A Weekend in Galway: Discovering Ireland’s Wild West
When the opportunity arose to explore the west coast of Ireland, we couldn’t resist. With its rich history, lively culture, and dramatic landscapes, Galway was calling, and we were more than ready to answer.
We decided to take a spontaneous weekend trip, booking a $20 Bus Eireann ticket that would take us three and a half hours to Galway, from our home base in Maynooth. By 9 p.m., we were stepping off the bus and into the heart of the city. A short walk brought us to Sleep Zone, a cozy hostel just steps from Eyre Square, the bustling hub of Galway. The hostel had everything we needed: free breakfast and coffee, a lounge area to relax, and a chalkboard listing the best local recommendations—from historic pubs to must-visit attractions.
For a rainy day: Charlie Byrnes Bookstore, Galway City Museum, Hop On / Hop Off Bus
Traditional music / bars & Staff favorites: King’s Head, Quays Bar, O’Connell’s Bar
Where to eat: McDonagh’s, McCambridge’s, High Cafe
What to see & do: Galway’s Farmer’s Market, Claddagh Village, Galway Cathedral
A Taste of Galway: Pubs, Music, and Local Charm
No trip to Galway is complete without immersing yourself in its lively pub scene, and we wasted no time. Our first stop was The King’s Head, a medieval pub with over 800 years of history. The moment we walked in, we were enveloped by the sounds of live traditional Irish music. It was the perfect way to kick off our Galway experience, pints in hand, tapping our feet to the rhythm of the tunes.
Next, we headed to Quay’s Bar, another local favorite. This multi-level pub offered a fantastic atmosphere with an open space for mingling and a live band playing upstairs. It didn’t take long for the locals to strike up a conversation with us. A couple of Irish locals approached, immediately guessing we were from the States. One had just returned from studying abroad in Ohio, and his best friend was from Dayton (where we were currently enrolled in our undergraduate program) —proof that the world is much smaller than we think.
Discovering Galway’s Stunning Surroundings
The next day, we joined a guided bus tour with Galway Tour Company, eager to explore the stunning landscapes of Ireland’s west coast. Our first stop was Dunguaire Castle in Kinvara, a picturesque village where we took a quick tour of the historic fortress. The castle, overlooking the serene waters, was a perfect introduction to Ireland’s rich past.
Next, we ventured to Kilfenora, where we explored St. Fachnan’s Cathedral. The cemetery outside, with its famous Celtic crosses, was a peaceful place to reflect. The cathedral’s architecture was a blend of simplicity and grandeur, offering us a quiet moment before our next stop: the Cliffs of Moher.
The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders—and for good reason. Standing atop the cliffs, we were completely awestruck. The wind whipped fiercely around us, and the vast Atlantic Ocean stretched out as far as the eye could see. The view was nothing short of spectacular, with the rugged coastline and the Aran Islands visible in the distance. It was an unforgettable experience.
Exploring Ireland’s Heartland: Countryside and Castles
The next morning, we set off for another day of exploring the Irish countryside. Our first stop was the Inagh Valley, where the rolling hills and tranquil lakes took our breath away. As we wound through the valley, we passed sheep grazing lazily in the fields—an image straight out of an Irish postcard.
Our tour continued to Kylemore Abbey, a stunning monastery that sits beside a serene lake. Originally founded for nuns fleeing Belgium during World War I, the abbey was a place of peace and beauty. We wandered through the abbey’s opulent rooms and admired the grand architecture. The garden, just a short trolley ride away, was a highlight of the visit, with its perfectly manicured landscapes and vibrant blooms.
After a day spent exploring the Irish countryside, we made our way to The Quiet Man town and visited Ross Errily Friary, a 14th-century monastery. These ancient sites, steeped in history and beauty, rounded out our tour of Ireland’s western gems.
Culinary Delights and Local Flavors
After a long day of sightseeing, we were ready to indulge in Galway’s renowned food scene. We dined at McDonagh’s, a restaurant famous for its fish and chips. The crispy battered fish, paired with chunky fries, was exactly what we needed after a full day of exploration.
On our final morning, we visited McCambridge’s, an upstairs café known for its all-day Sunday brunch. From hearty traditional breakfasts to lighter fare, it was the perfect place to relax before our bus journey back.
Before leaving Galway, we couldn’t resist a final stroll through the Galway Farmer’s Market. The market, held in Eyre Square, offered everything from local jewelry and trinkets to delicious food stalls. The smell of fresh pastries and sizzling street food filled the air, tempting us to linger just a little longer.
As we boarded the bus back to our next destination, we reflected on an unforgettable weekend. Galway had proven itself to be a city of surprises—rich in history, vibrant in culture, and awe-inspiring in natural beauty. We had come for a quick escape, and left with memories that would last a lifetime.