Discover Galway: History, Culture and City Walks

Galway brings together traces of its medieval history with museums, theatres, markets and paths through urban parks. On the banks of the River Corrib, Galway City Museum stands next to the Spanish Arch—a good starting point for exploring the many layers of the city’s history.

Galway’s History Between the Museum and the City Centre

Galway City Museum collects, preserves and displays materials relating to archaeology, art, geology and natural history, as well as social, political and industrial history and folk life. Its exhibitions introduce you to the medieval city, the village of Claddagh and Galway between 1800 and 1950. The story therefore spans the earliest traces through to more recent urban history.

The Hall of the Red Earl also brings Galway’s past to life in a specific location: this medieval archaeological site is in the city centre and is one of the city’s most significant visitor attractions. Information panels explain the site’s significance, and replicas of artefacts are also on display. The Spanish Arch was built in 1584. Its four arches formed part of Galway’s medieval defensive walls.

St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church is housed in a medieval building and has stood at the heart of Galway since 1320. It offers the guided “Story of Galway” tour; check the tour options before your trip. Visitors are welcome at Galway Cathedral at any time. Admission is free, and a donation of €3 is recommended. As admission arrangements may change, check them before your visit.

At Eyre Square, the name and the city’s history come together: in Irish, the square is called “An Fhaiche Mhór”, while its official name is John F. Kennedy Memorial Park. Its history dates back to medieval markets; in 1710, Mayor Edward Eyre formally handed the land over to the city.

Walks, Parks and Events

Those who enjoy walking or cycling will find a range of urban routes in Galway. South Park in Claddagh has a dedicated cycling and walking route. The public South Park / Claddagh walking route is six kilometres long, starts at the Spanish Arch and follows separate cycle and walking paths. Terryland Forest Park has nature trails as well as woodland and riverside walks. Its riverside reed beds provide a sanctuary for native flora, fauna and fish populations. This gives you a named route as well as paths through woodland, riverside and reed-bed areas to consider when planning your day.

For a cultural day out, Galway offers two different venues. The city-run Town Hall Theatre has 400 seats and a year-round programme of theatre, classical, traditional and popular music, comedy, dance, film, musicals and literary events. The Black Box is a versatile performing arts venue, with a varied programme of theatre, music, comedy and events in different formats each year. Check the respective event dates for a specific visit.

In addition to its history, Eyre Square has attractions today: it has a playground, and seasonal markets take place throughout the year. For a dedicated market visit, the weekly Galway Market is another option. It takes place on Saturdays in the city centre and offers food, as well as distinctive goods and gift ideas. Food stalls sell fresh fruit and vegetables, fresh pasta, cheese, homemade relishes and sauces, and around 20 different varieties of olives.

Getting Around During Your Stay

For specific journeys within the city, Eyre Square can be a useful landmark: most bus services in Galway start there. As bus network arrangements may change, check the current route map before travelling. Another notable change to the city’s infrastructure was the opening of Droichead an Dóchais bridge in May 2023. It was the first new bridge over the River Corrib in more than 30 years.

Nearby, in Salthill within Galway City, Galway Atlantaquaria is Ireland’s largest aquarium for native species. It offers an educational visit for all ages and is fully accessible. Visitor service information may change; check the latest visitor information in advance.

When choosing a holiday rental, you can use your interests as a guide: Galway’s museums, historic sites, markets and theatres offer a different focus from its trails and natural areas. If the aquarium is part of your plans, Salthill is another location to consider. Choose where to stay based on which of these aspects matter to you during your visit.

Discover more destinations: Cloghbrack, Maam Cross, Rinvyle, Cornamona, Clarinbridge, Kilronan, Gowlaun, Gort.

For the main travel overview: Galway.