Galway City Travel Guide: Eyre Square, Galway Cathedral & Seafood Markets

2025-12-29 11:35:52

Galway City Travel Guide: Music, Medieval Streets & Atlantic Soul

Lively, artistic, and deeply rooted in tradition, Galway City is where Ireland’s creative spirit truly comes alive. Set along the River Corrib and opening into the Atlantic, this compact city blends medieval stonework, colorful shopfronts, legendary pub music, and one of the country’s most exciting food scenes. Whether you’re wandering cobbled lanes, listening to fiddles echo through the Latin Quarter, or tasting oysters fresh from the bay, Galway feels authentic at every step.

This guide explores the best of Galway City, from historic landmarks and buzzing markets to seaside walks and unforgettable nights filled with live music.

Why Galway City Feels Different From Anywhere Else in Ireland

Unlike Ireland’s larger cities, Galway moves at its own rhythm. Street performers aren’t background noise here—they’re part of daily life. Locals greet strangers easily, pubs feel like living rooms, and art spills out into the streets.

???? Amazing Fact

Galway is often called Ireland’s cultural capital, with more musicians per square kilometer than almost any other Irish city.

Galway City Highlights: Essential Places to See

Eyre Square – The Beating Heart of Galway City

Eyre Square is the city’s main meeting point and the perfect place to start exploring. Lined with cafés, shops, and historic markers, it connects modern Galway with its medieval core.

Don’t miss:

The JFK Memorial, commemorating his visit
The Quincentennial Fountain
Street performers and pop-up art installations

From here, everything in Galway City feels within walking distance.

Galway Cathedral – A Modern Icon by the River

Rising beside the River Corrib, Galway Cathedral is one of the city’s most striking landmarks. Its vast dome dominates the skyline and contrasts beautifully with the older stone buildings nearby.

Inside you’ll find:

Rich mosaics and stained glass
A peaceful interior perfect for reflection
Riverside paths leading toward the Spanish Arch

???? Amazing Fact

Galway Cathedral was built almost entirely from Irish stone and is one of the last great stone cathedrals constructed in Europe.

Spanish Arch & Medieval Walls

The Spanish Arch dates back to Galway’s trading era, when Spanish ships filled the harbor with wine and goods. Today, it’s a favorite hangout for locals, musicians, and sunset watchers.

Nearby highlights include:

Fishery Watchtower views
Riverside walks along the Corrib
Spontaneous traditional music sessions

Read also: Lyon Travel Guide: Notre Dame de Fourvière, Old Town & Gourmet Food Markets

Markets & Food Culture in Galway City

Galway Market – A Feast for the Senses

Held near Eyre Square, the Galway Market is where the city’s flavors truly shine. Stalls overflow with fresh produce, baked goods, seafood, and handmade crafts.

Must-try bites:

Fresh Atlantic oysters
Artisan cheeses
Warm soda bread with local butter

???? Amazing Fact

Galway Bay oysters are considered among the finest in Europe due to the cold, nutrient-rich Atlantic waters.

Latin Quarter – Shopping, Music & Nightlife

The Latin Quarter is the soul of Galway City. Cobblestone streets wind past medieval buildings, colorful pubs, and independent shops selling Claddagh rings, wool sweaters, and handmade jewelry.

By day, it’s charming and relaxed. By night, it transforms into a city-wide music venue, with live sessions spilling from nearly every pub.

Seaside Escape: Salthill & Galway Bay

Just a short walk or bus ride from the city center, Salthill offers open skies and salty air. The long promenade stretches along Galway Bay and is perfect for a relaxed stroll.

Things to do in Salthill: