Galway

County Galway is located on the west coast of Ireland, and is richly endowed with a beautiful and diverse landscape. It is probably one of the most spectacular and impressive areas of Europe and is steeped in a rich heritage.

Situated by the sea, Galway city is a vibrant, lively place with many things to do and see – such as traditional pubs, shops and a country market every Saturday morning. The world-renowned Galway Races which take place in July each year, the Galway Oyster Festival and of course the Galway Arts Festival all attract visitors to this place known as the “City of the Tribes”. The city was strongly influenced by the Spanish and you can still see monuments here reflecting this fact, such as “The Spanish Arch”.

Major Visitor Attractions

Eyre Square / Kennedy Park - Located in the town-centre, this park is accessible to all, and is dedicated to US President J.F. Kennedy. Here you will discover sculptures and statues which tell the history of Galway, all set in a very pleasant environment of fountains and greenery.

The City Folk Museum is where visitors may discover the traditions of the city and different antiquities such as farming tools, old machinery, military materials, including objects dating from medieval times are displayed, in addition to a series of sculptures dating from the 17th century.

The Nora Barnacle Museum is a small exhibition (open only in summer) dedicated to James Joyce, one of the most famous writers in Ireland.

Lynch's Castle is considered by some to be the most beautiful house in Ireland. This building is a fine example of the harmony which may be achieved between modern and old architectural styles. It is currently occupied by a bank.

The Cathedral in Galway opened in 1965 and is located on the site of the old county prison. Inside, you can appreciate dramatic sculptures, as well as splendid frescos.

The Court House of the county is very impressive due to its design and architecture. It dates back to 1818, but the subsequent restorations which were carried out fortunately did not alter this splendid building.

St. Nicholas Church (the biggest church in the region) was originally constructed in 1320. The present structure is the result of over 700 years of extensions and rebuilding.

The Bridge Mills is located just past O'Brien's Bridge, near the river Corrib. This 430 year old building now features a charming shopping centre.

From the Salmon Weir Bridge you can see, in June and July, salmon going upstream towards the lakes. It was constructed in 1818 and its aim was to link the site of the Cathedral with the Courthouse and also to provide a connection with the main road to Connemara.

Galway city is famous for offering some of the best seafood in Ireland. Its Oyster Festival, with an international reputation, takes place each year on the third weekend of September and attracts visitors worldwide.

There are numerous beautiful buildings and medieval streets where you can just walk, enjoy the atmosphere and appreciate the architecture of this historic city. A walk on the promenade at Salthill or on the beach gives you refreshing and breathtaking views of Galway Bay and its coastline.

Connemara is world-renowned with its dramatic landscapes, mountains, green fields, marshes, rivers and lakes - all of an incredible beauty. Writers and artists are drawn to its spectacular light.

Connemara National Park is one of Ireland's five National Parks. It covers 2,000 hectares of mountain countryside.

A visit to the Aran Islands is a must when visiting Co. Galway. The three main islands are Inishmore, Inishmaan and Inisheer. It is possible to get ferries to the islands from Doolin, Galway Bay and Rossaveal.

The shore around Killary Harbour is beautiful, with its many inlets, while nearby Leenane is a lovely village popular with visitors.

Kylemore Abbey is world famous as once being a private college for girls. In addition to the Abbey itself, the visitor may admire its delightful lakes and waterfalls. There is also a Gothic church, a visitor centre, restaurant and souvenir shop.

Lough Corrib is located north of Galway and is ideal for walking. It is also possible to take a cruise on this beautiful lake.

Clifden on the western coast of the county is a popular destination and the “Sky Road” drive offers spectacular views of the many inlets and islands along this part of the coastline. Ballyconneely and Roundstone are two lovely visitor destinations, set against the backdrop of the Connemara mountains.

With so much to see and do, be sure to allow sufficient time to take in all that Galway has to offer.