Attractions in Galway City

Galway City is a vibrant Medieval city with cobbled streets, a strong artistic tradition and thriving music scene. The bustling shops, pubs and restaurants spill onto the streets, particularly on the pedestrianized main street, Shop Street. There are so many sights, sounds and tastes to take in and also lots of attractions in Galway City.

Galway Cathedral – This landmark is one of the most noticeable on the Galway skyline, with the dome at a height of 145ft. It was the last cathedral of its kind constructed with stone in eastern Europe. It was built in the Renaissance style, between 1958 and 1965, and much of the interior was designed by Irish artists. Read more…

Galway City Museum – This museum features exhibitions on the medieval City’s history and heritage and also hosts exhibits loaned by other museums and galleries.  In addition to all that can be learned here, the building provides stunning views of the Claddagh, the Spanish Arch and Galway Bay. Read more…

The Claddagh – Best known for lending its name to the famous Claddagh Ring, this area includes the mouth of the River Corrib where it empties into Galway Bay. The name meaning “stony shore” is where fishmongers have been sourcing fresh fish to sell at Galway markets for over 100 years. Read more…

The Spanish Arch – This arch was originally added as a 16th-century bastion to the city’s wall, protecting Galway from looting. Initially called Ceann an Bhalla (‘the head of the wall’) it later became known by its modern name likely due to the frequent merchant trade with Spanish cargo ships which often docked there. Read more…

Find more attractions in Galway City at: Galway Tourism.ie.

Learn more about attractions near Oughterard and attractions in Connemara.