Galway's Best Tourist Attractions

Galway's Best Tourist Attractions

Tourist attractions in Galway blend history, charm, and the wild Atlantic spirit, perfect for a summer holiday filled with unforgettable Irish adventure. From lively Eyre Square to the cobbled magic of the Latin Quarter, there are endless places to see in Galway, each with its own story to tell. Whether you're soaking in the sea breeze at Salthill, stepping through centuries at St. Nicholas’ Church, or exploring the city's vibrant culture on Quay Street, Galway offers something for every curious traveler. Dive into the guide below to discover the heart, soul, and hidden gems that make Galway truly one of a kind.

Tourist Attractions to Visit in Galway, Ireland

Eyre Square

Spanish Arch

The Spanish Arch, built in the 1580s, is a remnant of Galway’s old city walls. Originally constructed to protect the quays and merchant ships that docked along the Corrib. It was part of a defensive extension known as Ceann an Bhalla, or “the Head of the Wall.” Over time, the Arch shifted from fortification to focal point still standing, slightly weathered, and quietly watching the city grow around it. Today, it’s less about defence and more about presence - a piece of Galway’s layered past. Now the Spanish Arch is about locals and visitors gathering here, perched on the stone walls or stretched out on the grass, drink in hand, watching the Corrib flow past.

 

 

Galway City Museum

Tucked just behind the Spanish Arch, the Galway City Museum is a treasure trove of local lore, ancient artefacts, and modern storytelling. Free to enter, it takes you on a journey from prehistoric Galway to its buzzing present. You’ll find everything from medieval swords and sailing gear to displays on the Claddagh Ring and the city’s rebel heart. There’s even a nod to Pádraic Ó Conaire and the Galway Hookers. With rotating exhibitions, family-friendly displays, and lovely views of the Corrib, it’s ideal for a rainy-day wander or a quiet pause in your Mostly Irish adventure.

 

 

Salthill Beach

Salthill has long been Galway’s link to the sea. A seaside suburb that’s grown from a small fishing and bathing spot into a familiar escape just outside the city centre. The Prom, now famous for its wall-kicking ritual, has been a favourite walking route for generations. The Blackrock diving tower, built in the mid-20th century, remains a local landmark, drawing swimmers year-round, even in the winter. Salthill’s connection to the water runs deep from fishing, swimming, strolling, or simply watching the tide roll in. It’s a place where the sea has shaped both the landscape and the rhythm of daily life.

 

 

The Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter is one of the oldest parts of Galway, with roots reaching back to the city’s medieval beginnings. Its narrow streets and stone buildings once housed merchants, craftsmen, and seafarers trading along the Atlantic routes. The area grew around the old city walls and Spanish Arch, becoming a hub of commerce and culture. Today, traces of that history remain in the architecture, winding lanes, and place names. While it’s now filled with cafés, pubs, and shops, its foundations are centuries old layers of Galway’s story still present beneath the cobblestones.

 

 

Quay Street

Quay Street is one of Galway’s oldest thoroughfares, once central to the city’s medieval trade and maritime life. As its name suggests, it led directly to the quays where ships docked, bringing goods and influences from across Europe. Many of the buildings lining the street have stood for centuries, originally serving as merchant houses, workshops, and taverns. Over time, Quay Street evolved with the city, shifting from trade route to social hub. Today, while it buzzes with cafés and music, its stones still echo with the footsteps of traders, travellers, and townsfolk who shaped Galway’s past. It's history, layered in plain sight.

 

 

Galway Atlantaquaria

Galway Atlantaquaria sits at the edge of Salthill, offering a deeper look into the marine life that’s long shaped Ireland’s relationship with the Atlantic. Opened in 2000, it was built to showcase native species and promote understanding of the country’s coastal ecosystems. The aquarium focuses on education and conservation, housing species from Irish rivers, lakes, and seas —including rays, eels, and the elusive wolf fish. Touch pools and hands-on displays connect visitors with marine life in a more personal way. More than a tourist spot, the Atlantaquaria plays a role in preserving and sharing the natural heritage of Ireland’s western waters.

 

Galway Cathedral 

Galway Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, was built between 1958 and 1965 on the site of the old city jail. As one of the last large stone cathedrals built in Europe, it blends Renaissance, Romanesque, and Gothic styles, with a prominent dome and intricate detailing throughout. Its construction marked a significant moment in post-war Ireland, symbolising renewal and faith. Inside, you'll find mosaics, stained glass, and a pipe organ, reflecting both religious devotion and artistic craftsmanship. Though relatively new, it holds a firm place in Galway’s story—rooted in tradition and community.

 

 

Hidden Gems in Galway

If you want to go off the beaten path and discover more unique attractions in Galway, the city is full of hidden gems waiting to be explored. Step into the charm of Rathbaun Farm, where a thatched cottage and hands-on farm life offer a true taste of Irish heritage. Wander the tranquil Riverside Walk along the Corrib for peaceful views and nature-filled moments. Dive into the vibrant buzz of the Galway Markets, where local crafts, street food, and music bring the city’s spirit to life. Or find a moment of reflection at the Circle of Life Commemorative Garden—a serene, meaningful escape.

 

 

Rathbaun Farm

Rathbaun Farm, nestled near Ardrahan in southwest Galway, has been in farming families’ hands for over 200 years. Originally owned by the Burkes and now run by the Connollys, the farm spans 80 acres and centres around a 250-year-old thatched cottage. With its turf fire and original stone walls, visitors are welcomed into an authentic slice of Irish rural life. From watching sheep being sheared and rounded up, to feeding lambs and meeting the resident Connemara pony, the experience is hands-on and heartfelt. Rathbaun is where agricultural tradition, family legacy, and cultural storytelling come together; offering warmth, history, and true Irish hospitality.

 

 

Riverside Walk

Rathbaun Farm, nestled near Ardrahan in southwest Galway, has been in farming families’ hands for over 200 years. Originally owned by the Burkes and now run by the Connollys, the farm spans 80 acres and centres around a 250-year-old thatched cottage. With its turf fire and original stone walls, visitors are welcomed into an authentic slice of Irish rural life. From watching sheep being sheared and rounded up, to feeding lambs and meeting the resident Connemara pony, the experience is hands-on and heartfelt. Rathbaun is where agricultural tradition, family legacy, and cultural storytelling come together—offering warmth, history, and true Irish hospitality.

 

 

Galway Markets

Set against the backdrop of the iconic Spanish Arch, the Tiny Traders Village Market is a must visit for tourists seeking Galway’s local business. Bursting with local art, handmade crafts, vintage finds, and street food, it’s a lively showcase of the city’s indie soul. Just a short stroll away, St. Nicholas’ Markets offer a different kind of magic—fresh produce, artisan cheeses, baked goods, and the buzz of locals going about their Saturday. Whether you’re browsing for treasures or sampling local flavors, these markets are perfect for soaking up Galway’s character, meeting passionate traders, and experiencing the city like a true local.

 

 

Why Stay at The Residence Hotel? 

For the perfect blend of comfort, character, and unbeatable location, The Residence Hotel is the perfect stay for tourists in Galway. Nestled in the heart of the lively Latin Quarter, it places you right by top attractions, buzzing pubs, and colorful streets. The boutique rooms are stylish and cozy, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring. Downstairs, M. Fitzgerald’s Bar brings the atmosphere, offering craft cocktails, live music, and Galway charm in every pour. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a cultural deep-dive, The Residence Hotel is your home in the heart of it all—where the city’s story unfolds around you.

 

Whether you're drawn to history, culture, nature, or simply the charm of a lively Irish city, tourist attractions in Galway promise unforgettable memories. From the historic Spanish Arch to the sea breeze of Salthill, Galway weaves past and present into every cobbled lane and windswept shore. Wander through vibrant markets, explore centuries old cathedrals, or relax in hidden gardens; Galway has something for everyone. This city doesn’t just welcome you; it stays with you. So, take your time, follow the music, and let Galway’s magic become part of your story.