Galway has become even more of a popular destination in Ireland the past few years, in part thanks to the city’s inclusion in pop culture (think: Galway Girl by Ed Sheeran!) We’re glad Galway is getting the appreciation it deserves, because we think that this city is a must-visit while in Ireland.
We’ve put together a great listen of hidden gems in Galway thanks to our very own Fiona, who is originally from Galway, so you can be sure you’re getting a trust taste of ‘local living’ with this list!
- Best pub: Tigh Neachtain’s. This traditional Irish bar has a great atmosphere with an old-world feel, and stocks over 130 whiskeys!
- Best restaurant (casual dining): Kai Cafe and Restaurant. Kai has a very cool setting, and it’s food is locally-sourced and sustainable! Organic European dishes are served in a bright setting with colourful chairs and rustic wooden tables.
- Best pub music: Enjoy a pint and some traditional Irish Music in one of Galway’s many music pubs. We couldn’t choose just one, so here are our top favorites in Galway:
- Tigh Neachtain
- Taaffes Bar
- Tig Choili
- Monroes Tavern
- Best Day Trips: These three destinations are close enough to Galway for a short day trip, and are worth the drive!
- Roundstone. Explore Gurteen Beach and Dog’s Bay in Roundstone! Dogs Bay is a horseshoe shaped bay with more than a mile long stretch of white sandy beach. Go to O’Dowds Seafood for a lunch filled with delicious, fresh, catches o’ the day!
- Aran Islands. Drive or take a bus from Galway city to Rossaveal to catch the ferry to the Aran Islands. Rent Bikes at the pier and cycle to Dun Aengus (Irish spelling: Dún Aonghasa) and then hike to the top for magnificent views!
- Roundstone. Explore Gurteen Beach and Dog’s Bay in Roundstone! Dogs Bay is a horseshoe shaped bay with more than a mile long stretch of white sandy beach. Go to O’Dowds Seafood for a lunch filled with delicious, fresh, catches o’ the day!
- Best Immersive Experience. If you’re looking to explore all of what Galway has to offer when it comes to food, Galway Food Tours is where it’s at! They lead food enthusiasts around Galway’s finest food destinations, where guests sample fresh sushi, the finest cheese, Galway oysters, mouth-watering breads and savoury bites as well as delicious sweet treats while soaking up the famed atmosphere of Galway city.
- Best music: Attend a concert in St. Nicholas Church! “Tunes in the Church” concerts is an acoustic, authentic, personal and interactive representation of Irish music, song and dance.
- Best Restaurant – Fine Dining: Aniar. Aniar is a terroir based, Michelin Star restaurant located in Galway’s West End. Their contemporary Irish cuisine is paired with matching wine and beer from around the world.
