Galway
If visiting for a day trip long term parking is available next to the cathedral for around 5 Euros a day, the rest of the city is easily explored on foot.
Attractions:
Eyre Square
The main square in the town of Galway. It is right in the heart of the city and feature a playground as well as sculptures. It is surrounded by shopping centres and the train station is just next to it.
Spanish Arch
Located right next to Galway most famous attraction, The Long Walk. The Spanish Arch is thought to be an extension of the city walls to protect ships that were moored nearby. It was partially destroyed in 1755. Currently, it reverberates with buskers and drummers, and the lawns and riverside form a gathering place for locals and visitors on sunny days.
The Long Walk
Galway most famous attraction, helped by the inclusion of the place in Ed Sheeran music video which was film in this place, The Long Walk is located right along the banks of the river. It is a stretch of houses painted with colourful colours. One of the place shown in the MV was The Heron Rest B&B located here. Have a stroll here and look out towards the bay. The place is extremely picturesque. Head opposite the bridge for a nice picture.
Galway Cathedral
Located just across the river, the cathedral is described as modern, airy and of a renaissance style. It was fairly new, given that it is only built in 1965. The cathedral parking here is also described as one of the cheapest in town. Perfect for day trippers.
Salthill
Just a short drive out of the city of Galway, Salthill is a located on the northern shore. The beach consists of a series of rocky and sandy stretches. The promenade is popular with bars, restaurants and hotels as it overlook Galway bay. Nice spot to be if you can cater time.
Cliff of Moher
The main and most well-known attraction in the whole of Ireland. Located at the south western edge of the Burren Region. The magnificent cliffs stretch for about 14km, reaching their highest elevation of 155m. It is about 1.5 hours from Galway and 3.5 from Dublin. Some of the viewpoint includes, O’Brien Tower, Moher Tower at Hag’s Head, Pollboy and Doonagore Castle. Enjoy the views here.
Shopping:
Galway Market
This chic local market is open only on Saturday. Located right in the city centre just steps away from The Long Walk. It is open on every sat from 8am to 6pm and also on sun during July. Check the website to find more opening timings. You can find local produce, craft and even takeaway food.
Restaurants:
Coffeewerk + Press
4 Quay St, Galway, Ireland
This little coffee shop is a project where you can check out local craft and prints over a cup of coffee. Up the stairs on the second level you’ll find a gallery displaying work by 40 international and local artists. In the meanwhile, try out their hot chocolate which is their specialty. It is open daily from 8.30 to 6pm on weekdays and from 9am on weekends.
The Dough Bros
1, Cathedral Building, Middle St, Galway, Ireland
Located near the Eyre Square shopping centre, this little place is great for their pizza, which is cooked in a wood fire oven. Open from 12pm to 10pm on Tues to Sat and till 9pm on Sun and Mon.
Cupan Tae
8 Quay Ln, Galway, Ireland
This is the place to be if you want to have tea and some scones with a view of the river and The Long Walk. Extremely perfect for a lazy afternoon. It is open daily from 10am to 6pm.
McDonagh’s
22 Quay St, Galway, Ireland
The most beloved chip shop and seafood house in Galway. It is a traditional place since 1902. Grab some fish and chips here to go with some stout. It is open daily from 12 – 11pm and on sun it is open from 2 – 9pm. The restaurant part is open for dinner and serve more substantial offering.