Galway is a city that bursts with charm and character. From its narrow, cobblestone streets to the lively arts and music scene, the city is alive with energy. But amidst all the excitement, it’s also a place where you can find solace and comfort — especially in its numerous coffee shops and cafes. During my trip, I made it a point to discover the best spots for a cozy break, and I was not disappointed. Whether you’re looking to escape the rain, take a breather between sightseeing, or simply enjoy a delicious cup of coffee, Galway has no shortage of options. Here’s my journey through some of the best coffee shops and cafes the city has to offer.
1. Coffeewerk + Press
- Location: 4 Quay Street, Galway City Centre
- Price: Coffee from €3; pastries from €2.50
- Nearby Attractions: Spanish Arch, Galway City Museum, The Latin Quarter
One of my first stops was Coffeewerk + Press, a cafe that seamlessly blends the art of coffee-making with a love for design and creativity. Located in the heart of Galway’s Latin Quarter on Quay Street, this cafe is a sensory delight, and I found myself captivated from the moment I walked in. The space is minimalistic and airy, with clean white walls and pops of color from the art and design pieces that fill the shelves. It’s more than just a coffee shop — it’s also an art gallery and boutique, selling everything from art prints to handmade ceramics.
I ordered a flat white, which cost around €3, and paired it with a fresh croissant. The coffee was rich and smooth, clearly made by someone who takes pride in their craft. I sat by the window, sipping my coffee while watching the world go by on Quay Street, one of Galway’s liveliest and most charming areas. There’s something about the combination of quality coffee and inspiring surroundings that made Coffeewerk + Press one of my favorite stops during my time in Galway.
2. Java’s Creperie and Cafe Francais
- Location: 17 Upper Abbeygate Street, Galway City Centre
- Price: Crepes from €5; coffee from €3.50
- Nearby Attractions: Eyre Square, Shop Street, Galway Market
If you’re craving a taste of France in the heart of Galway, Java’s Creperie and Cafe Francais is the perfect spot. Tucked away on Upper Abbeygate Street, this quaint little cafe exudes a cozy, Parisian charm. The decor is rustic and warm, with wooden furniture, soft lighting, and shelves filled with French books and knick-knacks. It’s a perfect spot for a laid-back breakfast or a midday coffee break.
I treated myself to a classic crepe with Nutella, which was an absolute delight — soft, slightly crispy at the edges, and generously filled. Paired with a cappuccino, the whole experience felt indulgent but comforting. The cafe was relatively small, so I recommend getting there early if you want to snag a seat, especially on weekends. The staff were friendly and welcoming, adding to the overall atmosphere of the place.
Nearby, you’ll find Galway Market and Shop Street, both of which are worth exploring after your coffee break. Java’s is an excellent place to refuel after wandering through the city center.
3. The Secret Garden
- Location: 4 William Street West, Galway
- Price: Teas from €3; cakes from €4
- Nearby Attractions: Galway Cathedral, Galway Arts Centre, The Claddagh
A little off the beaten path, in the quieter part of the Westend, lies The Secret Garden, a whimsical and serene spot that’s perfect for unwinding. It’s the kind of place that feels like a hidden gem, with its colorful decor, cozy seating, and eclectic mix of furnishings. When I walked in, I immediately felt like I had stumbled into someone’s living room — it was warm, welcoming, and intimate.
The Secret Garden specializes in teas, offering an extensive selection of loose-leaf varieties from around the world. I opted for a Moroccan mint tea, which came in a beautiful pot and was served with a side of honey. The tea was refreshing and fragrant, the perfect antidote to Galway’s sometimes brisk weather. I also indulged in a slice of lemon drizzle cake, which was moist and tangy, just the right amount of sweetness.
What makes The Secret Garden stand out is its atmosphere. It’s a place where you can easily lose track of time, either chatting with friends or getting lost in a book. There’s even an outdoor patio area, draped in fairy lights, for warmer days. After my visit, I took a leisurely walk to the nearby Galway Cathedral, just a few minutes away, making it a perfect pit stop on a day of exploring.
4. Urban Grind
- Location: 8 William Street West, Galway
- Price: Coffee from €2.80; sandwiches from €5
- Nearby Attractions: Galway City Museum, Spanish Arch, The Claddagh
Right around the corner from The Secret Garden is Urban Grind, another gem in Galway’s Westend. This cafe is a bit more modern and hipster in vibe, with exposed brick walls, industrial lighting, and a focus on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The baristas here are true coffee aficionados, and you can tell that they take great pride in their craft.
I decided to try their pour-over coffee, which was recommended by the staff as one of their specialties. The flavor was bold and rich, with subtle notes of chocolate and berries. It was clear that the beans had been carefully selected and brewed to perfection. For lunch, I also ordered one of their fresh sandwiches — a delicious combination of roast chicken, avocado, and pesto on sourdough. It was simple yet incredibly flavorful.
Urban Grind is a fantastic place for both coffee lovers and foodies. It’s also conveniently located near some of Galway’s most iconic spots, like the Spanish Arch and Galway City Museum, making it an ideal stop during a day of sightseeing.
5. Espresso 44
- Location: 44 Shop Street, Galway City Centre
- Price: Coffee from €2.50; pastries from €2
- Nearby Attractions: Eyre Square, Shop Street, Galway Market
If you’re looking for a quick coffee fix while in the heart of Galway’s shopping district, Espresso 44 is the place to go. Located on bustling Shop Street, this tiny coffee bar may be easy to miss, but it’s well worth a stop. The focus here is on simplicity and quality — no frills, just excellent coffee.
I ordered a simple Americano, which cost around €2.50, and it was one of the best I had during my trip. Smooth, strong, and exactly what I needed to keep me going during a busy day of exploring. While there isn’t much seating inside, there’s a small bench outside where you can people-watch while enjoying your coffee.
Since Eyre Square and Galway Market are just a short walk away, Espresso 44 is the perfect spot to grab a coffee to-go before diving back into the hustle and bustle of Galway’s city center.
6. Little Lane Coffee Company
- Location: 4 Abbeygate Street Upper, Galway
- Price: Coffee from €3; pastries from €3.50
- Nearby Attractions: Eyre Square, Galway Market, Shop Street
On one of my last mornings in Galway, I found myself at Little Lane Coffee Company, a small but charming cafe tucked away on Abbeygate Street Upper. Despite its size, Little Lane packs a big punch when it comes to coffee quality. The cafe has a cozy, intimate feel, with a few tables inside and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
I ordered a latte, which was beautifully crafted with latte art and tasted as good as it looked. The coffee was smooth, creamy, and well-balanced. I also treated myself to a freshly baked almond croissant, which was flaky on the outside and soft on the inside — just the perfect accompaniment to my coffee.
What I loved most about Little Lane was its sense of community. The staff were incredibly friendly, and it was clear that many of the customers were regulars. It felt like a place where locals come to start their day, and I was more than happy to be part of that, even for just a morning.
Galway’s coffee culture is as vibrant and varied as the city itself. From cozy, tucked-away spots like The Secret Garden to bustling cafes like Espresso 44, there’s no shortage of places to grab a great cup of coffee and relax. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or simply looking for a cozy spot to recharge, Galway’s cafes have something to offer everyone. My personal favorites — from the artistic ambiance of Coffeewerk + Press to the Parisian charm of Java’s Creperie — made my trip all the more special.