Galway is an incredible place for a weekend trip. From beaches to parks and mouth-watering food, everything about this place is worth visiting. When you’re in Ireland, Galway is an unmissable spot.
We have listed a Galway itinerary by providing you with options to make your own choice for the places that you would like to visit.
Day 1 In Galway
Option 1 For Day 1: Connemara
The first thing you can do is head to Connemara National Park, which is a one-hour drive from Eyre Square. This place is an absolute delight and has so many things to look at.
The 2000 hectares of mountains and forests filled with all the human remnants will leave your mind stunned.
Its entrance is situated near a village called Letterfrack, which is an amazing place if you want to learn more about Irish music.
Timings for Connemara National Park:
- March – November from 9 am to 5.30 pm.
- December – February from 8.30 am to 5 pm.
Entry to the Visitor Centre is free of charge, which will include the exhibition and AV film.
There are many other places in Connemara that you can check out.
Things To Do In Connemara
Tully Mountains
This is a hidden gem in Connemara; you all should definitely check this out if you have some extra time on your hand.
The view from up above is breathtaking. On a clear sky day, you can see as far as Westport and Aran Island.
As many people do not know this place, you will not find any markings on your way to the top, but it is pretty simple, and even with the slightest of trekking experience, you can figure your way out to the top.
Also, you will be surprised by a small incredible lake on your way.
Kylemore Abbey And Victorian Walled Garden
You can also visit Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Gardens, which are very close to Connemara.
The gigantic white walls and the traditional historical aura are something that might make your trip a memorable one.
Each photograph and audio-visual provided by the guides of all the fascinating 70 rooms will tell you a different and unique part of the story about the place.
The wilderness of this place will make you feel like you’re a part of the fairy-tale, and the luscious greens of the garden will be a delightful sight.
Timings for Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden:
Daily- 10:30 a.m to 4:30 p.m.
Charges for Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden:
- Adult – €14
- Student– €10
For a detailed travel guide to the Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden, click here to get to my blog.
Visit Inishbofin Island
Also called the White Cow, Inishbofin is a few miles from the Galway coast. When you’re on this island, there are tons of activities to do.
Fishing, walks, farming and of course, enjoying the stunning scenery and taking pictures.
One of the reasons why this island is so popular is because it is actually a breeding area for the rarest and most threatened species of birds.
Dogs Bay Beach- For Incredible Views
While returning from Connemara, you can also pay a visit to Dogs Bay and relax at the beach for some time. It is a 45-minute drive from the Abbey.
Enjoying the evening sunset here with your group of friends or family is one of the most beautiful and fulfilling parts of the Galway itinerary.
Click here to find out what more you can do in Connemara.
Now, if you don’t wish to visit these historic sites and parks, here’s another option that might interest you.
Option 2 For Day 1: Aran Islands
You can directly head to Aran Islands after finishing up your shopping spree at Eyre Square Shopping Centre. This place is an isolated treasure and will give you a relaxing, fun time.
You can explore the cliffs, and have fantastic landscape views. The churches and forts are the places where you can have a fun time with your friends and family.
Galway is the closest city to the island, a 2-hour ferry ride. You can start your ferry from Rossaveel.
The picturesque sites from the ferry are very mesmerizing, and the ride will become more delightful. You can reach the Rossaveel dock from the bus service.
To book your ferries, click here.
Cycling is probably one of the best ways you can get around Aran Islands. It’s also a great way to enjoy the beautiful views this place has to offer.
Here are some of the things you can do on Aran Islands.
Things To Do At Aran Islands
The Wormhole
This place is a completely natural tidal pool. If you’re a swimmer or a diver, you’ve got to go here. It’s really interesting how nature has cut this rock into a rectangle over time.
Thus, it has become a pool for people to swim in. Getting there required a little walking, however, so be prepared for that.
Kilmurvey Beach
This beach is stunning. Pale, white sand and clear, blue water- what more could you want? If you’re looking for a place to relax, Kilmurvey beach is the place.
It’s also a popular swimming spot during the summer.
Seal Colony Viewpoint
This is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the Aran Islands. True to its name, you’ll be able to see some seals, as well as a few other water creatures.
The Grey Seal, which is one of the rarest types, can be spotted here. Keep in mind that spotting seals may not be successful during high tides.
There are actually a lot of things to do at Aran islands, and I’ve just told you about a few. For a detailed and informative list, click here.
Day 2 – Exploring Galway City
Things To Do In Galway City
Walk Around Eyre Square
Eyre Square is the city centre of Galway, so you can expect it to always be happening. It is a popular place for people to come together and understandably so because it is located in the heart of Galway.
Cafes, restaurants, playgrounds, markets and shopping in stores are just some of the many things you can do here.
Shop Street
This is one of Galway’s most iconic locations as it was the first-ever street here that started with the retail stores. This street is a perfect place to shop for some authentic and ethnic Irish products.
You will also find many musicians and performers jamming out here. The road also has many cafes and pubs and some historic buildings.
The hoardings of some buildings and stores have a website address which will give you all the history of that particular building.
Do keep your eyes on this, if you’re interested to know more about the place.
Spanish Arch
The arch was made to provide shelter to the soldiers who were keeping a watch. It is one of the oldest hidden gems in Galway. This arch has been through a tsunami and still stands straight and is one of Galway’s top tourist attractions.
It is on the bank of the River Corrib and thus very close to Shop Street. You can enjoy your quality time here, near the shore.
A 3-minute walk from here will take you to West End, which is lively with young people. There are a lot of clubs and places you can relax and have fun.
Relax At Salthill Promenade
After a wholesome day at the aquarium, you can have a peaceful time here with your friends and enjoy the most spectacular views of the city.
Salthill Promenade place is calming, and you can walk around the trail or sit and take in the breathtaking aura.
It is one of the top tourist attractions in Galway. This is one of my favourite places, and believe me; you won’t regret coming here.
Optional Visit- Barna Woods and Silverstrand Beach
If you’ve got some more time in your day, visit these places. They might take up a huge chunk of time, so I’m just throwing these in here as an option.
Barna Woods
After an excellent retail run, I’m sure that you might want to relax and have some quiet time. Barna Woods is just around a 15 -20 minute drive from the city centre.
Barna Woods is excellent for birds and wildlife and is also the city of woodland. Walking trails between nature and the woods here will feel like home and ease everything off.
Silverstrand Beach
Close to Barna woods, this beach gives spectacular views of the Atlantic and is an amazing place to have some fun with your family.
It also has a car parking facility. This place is very known among camping groups and is one of the highlights that stop for picnics. You can swim here during the low tide period.
Cafes In Galway
Galway is a city with a lot of cute and quirky cafes. From aromatic coffee to delicious baked goods, there’s a long list of cafes in this city. Here are some of my favourite ones.
Kai Cafe
The Maori word for “food” is Kai. Kai cafe is an eccentric little cafe and restaurant that is bound to make you feel relaxed and happy.
With unique dishes and premium ingredients, this cafe has garnered quite a reputation.
Caprice Cafe
Delicious pizzas, melt-in-the-mouth desserts and great coffee all make Caprice Cafe a wonderful place in Galway.
The chic interiors also add to the ambience.
Jungle Cafe
Jungle cafe is an interesting cafe that is the definition of serenity, with potted plants and cozy blankets.
With such a comfortable atmosphere and delicious food, what’s not to love here?
Restaurants in Galway
McCambridges
This is a family-owned restaurant with some of the most delectable food. Local and international ingredients make the dishes flavoursome and unique-tasting.
The traditional setting, along with the warm staff will make you love McCambridges.
Dough Bros
If you look for the best pizza in Galway, this place is guaranteed to show up. Warm staff, perfect packaging, quick service and of course, amazing pizza- Dough Bros is one of my personal favourites.
Click here for some more great pizza places in Galway.
Galway Market
Alright, so I know this isn’t exactly a restaurant, but there are a lot of food stalls at Galway Market.
From sushi to crepes, and pizza to traditional Irish snacks, this is a fun place to eat at.
If you’d like some more recommendations for cafes and restaurants in Galway, here they are.
Pubs In Galway
Tigh Neachtain Pub
Tigh Neachtain Pub serves some of the best craft beer in Galway. Along with that, they also support local talent by having live music throughout the week.
The food menu is created with locally sourced ingredients. All in all, Tigh Neachtain Pub is a great place to be.
O’Connell’s
O’Connell’s is a traditional pub in Eyre Square that is surrounded by antiques. Some of my favourite parts about this pub are the beer garden door and the wall-to-wall whiskey display on the wall.
Fun fact- This is where Ed Sheeran’s music video for “Galway Girl” was shot.
The Front Door
If you’re one to head out for a late night, The Front Door is the place to go to.
With a perfect combination of music, ambience, delicious food and of course, great beer, I’d highly recommend the Front Door.
Accommodation in Galway Ireland
Hardiman
Hardiman is one of the oldest hotels in the city and is situated in Eyre Square.
With the best hospitality and a luxurious stay, this hotel is an excellent option to stay in if you want to stay in a 4-star hotel.
Maldron Hotel
Maldron is a family-friendly hotel is located in Oranmore, which is just outside Galway city. Don’t fret, though, it’s easy to get to the popular posts from here.
113 rooms, leisure activities, wonderful facilities and warm staff make this 4-star hotel well worth it.
Clayton Hotel
Located right opposite the Galway racecourse, Clayton is in the ideal location. It is a contemporary hotel close to all of the attractions in Galway city.
With facilities like a bar and bistro, air-conditioned rooms, free wifi and a pool and sauna, service at the Clayton is all high standards.
If you’re going to book at these hotels, be prepared for a price hike. A night’s stay at one of these places would cost you about 60 to 100 euros per night (starting rate).
Hostels In Galway
Kinlay Hostel
One of the best hostels in Ireland is often the title given to Kinlay hostel. Located on the corner of Eyre Square, it’s in a great location. Some facilities include free wi-fi, complimentary breakfast, a lounge, and free luggage storage.
A spacious dining room, a fully equipped kitchen and great rooms will make your stay here comfortable and memorable.
Woodquay Hostel
Serving travellers since 1991 with one of the best stay experiences is the Woodquay hostel. I personally stayed here when I shifted to Galway for my Master’s.
The experience was good, I made a lot of friends here, and the staff is approachable and supportive. I made my bookings through booking.com.
Sleepzone Hostel
Sleepzone is another recommendation for Hostels for budget accommodation. A friendly, clean and value-for-money hostel that is located 100 metres from Eyre Square (City Centre).
I have personally visited this hostel a couple of times since some of my friends were staying here. Their experience was equally amazing and worth the money spent.
Click here to get a detailed list of some more accommodation options on my blog.
Conclusion
This ends your two-day Galway itinerary. I also hope that these options of places and suggestions were helpful to you. Galway is a beautiful place and a delight to be in, because of the friendly people there.
Every new site you visit, you will have a different kind of connection with the place. The authenticity that some of the sites have there is very rare.
To have a travel guide about some more places in Galway, click here.
Have you guys been to Galway? Did you find this itinerary helpful? I’d love to know in the comments below. I’ll talk to you guys soon!
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