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How to See Galway in 36 Hours (on a Budget!)

Updated January 2025–I’ve been to Galway many times and lived there for a few years when I was in my early 20s.

Back then, Galway was known for its lively pub culture and street music. It still is. Given that it has won so many awards over the years, along with the added cost of living that often goes hand-in-hand with a city's popularity, tourists might be curious about how to see Galway on a budget.

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Even if you don’t have a lot of time in Galway, 36 hours is enough to get a glimpse of what makes it the West of Ireland’s jewel.

Making Your Way Around Galway

Before I take you on your 36-hour tour of how to see Galway, let me explain the layout of the city.

Galway, which was selected as Europe’s Cultural Capital in 2020, is small by international standards, but it packs a lot into its almost 21 square miles.

Eyre Square is its center, named after Mayor Edward Eyre, who gave the city its own public park in 1710.

Shop Street in Galway, the city's main street. Photo: Stephen Duffy, Failte Ireland.
Shop Street in Galway, the city's main street. Photo: Stephen Duffy, Failte Ireland.

Galway’s main street is called Shop Street, which is also its main shopping thoroughfare.

Within the city center are two distinct neighborhoods, the West End, one of the oldest parts of the city and home to lots of lively pubs, restaurants, and galleries.

Kirwan's Lane in Galway's Latin Quarter. Photo: Stephen Power, Tourism Ireland.
Kirwan's Lane in Galway's Latin Quarter. Photo: Stephen Power, Tourism Ireland.

The other is The Latin Quarter, the quaint section of Galway, with its cobbled streets, unusual shops, and many eateries.

While it’s small, you’ll do a lot of walking around Galway, so be prepared and dress comfortably.

Kirwan's Lane in Galway's Latin Quarter. Photo: Stephen Power, Tourism Ireland.

DAY ONE

9 a.m. – Breakfast at Revive Cafe

Stop at this popular restaurant, known for its hearty Irish breakfast.

10:30 a.m. – Claddagh Ring Music and Visitor Centre

Discover the story of Ireland’s famous Claddagh ring at the Claddagh Ring Visitor Centre located at the intersection of Shop, Market, and Mainguard Streets.

The center, which is free to all, is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The Claddagh Jewellers in Galway.

If you own a Claddagh ring, you’ll know that the design includes a heart, hands, and a crown, which signifies love, loyalty, and friendship.

Claddagh rings are often used as engagement rings or as wedding bands.

If you're interested in buying one during your tour of Galway, the Claddagh Jewellers store on Mainguard Street is where you can find a wide selection.

The legend of the Claddagh ring is based on Galway-born goldsmith Richard Joyce, who is said to be the creator of the popular piece of jewelry.

The story goes that Joyce was captured by Barbary pirates and spent many years as a slave in North Africa. He was eventually freed and settled back in Galway, bringing the Claddagh ring design back with him. The motifs that he crafted were from those he had seen while living abroad.

building in red with yellow door little-known museums in Ireland
The Claddagh Ring Museum in Galway. Photo: Stephen Power, Tourism Ireland.

At the museum, you’ll learn about the tradition of the Claddagh ring, which was first worn by both men and women living in the nearby Claddagh fishing village.

During your museum visit, you’ll learn about the Claddagh village and its own unique place in Galway history.

Most owners of the Claddagh ring are curious to know how to wear it. Watch this video to find out how.


You’ll also get the chance to see how an actual Claddagh ring is made during a special workshop held in the museum’s nearby production facility.

See a selection of Claddagh Rings at Etsy

Friday, noon – Brunch at Dela

If you haven't gone to town on breakfast, a stop for brunch at Dela on Dominic Street is a must.

Photo courtesy of Dela Restaurant Facebook.
Photo courtesy of Dela Restaurant Facebook.

This Galway Westend eatery is known for sourcing the freshest of ingredients from local sources.

Choose from a variety of dishes on the brunch menu, but my favorite is the Dela Fry complete with Hickey's sausage and pudding, Herterich's streaky rashers, free range fried eggs, flat cap mushrooms, roasted tomato, home fries, Dela crusted white bread, and relish, for €15.50.

2 p.m. – Free Guided Tour of “Galway’s Medieval Treasures”

The Galway Civic Trust runs guided walks every Tuesday and Thursday at 2 p.m. from May through September. The tours are free, but donations are welcome.

blue sign on wall
The sign leading to the Hall of the Red Earl archaeological site on Druid Lane. Photo: Colette Connolly

The first stop is the Hall of the Red Earl located on Druid Lane.

The archaeological site, discovered in the 1990s, was once the home of Richard the Red Earl, the head of the powerful De Burgo family who ruled Galway during the 13th century.

In the 15th century, the hall was abandoned after the De Burgo family was forced out of power.

It fell into disrepair and in the centuries that followed, it was built over and forgotten.

Some of the signage that you'll see during a visit to the Hall of the Red Earl site in Galway city. Photo: Colette Connolly.
Some of the signage that you'll see during a visit to the Hall of the Red Earl site in Galway city. Photo: Colette Connolly.

The site was discovered during a construction project in the 1990s. Thousands of artifacts were unearthed, including gold cufflinks and clay pipes, among other items.

The foundation of the hall still remains, despite being covered over for so long. Its sturdy foundation is encased in glass panels.

St. Nicholas' Church in the heart of Galway. Photo: Stephen Duffy, Failte Ireland/Tourism Ireland.
St. Nicholas' Church in the heart of Galway. Photo: Stephen Duffy, Failte Ireland/Tourism Ireland.

Other attractions on the tour include St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, Eyre Square, Lynch’s Castle, and the City Walls.

If you're more curious about how to see Galway and hear lots of stories about the city in the process, tour guides Brian Nolan and Gerry Hanley are great resources.

Both are Ireland on a Budget Tourism Ambassadors.

3:45 p.m. – Stroll around the City

Take a breather and simply stroll around Galway’s quaint streets and alleyways.

Start off around the Spanish Arch, which was built in 1584 and located on the banks of the Corrib, where the river meets the sea.

A musician on the streets of Galway. Photo: Tourism Ireland.
A musician on the streets of Galway. Photo: Tourism Ireland.

It was originally designed to protect the city’s quays from looting merchant ships. Part of the arch was destroyed in 1775 by a tsunami, resulting from the Great Lisbon earthquake.

Galway is famous for busking. On your stroll around the city, you’ll discover artists and musicians of all kinds performing in the streets for free. It makes for a lively atmosphere and adds to the city’s cultural ambiance.

candies in a display how to see Galway
A sampling of chocolates from Butler's chocolate shop in Galway. Photo: Niamh Connolly

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You could literally spend hours walking around Galway browsing its eclectic mix of shops. And if you get tired, there's always an opportunity to grab a quick cup of coffee, a delicious pastry, or even a sampling of Butler's Irish Chocolates.

7 p.m. – Dinner

If you’re interested in trying an Irish-style pizza that uses some of the best of Irish cheese, meats and honey, The Dough Bros Wood Fired Pizzeria is sure to please.

The casual, award-winning pop-up pizza bar/restaurant serves up delicious wood-fired pizzas.

There’s also a variety of craft beers in good supply.

If you're looking for the best fish and chips in town, you won't want to pass up Hooked, a family-run restaurant with two locations, one on Henry Street in Galway City and the other in the town of Barna.

A serving of fish and chips is €16 per person.

According to the owners, expect the “freshest, highest-quality ingredients, ensuring every dish reflects the purity and flavours of the sea.”

John Keogh's Gastropub is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

Choose from Irish chicken, salmon, oysters, and the 9-ounce Gilligans Farm Hereford Sirloin Steak, and much more.

Photo courtesy of Glenlo Abbey Hotel for Tourism Ireland.

In addition, Galway Food Tours offers tours of Galway's many restaurants and eateries. Check out their video below to get a sense of what's on offer.

For a fine dining experience or to celebrate a special occasion, the Pullman Restaurant at Galway's Glenlo Abbey Hotel is a must.

This is among Ireland’s unique dining experiences where you will get to eat in two of the original carriages from the Orient Express.

Read More: Food Tours in Ireland: 10 Cities and Regions to Find Them

9 p.m. – Experience a Galway Trad Session

Galway’s “West End” (the oldest part of the city) and the Latin Quarter are where you’ll find much of the action.

Both sections of the city are packed with award-winning restaurants, cafes, trendy bars, live music venues and to be honest, the best traditional pubs around.

pub sign how to see Galway
The popular King's Head in Galway's Latin Quarter is often on the list of places that tourists want to explore in Galway. Photo: Niamh Connolly

The pubs that seem to be most popular with tourists include The Quays, Monroe's, An Púcán, Taaffes Bar, Tigh Neachtain (pronounced “Chee Knockton” or Naughton's as it is known by Americans), and The King’s Head, the oldest pub in Galway.

All offer free traditional music sessions.

All you need is a seat and a pint of the “Black Stuff” (the legendary pint of Guinness of course!), or in the case of The King’s Head, the pub’s own beer, known as The King’s Head Blood Red Ale.

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DAY TWO
Saturday, 10 a.m. – The Galway Market

Unlike years ago, when Irish cuisine consisted of meat and potatoes, today’s diet is more diverse.

That is reflected in the variety of food on display at the many food markets around the country, including the Galway Market located on Church Lane.

a man holding a plate of mussels how to see Galway
Expect to find all sorts of culinary delights at the Galway Market. Photo courtesy of Tourism Ireland.

The market, which is close to St. Nicholas Church, is open year-round, on Saturdays and Sundays.

A summer market, located at the same place, takes place on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays during July and August.

You'll find lots of goodies at the Galway Market, including Madras curry, delicious crepes, sushi, homemade bread, and cookies, as well as numerous Irish crafts, paintings and more.

One of the many delights on offer at the market are oysters in buttermilk served up by local man Michael Brown, who gets them from Clarinbridge, a 30-minute drive from the city.

The town is famous for its annual Clarenbridge Oyster Festival.

a man handling oysters in front of people the best in Irish food
Oyster shucking at the Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival. Photo: Tourism Ireland.

Speaking of oysters, the Galway International Oyster Festival is a popular event that draws thousands to the city. This year's event takes place Sept. 26-28, 2025.

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12 p.m. – Day Trip to the Aran Islands

A day trip to the Aran Islands is a great way to cap off a 36-hour trip to Galway.

The islands, about 45 kilometers (27 miles) from mainland Galway, consist of Inish Mór (Inishmore), the largest island with a population of about 900, Inishmaan, with a population of 200, and the smallest island, Inisheer, with a population of about 260 people.

National Geographic named the islands number 11 on the magazine's list of top island destinations in the world.

an aerial view of fields how to see Galway
An aerial view of Inishmore, the largest island of the Aran Islands. Photo: Chris Hill, Tourism Ireland.

They remain a bastion of the Irish language and culture, with Gaelic being spoken on a daily basis.

Aran Island Ferries operates a year-round service from Rossaveal (a 40-minute drive from Galway city) to Inish Mór. You can get a bus from Galway to Rossaveal. The crossing to Inish Mór takes 35 minutes.

two people walking on a deserted road how to see Galway
Walking on Inishmore. Photo: Gareth McCormack for Tourism Ireland/Failte Ireland.

Expect to spend the rest of the day exploring Inish Mór, either on foot or on a bicycle. From May through September, you can travel from Inish Mór to the other islands but not during the winter months.

Visiting Ireland’s sixth-largest city is an experience you won’t easily forget, even if it’s only for 36 hours.

From its sumptuous restaurants, lively street entertainment, and all-around friendliness, you’ll want to come back to Galway time and time again.

If you’ve enjoyed reading this post on how to see Galway in 36 hours, why not check out this handy Google map that includes suggestions on what you might want to do outside of Galway City?

Additional Things to Do in Galway If You Have the Time
Galway Cathedral

Galway Cathedral is a short walk from town. Located in a section called Nun's Island, it is a dominant attraction in the city.

Galway Cathedral
Galway Cathedral at night. Photo: rihardzz Getty Images.

The cathedral, which was completed in 1965, contains a huge octagonal dome that compliments the Galway City skyline.

Rose windows and wall paintings fill its interior.

The Salthill Promenade

Don't discount the 2-kilometer/1.2-mile Salthill Promenade, about a 30-minute walk from the city center.

Swimmers on the beach in Salthill, Galway. Photo: Bernice Naughton for Fáilte Ireland.

It's a favorite spot for locals too who are eager to take in the fabulous views of the Atlantic and the fresh ocean breeze.

O'Connor's Pub is a popular pub in Salthill, which is known for its many shops and eateries.
If you intend to stay longer in Salthill, be sure to check out the very popular Trad on the Prom, the traditional Irish dance and music show.

Food Tours

Galway Food Tours is popular with tourists visiting Galway, with stops at McCambridge’s, Galway’s oldest food store, and the French bakery Le Petit Delice.

You'll find other tours to choose from on the Galway Food Tours website.

Galway Food Tour
Visitors on a food tour in Galway. Photo: Hu O'Reilly, Fáilte Ireland.

Food and Culture Walking Tour with Tastings – sample some of the best local food and drinks Galway has to offer while learning about the history of the city at the same time. This fun walking tour promises to indulge your senses as you taste a variety of traditional Irish foods alongside more modern specialties.

Galway Gourmet Adventure: A Culinary Odyssey – go on a culinary journey of Galway. Stop at McCambridges, a mainstay in the city for almost 100 years, experience the hustle and bustle of the Galway Market, which offers fresh, locally-sourced fare, and participate in an authentic Irish pub experience at Tigh Neachtain, one of the many pubs in Galway that host nightly trad sessions.


Claddagh Walking Tours

One of the oldest fishing villages in Ireland is right in the heart of Galway.

The Claddagh Museum. Photo: Claddagh Arts Centre & Katie's Claddagh Cottage Facebook.

Take a walking tour of The Claddagh and learn about the the lives of its inhabitants, who spoke only the Irish language and practiced customs and traditions that were unique to them.

A tour of Katie's Claddagh Cottage and Arts Centre is also included.

Walking tours of the Claddagh and cottage are available throughout the year. Call Elizabeth at +353-085-196-8022 to pre-book.

Additional Walking Tours of Galway

There are several other walking tours that you could take in Galway, including this 1.5-hour guided walking tour, as well as tours of the city that local men Gerry Hanley and Brian Nolan provide.

Brian Nolan, far right, pictured with visitors to Galway. Photo courtesy of Brian Nolan.

Both have been highlighted on this website as Irish-based tourism providers.

You'll find reviews of Brian's walking tours on TripAdvisor.

Where to Stay

There is another article that I wrote about Galway accommodation. Be sure to refer to that for my suggestions.

Is Galway on your list of places to see in Ireland? Let me know in the comments below.

colette

Colette is a County Sligo native who created Ireland on a Budget to provide her readers with money-saving tips on how to get to Ireland and then save even more when they're there. She's a professional copywriter who lives in the New York area with her husband and two children.

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