🇮🇪 Ireland · Places to discover
What to see in Galway ?
14 places curated by Hozy - landmarks, nature, hidden restaurants and activities.
MAP · OVERVIEW
Landmarks & heritage (8)
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SALynch's Castle
Landmark
A fortified residence from the 15th century belonging to the Lynch family, one of Galway's 14 merchant tribes. Now converted into a bank, its sculpted façade ranks among Ireland's finest medieval urban architecture.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SANora Barnacle House Museum
Landmark
A tiny house belonging to James Joyce's wife, preserved in its original state. An intimate and moving place that tells an extraordinary love story of literary proportions, tucked in a cobbled street of the historic centre.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SAGalway Cathedral (Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady)
Landmark
An imposing cathedral of pink limestone built in 1965 on the banks of the Corrib. The interior blends sumptuous mosaics and modern stained glass in striking silence. A recent monument yet already the soul of the city.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAGalway City Museum
Landmark
A modern museum adjoining the Spanish Arch with free entry and solid collections charting Galway's history from prehistory to the present day. Ideal for understanding the city before exploring it.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SACollegiate Church of St Nicholas of Myra
Landmark
Ireland's largest medieval church still in use, founded in 1320. Christopher Columbus is said to have prayed here before setting sail for America. The gargoyles and side chapels conceal fascinating details.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SACladdagh Village & Claddagh Ring Museum
Landmark
Claddagh is the ancient Gaelic fishing village that gave birth to the Claddagh Ring, a universal Irish symbol. The small museum traces this history with care, far removed from commercial folklore.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SASpanish Arch
Landmark
A remnant of 16th-century fortifications where Spanish merchants unloaded wines and spices. The adjacent quay is now locals' favoured gathering spot on fine days. Commanding views over the Corrib.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAEyre Square (John F. Kennedy Memorial Park)
Landmark
The beating heart of Galway, this public square has hosted markets, concerts and gatherings for centuries. The Crimean cannons and Browne Fountain are unmissable landmarks. This is where the city celebrates its greatest occasions.Viewpoints (2)
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SASalthill Promenade
Viewpoint
The 2 km promenade along Galway Bay is the daily ritual of locals. Local tradition dictates you kick the wall at the promenade's end. Sunset over Connemara provides a stunning backdrop.Nimmo's Pier & Corrib River Walk
Viewpoint
A walk along the Corrib from the Spanish Arch towards the lake offers views of swans, salmon fishermen and colourful houses. Nimmo's Pier at sunset is a scene locals never tire of contemplating.Activities (3)
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAGalway Market (Saturday Market)
Activity
Saturday market beneath the walls of St Nicholas for centuries, now one of Ireland's finest. Artisanal cheeses, fresh oysters, street food from around the world run by local producers. Arrive early.Corrib Princess Cruise
Activity
Ninety-minute cruise on the Corrib and Corrib Lake from Woodquay, narrated by passionate local guides. The finest way to grasp Galway's geography and spot the castles and monasteries dotting the shoreline.Tigh Coili
Activity
Galway's most authentic session music pub, on Mainguard Street. Traditional Irish music twice daily without microphones or stages, just musicians seated in a circle. The Irish pub experience in its purest form.