One Day in Galway Itinerary

If there’s one city I could immediately revisit in Ireland, it would have to be Galway City. I’m going to show you all the best things to do in Galway for an amazing day in the city. In just one day, you can explore so much of what this beautiful destination has to offer.

After three weeks in Ireland, when I told my friends about the trip, I kept mentioning a city over and over again. Galway was the one city that I felt a strong bond with, even though I loved Ireland. I could see myself living in Galway.

Yes, there are many fun things to do in Galway, but it’s the overall vibe of the city that stole my heart. Have you been to a city like that before? You know, a place that you could just unpack, settle down and stay?

With 24 hours in Galway, I’ll show you all the best things to see and do. Take time to soak up your surroundings. Listen to the music coming from street corners by talented musicians. Discover new things as you walk along the cobblestoned streets. Take note of the colorful bursts on fences and homes.

One Day in Galway – The Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter is a picturesque area of Galway that you can’t help but fall in love with. The main street is called Quay Lane, and it’s is a pedestrian area lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. I took a stroll here and noticed many details.

Flags are flying in the wind from every rooftop, and streamers float across the streets. The Latin Quarter is an extremely lively area. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere, and stop by the local shops along the way.

On different street corners, there are many talented musicians. It’s organized very well in that only one artist plays at a time, or the musicians are far enough apart so the songs don’t compete in any way.

It is also a great area for street art. There are some beautiful murals painted all over the city. If you’re searching for what to see in Galway, you don’t want to miss walking the streets of the city center.

If you’re a fan of walking tours to familiarize yourself with a new place, check out this Galway Legendary Small Group Walking Tour. You’ll learn more many intriguing stories from your local knowledgeable guide.

In the evening, there’s another walking tour called the Dark History Walking Tour of Galway. You’ll hear about the dark side of Galway on a nighttime stroll. Mysteries, murders, hauntings…this is Galway like you’ve never seen it before.

Lunch at The Lighthouse Cafe

I dined in a cozy, vegetarian restaurant called The LighthouseWe recommend you to check it out. It’s a coffee house, tea room, and vegetarian/vegan lunch spot.

When I arrived, I didn’t realize that lunch wasn’t served until noon. There were, however, ready-to-go desserts and cake with coffee, so I was able to have my dessert before the meal. Hey, what’s a girl to do?

I didn’t eat the entire slice of cake before lunch as I didn’t want to totally ruin my appetite. The slice of chocolate/cardamom/orange torte was delicious, but the veggie burger I ordered was just as tasty. I recommend their butter bean and Parsley veggie burger, which comes with tahini and hummus.

A blackboard also features daily specials. Whether you’re looking for coffee and cake or a light lunch, stop by The Lighthouse for a yummy and satisfying meal to begin the day on a full and happy stomach. Click here to learn more Galway has many vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants.

Best Things to Do in Galway: Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop

Do you like independent bookshops or libraries? I love discovering quaint and unique bookshops on my travels. Charlie Byrne’sThis is a store you can browse through for hours.

It’s one of the best free things to do in Galway until you gather up a bunch of books that you want to buy! In a labyrinth of rooms, you’ll find 100,000 books of every variety and genre imaginable.

The knowledgeable staff meticulously organizes the books by subject matter, and there’s even a section devoted to Irish literature. If you’re seeking any books about Ireland or local history, this is one of the best places to visit in Galway.

Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop is a pretty iconic spot with books stacked all around its front entrance ways, so don’t forget to snap a few pictures of its exterior. If you’re seeking what to do in Galway for a day, definitely pop by Charlie Byrne’s to take a peek.

Coffee or Tea Break: Things to do in Galway

After walking around the city, it’s time to take a coffee or tea break. When I was in Galway, I visited the local favorite. Cupán Tae. Unfortunately, after 12 years, their tea room in Galway has closed, although their online tea shop is still operational and they ship their tea worldwide.

At Cupan Tae, I really loved the “Merlin’s Magic Elixir”Blend with apple bits, grapes and rosehip petals. But, I’m sure you are looking for a tea shop to check out in Galway. When I was looking for a replacement, i stumbled across The Secret Garden GalwayIt looks like a wonderful establishment.

The Secret Garden, a family-owned tea shop in Galway, offers a wide variety of teas. They serve over 100 types of tea from around the world, including herbal, fruity, green, oolong, white, yellow, black, Rooibos, Mate, Moroccan and blooming tea.

They can also make cappuccinos, lattes, and espressos. The Secret Garden also offers a variety of delicious desserts, including vegan, raw and gluten-free options.

One Day in Galway – Eyre Square and #WhatLiftsYou mural

Continue walking around the town by strolling through Eyre Square. This large park has many streets that intersect. The Quincentennial fountain features a sculpture of Galway Hookers – traditional fishing boats in Galway Bay. In December, there’s a small Christmas Market at Eyre Square.

We also found a pair #WhatLiftsYou Angel Wings painted by street artist Kelsey Montague on a wall near Eyre square. Similar wings can be found all over the place, including Nashville. These are just outside of O’Connells Bar and they’re perfect for a photo opportunity.

I didn’t plan to match my sweater to the art as this find was a complete surprise – it just worked out that way! There are so many opportunities to take stunning photos in Galway City.

As an update, angel wings are now a little brighter in Galway. Kelsey Montague painted a pair of newer wings that are more vibrant and colorful than ever. When you visit Galway, be sure to check out the new and improved wing.

What to do in Galway? Walk along the River Corrib

The River Corrib is Europe’s shortest river, measuring only 6km between the lake and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a pretty powerful river with rushing waters. In fact, it’s the fastest flowing river in Europe. Definitely embark on a walk here between the city center and the university as it’s super pretty.

This stretch also has many picturesque homes with brightly-painted doors and greenery growing on the walls. All in all, it’s a very photogenic area of Galway, so don’t forget to snap a few pictures while you’re here.

Discover Galway’s Street Art

Galway is a very vibrant and eclectic city, and it’s apparent in its street art and colorful murals. There’s even more street art to see beyond the Latin Quarter. Some of the most beautiful street art can be found between the city center, and the University, across the River Corrib.

Explore the alleyways and side streets to see unique artworks. It’s one of the best things to do in Galway City, and something different if you’re seeking what to do in Galway for a day.

The University Grounds is a great place to visit in Galway.

The following are some of the ways to get in touch with each other: National University of Ireland GalwayThe old buildings are stunning and look like they came straight out of a movie. This was my favourite activity in Galway.

Vines and leaves creep around each structure, and it’s worth a peaceful and quiet walk around the property. If you’re spending more than one day in Galway, like I did, you can sit on a bench and read a good book.

The Long Walk is one of the top things to do in Galway.

After exploring the campus, return to town and walk down to the waterfront. The Long Walk in Galway is one of its most iconic attractions. It’s a stretch of houses facing the water near the Spanish Arch.

Galway was once a medieval fortified city. However, very little remains. Built in 1584, there are two remaining arches from an old city wall that used to protect Galway’s quays.

They were partially destroyed by a tsunami in 1755 caused by a Lisbon earthquake. This area should be on any list to visit in Galway.

Once you walk through the Spanish Arch, you’ll see a long stretch of colorful homes and the river. Take a stroll to the end, and then back.

As the sun begins to set, I recommend taking some time to relax and enjoy the swans and other seabirds that are gathered along the waterfront. It’s one of the most beautiful places to go in Galway, and one that will evoke great memories of the city when you look back on your trip.

Hall of the Red Earl

On our way back to the city center from Galway’s waterfront, we stumbled upon the Hall of the Red Earl. This is the oldest excavated building within Galway’s medieval walls, dating back to the 13th century.

Richard de Burgo was the grandson Walter de Burgo. Walter de Burgo founded Galway 1232. Richard de Burgo, the third Earl of Ulster, built this hall. This hall was once Galway’s primary municipal building, used as a town hall, courthouse, and tax office.

This building was in use until the 15th Century. “Tribe”Families of Galway took power from the De Burgos, and forced them to leave the town. The Hall of the Red Earl was left in ruin. In 1997, the Hall of the Red Earl was rediscovered. Excavations began.

Hall of the Red Earl can be visited for free, though donations are always welcome. It’s open from Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:30pm, and it’s located on Druid Lane, off Quay Street.

The Dough Bros. offers Pizza for Dinner

Are you looking for the best pizzas in Ireland? The Dough Bros makes one of the best pizzas I’ve had in a long time, and it’s quite an institution in Galway. It’s recently been awarded the title of #15 pizzeria in the world! They use wood-fired ovens to cook their pizza.

They have a couple of vegan pizzas, complete with vegan chees. I ordered the Buffalo Soldier with garlic bread (Buffalo cheese, balsamic onion, portobello mushrooms and basil).

The decor of the restaurant is reminiscent of the 80s and 90s. I loved the Super Mario and Nintendo decor even more.

Visit More Galway Attractions and Tours

Galway has so much to offer, you could spend a whole day there and still not experience everything. Here are more suggestions of things to do if you plan to stay for a couple days.

Galway City Museum

Local history enthusiasts will enjoy the Galway City Museum. It’s 100% free to visit and has three floors of exhibitions relating to local history about the city. This is definitely one of the best things to do for free in Galway.

Lynch’s Castle

Step inside Lynch’s Castle, a four story fortified medieval house that was home to the powerful and influential Lynch family. It’s decorated with gargoyles, carved mouldings and distinct windows. Even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth admiring from its exterior (this building is now home to the AIB bank).

Lynch Memorial Window

The Lynch Memorial Window offers a morbid glimpse into Galway’s past. This was where the town’s mayor hung his son from the window after he killed a Spanish visitor. The term, “lynch mob” originated.

Galway Cathedral

The Galway Cathedral, a modern cathedral, has a large green dome with a mosaic of JFKennedy. It’s not an old church that you’d typically see in Ireland; rather, construction began in 1958. It’s often dubbed, “the last great stone cathedral to be built in Europe”.

Collegiate Church Of St. Nicholas

The Collegiate Church of St. Nicholas has beautiful architecture and is a medieval Anglican Episcopal Church from the 14th century. It’s dedicated to Saint Nicholas of Myra, the patron saint of seafarers, as Galway is a port city.

If you’re looking for a couple of short getaways from Galway, I recommend Burren TrekkingWhether you want to visit the iconic Cliffs of Moher in Ireland, go to Doolin or spend some time on the Aran Islands, there are many options. EnnisThis is another charming town not too far from Galway.

Where to Stay in Galway

After you’re finished exploring all of the things to do in Galway, you need a place to get a restful night’s sleep. I recommend that you visit the Connacht Hotel. Even though it’s not right in the city center, there are many reasons why you should stay there.

The hotel is comfortable and clean. It has everything you need to have a wonderful overnight stay. The Connacht offers a luxurious stay for a reasonable price.

Lauren is a full-time travel writer and content creator for Justin Plus Lauren. She founded Justin Plus Lauren in 2013, and has visited more than 50 countries. Lauren is one of the first vegan travel bloggers and an expert in vegan travel. She is also interested in eco-friendly and sustainable travel as well as outdoor adventure.