Visiting Galway has always been high on my travel bucket list, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer beauty and diversity of sights this charming corner of Ireland has to offer. From medieval castles steeped in history to dramatic cliffs that take your breath away, Galway is a traveler’s paradise. On my journey, I explored both well-known landmarks and hidden gems, each offering its own unique flavor of Irish culture and natural beauty. Here’s my personal take on some of the unmissable sights around Galway, along with practical tips for planning your trip.
1. Kylemore Abbey: A Castle Out of a Fairytale
When I first laid eyes on Kylemore Abbey, it felt like stepping into a storybook. Nestled against the backdrop of the lush Connemara hills, this former castle turned Benedictine abbey is an absolute must-see. The sight of its grey stone walls reflected in the still waters of the nearby lake is nothing short of magical.
- Location: Kylemore Abbey is located about an hour and a half drive from Galway City, deep in the Connemara National Park.
- How to Get There: I rented a car for the day, which I found to be the easiest option for exploring the region at my own pace. Public transport is limited, but there are guided bus tours that include Kylemore Abbey as a stop.
- Ticket Prices: Admission to the abbey and its Victorian walled garden is around €15 for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. I highly recommend booking your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues during the busy tourist season.
- What to See: The abbey itself is a breathtaking piece of architecture, but I also loved wandering through the tranquil gardens. The Gothic church on-site is a hidden gem, often missed by visitors.
- My Experience: Walking through the abbey’s halls, learning about its fascinating history as both a private castle and a convent, was awe-inspiring. The surrounding grounds, particularly the lake and mountains, made it feel like a peaceful retreat. I could have easily spent the entire day soaking in the beauty of the place.
2. The Cliffs of Moher: Ireland’s Iconic Coastal View
If there’s one sight that truly captures the wild, rugged beauty of Ireland, it’s the Cliffs of Moher. Just a short drive from Galway, these towering cliffs plunge into the Atlantic Ocean, offering one of the most iconic views in the country. The sheer scale and drama of the cliffs are mesmerizing, and they have become one of my favorite travel experiences.
- Location: The Cliffs of Moher are about 90 minutes south of Galway City, making them an ideal day trip destination.
- How to Get There: While there are plenty of organized tours from Galway, I decided to drive myself. There’s ample parking at the visitor center, which costs around €10 and includes entry to the cliffs.
- Ticket Prices: Entry to the cliffs and the visitor center is €10 for adults when purchased online and slightly more expensive on the day. I recommend getting tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
- What to See: Besides the cliffs themselves, I enjoyed exploring the visitor center’s exhibitions, which detail the geology, wildlife, and history of the area. There are multiple walking paths, and the northern trail offers an incredible vantage point for photos.
- My Experience: As I stood at the edge of the cliffs, the wind whipping through my hair and the waves crashing below, I felt both exhilarated and humbled by nature’s power. It’s hard to put into words just how grand and awe-inspiring the cliffs are in person.
3. Dunguaire Castle: A Slice of Medieval History
Just a short drive from Galway City lies Dunguaire Castle, a charming 16th-century tower house perched on the shores of Galway Bay. It might not be as grand as some of Ireland’s other castles, but it more than makes up for it with its history and atmosphere.
- Location: Dunguaire Castle is located in Kinvara, only about 30 minutes from Galway City.
- How to Get There: Driving is the easiest way to reach the castle, but there are also local buses from Galway to Kinvara that take about an hour.
- Ticket Prices: Admission to the castle is €8 for adults, with discounts for children and seniors. Guided tours are available, and they’re well worth the extra cost.
- What to See: I was particularly impressed by the beautifully restored banquet hall, where visitors can attend medieval banquets in the summer months. The views over Galway Bay from the top of the castle are also spectacular.
- My Experience: Wandering through the castle, it felt like I had stepped back in time. The exhibits inside provide a fascinating look at the history of the area, and the castle grounds are a perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon stroll.
4. Connemara National Park: Ireland’s Untamed Wilderness
For nature lovers, a trip to Connemara National Park is a must. This expansive park offers stunning landscapes, from rolling green hills to rugged coastlines, all set against the backdrop of the Twelve Bens mountain range.
- Location: Connemara National Park is located about an hour’s drive northwest of Galway City.
- How to Get There: I found that renting a car was the easiest way to explore the park at my own pace. There are guided tours available as well, but they often don’t allow enough time to fully experience the beauty of the park.
- Ticket Prices: Entrance to the park is free, which is a huge bonus. However, there is a small fee for guided walks and other activities.
- What to See: There are several hiking trails of varying difficulty, but the Diamond Hill Loop is the most popular. It’s a moderately challenging hike, but the panoramic views from the top are worth every step.
- My Experience: Hiking through the park, I was struck by how wild and untouched the landscape felt. The peace and quiet, combined with the dramatic scenery, made it one of my favorite spots in Ireland.
5. Inishmore Island: A Step Back in Time
Part of the Aran Islands, Inishmore is a place where time seems to stand still. With its rugged cliffs, ancient forts, and traditional Irish villages, the island offers a glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
- Location: Inishmore is located off the coast of Galway, accessible by ferry or small plane.
- How to Get There: I took the ferry from Rossaveal, which is about 45 minutes from Galway City. The ferry ride itself was about 40 minutes and cost €25 for a round-trip ticket.
- Ticket Prices: Exploring the island is free, but I highly recommend renting a bike for around €10 to cover more ground.
- What to See: The highlight of the island is Dún Aonghasa, a prehistoric stone fort perched on the edge of a 100-meter cliff. The island is also home to several beautiful beaches and small villages where you can get a taste of traditional Irish life.
- My Experience: Cycling around Inishmore, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and rolling green fields on the other, was an unforgettable experience. The sense of history at Dún Aonghasa was palpable, and the views from the top were absolutely breathtaking.
6. Galway City: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Last but certainly not least is Galway City itself. With its vibrant arts scene, historic buildings, and lively pubs, the city is a perfect blend of old and new.
- Location: Galway City is located on the west coast of Ireland, along the Wild Atlantic Way.
- How to Get There: I arrived in Galway by bus from Dublin, which took about two and a half hours. Once in the city, everything is within walking distance.
- Ticket Prices: Most attractions in the city are free to explore, though guided walking tours cost around €15.
- What to See: Don’t miss Eyre Square, Spanish Arch, and Galway Cathedral. I also loved wandering through the narrow streets of the Latin Quarter, where street performers and local shops create a unique atmosphere.
- My Experience: Galway City has a charm all its own. The vibrant culture, friendly locals, and endless live music made it one of my favorite stops on the trip.
From ancient castles to rugged cliffs, Galway and its surroundings offer a wealth of experiences for any traveler. Whether you’re drawn to history, nature, or the lively atmosphere of Galway City, there’s something here for everyone.