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DestinationsDestinationsOther |
Galway, Ireland Located on the western coast of Ireland, Galway is charming small city with a population of about 72,000. It is a place rich in culture, replete with Irish music and language. There are also quite a large number of pubs, which feature nightly performances by local bands. Galway is the perfect base for exploring the breathtaking scenery of western Ireland. The fantastical landscape of Connemara (where the 1952 John Wayne film The Quiet Man was shot), the rocky splendor of the Burren, and the quaint Aran Islands are only a bus (or ferry) ride away. Organized tours to all three destinations are easy to find and leave daily from downtown Galway.  Quay Street Within the city itself, be sure to check out the weekend market. Every Saturday and Sunday local vendors gather around St. Nicholas's cathedral to sell everything from organic produce to hand-knit scarves and pottery. While you are shopping for souvenirs you might also want to grab a bite to eat at one of the many food stalls. Due to its ideal location, Galway is a popular tourist destination. During the off season, however, the 15,000 students at the National University of Ireland, Galway make the town their own. No matter when you go you can expect to find a lively nightlife, as well as some great shops, pubs and cafes. ATTRACTIONS  Galway Harbor The Spanish Arch - situated very near the waterfront of Galway Bay, the Spanish Arch is part of the 16th century city walls. Nearby the Arch, those same walls now form a part of the Galway City Museum. If it is not too windy (and it frequently is in Galway) the Arch can be a nice location for a picnic. The Nora Barnacle House - fans of James Joyce will likely visit Dublin to explore his literary works, but Galway has its own role in his stories. At least a part of this is probably due to the fact that Nora Barnacle, Joyce's wife, grew up there. The Nora Barnacle House is Ireland's smallest museum and is only open during the summer months, but still draws a number of visitors each year looking for both historic and literary connections.  Eyre Square - to this day, Galway is proud of having hosted John F. Kennedy on his 1963 trip to Ireland, just a few months before he was assassinated. Near the center of the city, is Eyre Square, officially called Kennedy Park. There is a bust of JFK in the park, commemorating the spot where he gave a speech on his historic visit. St. Nicholas's Collegiate Church - finished in 1320, this historic building sits in the heart of Galway City. The cathedral has many fantastical carvings (including several mermaids) both inside and on the exterior and is famous as the rumored place where Christopher Columbus stopped to pray in 1477. St. Nicholas's is now an Anglican parish. Galway Cathedral - Galway's Catholic cathedral is a modern structure (finished in 1965), and although it does not have St. Nicholas's historic charm, it remains one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. While the stone exterior is impressive, the truly magnificent parts of the cathedral are the colorful mosaics that line the inside of the sanctuary.  The River Walk - Galway is located on the River Corrib and a pedestrian path makes this a great place to take an afternoon stroll. The river is home to a great many swans and ducks, and the walk also provides some lovely views of the historic bridges. The Galway International Oyster Festival - For over half a century, Galway has been hosting this internationally-renowned festival. The celebrations last four days in late September and include a parade, Oyster tasting, the Guinness World Oyster Opening Competition, live music and much, much more. Tickets for specific events are purchased separately, and prices range from relatively inexpensive to quite pricey, depending on the event. Thomas Dillon Claddagh Gold & Ring Museum- Located on Quay Street, this Claddagh museum is the home of the smallest Claddagh ring and other memorabilia associated with the famous ring design. The jewelers are the oldest in Ireland and one of the original makers of the Claddagh ring. The Galway Film Fleadh- Tourists can brush elbows with up-and-coming actors and directors when this international film festival comes to town in midsummer. Films are screened at the Town Hall or at the multiplex a few blocks away and fans are often invited to meet with the actors and directors after the films and ask questions. RESTAURANTS  McDonagh's- Located on Quay Street, just a few blocks from Galway harbor, McDonagh's has been a prime spot for seafood in Galway for over four generations. Adored by both locals and visitors, McDonagh's is a small restaurant with a bright exterior and nautically-themed decor. The interior is divided into two sections: the fish and chips bar and the seafood restaurant. Whichever you choose, the fish is some of the freshest to be found. The chips too are made from potatoes cut and peeled on the premises. With its flexible menu and variety of options, McDonagh's is the perfect place to experience Galway's seafood. Delight Gourmet Food Bar- Hidden on one of the backstreets in Galway, Delight serves gourmet sandwiches, salads and pastries. The eatery, located on Upper Abbeygate St., is a popular place for lunch. Be sure to try the grilled chicken breast wrap or the Cajun chicken wrap. LODGING PERSONAL STORIES 
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