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Ireland Ireland

Galway

Galway is Ireland's third-largest city and the county seat of County Galway. It's famous for its annual International Oyster Festival, so timing a visit around the festival makes for a memorable experience.

Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Galway
Gateway airport
Shannon Airport (SNN)
Best season
May–Sep
Time zone
Europe/Dublin
Sights covered
19 places

Sights worth seeing

See all 19 →
Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway

Temples & religious sites

Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway

A Catholic cathedral located in the heart of Galway city. It's a landmark religious building representing the city, and a great stop while strolling around.

The Claddagh

Shopping & districts

The Claddagh

This area sits where the River Corrib meets Galway Bay, and was once a fishing village. It faces the Spanish Arch across the river, making the two easy to visit together.

An Taibhdhearc - Amharclann Náisiúnta na Gaeilge

Culture & venues

An Taibhdhearc - Amharclann Náisiúnta na Gaeilge

A national theatre staging productions in Irish, established in 1928. It's a place in Galway to experience Irish-language theatre and performing arts.

River Corrib

Nature

River Corrib

The River Corrib runs through Galway in western Ireland, flowing from Lough Corrib into Galway Bay. It's one of the shortest rivers in Europe, yet it buzzes with kayakers and rowers.

Island Eddy

Nature

Island Eddy

Island Eddy is a small, depopulated island at the inner, eastern end of Galway Bay, Ireland.

St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church

Temples & religious sites

St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church

This medieval church in Galway city centre was dedicated in 1320 to St. Nicholas, patron saint of the port town. In the 17th century, a landmark work of Irish genealogy was also compiled here.

Salthill

Shopping & districts

Salthill

This seaside area lies southwest of Galway city and is known for "The Prom," a 2 km promenade running along Galway Bay. With plenty of visitor amenities nearby, it's a great place to combine a stroll with ocean views.

Oranmore Castle

Castles & palaces

Oranmore Castle

A castle located in the village of Oranmore, Galway, preserving its antique, old-world appearance. It blends well with the quiet village scenery, making it pleasant to explore on a leisurely walk.

How many days do you need?

Routes grouped by travel distance so each day stays comfortable.

Average temperature by month

5-year average

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
12° May
14° Jun
16° Jul
16° Aug
14° Sep
12° Oct
Nov
Dec

Getting there

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Getting around the city

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Fares and timetables change often, so we don't list them here. Check the operator or the booking site for current prices and schedules.

Galway Tours & Experiences Booking

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Local data

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Where to stay

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