Self-guided City Tour of Galway, Ireland

Welcome to Galway City

Galway City is Ireland's fourth-largest city, but has the atmosphere of a small town. Many of the city's narrow streets, buildings and landmarks are remnants of its medieval roots, and give the city a uniquely historic feel. Known as the "City of Tribes" as it was once ruled by 14 merchant families, or tribes, that heavily influenced the region between the 13th and 19th centuries. Today, Galway is known for its festive and friendly atmosphere, as well as the laid-back and Bohemian outlook of its locals. Millions of people visit Galway City every year, and it is particularly busy during the summer months, when its famous festival season is underway.

A walking tour of Galway City, Ireland

Eyre Square

Eyre Square is a public park located in the heart of Galway City. As the park is surrounded by numerous shops, restaurants, cafés, pubs, and public transport links, it also acts as a central hub for tourists and locals alike. In 2006, the western edge of the park was paved in stone to give the area more accessibility to pedestrians. Street furniture was also added to this area, making it the ideal spot to sit and have a quick lunch, if the weather permits. Other notable landmarks of Eyre Square include the Galway Hooker Statue — a copper-coloured depiction of the sails of the renowned Galway Hooker boats — and a monument dedicated to John F. Kennedy who the park is officially named (John F. Kennedy Memorial Park), after his visit to Galway in the summer of 1963, just a few months before his assassination.

Galway Cathedral

A 10-minute walk, heading west from Eyre Square and across the Salmon Weir Bridge, will bring you to Galway Cathedral. A relatively new cathedral, having been built in 1965, it was developed to replace St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church as Galway's primary place of Catholic worship. Its architecture is strikingly modern, with stunning stain-glass windows, gleaming Connemara marble flooring and American timber. It's also quite literally massive — for church services, it is said to be able to seat 1500 people. Given its size and intricate detail, you could spend hours investigating here, but 30 to 40 minutes should be time enough to take it all in. Galway Cathedral is free to enter, although you will be asked to make a donation on the way in.

Galway City Museum

A 10-minute walk, heading southward along the banks of the River Corrib, brings you to the Galway City Museum. First opened in 2006 to showcase the rich history of the city and the Aran Islands, the museum is housed in a stone building that is said to have taken inspiration from the nearby Spanish Arch (where the museum was formally located) and the medieval walls of Galway. Collections and exhibitions within the museum include prehistoric tools, medieval pottery and Galway Hooker boats, as well as art pieces from local and international artists. The museum is also home to scheduled workshops, lectures and family-friendly events. Galway City Museum is open to the public seven days a week, and is free to enter.

Lunch at Spanish Arch

The Spanish Arch is located just alongside Galway City Museum, and while it is not exactly much to look at — the remnants of the medieval defensive walls of Galway — the surrounding area offers some of the best views of Galway Bay and the River Corrib. Galwegians are very proud of their local seafood, and the restaurants near the Spanish Arch are arguably the best places to sample it. If the weather permits, a plate of fish & chips, a pint of Guinness, and a view of the nearby water is hard to beat.

Latin Quarter

Running from the Spanish Arch at its south to Eyre Square at its north, the Latin Quarter is Galway City's most iconic area. A bustling thoroughfare filled with shops, historic buildings, cafés and street performers that are all interwoven by narrow streets and a cheerful atmosphere. You'll also find some of Galway's best pubs and restaurants in the Latin Quarter. And, if you're in the mood for a bit of shopping, you'll find the amply named Shop Street here as well — featuring international brands such as River Island, Tommy Hilfiger and Boots, as well as some local artisan brands including the Aran Sweater Market - The Home of Aran Sweaters!

Evening

Once the sun goes down, Galway City really comes into its own. Not as busy as the likes of Cork City or Dublin City, Galway's nightlife offers a more relaxed vibe. While there is a nightclub, DNA on Eyre Square, which is popular with college students and younger visitors, the best options are the numerous bars that offer live music and food. Some of the pubs and restaurants of Eyre Square are worth a visit, including O'Connell's Bar and Gatto Rosso. But, if you're only in Galway for one night, your best bet is to stay in the Latin Quarter, for the best pub grub, Guinness and live music in Galway head for Tigh Neachtain, The Front Door and/or Tig Coili.