Galway is, in every way, an undiscovered gem for many, well worth visiting for those who love to travel and want to explore the Emerald Isle in Western Europe. In this Irish city, you can enjoy everything from shopping and authentic Irish culture to incredible food, clearly inspired by the stunning Atlantic coast.
Galway is an absolute must when you are in Ireland, offering a unique culture that stands out. Here, you’ll find everything you need to know about the best areas and hotels if you are planning a trip to this wonderful destination.
Galway City Center
If you’re looking for a great area to stay in while visiting Galway, the city center is an excellent choice. This district is rich in history, full of friendly pubs, and home to fantastic tourist attractions.
One of the most important landmarks in this district is undoubtedly Eyre Square, also known as John F. Kennedy Memorial Park after his visit in 1963. You’ll find numerous shops, markets, restaurants, and several lovely spots where you can sit and take in everything happening around you.
By staying here, you can take a stroll along the lively streets, admire the old architecture and stone walls, and make sure to visit unique historical landmarks such as the Catholic Galway Cathedral and the medieval Lynch’s Castle.
Salthill
Located west of Galway’s city center, this beautiful coastal area is one of the most picturesque spots in the city. If you dream of experiencing the Irish scenery seen in movies, this is the place for you.
The relaxed atmosphere, friendly tourists, and locals make this area a fantastic place to enjoy all the best parts of the city.
Take a walk along the white sandy beaches and spend the day relaxing, or visit some of the fascinating historical landmarks in the area. You can also explore the aquarium, showcasing a wide variety of marine life from both local waters and around the world.
Salthill Hotel
This delightful and classic 4-star hotel exceeds expectations. The wonderful rooms exude quality, ensuring a restful night’s sleep.
The hotel offers both a bar and two restaurants serving exquisite cuisine throughout the day and evening. Guests can also enjoy the exclusive swimming pool, reserved only for hotel visitors.
With its prime location in the heart of Salthill, this is a perfect base for those who want to be “close to nature.” A short walk away, you’ll find unique beaches and guided tours of the area if desired.
Oranmore
Oranmore is yet another testament to Galway’s stunning natural surroundings, conveniently located near the city center. It is a peaceful and tranquil place with numerous attractions suitable for the whole family.
This is one of the best places to stay in Galway with children, as it is home to the vast Renville Park. The park features a playground and many picnic spots, making it an ideal place to spend the entire day.
The city center is easily accessible via excellent public transportation, allowing you to quickly reach Galway’s key historical landmarks. Staying here offers an authentic experience of life in Galway as a local.
Maldron Hotel
If you appreciate large, professional hotels, this is the right choice for your stay in Galway and Oranmore. At this 4-star hotel, you will stay in a beautiful setting with easy access to Irish culture and nature.
Maldron features a charming restaurant and bar, catering to all ages and preferences. The delicious breakfast will ensure you are ready for everything Galway has to offer. Guests can also enjoy the fantastic indoor pool and jacuzzi, which appeal to visitors of all ages.
Another significant advantage for those looking for easy transportation is the nearby public transit, allowing quick and convenient access to various parts of the city.
The Claddagh
Located south of the city center, where Galway Bay meets the Corrib River, this area is known as Ireland’s oldest fishing village. However, most people recognize its name due to the famous Claddagh ring, whose history dates back nearly 400 years to the village of the same name.
The ring is now crafted worldwide and symbolizes love, friendship, and loyalty. Over the years, The Claddagh has become a popular destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway in Galway, Ireland, but it also attracts various other types of travelers.
In 1232, a wall was built around the city, and Claddagh was not included as part of Galway. Over time, this has changed, but the area still feels like a world of its own, making it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility on Ireland’s west coast.
The small houses and sea views make this area look frozen in time, radiating vintage charm. With numerous green spaces and a beautiful beach, it’s the perfect place to catch breathtaking sunsets. In Claddagh, you won’t be disappointed.
Harbour Hotel
This four-star hotel offers cozy rooms with large, comfortable beds and fantastic bathrooms. With a generous breakfast buffet, you can ensure you start your day full and ready to explore everything Galway has to offer. You can also make use of the fitness center, available 24/7 for hotel guests.
Harbour Hotel is an excellent choice for those who want to be close to both nature experiences and Galway’s main attractions. This hotel suits anyone looking for comfortable accommodation in Galway, whether traveling with children or other adults.
Kinvara
If there is one thing Ireland is well known for, it is its pubs, which in many ways offer a true insight into Irish culture. In Kinvara, you will not be disappointed in this regard.
Here, you will find some of Galway’s most entertaining spots where you can enjoy great drinks, dance to live music, and spend the night mingling with the friendly locals.
With its stunning traditional Irish landscape and narrow streets lined with colorful old houses, this district will surely earn a special place in your heart. A stroll here is highly recommended to admire the charming architecture.
You must also check out Green’s Bar, one of the area’s top tourist attractions. This family-owned business has been serving more than a hundred types of whiskey to thirsty customers since 1865. Kinvara is a great place to stay for all types of travelers, though it may be especially enjoyable for couples traveling together.
Kinvara Guesthouse
This is a cozy and highly affordable four-star accommodation in the heart of Kinvara. Here, you can relax in a peaceful environment with spacious and fresh bedrooms.
The hotel also features a nice restaurant where you can enjoy delicious drinks. Additionally, the accommodation offers Wi-Fi in all areas, ensuring you can stay updated on what’s happening in the world.
From here, you can walk to almost any place in Kinvara and also have excellent transport options to Galway city center if desired. It is a perfect choice for those traveling with companions who have different preferences and requirements.
Particularly well-suited for adults traveling together, though it is also a great place to stay with children.
The Docks
Located just across the Corrib River, this area is popular among visitors to the city who want the best views of Galway Bay. The harbor is also located here, meaning you can admire the beautiful boats in the water from your hotel room.
Galway’s city center is just a short walk away, and you can easily reach “Long Walk,” considered by many to be the most popular attraction in all of Galway. This walk is not particularly long but offers stunning views along Lough Corrib, where you can admire the charming, colorful houses and the small harbor.
The Docks is undoubtedly one of the best places to stay in the city for those passionate about maritime life and everything that comes with it. In recent years, the area has also seen a rise in delightful restaurants, making it a very popular spot for both locals and visitors to Galway.
Leonardo Hotel Galway
This four-star accommodation is the perfect combination of private space and hotel comfort. You will stay in beautiful rooms within an architecturally stunning building located in the central parts of Galway and The Docks. Guests also have access to a private garden and terrace, exclusively for hotel visitors. Of course, free Wi-Fi and fresh, modern rooms are also included.
The hotel also features a lovely restaurant where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can also relax with delicious drinks at the wonderful bar.
The Docks offers several great shopping experiences, and for the best restaurants, you can easily take a short walk from the hotel and enjoy some truly amazing food.
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