Galway is a city on the west coast of Ireland, in the province of Connacht. Known in Irish as Gaillimh, it is a place where the arts are part of everyday life, and it makes a good base for anyone interested in music, old streets and a relaxed pace of visit.
What the city offers
- Arts scene: Galway has an active arts community, with a steady flow of performances, exhibitions and events across the year.
- Traditional Irish music: Sessions of traditional music are a well-known part of the city's character, and you can often hear them in its pubs.
- Medieval streets: The old quarter's narrow lanes give the city an older feel, and they are best explored on foot, at your own pace.
Planning a visit
Galway suits a visit built around wandering. Spend time in the historic centre, follow the lanes towards the waterfront, and let the evening's music guide the rest. Because so much of the city's life is concentrated in its compact centre, it is easy to fit a good deal into a short stay.
Visitors interested in the wider region will find that Galway is a useful starting point for exploring Connacht, the western landscapes that lie beyond the city limits.
