Galway

Colourful painted pubs, live music and events without end as well as bombastic seafood as far as the eye can see: Congratulations dear travel friends, you will find yourself in Galway! The port city in the west of Ireland, with a population of around 80,000, is considered the unofficial capital of the Irish West and is known throughout the country for its strong party mentality and cheerful nature. Recently "Gaillimh" - as the port city is called in the national language - was named European Capital of Culture in 2020 by the EU and offers a variety of events and festivals. For example, on the last weekend in September you can wash down tons of delicious oysters with a freshly tapped Guinness at the Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival or try a Galway Hooker Irish Pale Ale, a locally brewed beer that has only been produced here for about a decade. Nearly a fifth of Galway's population consists of students, so look forward to a young, friendly and cheerful crowd in the "City of the Tribes", where you can dance, play music and party at almost any time.

Our Highlights

Pubs, pubs and more pubs - Hardly a trip through Ireland is complete if you haven't indulged yourself at least once in the distinctive pub culture of the Irish. And there is probably no other city in the republic where you can experience the partying and drinking culture of the islanders as authentically and in such a metropolitan area as in Galway. Take your friends to Róisín Dubh, perhaps the best place in Galway to discover new bands or to watch amusing comedy performances. Or check out the quaint Tig Cóilí, which is the perfect place for live music, traditional dances like the céilí (spoken kay-lee) or spontaneous jam sessions.

Festivals & Events - If you are lucky enough to plan a trip to Galway for you and your friends at the end of September, a visit to the iconic Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival on the last weekend of the month is a must. Close to Nimmo's Pier, bizarre events such as the national and international oyster-opening championships, a big masked gala and numerous cooking demonstrations await you - eating the food included, of course. If you can't be there in September, there's no need to be sad: There is always something going on in Galway! At the end of March, for example, the "Galway Food Festival" takes place during the year, where all kinds of delicacies from all over the world can be eaten. From early to mid-July, young music and art lovers meet at the hip Galway International Arts Festival.

St Nicholas Collegiate Church - The largest medieval church in Ireland was completed in 1320. In 1477 a certain Christoph Columbus is said to have attended a fair here.

Eyre Square - This park, located near the main station, invites you to relax with its many green spaces, park benches and shady trees. There is also the Eyre Square Center, a shopping mall where you can get almost everything your heart desires.

Stroll through the West End - This district west of the Corrib River is often referred to by locals as the heart of Galway. It's probably the most popular and bustling area of the city where locals meet to eat, drink, dance and simply enjoy life to the fullest!

Cliffs of Moher & Aran Islands - Galway is not only an enchanting city but also the perfect starting point for a trip to some of Ireland's most fascinating outdoor attractions. About an hour's drive away from the lively festival city are the world famous Cliffs of Moher, which rise up to 200 metres out of the Atlantic Ocean. A natural spectacle that you should not miss. Busses transport you for about 20 € from Galway to the cliffs.

Also highly recommended is a day trip to the Aran Islands, a collection of small islands in the middle of Galway Bay, which until 1975 lived without television, radio and even without electricity. Although the islands are not directly accessible from Galway, they can be reached by ferry from Rossaveel, which is about 45 kilometres away. The costs of the ferry (including return) are approximately 25 € in total. By the way, all Aran Islands have some nice sand beaches. Thus, those who are brave enough can swim a few rounds through the cold North Atlantic if the weather is good.