is the Irish Crystal Heritage Centre at Merlin Park, where quality souvenirs are available. If you prefer paintings to crystal, then save time to visit the city's Arts Centre on Dominick Street, next to the Nuns Island Theatre, where you will discover the works of artists from all over Ireland. More information about Galway Museums and Art Galleries

Arts Festival image photographed during the summer monthsThe city of Galway provides an ideal spot to base yourself if you are planning to tour the western side of the Republic of Ireland. Various day trips are possible, and the list of choices is almost endless. The most visited include the rock formations of the Barren, the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, the stronghold of Aughnanure Castle, the estate woodlands and farmland making up the Rinville Forest Park (near Oranmore), the charming town of Tuam, and the stately 17th-century Portumna Castle. Excursions to Connemara are also extremely popular, with this peninsula boasting picture-postcard scenery and some interesting towns, such as Ballyconneely, Carraroe, Claddaghduff, Cleggan, Clifden, Rosmuc and Roundstone. More information about Galway Attractions Nearby.

Waterfront view

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