Top Things to do in County Galway
What to do and see in County Galway, Western Ireland: The Best Things to do
Discover the best top things to do in County Galway, Ireland including Inishbofin, Dun Aonghasa, Wild Atlantic Way, Salthill Promenade, Ross Errily Friary, Quay Street, Connemara National Park & Visitor Centre, The Worm Hole (Poll na bPeist), Sky Road, Galway's Latin Quarter.
Restaurants in County Galway
1. Inishbofin
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 49 reviews
This tiny rustic island has become increasingly popular among tourists in recent years.
Reviewed By rebeccaruva - New York City, United States
Inishbofin is a beautiful island just off the coast of County Galway. There is a lovely hike around the island and the people there are simply wonderful. With picturesque beaches, views of both County Galway and the Atlantic Ocean, and stunning cliffs on the west side of the island - Inishbofin is great for a day trip or a few days stay. I stayed at the Hostel on the island with a friend, and the women who ran the place was very nice and accommodating. The hike around the island has stunning views. On the North-West side of the island there is a blowhole that is a treat to see. On the East side of the island there is a lovely walk around the beaches and fields. There are also some small tide pools on East End Beach and cool places to explore. Inishbofin is easy to get to from Galway on public transportation. If you need to get to Galway from any other major city in Ireland, you can use Bus Eireann or other bus companies for an easy trip. From Galway, you should take a CityLink bus to Cleggan, which is where you will pick up the ferry to the island. For a day trip, it would be easiest to get to the island on the morning ferry and take the last ferry out in the late afternoon. You should double check the Inishbofin ferry site for the latest schedule depending on the time of year you are going to Inishbofin. (BE WARNED, if you take the last ferry out and catch the CityLink bus into Galway, and expect to catch the last buses out of Galway (ex. Bus Eireann to Limerick or Shannon Airport) you will most likely NOT make these buses. Expect to spend the night in Galway or catch the midday ferry so you do not have any chance of missing your bus.)
2. Dun Aonghasa
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,399 reviews
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Dun Aonghasa is the largest of the prehistoric stone forts of the Aran Islands. It is enclosed by three massive dry-stone walls and a chevaux-de-frise consisting of blocks of limestone set vertically into the ground to deter attackers. Originally constructed c.1100BC, it was re-fortified around 700-800 AD. Excavations revealed significant evidence of prehistoric metalworking, as well as several burials. Visitor safety information: The fort is about 1km from the Visitors Centre and is approached over rising ground. The last section of the path is over rough, natural rock and care is needed, especially when descending. Boots or strong walking shoes are recommended. There is no fence or barrier at the edge of the cliff.
Reviewed By geraldine946 - Western Ireland, Ireland
Well worth a visit, rain hail or sunshine....have been here a few times and loved it, the most amazing views on the island and definitely worth it.
3. Wild Atlantic Way
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2,705 reviews
Reviewed By 2hopeless - Chichester, United Kingdom
After spending 3 days in Dublin we headed to the west stopping en route at the diner in Ballinasloe which was good for a quick lunch. We spent 3 nights in Galway, taking in the Galway Food Tour and enjoying the bars and street entertainment in the Latin Quarter. Onward for a few nights in Doolin Co. Clare visiting The Buren, Inis Oirr Aran Island, and the local hostelries. A lengthy scenic drive through Kerry, around the lakes of Killarney (unfortunately on a rainy misty day) to the Beara Peninsula for 4 days. Whilst we enjoyed all of it the change in scenery at each place captured the imagination and we all felt that it was merely an introduction for us to revisit soon. We travelled in June, however, roads are narrow and at peak holiday time it may be annoying as there are so many camper vans and huge tour buses at some of the more well known sights so cars have to move over, getting superficial scratches from the hedgerows. Be careful because there are ditches alongside the roads which are not obvious as they are covered in vegetation and may appear as solid ground.
4. Salthill Promenade
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,023 reviews
Reviewed By 128annettes - Nenagh, Ireland
If I was lucky enough to live within walking distance of this lovely promenade I would indeed be a very grateful lady. Yes, it is very busy on a nice day and you do have many children, dogs, bicyclists and roller skaters to share with, bu it is a lovely walk with plenty of places to rest, breathe in that sea air and watch the world go by.
5. Ross Errily Friary
6. Quay Street
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,530 reviews
Reviewed By LillianM751
A must if you visit Galway...it's vibrant with street entertainers of the highest calibre. .musicians with great talent all in a pedestrian area with shops selling everything from funny Irish souvenirs to musical instruments ..good pubs with live music sessions and good food.The friendly Irish know how to enjoy themselves...
7. Connemara National Park & Visitor Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,819 reviews
***FREE OF CHARGE*** Connemara National Park is one of Ireland's six National Parks. The Visitor Centre for the National Park is located beside Letterfrack Village. Entrance to the National Park grounds and trails (Diamond Hill), exhibition and Audio Visual is ***FREE OF CHARGE***. The Visitor Centre is the starting point for Diamond Hill trail.
Reviewed By notions - Galway, Ireland
Kylemore Abbey is a must see and diamond hill is a great hike for all levels. There are long and short paths and it is accessible for people of any fitness level,
8. The Worm Hole (Poll na bPeist)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 273 reviews
Reviewed By Tjorne18
In July 1971 my girlfriend and I dived into the swimming pool. We had no idea it was linked with the ocean. When we told locals, they were appalled. Inishmor 1971 was before electricity and cars. Ferry out of Galway once a week. Today’s visitors have no idea what a wonderful place it was. Tripadvisor seems not to like trips down memory lane. Hence July 2020!
9. Sky Road
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,077 reviews
Reviewed By markgY7154GS - Dublin, Ireland
Certainly worth a drive :) fantastic views of the stunning countryside, just take your time as the roads are very narrow. If you start from Clifton town you should also take the beach road, incredible little beach beside the peer at the end of the road. Enjoy
10. Galway's Latin Quarter
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,114 reviews
Reviewed By michaelmE5451AW - York, United Kingdom
Lots of evidence of Galway’s medieval history within the Latin Quarter area which stretches from the city centre to the Spanish Arch, containing some of the city’s most historic landmarks. It starts at St. Nicholas’ Church it runs through the Saturday market and onto O’Brien’s Bridge. From there it follows the River Corrib down to the Spanish Arch where the Museum is located and then turns back up Middle Street onto Buttermilk Lane where it joins the starting point. People throng through here to enjoy the live entertainment as they wander through the cobbled streets and the hot spots on Quay Street, full of bars, restaurants and hotels. Galway was due to celebrate the European Capital of Culture 2020 which has been stymied by the pandemic. This is a highlight for many visitors to Galway and one of our favourite quarters in the city.
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