Galway-6-day-itinerary

Galway 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive in Galway City
  • Check-in at Sleepzone Galway or similar accommodation
  • Visit the Galway Cathedral (St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church), a beautiful medieval church with stunning stained-glass windows
  • Walk along the Salthill Promenade, enjoying the views of Galway Bay

Afternoon

  • Explore Quay Street, the heart of Galway’s Latin Quarter, lined with colorful buildings, street performers, and lively pubs
  • Visit the Galway City Museum to learn about the city’s history and culture
  • Grab lunch at The Seafood Bar, serving fresh seafood dishes

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Irish music at Tig Coili or The Rowing Club
  • Dine at Aniar Restaurant, offering modern Irish cuisine with a focus on local ingredients

Day 2: Claddagh and Salthill

Morning

  • Visit the picturesque fishing village of Claddagh, famous for its thatched cottages and stunning coastal views
  • Explore the Galway Atlantaquaria, Ireland’s largest aquarium, featuring marine life from around the world

Afternoon

  • Head to Salthill Beach, a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing (if you’re lucky with the weather!)
  • Take a leisurely walk along the promenade, enjoying the sea views and street performers
  • Grab coffee or lunch at The Salthill Café

Evening

  • Return to Galway City and enjoy dinner at Moran’s on the Weir, serving seafood and Irish classics
  • Experience Galway’s vibrant nightlife at Róisín Dubh or Monroe’s Live

Day 3: Aran Islands

Morning

  • Take a ferry from Rossaveal to Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands (book in advance with Aran Island Ferries)
  • Explore Dún Aengus, a 2,000-year-old fort perched on the edge of a cliff

Afternoon

  • Visit the Aran Islands Heritage Centre to learn about the island’s history and culture
  • Take a bike ride or walk around the island, enjoying the scenic views and rural landscapes
  • Grab lunch at Tí Joe Watty’s, serving seafood and Irish dishes

Evening

  • Return to Galway City and enjoy dinner at The Huntsman Inn, offering traditional Irish cuisine
  • Relax with a pint of Guinness at Taaffes Bar

Day 4: Connemara

Morning

  • Drive or take a guided tour to Connemara National Park (approximately 1-hour journey)
  • Explore the park’s scenic trails, boglands, and mountains

Afternoon

  • Visit Kylemore Abbey, a stunning neo-Gothic castle with beautiful gardens
  • Take in the breathtaking views of Lough Pollacapall, a picturesque lake surrounded by mountains
  • Grab lunch at The Connemara National Park Tea Rooms

Evening

  • Return to Galway City and enjoy dinner at The King’s Head, serving Irish and international cuisine
  • Experience traditional Irish music and dance at Leahy’s Pub

Day 5: Day Trip to The Burren

Morning

  • Drive or take a guided tour to The Burren National Park (approximately 1.5-hour journey)
  • Explore the unique landscape, flora, and fauna of this UNESCO Global Geopark

Afternoon

  • Visit the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most iconic natural attractions
  • Take in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Aran Islands
  • Grab lunch at The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre Café

Evening

  • Return to Galway City and enjoy dinner at Cava Bodega, serving Spanish-inspired tapas
  • Enjoy live music or comedy at Róisín Dubh or Monroe’s Live

Day 6: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute attractions
  • Check-out of your accommodation and depart Galway City

Transportation

  • Bus Éireann operates services from Dublin to Galway, as well as within Galway City
  • Taxis are also available throughout the city
  • Car rental options are available at Galway Airport or in the city center

Tips and Essentials

  • Pack layers for unpredictable Irish weather
  • Bring comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
  • Don’t forget your camera to capture stunning landscapes and moments
  • Try traditional Irish cuisine, such as seafood chowder, Guinness beef stew, or colcannon (mashed potatoes with kale and onions)
  • Be prepared for limited Wi-Fi and phone signal in rural areas

Things to Know

  • Galway is a bilingual city, with many signs and locals speaking both English and Irish (Gaeilge)
  • The city has a strong cultural heritage, with many festivals and events throughout the year
  • Tipping is not expected but is appreciated for good service

I hope you enjoy your trip to Galway!