Long before it became the heart of Galway, this space was known as The Green, a wide open area just outside the town gates where medieval markets and fairs brought townspeople together. In 1631, it was officially enclosed, trees were planted, and a wooden fence marked its edges, creating a space for both trade and gathering.

In 1710, part of this land was donated to the city by Mayor Edward Eyre, whose family had prospered following Oliver Cromwell’s conquest of Ireland. Over the years, the square went through several changes. It was renamed Meyrick Square in 1801 when General Meyrick added a stone wall, and in the 19th century it took on a Georgian-style layout with paths, greenery, and seating for public enjoyment.

The square saw major reconstruction in the 1960s, including the removal of old iron railings, and was most recently renovated between 2004 and 2006, blending modern features with its historic character.

In 1965, it was dedicated as John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, commemorating the U.S. President who visited Galway and spoke here on June 29, 1963. The original monument was replaced in 2005 with a bust of Kennedy, still greeting visitors today.

One of the square’s highlights is the Quincentennial Fountain, created by Eamon O’Doherty in 1984, featuring a Galway Hooker, a traditional local fishing and cargo vessel. Other historic pieces, like two cast iron cannons from the Crimean War and a statue of writer Padraic O’Connaire, were moved to the nearby Galway City Museum during the early 2000s redevelopment.

Walking through Eyre Square today, you can feel centuries of Galway life in every corner — from bustling markets to political speeches and local celebrations — a space where history, culture, and community continue to meet.

Built in 1818–1819, the Salmon Weir Bridge is the oldest surviving bridge across the River Corrib in Galway. It was constructed to link the county courthouse with the old jail, which once stood on the site now occupied by Galway Cathedral. Made of local limestone, the bridge consists of multiple arches that span the fast-flowing Corrib, one of the shortest yet most powerful rivers in Europe.

The bridge quickly became one of Galway’s landmarks, especially popular during the salmon runs in spring and early summer, when fish can be seen leaping upriver to spawn. Visitors often pause here to watch the water surge through the weir and to take in views of the Cathedral upstream and the Wolfe Tone Bridge downstream.

For centuries, the Corrib fisheries were of great importance to Galway. In medieval times, they were controlled by local religious orders such as the Franciscans, before being transferred to private hands after the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII. These fishing rights were long associated with prominent Galway families like the Lynches.

A new pedestrian and cycle bridge, opened in 2023, now stands beside the historic structure, easing modern traffic while preserving the character of the old bridge. Today, the Salmon Weir Bridge remains both a practical crossing and a favorite vantage point for locals and visitors drawn by the river’s force and the movement of the salmon below.

The Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and Saint Nicholas, commonly known as Galway Cathedral, is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks. Though it lacks a medieval past, it holds a unique distinction as the last major stone cathedral built in Europe. Construction began in 1958 on the site of Galway’s former county jail, and the building was completed and dedicated on 15 August 1965.

Designed by architect John J. Robinson, Galway Cathedral combines Renaissance and Romanesque Revival influences with mid-20th-century architectural sensibilities. Its 145-foot dome rises prominently above the city, creating a striking silhouette along the River Corrib.

Inside, the cathedral features octagonal pillars supporting rounded arches, intricate marble flooring and altars, and detailed stonework that frames the nave and side chapels. Stained glass windows depict religious scenes, casting colorful light across the interior, while the high vaulted ceilings enhance acoustics for music and worship. Decorative elements include carved capitals, mosaic accents, and elegant wooden pews, reflecting both craftsmanship and modern design.

Music has been integral to the cathedral since its opening. The cathedral choir, active since 1965, performs sacred works ranging from 16th-century polyphony to contemporary choral music, as well as Gregorian chant and traditional Irish melodies. The main pipe organ, built by Rushworth & Dreaper of Liverpool in 1966 and later restored by Trevor Crowe, features three manuals and 59 stops. A smaller portable organ supports services and concerts in the side chapels.

Located on Nun’s Island beside the Salmon Weir Bridge, the cathedral stands where the old city jail once stood. Open daily for worship and visitors, Galway Cathedral remains both a place of prayer and a symbol of resilience and renewal in the heart of the city.

Until the Salmon Weir bridge was built in 1819, the way to cross the Corrib River in Galway was via the Old West Bridge, built in 1342. The Corrib is a short but lively current that passes through Galway to Galway Bay. This bridge was the one way to cross into the car-Connaught suburb of Galway.

In 1558 a gate and tower were built on the west end and a second gate and tower in the middle. In 1852 the old West Bridge was taken down. Strong walls were built on either side of the river and O'Brien's Bridge was built in its place. It has two main arches spanning the river channel. Patrick Nugent was the bridge contractor.

In 1889 the bridge was named in honor of William Smith O'Brien, a deceased MP once a leader of the Young Irelanders, a revolutionary group. The bridge is a vital link between the north and south sides of Galway. Going "west" is an expression long used by Galwegians for their adventures in the wild old West End of the city.

For over seven centuries, the Collegiate Church of Saint Nicholas has stood at the heart of Galway, serving as both a place of worship and a witness to the city’s history. Constructed around 1320, the church was originally built in the Gothic style and has remained a central part of civic and religious life ever since.

In the 16th century, the church was expanded by two of Galway’s leading families, the Lynches and the Frenches, who added side aisles to the nave. This created a distinctive square interior with three parallel roofs. The interior also contains historical memorials, including a gravestone of Adam Bures, a Crusader who died in the 13th century. High above the north aisle, a lepers’ gallery recalls the church’s role in medieval healthcare and social support.

The exterior is adorned with carved figures, including mermaids, a dragon, a lion, and an ape, as well as numerous gargoyles, which were both decorative and functional, channeling rainwater away from the building.

Saint Nicholas’ Church also holds significance beyond Galway. Christopher Columbus is traditionally believed to have visited in 1477, pausing to pray before his later voyages to the Americas. While records of this visit are limited, the connection reflects Galway’s status as an important port city during the late Middle Ages.

The church survived the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland in 1652, when many religious buildings were damaged or destroyed. Over the centuries, Saint Nicholas has continued to serve as an active parish church, maintaining both its spiritual and cultural importance.

Cobblestoned and atmospheric, Kirwan’s Lane is one of Galway’s most beautifully preserved medieval streets. Dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, the lane takes its name from the Kirwan family—one of the fourteen merchant “Tribes of Galway” who dominated the city’s political and commercial life from the Middle Ages until the late 17th century. Originally located within the old city walls, Kirwan’s Lane retains its historic charm, with narrow passageways, stone façades, and hidden courtyards that evoke the Galway of centuries past.

Once one of fourteen medieval lanes in the walled city, Kirwan’s Lane is among the few that survive today—only about five remain intact. In 1783, the area became home to a small 100-seat theatre established by Dick Martin, a local landlord and Member of Parliament, whose wife, a Kirwan, was an actress. The theatre became a lively cultural venue where several notable performers appeared, including the Irish revolutionary Theobald Wolfe Tone, who is said to have performed there.

Today, Kirwan’s Lane is a vibrant mix of Galway’s past and present. Its stone buildings now house artisan shops, cafés, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy Goya’s Bakery for freshly baked pastries, McDonagh’s Fish and Chip Shop for traditional fare, or a drink at Busker Browne’s Pub. Judy Greene Pottery and Craft Shop showcases local craftsmanship, while Kirwan’s Lane Creative Cuisine offers fine dining in an intimate, historic setting. Nearby, 2 Wild Geese on Cross Street highlights Irish art and design, and the Galway Woollen Market continues the city’s long-standing tradition of trade.

The Latin Quarter in Galway is a maze of medieval streets and alleys that have been transformed into a lively entertainment and shopping district. It is a friendly and vibrant place that exudes a unique charm and atmosphere that captures the essence of Galway.

The area is also a shopper's paradise, with many shops offering unique and authentic Irish souvenirs. Visitors can purchase everything from silver jewellery to Irish sweaters, Claddagh rings, postcards, and musical instruments.

For those who love music, The Latin Quarter is the place to be. Many establishments offer live Irish music sessions in the evenings, where local groups come to perform great classics from the Irish repertoire. It is a fantastic opportunity to immerse oneself in the heart of Irish culture and dance the night away.

The Latin Quarter has an exciting and vibrant nightlife scene, with a range of pubs and restaurants to suit all tastes. It is the perfect place to enjoy a pint of Guinness or a delicious cocktail while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

In conclusion, the Latin Quarter in Galway is a fantastic destination to experience the best of Irish culture, nightlife, and shopping. Its unique charm and atmosphere make it one of the top spots to visit in Galway, and a must-see for anyone who wants to experience the city's rich heritage and lively atmosphere.

Galway has often been described as “rustically modern,” a phrase that perfectly captures its mix of medieval atmosphere and contemporary flair. Nowhere is this blend more vivid than on Quay Street, where cobbled lanes are alive with music, laughter, and the hum of conversation. It’s a place made for strolling, people-watching, pub hopping, and enjoying good food in good company.

Quay Street is part of a lively sequence of pedestrianized streets that stretches from Eyre Square through Shop Street and High Street, finally leading to the waterfront by the Spanish Arch. As you leave the broad, modern shopping centers near Eyre Square, the streets narrow and the mood becomes distinctly old-world—stone shopfronts, colorful facades, and the sound of fiddles drifting from nearby pubs.

While visitors often speak of the whole area as Quay Street, locals tend to distinguish between its parts: Shop Street as the shopping hub, High Street for its blend of boutiques and bars, and Quay Street at the heart of the Latin Quarter, Galway’s cultural and entertainment district.

Along the way stands the King’s Head Pub, dating from 1649 and steeped in legend. One of its early owners, Colonel Peter Stubbers of Cromwell’s army, is rumored—though never proven—to have been involved in the execution of King Charles I. Further along, visitors can browse the Galway Woollen Market, leaf through cozy bookshops, or settle into one of the many pubs such as Feeney’s, Malloy’s Irish Whiskey Bar, or the Quay Street Pub, where traditional music fills the air.

At the southern end, the walk opens onto the River Corrib and the historic Spanish Arch, once part of the old city walls that sheltered traders and ships. Here, Galway’s past and present meet—a fitting finale to one of Ireland’s most vibrant and atmospheric streets.

Standing beside the historic Spanish Arch, the Galway City Museum offers visitors a fascinating journey through the story of Galway—from its medieval beginnings to its vibrant present-day culture. Opened in 2007, the museum occupies a striking modern building designed by architects Ciarán O’Connor and Gar Harvey. Its sleek, light-filled design contrasts beautifully with the centuries-old stonework of the nearby arch and city walls, creating a setting where Galway’s past and present meet.

Before the construction of the new building, the museum was housed in Comerford House, a fine Georgian residence built around 1800 that still stands beside the Spanish Arch. The house once belonged to the Comerford and Greenwood families and later became home to sculptor and writer Clare Consuelo Sheridan, a cousin of Winston Churchill. In the 1970s, it became the first home of the Galway City Museum, displaying collections of medieval stones, folk artefacts, and military relics—many of which formed the foundation of the museum’s present-day exhibits.

Inside the museum today, visitors can explore a wide range of displays highlighting Galway’s rich heritage. Exhibitions span topics such as archaeology, maritime traditions, folk life, and the city’s development through the centuries. Highlights include artefacts from medieval Galway, objects from the fishing village of the Claddagh, and exhibits exploring the city’s role in trade and the arts. Interactive displays and temporary exhibitions ensure there’s always something new to discover, making the museum appealing to visitors of all ages.

Outside, the plaza between the museum and the Spanish Arch serves as a lively public space for festivals, performances, and community gatherings, with scenic views of the River Corrib and Galway Bay.

On the east bank of the River Corrib, two historic arches stand as reminders of Galway’s medieval past: the Spanish Arch and its adjacent structure, sometimes referred to as the Caoc Arch. These arches are the surviving remnants of Galway’s old Front Wall, which stretched from Martin’s Tower to the river, forming part of the city’s fortifications. The wall, including these arches, was constructed around 1504 to protect the town from potential attacks and to regulate access to the waterfront, which was essential for trade and defense.

The name “Spanish Arch” reflects Galway’s long-standing trade connections with Spain during the late Middle Ages. Galway’s merchants imported wine, salt, and other goods, establishing the city as a vital trading port.

In the 18th century, the prominent Eyre family extended the quays along the river in an area now known as the Long Walk. To improve access from the town to the new quay, they constructed an additional arch, initially called the “Eyre Arch,” though the popular name “Spanish Arch” eventually took hold.

In 1755, the Lisbon earthquake generated a tsunami that reached the west coast of Ireland, affecting the arches. Though damaged, the structures survived and continued to play a role in the city’s maritime and civic life.

Over time, the Spanish Arch grew into a cultural landmark, appearing in films such as the 1957 Irish classic “The Rising of the Moon.” Today, the arches remain a popular location for both locals and visitors, serving as a gathering point, a place for exhibitions and festivals, and a window into Galway’s rich history of trade, defense, and community life along the Corrib.

Monroes Tavern is a historic family-owned bar and music venue located in the Westend of Galway City. The bar was established in 1964 by John and Margaret Monroe, who returned from New York City to open the first Galway bar with table service, a Ladies Lounge, and a Singing Lounge. It has been a ground-breaking venue for live music since its inception and played host to the top Irish showbands of the 60s and 70s. Today, Monroes continues to attract local and international musicians and entertain locals and tourists 7 nights a week.

In 1979, Monroes changed its name to Monroes Tavern, and after two fires and many renovations, Monroes Live venue was added in 2009 to meet the demand for top international and homegrown music acts in Galway. The venue has hosted a range of popular artists such as Texas, Kodaline, The Darkness, Paddy Casey, The Academic, Sharon Shannon, Mary Coughlan, Aslan, De Dannan, Lughnasa, Matt Molloy, and many more.

Monroes Tavern has retained its original wooden interior and cosy Irish snug, which adds to its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The bar serves fresh quality food from Monroes Kitchen, and visitors can enjoy a pint while listening to live music. Monroes stands tall as one of Galway's most recognised landmarks and is a must-visit for anyone exploring Galway's venues.

Cross one of Galway’s historic bridges — O’Brien’s Bridge or Wolfe Tone Bridge — and you’ll enter the neighborhood known locally as “The West End” (or simply “The West”). This part of the city is among Galway’s oldest, with narrow streets and lanes that retain their historic charm while also embracing a creative, contemporary spirit.

The West End is a vibrant mix of independent cafés, artisan shops, vintage stores, galleries, and small theatres, sitting alongside long-established family-run businesses. Visitors can explore local boutiques, browse for traditional Irish crafts, or enjoy specialty teas and coffee while soaking in the atmosphere.

Pubs and live music venues form a central part of the area, offering performances ranging from traditional Irish music to modern acts. Monroes Tavern and Róisín Dú Bhér are notable spots that contribute to the lively evening scene.

The neighborhood also hosts cultural events that showcase Galway’s artistic energy. The West End Theatre & Arts Festival encourages emerging artists to perform in unconventional spaces, including rooftops, back rooms, and streets, creating an immersive experience for locals and tourists alike. Seasonal street festivals, pop-up performances, and art exhibitions add to the sense of community and creativity.

From daytime shopping and café culture to evening music sessions and theatre, the West End blends history, commerce, and arts. With more than 100 businesses active in this compact area, it offers a microcosm of Galway’s cultural life.

The Crane Bar is a beloved traditional music pub that has become a staple in the local music scene. The pub has a reputation for being a favorite haunt of musicians and music lovers alike, and for good reason. The Crane Bar offers live music performances nightly, both upstairs and downstairs. The upstairs venue at The Crane Bar is an intimate and relaxed space that can seat up to 70 people.

It has earned a reputation as "The Listeners Club" due to its focus on singer/songwriters, traditional music, and roots music. Up and coming new talents, as well as well-known performers, have graced the stage at this venue. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it a favorite spot for performers and audiences alike.

Downstairs at The Crane Bar is the "local", a traditional Irish bar that hosts live sessions nightly. It is one of the few remaining authentic traditional bars, offering a unique atmosphere that only an Irish "local" can create. Here, patrons can experience the real traditions of Irish music.

The venue can hold between 50 and 70 people normally, with the stage and mix positions located at opposite sides of the main part of the room. The Crane Bar has hosted more gigs than ever before this year, and there is an exciting program in the works for the coming year.

With live music performances nightly, both upstairs and downstairs, The Crane Bar offers an authentic and welcoming atmosphere that has made it a favorite among musicians and music lovers alike.

Salthill Promenade is arguably one of the most famous spaces in Galway. The promenade runs along the coastline of Galway Bay for about two miles. It stretches from the Claddagh Quay to the Blackrock diving board. At any given time, one will see locals and visitors alike walking along the Salthill Prom.

There are a large number of attractions on the Salthill Promenade. One of these is Salthill Beach. It is comprised of several other small beaches that are separated by outcroppings of rock. Beach-goers can swim, go for a walk or just relax on the rocks and pebbles.

Another feature along the Salthill Promenade is the Circle of Life National Organ Donor Commemorative Garden. This space is a stone-sculpted national garden that was built in honor of organ donors. It is part of Quincentennial Park.

Other spots along the Salthill Promenade are Curry's Fun Park, Leisureland, the Salthill Public Park and the Galway Atlantaquaria. The Midway Point of the Wild Atlantic Way is a popular place for taking photos. A tradition that cannot be forgotten is to kick the wall at the end of the walk located next to the Blackrock diving board.

Visitors will find restaurants and shopping opportunities along with the regular tourist attractions near the promenade. However, the most beloved part of the walk is not shopping or dining but sight-seeing. Salthill Promenade offers excellent views of the hills of Burren across the bay. It is also an excellent place to watch sunsets from one of the many comfortable benches places along the walk.