Galway: the pearl of western Ireland - recommended attractions in the city of artists

Galway: the pearl of western Ireland - recommended attractions in the city of artists

June 11, 2025

Galway, the pearl of western Ireland, is a city that delights with its artistic soul and unique atmosphere. It is a place where tradition meets modernity, and culture and art pulsate to the rhythm of everyday life. We invite you on a journey through this unique city, which for years has attracted artists, musicians and culture lovers from all over the world. In our guide, you'll discover Galway's most interesting attractions that will make your visit an unforgettable experience for the whole family. From bustling squares to majestic cathedrals, world-famous festivals to quaint corners, Galway has everything you need to fall in love with Ireland at first sight.

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The heart of the city and its cultural center

Start our adventure in the heart of Galway - at Eyre Square. This bustling square, also known as John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, is the center of the city's social and cultural life. Eyre Square is not only a meeting place for locals and tourists, but also a starting point for exploring Galway's charms. Surrounded by historic buildings and modern stores, the square offers the perfect blend of history and modernity. Families with children will appreciate the spacious green areas, perfect for a picnic or relaxing after a busy day of sightseeing. Eyre Square has won praise from visitors, as evidenced by its high 4.5-star rating. One tourist describes the place this way: 'It is a meeting place. Concerts vernissages and walks. It is the heart of the city. This is where the adventure of Ireland begins when you arrive and where it ends. Note the distinctive section of wall with a window overlooking the ocean - although currently under renovation, it is an interesting architectural feature of the square.

Not far from Eyre Square is another Galway gem - the Cathedral of the Assumption and St. Nicholas. This majestic church, built between 1958 and 1965, impresses with its monumental architecture and rich interior design. The cathedral, rated at 4.6 stars, is not only a place of worship, but also an important point on the city's tourist map. Visitors are impressed by the huge organ, beautiful stained glass windows and impressive mosaics. One visitor remarks: 'Beautiful cathedral. It is impressive and has an atmosphere. There is also an adoration chapel. It's worth noting interesting features, such as accessible toilets and a special room for families with young children, which makes the cathedral friendly to all visitors.

Both of these attractions, Eyre Square and the Cathedral, are an excellent introduction to exploring Galway. They are easily accessible and close to each other, making it convenient to visit, especially for families with children. Eyre Square offers open space and opportunities for relaxation, while the Cathedral provides a spiritual and artistic experience. It's worth planning a visit to both of these places to feel the true spirit of Galway - a city where history and modernity create a fascinating mix.

Festivals and arts districts

Galway is famous for its rich cultural offerings, and one of the most important events on the city's calendar is the Galway International Arts Festival. This world-class festival, held annually, attracts artists and audiences from around the world. With an impressive 4.8-star rating, the festival offers a wide range of artistic events - from music and theater to visual arts and literature. One attendee describes his impressions: 'An amazing parade through the streets of Galway! The four abstract giraffes that traveled with the other floats were extremely elegant and interesting to watch. The festival features not only the big events, but also numerous smaller attractions scattered throughout the city, making it an ideal opportunity for families to explore art in various forms together.

For those who want to immerse themselves in Galway's artistic atmosphere year-round, a must-visit is the Galways Westend district. This charming part of the city, rated 4.7 stars, is a true paradise for lovers of culture, art and good food. As one visitor describes: 'Westend in Galway has it all! It's almost like a village in Galway city. The businesses are run by the owners themselves, which provides a very personalized feel. In Westend you'll find local stores, cafes, restaurants and pubs, as well as numerous galleries and concert venues. It's the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll and explore the city's hidden gems.

To fully appreciate Galway's diversity and cultural richness, take advantage of City Sightseeing Galway - Hop-On Hop-Off Open-Top Bus Tours. These popular bus tours, rated 4.5 stars, offer a convenient way to explore the city's top attractions. As one tourist notes: 'The tour provides a good view of Galway and the surrounding area, including the Salthill Trampoline and Black Tower.' This is a great option for families with children, who can see the city's most interesting sites in comfort.

When comparing the three attractions, it's worth noting that each offers a different experience. Galway International Arts Festival is an intense, temporary event, ideal for those who want to experience an explosion of culture in a short period of time. Galways Westend is a permanent attraction, perfect for quietly exploring the city's artistic spirit throughout the year. City Sightseeing Tours, on the other hand, are a great option for those who want a quick overview of the city's topography and major attractions. All of these destinations are family-friendly, but Westend may be particularly appealing because of the variety on offer and the more leisurely pace of sightseeing.

Nature and Galway's surroundings

You can't talk about Galway without mentioning its beautiful natural surroundings. One of the most impressive places near the city is Connemara National Park. This vast wilderness area, rated 4.8 stars, offers unforgettable views and the opportunity to experience nature in its purest form. Connemara National Park is a paradise for hiking, nature photography and family outings. As one visitor describes: 'Beautiful natural circumstances - the real Ireland - raw and beautiful. The park offers scenic mountains, lush vegetation, lakes and streams. It's the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and spend time in nature.

Returning to the city, look out for the Salmon Weir Bridge, a distinctive bridge over the Corrib River. While not a typical tourist attraction, this bridge is an important part of Galway's landscape and offers beautiful views of the river and the nearby cathedral. One tourist notes, 'I was surprised by how fast the water flowed. There were so many people sitting on the benches that I realized this bridge was loved. It's a great place to take a short walk and take souvenir photos.

For those looking for more active recreation, the Eile Mental Activity Park offers a range of outdoor activities. This activity park, rated 4.6 stars, is a great place for families looking for adventure. It offers a variety of activities, from archery to outdoor games. One guest describes his experience: 'I love this place. We had a great time with the archery and it was well organized. The location is in the hills of Lower Connemara and you really feel like you are in the wilderness.

Comparing these attractions, Connemara National Park stands out for its vastness and wildness, offering the most authentic experience of the Irish countryside. It is ideal for families who enjoy active recreation and long hikes. Salmon Weir Bridge, on the other hand, is an easily accessible attraction in the center of town, ideal for a short walk and photo opportunity. Eile Mental Activity Park offers the most organized activities and is a great option for families with children of all ages looking for adrenaline and fun.

All of these places show how Galway combines urban charm with proximity to nature. Whether you prefer leisurely strolls, active recreation or admiring wild landscapes, Galway and its surroundings have something to offer for everyone. It is this diversity that makes the city such an attractive destination for families and all lovers of culture, art and nature.

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