For those of you following me on Snapchat (duffyloikes) you might have seen some of my Galway snaps over the weekend. I had the nicest weekend away with my bestie Leonora. We decided to escape from Dublin for a night away in one of my favourite cities in Ireland. We had an early start on Saturday because we wanted to arrive early to ensure we had enough time to do and see everything. While we have both been to Galway a good few times before it’s a city that is always nice to go back a visit.
From cute coffee shops hidden down small cobbled lanes to views of Galway Bay from the Salthill promenade, Galway has something for everyone. I’ve put together a list of things to do and see and places to visit. If you’re a ‘foodie’, enjoy a few social drinks or if you’re planning a trip to Galway this Christmas then this blog post will keep you busy when you’re there. Have a read and let me know what you think.
EAT
As I am sure you know by now, I love my food. Before going to Galway I did some research and Maxwells, Dough Bros and Tribeton really caught my eye. My friend booked afternoon tea in The G Hotel in advance as a surprise. I’ve been meaning to go there for the last two years so this was the cherry on top of our weekend away. Afternoon tea for two is €46 and A LOT is included so I would highly recommend stopping off here. Other than that there are so many other restaurants and cafes to choose from in Galway. We were spoilt for choice.
DRINK
Again, there are a lot of bars and pubs in Galway so you won’t be stuck for places to go. We stayed around Eyre Square as that’s where most of ‘the craic’ seemed to be. I would recommend An Pucan (also a great spot for food), Roisin Dubh (great for gigs), The Skeff and McGettigans. There are still so many places I want to try so I will keep you posted on my next trip to Galway.
– THINGS TO DO AND SEE-
GALWAY CHRISTMAS MARKET
The Galway Christmas Market is a must. I would wait until it’s dark so you can see it all lit up. From nutella crepes and coffee to Christmas decorations and a giant gingerbread house – you don’t want to miss this I promise. There is also Santa’s Grotto, a German bier keller, numberous gift and snack stalls and an entertainment area. Ends 22nd December 2016
For more info click here.
GALWAY ICE-SKATING
Who doesn’t love ice-skating over the Christmas period? You can expect to see Galway’s Leisureland transformed into one of Ireland’s premier Christmas attractions with one massive 500m2 ice rink. Ends 8th January 2016.For more info click here.
SHOPPING
Shopping is a must when you’re in Galway. The main street has an endless amount of shops and boutiques and of course there is a shopping centre so you can shop to your hearts content. I ended up buying a new Alex & Ani ring in Fields just before I left (lets call it an early Christmas present) 😛
THE SPANISH ARCH
If you want to be a tourist for a day then pop over to The Spanish Arch and take a few snaps. This arch along with the Caoċ Arch were part of the extension of the city wall from Martin’s Tower to the bank of the River Corrib, as a measure to protect the city’s quays, which were in the area once known as the Fish Market. There is also a museum you can visit if you have some spare time on your hands.
SALTHILL PROMENADE
Salthill Promenade is approximately two miles long from one end to the other, and it overlooks Galway Bay. Salthill is perfect for long walks, jogging and enjoying views. On clear days the hills of County Clare are visible across the bay. Note: the below image was taken last summer – I didn’t wear a playsuit in this weather, I’m not that crazy don’t worry.
NIGHTLIFE
The Nightlife in Galway City is one of the City’s greatest attractions. Galway is a 7 night a week City, famous for its live music scene and chilled out atmosphere. The combination of the student population, great festivals and lots of visitors combine to give Galway one of the most lively entertainment scenes in the country.
There you have it – my latest travel diary. Galway – I will definitely be back again soon. Hopefully this has given you some city break inspiration. My next travel diary will be about my recent stay in Ubud (Bali) and my trip to Singapore. If there is anything in particular you’d like me to blog about next let me know. You can catch me on Snapchat (duffyloikes), Instagram, Facebook and Twitter!
Thanks for reading!
Until next time…
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