Itineraries for Your Trip to Galway
3 Days in Galway for First Timers
When I travel back to the land of my heritage, I always make my way west to drive Ireland's craggy coastline and stop in Galway. An afternoon in a pub listening to live music is my idea of heaven, and there's no shortage of opportunities in Galway. If you time your visit right, you can check out one of the many festivals that take over the "Cultural Heart of Ireland," making a visit even more lively and enjoyable.
With three days in Galway, I could easily spend the whole time exploring the city, but Galway is also a great jumping-off point for visits to the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a history tour.
Galway has mild summers and cooler winters; always prepare for rain.
Get acquainted with Galway on this walking tour that will teach you a bit of Irish history. Start in Eyre Square with a visit to the Browne Doorway dating back to 1627, and then head out to visit castles, statues, and other points of interest like the Claddagh Ring Museum.
Now that you've worked up an appetite from walking through the city, it's time to meet up for your food tour of Galway. Your guide will take you to meet cheesemakers, artisan chocolatiers, and brewers who are showcasing the best of Galway's ingredients through their food and drink products.
The Cliffs of Moher are a 2-hour drive from Galway, so many travelers take a day trip to visit this stunning area of Ireland's coastline. On this tour, you'll be picked up in Galway and taken to the Burren region, with other stops at Dunguaire Castle, Aillwee Cave, and Doolin.
Once you've returned to Galway, prepare for a walking tour with a macabre twist. On this haunted history tour, your guide will share details about witchcraft and hauntings throughout Galway's history. This tour is not for the faint-hearted.
Get ready for an active day with this tour that will take you from Galway to Connemara National Park, just a few hours northwest of the city. Take in the Irish countryside and stop at popular spots like Killary Harbour and the charming village of Spiddal. Once you arrive at Connemara, set out to hike at your own pace.
After your adventure, it's time to get cozy with this private visit to Brackloon Castle, still used as a family home. Tour the castle with the family, hearing about its history and restoration before enjoying tea and refreshments before a roaring fire. It's the perfect way to end your Galway visit.
