Galway Ireland 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Galway City

Morning

  • Arrive in Galway city and check-in to your accommodation. Recommended stays include:
    • The Galmont Hotel & Spa (4-star)
    • The House Hotel (3-star)
    • Sleepzone Galway Hostel (budget-friendly)
  • Visit the Galway City Museum to learn about the city’s rich history and culture.
  • Take a stroll along the Salthill Promenade, which offers beautiful views of Galway Bay.

Afternoon

  • Explore the Latin Quarter, a charming area filled with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and quaint shops. Be sure to visit:
    • St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, one of Ireland’s most historic churches
    • The Spanish Arch, a 16th-century gateway
  • Grab lunch at:
    • The Dough Bros, serving delicious wood-fired pizzas
    • Ard Bia, offering tasty Irish cuisine with a focus on local ingredients

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Irish music and pub grub at:
    • The Rowing Club
    • Tig Coili
  • Take in the lively atmosphere of Galway’s Latin Quarter, which comes alive with street performers and live music in the evenings.

Day 2: Claddagh and Salthill

Morning

  • Visit the picturesque fishing village of Claddagh, famous for its thatched cottages and historic church.
  • Take a short walk to Salthill Beach, a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing (weather permitting!).

Afternoon

  • Stop by Galway Atlantaquaria, a unique aquarium featuring marine life from around the world.
  • Explore the scenic coastal route, which offers stunning views of Galway Bay.

Evening

  • Dine at:
    • The Seafood Bar, serving fresh seafood and oysters
    • O’Grady’s on the Pier, offering tasty pub grub with a focus on local ingredients
  • Catch a traditional Irish music session at Monroes Live.

Day 3: Aran Islands

Morning

  • Take a ferry from Galway city to the Aran Islands, a haven for nature lovers and history buffs.
  • Visit Dún Aengus, a prehistoric fort perched on the edge of a cliff.

Afternoon

  • Explore the islands’ scenic landscapes, including beaches, hills, and valleys.
  • Stop by Teach an Phiarsaigh, a historic cottage museum showcasing Irish culture.

Evening

  • Return to Galway city and enjoy dinner at:
    • Aniar, serving modern Irish cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
    • Cava Bodega, offering tapas-style dishes and an extensive wine list
  • Take in the lively atmosphere of Galway’s Latin Quarter once more.

Day 4: Connemara National Park

Morning

  • Visit Connemara National Park, a stunning park featuring rugged landscapes, boglands, and mountains.
  • Hike to the top of Diamond Hill, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Afternoon

  • Explore the charming village of Letterfrack, with its quaint shops and cafes.
  • Stop by Kylemore Abbey, a beautiful neo-Gothic castle with stunning gardens.

Evening

  • Dine at:
    • The Connemara National Park Tea Rooms, serving delicious homemade treats
    • The Village Tavern, offering hearty pub grub and live music
  • Return to Galway city and enjoy some traditional Irish music at Taaffes Bar.

Day 5: The Cliffs of Moher and the Burren

Morning

  • Visit the iconic Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most famous natural attractions.
  • Take a scenic drive through The Burren, a unique landscape known for its limestone pavement and wildflowers.

Afternoon

  • Explore the charming coastal village of Doolin, with its colorful buildings and seafood restaurants.
  • Stop by Doonagore Castle, a 16th-century tower house with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Evening

  • Return to Galway city and enjoy a farewell dinner at:
    • Moran’s on the Weir, serving fresh seafood and Irish cuisine
    • The Huntsman Inn, offering tasty pub grub and live music
  • Reflect on your amazing 5-day adventure in Galway!

Things to Know

  • Galway is a walkable city, but there are also bus services available.
  • Be prepared for changeable weather and pack layers accordingly.
  • Try to avoid visiting during peak season (June to August) if you can, as it can get quite busy.

Transportation

  • Flights: The closest airport is Shannon Airport, which is about an hour’s drive from Galway city. You can also fly into Dublin Airport and take a bus or train to Galway.
  • Bus: Bus Éireann operates services throughout the city and surrounding areas.
  • Train: Irish Rail offers services from Galway to other major cities in Ireland.

Tips

  • Be sure to try some traditional Irish cuisine, such as Irish stew, soda bread, and colcannon (mashed potatoes with kale and onions).
  • Don’t forget to explore the many charming shops and markets throughout Galway city.
  • Learn a few basic Irish phrases, such as “céad mile fáilte” (a hundred thousand welcomes) and “go raibh maith agat” (thank you).

Other Things of Interest

  • Galway International Arts Festival: A annual festival featuring music, theater, dance, and visual arts.
  • Galway Film Flead: A annual film festival showcasing new Irish cinema.
  • Trad on the Prom: A live traditional Irish music session held at the Salthill Promenade.