This is a modern and vibrant University City situated south of Lough Corrib with music and arts abound. Galway City seems to ooze energy attracting artists, musicians and writers under its wing resulting in an exhilarating arts scene. Along with the many traditional Irish pubs where Séisúns occur, some organised and other impromptu: there is never a dull moment. The city walls and Spanish Arch are historic reminders of the City’s past when it was home to 14 wealthy merchant families who traded extensively with Spain, hence its title, City of the Tribes. Visitors can embark on the City of Tribes walking tour which shows how they have shaped the development of the city throughout the years; this will encompass a visit to Lynch’s Castle dating back to the 13^th Century. Galway City offers a wide selection of Bed and Breakfasts available to book online, a great choice for visitors to Galway who wish to meet the real people of Galway in convenient locations to Galway City.

A visit into the imposing building of St Nicholas Church is recommended, completed about 1324 it is believed to be the oldest parish church still in use in the west today and contains many family tombs of a time long gone by. Eyre Square is at the centre of the City in which stands a statue of the great Gaelic writer Padraic O’Conaire and is landscaped as a memorial garden to former US President JF Kennedy. It also houses a wonderful sculpture reminiscent of the red sails of the Galway Hooker, a boat synonymous with the past when no other means of transporting provisions were available. These boats were ideal for navigating the subtleties of waters in the area whilst capable of carrying a huge cargo. Be sure to take in a festival in Galway City for a unique fun filled experience. Visit our guide to Festivals and Events in Galway City.

The Claddagh, once an independent fishing village, is situated at the other side of the River Corrib. This is home to the Claddagh Ring, the ideal Galway souvenir which features two hands holding a crown bearing heart. The way this ring is worn can be vital in securing (or avoiding) enduring love!! A trip to any city would not be complete without some retail therapy, and Galway City boasts its own Left Bank in the oldest part of the city, where you will find a wealth of retail wonders from weavers, silversmiths and potters to boutiques, bookshops, antique shops and art galleries. In Church Lane to the rear of St Nicholas Church, you’ll find a busy market at the weekends selling fresh and artisan produce complimented by the aroma of a wonderful array of foods available to eat whilst browsing.