for those drawn to artistic expression, galway promises a captivating experience. the galway international arts festival, one of ireland's most significant cultural events, showcases a diverse array of music, theater, and visual arts.
the city also boasts several exceptional museums and galleries, including the galway city museum, offering a captivating exploration of the city's history and culture.
as a first-time visitor to galway, regardless of your orientation, a wealth of attractions and activities await.
one of the most rewarding ways to immerse yourself in a new city is by exploring its iconic landmarks, historical monuments, museums, and art galleries.
we particularly enjoy admiring architecture up close, wandering through parks and gardens, savoring local cuisine, exploring vibrant markets, and attending cultural events like festivals, concerts, and performances.
as proud members of the queer community, we approach city exploration with the same enthusiasm as anyone else.
this approach allows us to deepen our understanding of the city, its people, and its unique culture. therefore, we present our curated list of must-see attractions in galway.
start with a stroll through eyre square. eyre square, officially known as john f. kennedy memorial park, serves as a beloved public space at galway city's heart.
this historical and picturesque location offers abundant greenery and floral displays, complemented by a grand fountain and various sculptural artworks.
a central feature of the park is the browne doorway, a 17th-century entrance originally belonging to the browne family's mansion.
relocated to eyre square in the 20th century, the doorway now serves as a popular photo opportunity for visitors. eyre square also offers a tranquil environment for relaxation and appreciating the surrounding beauty, with ample benches and picnic spots available.
its location, surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and shops, makes it a convenient stop for a quick break during sightseeing.
discover the wild atlantic way (sentence case only)
the wild atlantic way, a renowned scenic coastal route, stretches along ireland's western coast, extending from donegal in the north to cork in the south, covering approximately 2,500 kilometers.
galway occupies a prime location along this route and serves as a popular destination for tourists exploring the wild atlantic way.
these impressive cliffs soar high above the atlantic ocean, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
other attractions along the wild atlantic way near galway include connemara national park, the aran islands, and the burren, a distinctive limestone landscape that is home to diverse and unique plant and animal life.
experience galway market (sentence case only)
galway market, a lively and dynamic marketplace in the center of galway city, showcases a broad selection of fresh, locally sourced produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal products.
visitors to the market can sample delicious foods from various vendors, featuring local farmers, producers, and international cuisines from thailand, india, and italy.
some must-try offerings include traditional irish breakfasts, fresh seafood, homemade baked goods, and artisanal cheeses.
visit the collegiate church of st. nicholas of myra. the church derives its name from st. nicholas of myra, the patron saint of sailors and the inspiration for the modern figure of santa claus.
one of the most intriguing aspects of st. nicholas' collegiate church is its rich history.
during the late 16th century, several spanish sailors, having survived shipwrecks in galway bay, sought refuge within the church. a 16th-century wooden carving of our lady of the assumption, brought to galway by sailors from the spanish armada, remains on display.
enjoy a corrib princess cruise (sentence case only)
the corrib princess offers scenic cruises along the picturesque river corrib and across lough corrib, one of ireland's largest lakes.
this cruise provides an excellent opportunity to discover the stunning natural beauty of galway and its surrounding countryside, making it a popular attraction for visitors of all ages.
the cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes, departing from woodquay in the heart of galway city.
along the route, passengers can enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline, the verdant countryside, and the rugged connemara mountains in the distance. the boat also passes several historical landmarks, including the 14th-century menlo castle and the 19th-century ashford castle.
onboard refreshments, including tea, coffee, snacks, and pastries, are available.
the corrib princess cruise operates from april to october, providing an ideal way to experience the natural beauty and historical depth of galway. explore clarinbridge. clarinbridge, a charming village located approximately 12 kilometers south of galway city, is renowned for its delectable oysters and traditional tearooms.
the village is a favored stopover for travelers exploring the wild atlantic way or the county galway countryside.
paddy burkes tearoom, one of clarinbridge's must-visit establishments, has been serving traditional irish afternoon tea for many years. guests can enjoy a variety of homemade sandwiches, scones, pastries, and a selection of specialty teas and coffees.
the tearoom serves as a popular gathering place for locals to socialize over a cup of tea and a slice of cake.
in addition to tearooms and seafood restaurants, clarinbridge features several quaint shops and boutiques offering handmade crafts, gifts, and souvenirs. venture to another world at the burren.
discover the burren (sentence case only)
the burren, a distinctive and breathtaking landscape in county clare, lies approximately 45 minutes south of galway city.
this limestone plateau spans about 250 square kilometers and supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. one of the burren's most defining features is its unusual rock formations, shaped over millions of years by glacial activity.
visitors can explore the rugged terrain and marvel at the extraordinary landscape, characterized by deep fissures, underground rivers, and caves.
the burren's rich cultural heritage, dating back thousands of years, adds to its allure. while galway may lack explicitly gay hotels or resorts, several establishments actively cater to lgbtq+ travelers and offer a welcoming atmosphere.
of course, galway offers numerous other hotel and hostel options to suit various budgets, preferences, and locations.
however, the hotels listed below have garnered positive feedback from fellow gay travelers and are highly recommended. the g hotel & spa. with its unique design, premium amenities, and central location, this hotel makes an ideal base for discovering all that galway has to offer.
the spa treatments are designed to help guests unwind, rejuvenate, and feel their best.
the salt therapy room offers a unique spa experience, ideal for those seeking natural remedies for respiratory issues or skin conditions. the buffet features a wide array of hot and cold dishes, including freshly baked breads, pastries, fruits, cereals, and more.
paddy burke's hotel (sentence case only)
located just 1.6 km from the city center, paddy burke's hotel in clarenbridge provides convenient access to galway city and the scenic countryside.
the hotel was established on land owned by the family for generations and was inaugurated by paddy francis and his son john on june 12th, 1987. over the years, continuous investment has expanded the hotel to include numerous rooms, including the recent addition of luxurious deluxe rooms and suites in 2018.
the hotel remains a central hub for both national and international visitors, who mingle with locals in the lively p.
salthill hotel (sentence case only)
the salthill hotel in galway, a 4-star establishment, enjoys a prime location on the stunning salthill promenade, providing guests with breathtaking panoramic views of galway bay and the clare hills.
its convenient location, steps from the beach, and exclusive access to a leisure center and gym, position the salthill hotel as one of galway's premier hotels.
enjoy stunning sea views from your room, taking in the sights of the iconic promenade, galway bay, and the clare hills.
maldron hotel sandy road. situated a short distance from the heart of galway city, the maldron hotel sandy road provides a modern and comfortable stay for business and leisure travelers alike.
its contemporary decor and inviting atmosphere offer a perfect home away from home for those visiting galway.
the rooms at the maldron hotel sandy road are spacious, clean, and well-equipped, featuring all necessary amenities. the victoria hotel. the victoria hotel prides itself on combining victorian charm with modern elegance to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
this newly renovated boutique hotel features 75 guest rooms catering to various needs, including double, twin, triple, and deluxe accommodations.
the experienced team is always available to offer local recommendations and insights, helping you to make the most of your time in galway.
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europe » ireland gay guide ireland. sunnyday offers a modern and clean environment to enjoy and relax in a sauna in basel. clubsauna amsterdam is a popular and friendly sauna spanning four floors.
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