Galway: Explore Ireland's Hidden Gems Nearby

Discover Ireland Beyond Galway

Just outside Galway, travelers can explore the wild beauty of Connemara, famous for its Twelve Bens mountains, shimmering lakes, and authentic Gaeltacht villages where Irish is still spoken. A visit to Kylemore Abbey offers fairy‑tale architecture and lush Victorian gardens, while Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord, provides breathtaking views and outdoor adventures. Offshore, the Aran Islands tours reveal windswept cliffs, prehistoric forts, and living Gaelic traditions. For dramatic scenery, the Cliffs of Moher day trip showcases towering sea cliffs and panoramic Atlantic vistas. These unforgettable destinations make Galway the perfect hub for exploring Ireland’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.

COUNTY GALWAY/CONNEMARA

The three best things to do in Connemara are: exploring Kylemore Abbey, hiking in Connemara National Park, and driving the Sky Road.

Connemara is one of the most breathtaking regions of County Galway, offering visitors a mix of history, nature, and unforgettable views. Highlights include the fairytale Kylemore Abbey with its Victorian gardens, the sweeping trails of Connemara National Park where Diamond Hill delivers panoramic vistas, and the famous Sky Road near Clifden, a coastal drive that showcases Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way at its finest. Together, these experiences make Connemara a must‑see destination for anyone exploring the west of Ireland.

1. Visit Kylemore Abbey

What It Is: A 19th-century neo-Gothic castle turned Benedictine abbey, nestled beside a lake and backed by forested hills.
Why Go:
- Explore the Victorian Walled Garden, a beautifully restored 6-acre garden divided into formal and kitchen sections.

Visit the Abbey itself, with elegant rooms, historical exhibits, and a peaceful chapel modeled after a cathedral in Belgium.
Enjoy scenic walks around the lake and woodland trails.
Vibe: Romantic, serene, and steeped in history. It’s one of Ireland’s most photographed buildings for good reason.
Experience: Tour the abbey, stroll the gardens, and soak in the serene lakeside views The Irish Road Trip.

2. Explore Connemara National Park

Why it’s special: Nearly 3,000 hectares of bog, woodland, and mountains, including the famous Twelve Bens.
Highlights: The Diamond Hill hike offers panoramic views of the Atlantic coast, Kylemore Abbey, and rugged peaks.
Experience: Ideal for walkers and hikers — trails range from easy to challenging, all showcasing Connemara’s wild beauty The Irish Road Trip.

3. Drive the Sky Road

Why it’s special: A 20 km scenic loop near Clifden, considered one of Ireland’s most breathtaking drives.
Highlights: Dramatic coastal cliffs, mountain vistas, and sweeping views of the Atlantic.
Experience: Stop at lookout points along the way for unforgettable photo opportunities The World Was Here First.

Bonus Mentions

Killary Harbour: Ireland’s only fjord, perfect for boat trips and seafood tastings Cultured Voyages.
Connemara Beaches: White sands and turquoise waters at Dog’s Bay and Gurteen Bay The World Was Here First.

COUNTY CLARE

County Clare is packed with attractions beyond the famous Cliffs of Moher. The Burren offers a surreal limestone landscape dotted with ancient tombs like Poulnabrone Dolmen, while Bunratty Castle and Folk Park bring medieval and Celtic history to life. For coastal beauty, the Loop Head Peninsula rivals Moher with its lighthouse and dramatic sea views, and Craggaunowen showcases Ireland’s early heritage with reconstructed forts and the legendary Brendan Boat. Together, these sites make Clare a diverse and unforgettable stop along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Cliffs of Moher

Overview: Ireland’s most famous cliffs, rising over 700 feet above the Atlantic.
Highlights: O’Brien’s Tower, visitor centre, and panoramic views stretching to the Aran Islands and Connemara.
Experience: Walk the cliff paths, take in the dramatic scenery, and enjoy one of Ireland’s most photographed spots.
Why Go: Towering 700 feet above the Atlantic, these dramatic sea cliffs are Ireland’s most famous natural wonder. Expect jaw-dropping views, seabird colonies, and cinematic scenery (featured in Harry Potter and The Princess Bride).
How to Get There:
- Car: ~1.5-hour drive from Galway via N67.
- Tour Bus: Multiple companies offer full-day trips from Galway, often including stops in The Burren.
- Public Bus: Bus Éireann Route 350 connects Galway to the cliffs.

The Burren

Overview: A vast limestone plateau, unique for its karst landscape and rare flora.
Highlights: Poulnabrone Dolmen, caves, wildflowers, and ancient ring forts.
Experience: Hiking, guided eco‑tours, and exploring prehistoric monuments in a surreal, moon‑like setting.

Bunratty Castle & Folk Park

Overview: A restored 15th‑century castle near Shannon, one of Ireland’s best‑preserved medieval strongholds.
Highlights: Medieval banquets, period rooms, and the adjoining Folk Park with recreated 19th‑century village life.
Experience: Step back in time with costumed guides, traditional music, and immersive history.

Loop Head Peninsula

Overview: A rugged headland at Clare’s southern tip, less crowded than Moher but equally dramatic.
Highlights: Loop Head Lighthouse, sea cliffs, and dolphin‑rich waters at the Shannon Estuary.
Experience: Scenic drives, coastal walks, and quiet, unspoiled views along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Craggaunowen

Overview: An archaeological park showcasing Ireland’s Celtic past.
Highlights: Reconstructed ring forts, crannogs, and the Brendan Boat — a replica of the vessel used to prove St. Brendan’s voyage to America was possible.
Experience: Interactive exhibits that bring early Irish history and folklore to life.

Poulnabrone Dolmen

Overview: A 5,000‑year‑old portal tomb in the Burren, one of Ireland’s most iconic megalithic sites.
Highlights: Striking stone structure set against the Burren’s limestone landscape.
Experience: A must‑see for history lovers, offering a glimpse into Ireland’s Neolithic past.

Things to Do Near Galway: Aran Islands & Doolin Village

The Aran Islands and Doolin Village are two of the most authentic experiences along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. The islands — Inis Mór, Inis Meáin, and Inis Oírr — offer ancient forts, shipwrecks, and traditional Irish culture, while Doolin is famed for its lively pubs and nightly traditional music sessions. Ferries to the Aran Islands depart from Rossaveal near Galway or directly from Doolin, making it easy to combine a visit to the cliffs, the Burren, and the islands in one unforgettable trip.

Aran Islands (Inis Mór, Inis Meáin, Inis Oírr)

Overview: Three islands — Inis Mór (largest), Inis Meáin (middle), and Inis Oírr (smallest) — sitting at the mouth of Galway Bay.
Highlights:
- Inis Mór: Dun Aonghasa (prehistoric fort), sweeping cliff views.
- Inis Meáin: Quiet, traditional, perfect for authentic Irish culture.
- Inis Oírr: Shipwrecks, sandy beaches, and a more intimate feel.

Experience: Cycling, walking, and exploring ancient ruins in a Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) setting.
Why Go: Step back in time on these rugged, Irish-speaking islands. Explore ancient forts like Dún Aonghasa, bike quiet roads, and experience traditional island life.
How to Get There:
- Ferry: Bus from Galway to Rossaveal, then ferry to the islands (45 min). Alternatively, seasonal ferries run from Doolin.
- Tour Bus: Some operators offer combined bus + ferry packages.
- Plane: Aer Arann Islands offers short flights from Connemara Airport.

Doolin Village

Overview: A small coastal village in County Clare, famous for its traditional Irish music.
Highlights:
- Pubs like O’Connor’s and McGann’s host nightly sessions of live music.
- Gateway to the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren.
- Ferry port for trips to the Aran Islands.
Experience: Enjoy authentic Irish culture, music, and food in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

How to Get There

From Galway City:
- To Aran Islands: Ferries depart from Rossaveal Harbour (about 1 hour west of Galway City by bus or car). Shuttle buses connect Galway City to Rossaveal.
- To Doolin Village: Drive about 1.5–2 hours south via the Wild Atlantic Way. Public buses also connect Galway to Doolin.
From Doolin:
- Ferries run directly to the Aran Islands (seasonal, usually April–October).
- This makes Doolin a perfect base for combining the Cliffs of Moher, Burren, and Aran Islands in one trip.

Here are some of the best hotels in Galway for 2025, offering a mix of luxury, charm, and location:

Top-Rated Hotels in Galway

Hotel Name	Rating	Highlights
Glenlo Abbey Hotel	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Elegant country estate with a private cinema and Pullman restaurant.
The G Hotel & Spa	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Stylish, modern luxury with spa and design flair.
Menlo Park Hotel	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Comfortable, well-reviewed, great value near city center.
The Twelve Hotel (Barna)	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Boutique charm, excellent food, just outside Galway.
Park House Hotel	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Classic style, central location near Eyre Square.
The House Hotel	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Boutique hotel in the Latin Quarter, near Spanish Arch.
Galway Bay Hotel	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Seaside views, great for families and leisure.
Harbour Hotel	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Modern, central, with great dining options.
Salthill Hotel	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Overlooking Galway Bay, with pool and promenade access.

🛏️ Insider Picks

Best for luxury: Glenlo Abbey or The G Hotel
Best location: Park House Hotel or The House Hotel
Best for families: Galway Bay Hotel or Menlo Park Hotel

You can browse more options and book directly through U.S. News Travel or The Irish Road Trip guide.

Here are some well-reviewed budget-friendly places to stay in Galway that offer comfort, charm, and great value:

Budget Hotels & Guesthouses

Sleepzone Hostel Galway City
Centrally located, clean, and social—great for solo travelers and backpackers.
The Nest Boutique Hostel (Salthill)
Stylish and affordable with private rooms and dorms near the beach promenade.
Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square
Right in the heart of Galway, with free breakfast and a lively atmosphere.
The Stop B&B
Artsy, cozy, and close to the city center. Known for its warm hospitality and homemade breakfast.
Snoozles Quay Street Tourist Hostel
Steps from the Latin Quarter, with private en-suite rooms and group-friendly options.

Budget Guesthouses & B&Bs

Desota House B&B
Comfortable rooms, great breakfast, and walking distance to the city center.
St. Judes Lodge Guesthouse
Affordable, clean, and ideal for short stays near Eyre Square.
Woodquay Hostel
Simple, central, and budget-friendly—perfect for travelers who want to explore on foot.

Galway’s nightlife is legendary—lively, musical, and full of character. Whether you’re after traditional Irish music, craft cocktails, or late-night dancing, here are the top spots to check out in 2025:

Best Pubs for Traditional Irish Craic

Tig Cóilí – Famous for nightly live trad sessions and a cozy, authentic vibe
O’Connor’s Pub (Salthill) – Quirky decor, great Guinness, and live music that draws locals and tourists alike
Taaffes Pub – Known for its whiskey selection and nightly Irish music
Garavans Bar – A classic spot for a quiet pint and great conversation

Live Music & Eclectic Vibes

The Crane Bar – A hub for serious traditional musicians and folk fans
The King’s Head – Historic pub with live bands and a buzzing crowd
Quays Bar Galway – Iconic venue with stained glass windows and a mix of music genres

Late-Night Clubs & Dancing

DNA Nightclub – Galway’s go-to for DJs, dancing, and a younger crowd
Electric Garden & Theatre – Multi-space venue with club nights, rooftop bar, and artsy events
Busker Brownes – A bar that transforms into a lively dance floor late at night

Local Tips

Start your night in the Latin Quarter—it’s packed with pubs, street performers, and energy.
Many places offer free live music, especially on weekends.
Galway is walkable, so you can easily hop between venues.

Galway’s food scene is vibrant, fresh, and full of character. Whether you’re after seafood, hearty Irish fare, or creative modern dishes, here are some of the best places to eat in Galway in 2025:

Top Restaurants in Galway

Restaurant	Cuisine	Highlights
John Keogh’s Gastropub	Irish, Bar	Slow-cooked lamb, cozy pub vibes, great local beers
Brasserie on the Corner	Irish, European	Smoked salmon pasta, mussels in garlic butter
O’Grady’s on the Pier	Irish, Seafood	Seabass with prawns, stunning sea views in Barna
Ard Bia at Nimmo’s	Irish, Seafood	Lobster tortellini, spiced monkfish, artistic ambiance
Ruibin	Irish, Bar	Lamb belly skewers, creative plating, waterfront location
The Seafood Bar @ Kirwan’s	Irish, Seafood	Hake on pasta, cream of mushroom soup, elegant setting
Oscar’s Seafood Bistro	Irish, Seafood	Scallops, wild prawns, consistently top-rated
Dela Restaurant	European	Full Irish breakfast, wild venison, cozy brunch spot
The Dough Bros	Pizza	Neapolitan-style with Irish twist, ranked among top pizzerias globally

Local Favorites & Insider Picks

Best for seafood: Oscar’s, Kirwan’s, O’Grady’s
Best brunch: Dela Restaurant
Best casual eats: The Dough Bros
Best romantic dinner: Ard Bia or Ruibin

You can browse full menus and book tables via Tripadvisor’s Galway listings or The Tour Guy’s guide.

Exploring Galway’s nearby attractions without a car is absolutely doable—and often more relaxing. Here’s how to reach the top destinations using public transport, tours, and ferries:

Public Transport & Tours from Galway

Destination	How to Get There Without a Car
Aran Islands	Walk to Galway Coach Station, take bus to Rossaveal, then ferry to Inis Mór or Inis Meáin. Ferries also run from Doolin (seasonal).
Cliffs of Moher	Book a day tour from Galway (many operators offer round-trip with stops in The Burren). Public bus via Bus Éireann Route 350 also works.
Connemara National Park	Join a guided tour or take a bus to Letterfrack (via Clifden). Some hostels offer shuttle service.
Kylemore Abbey	Included in many Connemara day tours. Public bus to Kylemore from Galway is available but less frequent.
The Burren	Best accessed via Cliffs of Moher tours or Bus Éireann Route 350.
Roundstone Village	Take a bus to Clifden, then a local taxi or bike rental. Some tours include Roundstone.
Inishbofin Island	Bus to Cleggan Pier, then ferry to Inishbofin. Check ferry schedules in advance.
Sky Road (Clifden)	Bus to Clifden, then walk, rent a bike, or take a local taxi.
Brigit’s Garden	Bus to Moycullen, then walk or taxi. Some eco-tours include this stop.
Salthill Promenade	Walk or take a local bus (Route 401 or 410). It’s just 10–15 minutes from the city center.

Tips for Car-Free Travel

Citylink and Bus Éireann are your go-to bus services.
Tour companies like Lally Tours and Galway Tour Company offer full-day excursions with guides.
Ferries to islands require advance booking, especially in summer.
Bike rentals are available in Galway and Clifden for scenic routes like Sky Road.

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About the Author –

James Carey is an avid world traveler, blogger, writer and award-winning theater and film director based in Atlanta GA. He writes about travel worldwide, entertainment, and lifestyles. You can find out more about him at his personal websites listed below.

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