Galway is a vibrant city, favoured by many as a great wedding location. It's equally as popular for the obligatory Stag or Hen party. Renowned for its rich cultural heritage, lively atmosphere, and stunning natural landscapes, there's more to see here than you can fit into one weekend. So here are just ten great things to do during a short stay in Galway this summer:
Explore Galway City: Wander through the charming streets of Galway City and soak up its vibrant atmosphere. Visit the bustling Latin Quarter, explore the medieval Galway City Museum, and enjoy live music in the city's numerous traditional Irish pubs.
Stroll along the Salthill Promenade: Take a leisurely walk along the Salthill Promenade, a beautiful coastal path that offers stunning views of Galway Bay. Enjoy the fresh sea air, watch the sunset, and perhaps take a dip in the sea at Blackrock diving tower.
Visit the Claddagh: Explore the historic fishing village of the Claddagh, located just outside Galway City. Admire the traditional thatched cottages and learn about the Claddagh ring, a symbol of love, loyalty, and friendship.
Discover Connemara: Take a day trip to Connemara, a region renowned for its rugged beauty. Explore the picturesque Kylemore Abbey, hike in the Connemara National Park, or take a scenic drive along the Sky Road.
Experience the Aran Islands: Hop on a ferry and visit the Aran Islands, a group of three islands located off the coast of Galway. Discover the unique Irish-speaking communities, explore ancient forts like Dún Aonghasa, and enjoy the breathtaking coastal scenery.
Attend the Galway International Arts Festival: If you're visiting in July, don't miss the Galway International Arts Festival, one of Ireland's largest multidisciplinary arts festivals. Enjoy a diverse program of theater, music, dance, visual arts, and street performances.
Take a boat tour of the Cliffs of Moher: Join a boat tour from Galway to experience the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher from a different perspective. Marvel at the dramatic cliffs towering over the Atlantic Ocean and keep an eye out for diverse birdlife.
Enjoy traditional Irish music: Galway is known for its lively traditional music scene. Head to one of the city's traditional pubs, such as Tigh Coili or The Crane Bar, and listen to talented musicians playing Irish jigs and reels.
Explore Galway's food scene: Galway boasts a thriving culinary scene, with an abundance of restaurants, cafés, and food markets. Sample fresh seafood, traditional Irish dishes, and international cuisine at places like Galway Market or one of the city's many award-winning restaurants.
Go on a cycling or walking tour: Explore the beautiful countryside surrounding Galway by embarking on a cycling or walking tour. Follow scenic routes such as the Wild Atlantic Way or the Galway Bay Coastal Trail and enjoy breathtaking views along the way.
These are just a few of the many great things to do in Galway during the summer. Whether you're interested in culture, nature, or simply soaking up the lively atmosphere, Galway has something to offer everyone and is a great location for a wedding or weekend away.
Photo by Tristan O'Connor https://unsplash.com/photos/DM-aaw2-YYI