Our journey to Galway, Ireland began with a scenic drive from Dublin, taking us through rolling green hills, quaint stone walls, and charming rural villages that perfectly embodied the Irish countryside. The drive itself was part of the adventure — about two and a half hours across the heart of Ireland — giving us time to slow down, take in the beauty of the landscape, and feel the rhythm of rural life. When we finally arrived in Galway, on Ireland’s rugged west coast, we immediately sensed a different energy: relaxed, artistic, and full of soul. We stayed for three nights, which felt just right to soak in its charm and coastal atmosphere.
Galway has a history as rich as its culture. Once a medieval fishing town and trading hub known as the “City of the Tribes,” it grew under the influence of 14 merchant families who shaped its heritage and architecture. Today, the city still wears its history proudly — from the Spanish Arch, a remnant of its 16th-century fortifications, to the cobblestone lanes of the Latin Quarter, alive with traditional music and laughter spilling from lively pubs. Walking along Kirwan’s Lane, we felt as though we had stepped back in time, surrounded by centuries-old stone walls and colorful shopfronts brimming with local art, jewelry, and handmade crafts.
One of our favorite places was Quay Street, the beating heart of Galway’s social life. Lined with pubs, cafes, and buskers playing fiddles and guitars, it offered an atmosphere that felt both spontaneous and deeply authentic. We spent hours people-watching from a café terrace, enjoying hearty Irish fare and listening to music that seemed to rise naturally from the streets.
From the city center, we strolled to the Salthill Promenade, a beautiful seaside walk stretching along Galway Bay. Locals encouraged us to follow tradition and “kick the wall” at the end of the promenade — a simple act symbolizing good luck. The view of the Aran Islands on the horizon and the sun setting over the Atlantic made it one of the most peaceful moments of our trip.
We also visited the grand Galway Cathedral, an architectural marvel built in the mid-20th century but evoking a timeless presence with its stonework, domes, and stained glass. Its location by the River Corrib added to its serene beauty.
Galway’s blend of history, music, and sea air makes it a city that captures both the mind and the heart. It’s smaller and more intimate than Dublin yet bursting with creativity and warmth. For us, Galway wasn’t just a destination — it was an experience in rhythm, laughter, and connection, a place where Ireland’s true spirit feels alive at every corner.