Making the most of Galway
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
The dock is within walking distance of town. Larger ships will use the port tenders to bring the passengers ashore.
Printable map to take along.
Galway is a perfect base for seeing the West Ireland, but it is also worth a visit in itself. Although it has only a few typical sightseeing spots what makes it a wonderful place to stay is the atmosphere, the culture, the people, the events.
The pedestrian shopping area south of Eyre Square, is a pleasant place to walk around. And if the traditional Irish rain starts, just visit the Eyre Square shopping center, where they have put a roof above parts of the old town wall and so included them into the shopping mall, a beautiful combination of old and new.
At the south end of the pedestrian mall, is the Spanish Arch, one of the few remaining parts of the town's ancient defenses. The park adjacent to the arch is a popular place to sit and relax, while watching the Corrib flow out into Galway Bay.
Getting around
Walking tours of Galway.
Nearby places
Galway is the ideal base for trips throughout western Ireland. Hiring a car is a good way to see attractions in the surrounding area. Alternately, day tours of The Burren and the Cliffs of Moher, and of Connemara are available at the tourist office.
Food and shopping
The main shopping area runs south from Eyre Square towards the Corrib. This pedestrian zone includes Williams Street, Shop Street, High Street, Mainguard Street and Quay Street. Along it you can find all kinds of shops, pubs and restaurants. The historical buildings and busy atmosphere also make this area one of the attractions of Galway.
Discover Middle Street, which runs parallel to Shop Street, and is the location of a range of inspiring and creative local enterprises. You will find the Irish speaking Theater "An Taibhearc" across from the designer studio "cocoon", along with Charlie Byrne's bookstore, Kenny's gallery and a Japanese restaurant to make an interesting spectrum.
Eyre Square center is a modern shopping center almost entirely hidden behind historical facades. Entrances can be found on the south side of Eyre Square and on Williams Street.
Money
The Republic of Ireland is part of the Eurozone, so as in many other European Union countries the currency here is the Euro (symbol: €). Stand Alone Cash machines (ATMs) are widely available in every city and town in the country and credit cards are accepted in 90% of outlets. Fees are not generally charged by Irish ATMs (but beware that your bank may charge a fee).
Staying connected
English is spoken everywhere but Irish (Gaeilge) is the first official language.
Opening Hours and
Offices: 9am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday. Shops: 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday, until 8pm on Thursday; Saturday: 9am to 6pm; Sunday: Limited Hours Pubs: 10.30am to 11.30pm, Monday to Thursday. Closing is at 12.30am Friday and Saturday. On Sunday, 12.30 to 11.30pm. Pubs are closed on Christmas Day and Good Friday.