Galway, Ireland: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2025

Galway, situated on the River Corrib between Lough Corrib and Galway Bay, was once part of the old Kingdom of Connacht. The city originated from a settlement around a fortification established by the King of Connacht in 1124.

Today, Galway offers a wealth of attractions and activities. Shop Street features Lynch’s Castle, a 16th-century medieval residence of the Lynch family, now housing Allied Irish Banks. Saint Nicholas Collegiate Church, founded in 1320, remains in service. The Galway Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven, built in 1965, boasts a Renaissance Revival dome and a Romanesque Revival portico. The Claddagh, Galway’s oldest district, and the Galway City Museum, which showcases the city’s heritage and 20th-century Irish art, are also notable sites.

Galway is renowned for its festivals, including the Galway Film and Galway Arts Festival in July, the Galway Races in August, and the Oyster Festival in September. The city also hosts festivals celebrating music, science, Halloween, angling, and the Galway Christmas Market. While the memory of the 14 families and the famine lingers, they are now part of Galway’s rich history rather than its present.

History of Galway

The Origins of Galway

Galway, located on the River Corrib between Lough Corrib and Galway Bay, has its origins in the old Kingdom of Connacht. The city began as a settlement around a fortification established by the King of Connacht in 1124.

The Rise of Galway Under the Tribes

In 1484, Richard III of England granted a Charter of Mayoralty to Galway’s first mayor, Peirce Lynch, who was one of the “Tribes of Galway.” These Tribes, comprising 14 mostly Anglo-French families, gained power after the Norman invasion of Ireland. Their influence earned Galway the nickname “City of Tribes.”

Medieval Prosperity and Trade in Galway

During the Middle Ages, Galway thrived as a center of international trade. It was the principal Irish port for commerce with Spain and France. One of the most famous landmarks from this era is the Spanish Arch, originally known as “the end of the wall.”

Galway’s Support for James II and Subsequent Decline

At the end of the 17th century, Galway supported James II in his war against William of Orange. Following James’ defeat and exile to France, the power of the 14 families, who were predominantly Catholics, waned. This period marked the beginning of a decline, worsened by the Great Famine of 1845-1852.

Modern-Day Galway and Its Heritage

Today, Galway is celebrated for its vibrant cultural scene and numerous festivals. The city’s rich history is evident in landmarks such as Lynch’s Castle, Saint Nicholas Collegiate Church, and the Galway Cathedral. The Claddagh, Galway’s oldest district, and the Galway City Museum also highlight the city’s historical and cultural heritage.

Festivals and Cultural Events in Galway

Galway is renowned for its lively festivals, including the Galway Film and Galway Arts Festival in July, the Galway Races in August, and the Oyster Festival in September. The city also hosts festivals dedicated to music, science, Halloween, angling, and the Galway Christmas Market. These events continue to attract visitors and celebrate Galway’s unique cultural identity.

Visiting Galway for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Galway on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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