Bohemian Galway (Gaillimh) is one of Ireland’s best-known cities, famed for its live music scene, foodie delights and fabulous fusion of contemporary arts and medieval history. A hugely attractive place to visit, Galway boasts a wide range of accommodation options, ranging from simple B&Bs to luxurious hotels with fantastic facilities. Many of the best places to stay in Galway are near the centre of town, ideal for a stylish city break within easy reach of the brightly-painted pubs and lively creative scene which makes the city so special.
Poised at the mouth of the River Corrib on Ireland’s picturesque west coast, Galway originally thrived as a trading hub during the Middle Ages, ruled by merchant families who exchanged goods with Spain, France and Scotland. Remnants of the city’s medieval walls now sit between traditional pubs and quirky bookshops, handicraft boutiques and musical instrument emporiums. Delve into the area’s turbulent past at the Galway City Museum or the Hall of the Red Earl, before stocking up on food and art at the Galway Market and perusing the shelves of the iconic Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop, a rambling maze filled with more than 100,000 volumes. Don’t miss admiring the Spanish Arch, strolling along the 2.5km Salthill Promenade, or trying your hand at fishing from the Salmon Weir Bridge during the summer months.
For a taste of Galway’s innovative arts scene, catch a performance penned by a budding Irish playwright at the Druid Performing Arts Company or perch in the city’s bars for toe-tapping gigs and a pint or three. Enlivened by its energetic student population, Galway is a great place for a night out, and some of the best pubs and restaurants are located in the charming Latin Quarter, a magical maze of cobbled streets and excellent eateries spilling out onto the streets. Food is a tremendous part of life in Galway, and there’s splendid seafood to savour, as well as regular annual foodie festivals, including the Galway Food Festival and the Galway Oyster & Seafood Festival, both of which also feature lots of live music. The Galway International Arts Festival, too, is a highlight for culture aficionados.
Beyond the city itself are myriad heritage attractions, as well as the beautiful landscapes of the dramatic Wild Atlantic Way -- a road trip of a lifetime. Whether you’re a couple or a group of friends looking for an artsy weekend away in one of Ireland’s most soulful cities, the best places to stay in Galway are chic and creative, reflecting the buzz and bustle of the city itself.
Some of our Galway Collections:
