Thought of as the place where the Irish like to have “the craic”, Galway is a great destination for Ireland vacations. It’s a hub for wonderful music, friendly people and beautiful sights as far as the eye can see.
Discover Connemara National Park
Situated in the West of Ireland in County Galway, Connemara National Park covers some 2,957 hectares of scenic mountains, expanses of bogs, heaths, grasslands and woodlands. Some of the parks mountains, namely Benbaun, Bencullagh, Benbrack and Muckanaght, are part of the famous Twelve Bens or Beanna Beola range. Connemara National Park was established and opened to the public in 1980. Nearby, you’ll find Kylemore Abbey – a Benedictine monastery with an amazing story and beautiful, Victorian walled gardens. This area is definitely worth the visit with its endless photo opportunities and stunning scenery.
Get Your Adventure on near the Wild Atlantic Way
A tourism trail located on the entire west coast, and on parts of the north and south coasts of Ireland, the west coast offers something for everyone. From the Ring of Kerry to The Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands, there is always an adventure to be found.
Take in the Culture of Quay Street
The “capital” of the ancient Irish western province of Connaught is also something of a cosmopolitan spot, with a fifth of its population falling into the non-Galwegian category. Add in the 17,000 students who arrive each autumn at its university and you have a small city with an international feel. Galway is known in Ireland as the “city of festivals,” with a season that climaxes during the arts festival. The July festival attracts 165,000 people annually, involves 500 artists and uses 29 venues. But, no matter when you arrive, you will probably find a festival, literary event or cultural shindig going on. It’s why culture vultures find the city, particularly the arts-and-music quarter that straddles the river Corrib, a refreshing alternative to Dublin.
Discover the Beautiful Architecture of Galway Cathedral
The seat of the Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Galway, Kilmacduagh & Kilfenora, Galway Cathedral is one of the largest and most impressive buildings in the city. The word “cathedral” is derived from the Greek “kathedra”, meaning a seat; and indeed this seat is to be found within the sanctuary of the Cathedral. The Cathedral of Galway was dedicated on August 15, 1965, and as such is the youngest of Europe’s great stone cathedrals. It is dedicated to Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and Saint Nicholas.
Have a Pint in Galway’s Latin Quarter (Where Galway Comes Alive)
From the restaurants, bars and shopping, to the Gin Fest, there is always something happening in Galway’s Latin Quarter. The yearly festival is also a large event that attracts a lot of attention from around Ireland.