Discover the Best of Galway:
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Galway guides

-  Top attractions and must-see places in Galway
-  Best outdoor activities and adventures in Galway
-  Hidden gems to discover in Galway
-  Food scene in Galway
-  Galway festivals

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The Spanish Arch: A Window to Galway’s Maritime Past

The Spanish Arch stands as a striking reminder of Galway’s medieval heritage. Once part of the city’s defensive walls, the arch earned its name during a time when Spanish ships regularly docked in Galway to trade goods. In the 16th century, the port bustled with activity as merchants from Spain and Portugal brought in wine, fish, spices, and salt—making Galway one of Ireland’s key trading hubs before British rule shifted commerce eastward.

Now the arch is a popular tourist attraction and a great spot to sit and enjoy the occasional Irish sun while looking out over the ocean, on a nice day you’ll find tourists and locals alike.

Galway Bay: A Gateway to Ireland’s Wild Beauty

There’s something timeless about standing at the edge of Galway Bay. With the salty sea breeze on your face and the distant Aran Islands on the horizon, you can’t help but feel connected—to nature, to history. Galway Bay isn’t just a stretch of water; it’s a gateway to the spirit of the West of Ireland, where stories are told through stone walls, fiddle tunes, and windswept landscapes.

This storied bay, bordered by the vibrant city of Galway to the north and the rugged Burren to the south, has long inspired poets, painters, and pilgrims. For many travelers retracing their Irish roots, it offers a meaningful place to pause and reflect—whether walking the promenade in Salthill or sipping a pint with locals in a city pub. And just beyond the southern curve of the bay lies one of Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders—the Cliffs of Moher. Towering over the Atlantic Ocean, these majestic cliffs are only a scenic drive away and provide a breathtaking continuation of the Galway Bay experience.

Cliffs of Moher: Dramatic clifftops

The Cliffs of Moher are about an hour and a half’s drive from Galway City but are a must see if you are in the area. These cliffs are some of the highest in all of Europe as they tower 200 metres above the crashing waves of the Atlantic. On site there is a dedicated visitor’s centre where you’ll find plenty of information, tour guides, and a well-equipped bar and restaurant. The facility charges €6 admission for adults while children under 16 go free; this includes parking, access to the visitor centre and Atlantic Edge Exhibition and a contribution towards conservation and safety of the cliffs.

The Atlantic Edge exhibition has won numerous awards and boasts many informative features. Among these are live camera of the cliffs and their underwater caves, interactive displays, and fun informative displays aimed at the younger age group. There are also separate ferry trips available which allow visitors to get a chance to see the rising cliff face from sea level. The Cliffs of Moher are situated along the popular driving route: The Wild Atlantic Way. It is Ireland’s most visited tourist attraction drawing in a million visitors annually.

Kylemore Abbey: A Jewel in the Heart of Connemara

Nestled against a backdrop of misty mountains and mirrored lakes, Kylemore Abbey is one of Ireland’s most enchanting sites. Originally built as a romantic castle in the 19th century, it later became a Benedictine monastery and a symbol of resilience and faith. Its fairy-tale setting, complete with a Victorian walled garden and Gothic chapel, makes it a must-see for visitors tracing Ireland’s past.

But Kylemore is more than just a beautiful building—it’s the soul of Connemara, a region known for its raw natural beauty and strong cultural identity. The abbey sits along the Wild Atlantic Way, surrounded by the untamed landscapes that define Connemara: windswept bogs, craggy hills, and a coastline that has weathered centuries. Whether you're here for the history, the scenery, or to connect with ancestral roots, Kylemore offers a deeply moving experience that captures the spirit of the West.

Aran Islands: Step Back in Time

The Aran Islands consists of three islands situated just off Galway Bay. The way of life on the islands gives visitors a view back in time. The main attractions found here are breath-taking views, ancient ruins and religious sites.

On Inishmore, the largest of the three, lies the most popular attraction found on these islands; an ancient fortification built atop the cliffside. It’s named Dun Aengus and dates back over 3,000 years. The spectacular fort sits 300 feet above sea level where one can find amazing views of the ocean, Galway Bay, and on a clear day the Cliffs of Moher. Guided tours are available on site.

The islands are only accessible by boat or plane. Visitors generally choose to cycle around the islands to take in the beautiful landscape and views but there are mini buses for those less inclined.

Galway Cathedral

Galway Cathedral is one of the largest and most impressive buildings in the city. Construction began in the mid 1900’s and it was dedicated, jointly, to Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and to St. Nicholas. Visitors can enjoy the impressive architecture or attend mass at appointed times.

Music is a mainstay in the cathedral as there has been an adult choir based here since its unveiling. Visitors will find an impressive pipe organ which was first built in 1966 and then further expanded by famous Irish organ-builder Trevor Crowe in the early 21st century.

Connemara: Quiet Roads and Wild Views

Connemara is a rural outlying area of Galway City. It is home to an unsullied land that provides stunning beauty throughout. It is also known as a Gaeltacht area as the majority of the inhabitants speak the Irish language. It is one of the last remaining strongholds of the native tongue.The sprawling landscape is home to some of the best views in the country, from vast open plains, beautiful lakes, towering mountains, and crashing Atlantic waves. Hire a car from Galway City.

The terrain in Connemara makes it a great destination for active tourists. Throughout the year many who visit will take part in hill walking, horseback riding, golfing, fishing, and a multitude of water sports. History enthusiasts will be overjoyed upon arrival as there are around 5000 years to uncover. There are megalithic stones, tombs, stone and earth forts, early Christian churches, castles, both ruined and inhabited, 19th century houses and the Marconi Wireless Station and the landing place of Alcock and Brown.

Salthill promenade: Where the Sea Meets the Craic

Just a short stroll from Galway’s city centre, Salthill offers a refreshing change of pace along the famous Prom—a seaside walkway where locals and visitors alike come to breathe in the salty Atlantic air. On summer days, brave swimmers take the plunge from Blackrock Diving Tower, a beloved local tradition that draws cheers and laughter. Whether you join them or simply dip your toes in, it’s the kind of moment that sticks with you.

Afterwards, there’s nothing better than warming up with a pint in one of Salthill’s cosy pubs, many of which come with sea views and friendly chat. It’s the perfect way to round off a day by the water—whether you're reflecting on family history, exploring Irish culture, or just living in the moment.

The Burren: Unique nature

The Burren is under an hour’s drive from Galway City and is home to the largest variety of flora and fauna in the country. The Burren National Park is a must see for nature lovers as over three quarters of Ireland’s flowers can be found here in the karst landscape that measures 250 square kilometres.The limestone landscape was formed in an ancient past under sea water before emerging due to a geological cataclysm.

Surrounding this fascinating habitat is a ring of villages which boast their own attractions and charm. Doolin, situated to the west, is a music hub where travelling tourists should stop by for a traditional Irish music session.The best time to visit the Burren is in the spring time as the barren land is overtaken by the emerging wildflowers and flora that transform the scenery at that time of year.

Kayaking on the River Corrib

The Burren is under an hour’s drive from Galway City and is home to the largest variety of flora and fauna in the country. The Burren National Park is a must see for nature lovers as over three quarters of Ireland’s flowers can be found here in the karst landscape that measures 250 square kilometres.The limestone landscape was formed in an ancient past under sea water before emerging due to a geological cataclysm.

Surrounding this fascinating habitat is a ring of villages which boast their own attractions and charm. Doolin, situated to the west, is a music hub where travelling tourists should stop by for a traditional Irish music session.The best time to visit the Burren is in the spring time as the barren land is overtaken by the emerging wildflowers and flora that transform the scenery at that time of year.

Bell Book and Candle is a local favourite

Bunch of grapes for a quiet bar with a slightly older crowd sandwiched in between much busier pubs.

Wards in Salthill for some of the best Guinness in Galway

Enjoy delicious seafood restaurants such as Oscar's Seafood Bistro, The Seafood Bar @ Kirwan's, O'Grady's on the Pier, or Morans Oyster Cottage. Many of these establishments source their seafood directly from Galway Bay, ensuring the freshest possible ingredients.

Best pizza in Europe at Dough Bros

Now, you might be wondering about getting around Ireland during your visit. Renting a car is a flexible solution, as it allows you to explore the country and visit these recommendations at your own pace.

Ireland.com Community have also compilied a useful list of events across Ireland, have a look here. Whether you're a foodie, sports enthusiast, culture seeker, or history buff, there's something to captivate every traveler. Renting a car allows you to explore the beauty of the Emerald Isle.