Galway had the most mentions of any county on our 2017 Bucket List for Ireland, so it must be doing something right.
With beautiful sights, delicious food and quality craic, what more could you ask for?
If you are in any doubt about whether you should move to Galway, right this second, let this list guide you in the right direction.
1. Galway has a love affair with food
The Galway Food Festival is always top-notch.
2. It has the best restaurant in Ireland
Ethical and sustainable restaurant ‘Loam’ took home the ‘Best Restaurant’ title at the National Hospitality Conference and Awards because of their fantastic food.
READ: Heading To Galway? Here Are Some Restaurants, Pubs And Cafés For You To Explore
3. The West End is charming
The businesses are family owned and there’s tons of great restaurants, pubs and gigs. Quite a few of our favourite places to eat are there.
4. It has a fabulous Saturday Market
Head down to Church Lane where you can pick up some a delicious food, fresh organic produce, artisanal cheese, art, jewellery and other handmade items.
READ: 12 Amazing Things To Do Within Walking Distance From Galway Railway Station
5. You can eat fresh, seasonal food at the award-winning Aniar restaurant
Their menu changes daily and reflects the surrounding Galway areas.
6. Oscars has some of the best seafood dishes in the country
Think fresh prawns laced in garlic and parsley on toast.
The quality of the fish is not surprising given Galway is surrounded by sea.
7. They host an Oyster and Seafood Festival every year
It’s the world’s longest running oyster festival.
8. Connemara has some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world
9. You’re surrounded by beautiful beaches
From Clifden to Spiddal, Galway has six official blue flag beaches, including the famous Salthill Beach and the stunning Cleggan Beach.
10. Clifden is a romantic little village
Check out Clifden Castle, take a walk around the Kylemore Abbey Gardens or grab a bite to eat in the Cliden Station House Hotel.
11. The Aran Islands are just a short boat trip away
The journey only takes 30-45 minutes depending on which island you’re going to.
12. ‘Bite Club’ has alcoholic slushies
Plus some amazing chicken wings
13. In fact, you’re surrounded by places that do chicken wings that are finger-licking good
Here are the 7 best options. Don’t even pretend your mouth isn’t watering right now
14. The place is always buzzing the week of the Galway Races
One of the best times of the year.
15. Kirwan’s Lane is a must-visit
The lane was originally constructed in the 16th century and is now home to bars, craft shops and restaurants, including the chic Kirwan’s Lane Restaurant.
16. You have to try the cakes at Kai restaurant
To be fair, all their food is really good, and you never know what's going to be on the menu.
17. The Latin Quarter is great craic
Bars, live music, buskers, artisan food and atmosphere to spare.
18. The Galway Arts Festival is fantastic
A collections of shows, concerts, parties and parades.
19. Roisin Dubh has a silent disco on Tuesdays
People dance out on the street.
20. You get a great view walking along Salthill Prom
You can go to the funfair in the summer as well.
21. Galway has an amazing Christmas Market
Taking place in Eyre Square, the festive market is one of the most popular in the country. This year they made it even better by adding a Ferris wheel.
22. The people are great
Galway was voted the 6th Friendliest City In The World according to Conde Nast Traveller. And really, isn’t that the most important thing?
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