Galway, Ireland-7-day-itinerary

August 5, 2024

Day 1: Arrival in Galway

Morning: Arrive at Galway Airport or take a train from Dublin
10:00 am: Check-in at The Galmont Hotel & Spa, a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Galway city
12:00 pm: Lunch at McDonaghs Pub, a popular spot for traditional Irish food and music
1:30 pm: Visit the Galway Cathedral (also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St. Nicholas) and take a stroll along the nearby Salthill Promenade
Evening: Head to Latin Quarter, a historic neighborhood filled with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and lively pubs
Nightlife: Enjoy live music at Róisín Dubh, a well-known pub that hosts various performances throughout the week

Day 2: Explore Galway City

9:00 am: Start the day at Galway Museum, which features exhibits on the history and culture of the region
11:00 am: Visit the Spanish Arch, a historic entrance to the city that offers stunning views of Galway Bay
12:30 pm: Lunch at The King’s Head Pub, a cozy spot for traditional Irish cuisine and Guinness beer
2:00 pm: Explore the Galway City Market, a bustling marketplace with local vendors selling everything from crafts to food
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Cava Restaurant, which serves modern Irish cuisine using locally sourced ingredients

Day 3: Salthill and Promenade

9:00 am: Visit the Salthill Promenade, a scenic waterfront area with stunning views of Galway Bay
10:30 am: Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade and enjoy the fresh air and sea views
12:00 pm: Lunch at The Salthouse Pub, a popular spot for seafood and traditional Irish fare
1:30 pm: Visit the Galway Aquarium, which features a variety of marine life, including sharks and stingrays
Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Fishery Restaurant, which serves fresh seafood in a cozy atmosphere

Day 4: Connemara

9:00 am: Drive to Connemara National Park, a beautiful park featuring scenic hiking trails, lakes, and wildlife (approximately 1 hour drive from Galway city)
11:00 am: Take a guided tour of the park and learn about its history, geology, and unique flora and fauna
1:00 pm: Lunch at Connemara National Park Visitor Centre, which serves traditional Irish cuisine using local ingredients
2:30 pm: Visit the Kylemore Abbey and Gardens, a stunning castle and gardens located in Connemara (approximately 20-minute drive from the national park)
Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Connemara Village Restaurant, which serves modern Irish cuisine with a focus on local ingredients

Day 5: Cliffs of Moher

9:00 am: Drive to the Cliffs of Moher (approximately 2 hour drive from Galway city), one of Ireland’s most famous natural attractions
11:00 am: Take a guided tour of the cliffs and learn about their geology, history, and unique wildlife
1:00 pm: Lunch at The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre, which serves traditional Irish cuisine using local ingredients
2:30 pm: Visit the Doolin Cave, a stunning limestone cave located near the Cliffs of Moher (approximately 10-minute drive)
Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Doolin Pub, a cozy spot for traditional Irish music and Guinness beer

Day 6: Aran Islands

9:00 am: Drive to Doolin Pier and take a ferry to the Aran Islands (approximately 30-minute drive from Galway city)
10:00 am: Visit the Dún Aengus Fort, a stunning prehistoric fort located on the island of Inishmore
12:00 pm: Lunch at The Aran Island Café, which serves traditional Irish cuisine using local ingredients
1:30 pm: Explore the island and visit various historical sites, including the Teampall Bheitheach church
Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Aran Island Restaurant, which serves modern Irish cuisine with a focus on local ingredients

Day 7: Return to Galway

9:00 am: Return to Doolin Pier and take the ferry back to mainland Ireland (approximately 30-minute drive from Galway city)
11:00 am: Visit the Dunguaire Castle, a stunning medieval castle located in Kinvara, County Galway
12:30 pm: Lunch at The Kinvara Restaurant, which serves traditional Irish cuisine using local ingredients
2:00 pm: Return to Galway city and enjoy some last-minute shopping or sightseeing before departing

Transportation

Galway Airport is located approximately 10 km from the city center and offers flights from major European cities
The Galway Airport Shuttle bus service connects the airport with the city center (approximately 20-minute journey)
Train services connect Dublin to Galway City, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours
Bus Éireann provides an extensive network of bus services across Ireland, including routes connecting Galway City to nearby towns and attractions

Weather: Be prepared for unpredictable weather in Ireland, with rain possible at any time of year. Pack layers and waterproof clothing.
Language: English is the primary language spoken in Ireland, but you may encounter some Irish (Gaeilge) speakers, particularly in rural areas.
Currency: The Euro is the official currency in Ireland.
Tipping: A 10-15% tip is standard for good service in restaurants and bars.
Safety: Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid walking alone in dimly lit or isolated areas.

I hope you have a wonderful trip to Galway!