5 Things to See When Visiting Galway

I have been in Galway for a month and a half now, and here’s a list of some must-sees and must-dos when visiting this beautiful city.

1. Galway City Museum

The Galway City Museum is a lovely museum located in the heart of the city. It is a great place to go to learn about the history of Ireland and specifically Galway. There are many exhibitions showing the history of Gaelic society, the Aran Islands, the Claddagh, Celtic folklore, and so much more! It is completely free to enter and is located right next to the Spanish Arch, which you should also check out when coming to Galway!

2. Blackrock Diving Tower

Diving off the Blackrock diving tower is a must-do when in Galway! It is located on the Salthill Prom facing the Atlantic Ocean. Swimming is a big thing to do here, and you will find people diving no matter the season! If you’re lucky enough to be in Galway during the fall and winter seasons, you can participate in various monthly challenges where every day of the month people are urged to go swimming or take cold showers for their mental health. Just make sure you check the tide schedules before you go, as you can’t dive off the tower during low tide.

3. Shop Street

It would be hard to avoid Shop Street when coming to Galway. This is the main shopping street in town. There are so many restaurants, pubs, and shops to wander in and out of. On this street, you will find the Claddagh museum where you can learn the history of Claddagh rings, which were originally made in Galway. Along the street, you will also hear music coming from various buskers and coming out of the pubs nearby. On Saturdays and Sundays, there are also markets with local vendors to check out!

4. Cliffs of Moher

While the Cliffs of Moher aren’t in Galway, they are very accessible from the city. Visiting the cliffs is a must when coming to Ireland! The views are unbeatable, even on a dreary day, and the visitor’s center offers an interactive experience where you can learn more about the Cliffs of Moher.

5. Salthill Prom

The Salthill Prom is a lovely walking path that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. The views from the prom are stunning. This is the perfect spot for a leisurely walk, or a great path for a run or bike ride! The Salthill Prom is relatively flat and gives you access to many of Galway’s beautiful beaches. There are also a ton of lovely cafes lining the prom so you can treat yourself to a coffee or ice cream on your stroll!