Early on in the planning process for a recent trip to Ireland, Michael and I had a decision to make: should we travel north from Dublin, stopping in Belfast, Derry/Londonderry, and Sligo—or head south to explore Kilkenny, Cork, and Dingle?
Whichever direction we chose, there was one city that was always going to make the cut: Galway.
This post contains commissionable links and a hosted experience, however, all opinions are my own as always
Galway has been on my radar ever since a friend studied abroad there more than fifteen (fifteen!) years ago and came back with stories about a city full of energy and charm. I was traveling elsewhere in Ireland at the time, but I hadn’t experienced anything quite like the young, vibrant place she described.
So this time around, I was determined to make it happen—and I did. Michael and I even planned the trip so we’d land in Galway over a weekend, giving ourselves time to enjoy both its daytime rhythm and its nightlife.
As you probably know from experience, putting together a travel itinerary takes weeks of research and planning. From day one, my goal for this website has been to create the kind of resource I always wish I had when coordinating a trip. So today, I’m beyond thrilled to shorten your planning time and finally share my weekend travel guide to Galway:
ABOUT GALWAY
Galway is a spirited city on Ireland’s west coast, perched where the River Corrib spills into the Atlantic. It has the salty-aired energy of a port town, but more than that, it feels like a living, breathing slice of modern Irish life. Once a medieval hub ruled by fourteen merchant families known as the Tribes of Galway, today it has grown into a thriving city for the people.
Geographically, Galway is a bit of a gateway—to rugged Connemara to the north, the Burren’s limestone landscape to the south, and the Aran Islands just across the bay. But the city itself is far more than a jumping-off point. It’s a place where cobblestone streets meet contemporary design, and traditional music spills out of modern pubs. Galway manages to be both lively and laid-back, rooted in history but completely comfortable in its current form.
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT
There’s just something about a university town, isn’t there? The walkability, the youthful energy, and—let’s be honest—the abundance of cheap eats and drinks. Galway has all of that, sure, but there’s more to it than the student scene. And yet, it’s hard to pin down exactly what makes this city feel so special. Maybe it’s the way strangers chat with you like you’ve known each other for years. Or how you can wander from a buzzing farmers market to the rocky edge of Salthill in the span of an afternoon and feel like you’ve experienced five different versions of the same city.
Galway doesn’t go out of its way to impress you, and that’s exactly why it does. It’s endlessly walkable, full of quirks and character, and ideal for travelers who are more into soaking up a place’s mood than ticking off must-sees—because Galway doesn’t really deal in must-dos. What it offers instead is an open-ended kind of charm: the freedom to explore without pressure, and the kind of warmth that lingers long after you’ve left.
Ready for an unforgettable weekend in Galway? Let’s explore:
THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN GALWAY
Micil Distillery
When in Ireland, you have to visit a whiskey distillery, right? I always recommend travelers check out boutique distilleries over their big-name counterparts—you tend to get a far more intimate (and often more educational) experience. For our time in Ireland, I landed on Micil Distillery: a sixth-generation family operation and the only distillery in Galway.
Tucked in the back of The Oslo Bar in Salthill, you might not even realize excellent spirits are being crafted here if it weren’t for reading this guide. Micil offers two primary tour options—the Micil Whiskey Experience and the Micil Distillery Experience. As much as I love gin, we opted for the former to learn more about one of Ireland’s most beloved homegrown spirits.
We arrived a few minutes before our tourmates—a rowdy French stag party and an easygoing New York family—and got an early peek at the whiskey and poitín production process. Once the group was all accounted for, our guide Jessica launched into the story of Micil Distillery, which begins in 1848 with Micil Mac Chearra and his illicit stillhouse. Much like moonshine production in the U.S., home distillation was illegal at the time—but that didn’t stop word from spreading about Micil’s poitín as he quietly perfected his recipe while dodging the law.
Today, thankfully, poitín is legal—and that’s a good thing, because this local spirit deserves its moment. Distilled from 100% Irish malted barley, traditional poitín begins its life much like whiskey, except it’s only allowed to rest for up to ten weeks rather than aging for years in a cask. The result? An earthy, crystal-clear spirit with a punch.
During the Micil Whiskey Experience, you’ll get to try some of the distillery’s standout offerings, giving a toast of Sláinte Mhaith (“to good health”) with each one. During our tour, we tasted:
- Heritage Poitín – peaty and smoky from the grains, surprisingly reminiscent of mezcal
- Earls Island – a single pot still Irish whiskey with a French twist, aged in Bordeaux casks
- Inverin Small Batch – a peated blend with a triple cask finish that toes the line between sweet and savory
- Irish Cream Liqueur – made with poitín, it’s everything you want in a cream liqueur (Baileys could never…)
And when your tour’s wrapped up? This seems like the perfect time to mention that my U.S. readers can bring back up to 1 liter of spirits duty-free…
→Micil Distillery // Oslo Bar, 226 Upper Salthill Rd, Galway, H91 N9WK, Ireland
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Walk the Promenade
Before or after your visit to Micil Distillery, a stroll down the Salthill Promenade (or “The Prom”) is a must. This two-kilometer path along Galway Bay is the perfect way to stretch your legs while soaking in sweeping Atlantic views. With the beach right at your feet, I suppose you could soak in the Atlantic, too—but I’ll leave that particular travel experience up to you.
→Salthill Promenade // Salthill, Galway, Ireland
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Galway Cathedral
Based on its size alone, you might assume Galway Cathedral is centuries old. But look closer—gosh, it looks so modern, doesn’t it? Well, that’s because it is!
Dedicated in 1965, Galway Cathedral is actually the youngest great stone cathedral in Europe. No matter its age, it’s still an impressive sight. Just make sure to time your visit outside of mass (unless you’re attending the service, of course!).
→Galway Cathedral // Gaol Rd, Galway, H91 A780, Ireland
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Galway Market
Since you’re in Galway over the weekend, a visit to Galway Market is essential. This charming street market near Saint Nicholas’ Collegiate Church is relatively compact, but it’s packed with local produce, crafts, and prepared foods. Arrive hungry and let your eyes (and your nose!) lead the way at this market that its organizers claim was established in 1484.
→Galway Market // 1- Ireland, 7 Lombard St, Galway, H91 T2F4, Ireland
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Shopping in Galway
Pocket-sized Cloon Keen offers a full sensory journey without even leaving High Street. Inspired by Galway, Connemara, and Ireland’s rugged west, this local perfumer has created a truly unique line of handmade fragrances—all produced right in the city. Take a stroll through their scent library and pick out a candle or perfume to bring home. As they say, scent is the strongest sense tied to memory—or whatever excuse you need to treat yourself to something divine.
Prefer a keepsake you can see rather than smell? Outset Design stocks a thoughtful collection of art, objects, and cards. If I lived in Galway, I’d be tempted to pick up one of their cheeky cards to mark every friend’s big milestone.
And if you’re going to lose yourself somewhere on vacation, you could do much worse than Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop. I’ll admit, Michael and I lost each other among the 100,000+ books stacked in this labyrinthine shop (although, it’s just as likely we were hiding out in the computer and knitting book sections, respectively).
→Cloon Keen // 21 A High St, Galway, H91 Y266, Ireland
→Outset Design // Unit 14, The Cornstore, Middle St, Galway, H91 K8YV, Ireland
→Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop // The Cornstore, Middle St, Galway, H91 AH7A, Ireland
WHERE TO EAT IN GALWAY
Rúibín Bar & Restaurant
Rumor has it the upstairs dining room at Rúibín Bar & Restaurant offers an incredible view, but like everyone we spoke to during our stay in Galway, we never quite made it past the downstairs bar. Luckily, a table for two was free, so we settled into a pair of chairs and ordered a few dishes from the eclectic menu of shareable small plates.
With an ever-changing selection built around the season’s best local produce, there’s really no telling what you’ll find during your visit—but I can tell you the three dishes we ordered were impeccable. Focaccia with wild garlic butter kicked things off beautifully (there’s really nothing like Irish dairy, my goodness). Then came honey butter-glazed fried chicken and a bowl of shiitake and tofu dumplings in a broth I could happily drink every day for the rest of my life.
Dining downstairs felt just right for the very full eating day we’d already had, but next time I’m making a reservation upstairs for the full dining experience. Now I just need to book another flight…
→Rúibín Bar & Restaurant // 1 Dock Rd, Galway, H91 D7NE, Ireland
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Kai
I was already intrigued by the rotating menu of fresh, seasonal fare at Kai, but when I read the website description—“Kai Restaurant is nestled between the church and a gay bar down on Sea Road in Galway’s Westend”? Sold.
So we made our way over to the restaurant sandwiched between the church and the gay bar just in time for lunch and were lucky to find only a short wait for a table. I tend to avoid too many reservations when traveling so I can follow my appetite and keep things flexible, but Kai doesn’t take lunch reservations anyway (yay!).
Once seated, we craned our necks to read the handwritten chalkboard menu—updated during our meal, no less, which shows how fresh things are here. Just six items made choosing easy, though I think we could have predicted each other’s picks. A fragrant Samlar Kako stew called to me immediately, while Michael zeroed in on the lamb and beef kofta. Both were executed perfectly, and not a drop or crumb remained when our dishes were cleared.
Frankly, that would’ve been enough food—but Kai wisely stages its cakes from in-house Hāpi Bakery right in view. So yes, a perfect slice of passionfruit cake made its way to our table. Dinner here looks phenomenal too, but lunch offers such incredible value it would be hard to pass up.
→Kai // 22 Sea Rd, Galway, H91 DX47, Ireland
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The Dough Bros
While I love discovering off-the-beaten-path places for your travels, The Dough Bros is anything but a hidden gem. This Middle Street pizza spot is kind of a national icon—it has been recognized as the best pizza in Ireland and even ranked among the top 50 pizzas in the world.
Naturally, we had to go. And now that I’m back, I must insist: you have to go, too. If you’re visiting over the weekend, expect a queue, so plan your visit before hunger strikes—or risk standing in line while your stomach growls at the intoxicating smells of dough, molten cheese, and char.
One pizza is the perfect amount for two, making this a surprisingly great value for dinner. We chose The Stinger, which gave us the chance to finally try Gubbeen Chorizo—a smoked sausage we’d been eyeing at several shops throughout the trip but could never justify carrying in our luggage. Topped with smoky chorizo, fiery chili, punchy garlic, just the right amount of cheese, and a drizzle of hot honey on a pillowy, chewy crust, the result was a rare quiet meal. With food this good, there’s hardly room for conversation.
→The Dough Bros // Cathedral Buildings, 1 Middle St, Galway, Ireland
GREAT LOCAL COFFEE AND TREATS
Magpie Bakery
I’m so glad this is a weekend guide to Galway and not a weekday one—otherwise, Magpie Bakery might be closed, and we’d all be sad. (As of publication, they’re only open Thursday through Sunday.) Fortunately, head baker Cian Mooney—whose résumé includes favorites like Bread41 (which I covered in this guide)—and his team are up early crafting rustic sourdough loaves and impeccably laminated pastries at the end of the week.
Pro tip: While you might arrive to find a queue when they open, visiting later in the day usually yields a faster reward. How would I know that? Well… we stopped by twice in 48 hours. Should we be ashamed? Absolutely not. You’ll understand once you visit.
→Magpie Bakery // Unit 12, The Cornstore, Galway, H91 CC44, Ireland
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Coffeewerk + Press
Right in the heart of Galway’s Latin Quarter—a lively (and yes, touristy) stretch of town—you’ll find the creative energy of Coffeewerk + Press. It’s somewhat rare to find a long or drip coffee in Ireland, so I took full advantage of the chance to switch things up from espresso-based drinks with a pour-over.
While your coffee’s brewing, head upstairs to explore a thoughtful selection of stationery, art prints, and design objects. Even if you’re short on time, it’s well worth a quick look.
→Coffeewerk + Press // 4 Quay St, Galway, Ireland
GALWAY’S TOP PUBS AND BARS
Bierhaus
If you’re itching to try something beyond the usual stouts, ales, and lagers, Bierhaus is your spot. This Westend staple features an impressive tap list filled with craft beers you’re unlikely to find elsewhere in town, and it gave us a chance to try an Irish brewery’s take on an IPA. I wish I’d had room in my belly to try the delicious-smelling dishes coming out of the open kitchen, but at least my nose was happy. If you go for the food, be sure to comment and tell me what you ordered!
→Bierhaus // 2 Henry St, Galway, H91 E271, Ireland
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Tigín
Surrounded by nightclubs, Tigín feels like a breath of fresh air. I wasn’t sure what to expect from a cocktail bar in a country so known for its pub culture, but based on our experience, Irish cocktail bars just feel like—well, really good pubs. The vibe is relaxed and upbeat without being too rowdy, and you’ll feel just as comfortable sipping a pint as you would one of their unique craft cocktails (much to Michael’s relief!).
→Tigín // 32 Woodquay, Galway, H91 FK81, Ireland
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The Crane Bar
Looking to experience traditional (or trad) Irish music in Galway? The Crane Bar is an inviting, authentic pub with nightly sessions. Our timing didn’t line up with live music, but we did catch a local football match (that’s soccer, for my U.S.-based friends). The crowd’s energy was infectious as they cheered on Galway United. The results weren’t in our favor, but the pints definitely were.
→The Crane Bar // 2 Sea Rd, Galway, H91 YP97, Ireland
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Claddagh Basin
Okay, so this isn’t a pub or a bar—but when the weather’s nice, I recommend doing as the locals do: stop by an off licence (Fine Wines is a favorite nearby), grab a can or two, and head to the Claddagh Basin for a laid-back riverside drink. The crowd tends to skew younger thanks to the nearby university, but if—like me—you never totally outgrew the joys of a casual, budget-friendly drink outdoors, find a grassy spot and soak up the sunshine.
→Claddagh Basin // Eglington Lodge Canal Rd Upper, Galway, H91 D1VP, Ireland
WHERE TO STAY IN GALWAY
The Stop
When weighing options for where to stay in Galway, one spot stood out well above the rest: The Stop. This impossibly charming twelve-room bed and breakfast is perfectly situated in Galway’s Westend neighborhood, offering easy access to everything in this guide.
If your first thought was, “Wait, I think I want to stay in the city center…”—I kindly invite you to reconsider. Yes, the city center is bold, vibrant, and youthful—but it can also be quite loud and touristic. The Westend offers the best of both worlds: a peaceful place to rest your head, just a short ten-minute walk from all the action.
But let’s talk about why The Stop in particular is my top recommendation for travelers seeking an authentic, local experience in Galway. For starters, the inn is filled with local art and design, thanks to gallery walls curated by owners with a background in modern art. The rooms—while cozy—are smartly laid out and equipped with all the essentials. And then there’s my favorite part: breakfast. The Stop’s morning spread is beloved for its use of local ingredients, home-baked goods, and thoughtful options. It’s the perfect way to fuel up before a day of exploring Galway.
Want a deeper look? I wrote a full review of The Stop here.
→The Stop // 38 Father Griffin Rd, Galway, H91 FH76, Ireland
WITH MORE TIME
Two nights in Galway is just enough to feel like you’ve truly gotten to know the place—but more time is always a gift. If you find yourself with an extra day or two, here’s what’s topping my list for next time:
- Explore Connemara – for breathtaking scenery and raw Atlantic landscapes
- Check out the Galway City Museum – a free, well-curated spot to better understand the region’s history and culture
- Visit Menlo Castle – once restoration is complete, this riverside ruin will be a must-see
- Build a boat – yes, really!
- Enjoy far more meals – places like Greens & Co., dela, Ard Bia at Nimmos, Cava Bodega, and Jemi Lighthouse are calling
- Sip tea at Ashford Castle – a decadent experience in a fairytale setting
And as always, if you get to any of these before I do, I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment to share what you thought!
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: TRAVEL TIPS FOR GALWAY
Arriving in Galway
If you’re flying in, Shannon Airport is the most convenient option—it’s just over an hour by car or bus to Galway. Note that if you’re catching the bus, expect to transfer to another bus or a taxi to reach your hotel. Ireland West Airport is another possibility, but adds an extra hour or two to your journey unless you’re renting a car.
Most international travelers, however, will likely land at Dublin Airport, Ireland’s busiest hub. From Dublin, Galway is about a 2.5-hour drive or around 3+ hours by bus or train.
Driving in like we did? One thing I learned early on: travel times in Ireland can be deceptive. If your route includes any winding back roads (and many do), expect delays. Give yourself some buffer time to avoid stress. You can find more great tips for driving in Ireland here.
Getting Around Galway
Galway is incredibly walkable. If you zoom in on a map of the city’s main sights, you’ll see that the entire area is roughly an hour’s walk end to end. Most visitors staying in the Westend or city center will find that everything they want to see is within a 10–15 minute walk.
Need to go a bit farther? Galway has ten local bus routes. Just grab a Leap Card, load it with at least €5, and tap in when you board (at the reader beside the driver). Hit the stop button before your destination, exit through the back door, and shout a quick “thanks!” as you go. No need to tap out.
What I don’t recommend: driving in Galway. The city center is a tangle of narrow, one-way streets that are more trouble than they’re worth. If you have a car, I’d suggest using it only for arriving and departing the city.
Money
Galway is in the Republic of Ireland, so the Euro (€) is your currency. If you don’t already have a bit of cash on hand, stop by an ATM attached to a bank for added security. Most places accept cards, but it’s always smart to carry a little cash just in case.
Price-wise, Galway felt comparable to Cork, and a bit more affordable than Dublin. That said, it’s a university town, so budget-friendly eats like pizza, burritos, and burgers are easy to find if you’re trying to visit on the cheap.
Safety
If you found yourself searching “Is Galway safe?” and confronted with conflicting information, well, that’s probably because no city or small town is ever crime-free. That said, Galway is generally considered quite safe. Like any city, it has its occasional issues, but Galway’s strong sense of community goes a long way. A great example is Claddagh Watch Patrol, a volunteer-run group that works to prevent water-related accidents along the city’s canals and rivers.
I personally felt completely safe walking around Galway at night (with Michael), but I still recommend sticking to the usual common-sense travel practices: stay alert, walk in well-lit areas, and move with purpose.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON SPENDING A WEEKEND IN GALWAY
It may have taken me fifteen years to make it to Galway, but this is a destination worth waiting for. This colorful, creative, and compact city marches to its own beat, yet it has a way of making you feel like you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.
Even in a short weekend, it’s easy to fall into step with the city’s pace. You’ll find that Galway doesn’t demand your attention so much as invite it—offering little moments of magic that linger long after you’ve left. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll already be plotting your return before you’ve even made it out of town.
Thank you to the team at Micil Distillery for generously hosting our tasting and allowing us to share this tradition with Wayward readers.
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Questions for you
Have you ever been to Galway? If so, what surprised you most about the city?
Is Galway already on your travel list—or has this guide earned it a spot?
Where to next? You may also enjoy:
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