Galway - Ireland, City of Tribes

Explore Western Ireland - Connermara, Aran and Vibrant Galway City

Mar 22, 2007

Galway has a vibrant Irish arts and culture scene and it is perfectly situated to explore the West Coast of Ireland, like the Aran Islands and Connermara.

Galway, Gaillimh in Irish, is an artsy bohemian city brimming over with pubs and clubs, restaurants and galleries- boasting the famous summer, Galway Arts Festival, one of the most accessible culture fests in Europe.

Tucked between the Atlantic and the blue waters of Lough Corrib, Galway, in County Galway, was founded by fishermen. By the 15th century, 14 wealthy merchant families ruled the city, giving Galway the nickname it still bears today "City of Tribes."

Connemara and Aran

A city, perched on the edge of the Gaeltacht (Irish speaking area) Galway is the gateway to magnificent areas such as Connemara made of of bogs, moors and a rugged coastline and the Aran Islands, three small islands just off the coast in Galway Bay.

The rugged Aran sweater, an emblem of both the Aran islands and of Ireland itself can be bought in all colors and variations in these areas. You can travel to Aran by ferry boat, directly from Galway city or Rossaveal or you can fly.

Galway is renowned for its thriving Irish theatre, arts, music and culture scene.The hub of the city is a pedestrian park at Eyre Square (pronounced Air Square). The city center is closed to traffic to allow for the enjoyment of the narrow shopping streets. Park your car in one of the multi-storey car parks. Take care they are very tight.

The Claddagh

The famous Claddagh Ring originated on the west bank of the River Corrib, in the old fishing town of Claddagh in Galway. It’s a well known symbol with two hands, a heart and a crown. The hands are said to represent friendship, the crown loyalty, and the heart love - the three ingredients of a perfect marriage.

Galway Hookers

Yes, Galway has Hookers.The ones in question are sail boats. These days, the famous Galway Hookers mostly appear annually at celebrations, such as the Kinvara festival of Cruinniú na mBád (Gathering of the Boats).

Galway Hostel Accommodation

TheSleepzone Tourist Hostel in Galway is 100 m from Eyre Square, It is recommended by the Irish Tourist Board. Sleepzone also has hostels on the Burren and at Killary. Book online.

Galway Hotels

There are plenty of hotels in Galway, but if you go to Salthill, a Seaside suburb about eight minutes drive from the city centre (on the bus route) you will find a whole different world. You are right on Galway Bay and it feels like you’ve stepped back 20 years in time. From amusement arcades to an aquarium and gypsy fortune tellers; a great place for kids. The hotels are less expensive here, not so fancy.

Don’t miss out!! Roisin Dubh (Black Rose) is the best live music venue - check for their gigs.