Things to Do in Western Ireland

Choose from 13 Fun Things to Do in Western Ireland

The Spanish Arch

Standing on the left bank of the River Corrib, Galway’s famous Spanish Arch is the sole remainder of the city’s 16th century bastion, designed to protect the town’s quays and merchant ships from looting. The arch itself, built as an access point to the town, was known as the ‘Ceann an Bhalla’, or the ‘Head of the wall’, later taking its name from the Spanish ships that it docked beneath it. Despite being partially destroyed in the 1755 tsunami, the Spanish Arch still stands today - an important landmark, directly opposite the Claddagh shore.

A popular pastime for visitors to the city is strolling along the ‘Long Walk’, the 18th century promenade running along the quay, where you can soak up the atmosphere of the seafront and admire the Arch’s famous ‘Madonna of the Quays’ sculpture, carved from wood by artist Claire Sheridan who inhabited the adjacent building in the 1950’s. Overlooking the Arch and providing some of the best views, is the Galway City Museum, home to a fascinating exhibition of local art, history and craft.

Quay St, Galway City Centre, Galway, Ireland

From $ 14

Galway Atlantaquaria

Designated as the National Aquarium of Ireland and the largest aquarium in the country, Galway Atlantaquaria is one of western Ireland’s most popular attractions. An incredible 170 saltwater and freshwater species inhabit the aquarium’s tanks, imaginatively designed to mimic their natural environments and showcasing Ireland’s incredible diversity of marine ecosystems. Seahorses, stingrays, eels, lobster and even sharks are among the highlights, as well as the world’s only White Skate on public display, lovingly nicknamed ‘Valentine’.

It’s not only the colorful sea creatures that draw in the crowds - the aquarium’s unique displays and hands-on approach has proven a hit with all ages. Visitors can help out at feeding time, delve into the waters inside a model submarine and visit the aquarium’s popular ‘touch tanks’ for the chance to hold starfish and spider crabs. The enlightening exhibits include the chance to experience a waterfall from a ‘fish eye view’ or follow a Galway Salmon on its journey from the Corrib River to Galway Bay. There’s even an enormous skeleton of a Fin Whale on display.

Seapoint Promenade, Galway, Ireland

Wed-Fri 10am-5pm; Sat-Sun 10am-6pm.

Adults, €10.25; Children, €6.25

From $ 301

The Burren

Covering an area of more than 115 square miles (300 square kilometers), the Burren is a vast, otherworldly expanse of scarred and fissured limestone rock, naturally sculpted through acidic erosion. Though it may look barren from afar, this rocky plateau is anything but lifeless. In spring and summer, wildflowers and rare plants thrive here.

The Basics

One of the best ways to get an overview of the Burren is to drive along the R480 road, which links the town of Ballyvaughan in the north to Leamaneh in the south and cuts through the heart of the unusual karst landscape. Of course, to truly appreciate the Burren, and to see some of the tiny plants that sprout between the rocks, you’ll need to get out of the car and walk. Numerous signposted trails weave through the UNESCO-listed Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark.

Because of its proximity to the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren is often included as a stop-off on Cliffs of Moher day trips from Dublin and Galway, along with 16th-century Dunguaire Castle and the charming village of Doolin, a hub for traditional Irish music. Some tours also include visits to the Aillwee Cave, a series of underground caverns that features a waterfall, bear bones, and unusual rock formations.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Burren is a must for anyone with an interest in geology and the natural world.
Wear sturdy shoes; you’ll need them to negotiate the Burren’s rocky terrain.
Some of the species that grow in the Burren are very rare. Don’t pick plants and try not to stand on them.
Stop by the Burren National Park Information Point in Corofin, County Clare, to find out more.

How to Get There

The Burren is located in northwest County Clare, near Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, and is about an hour’s drive from Galway city. Bus Éireann route 350 travels from Galway city to the town of Lisdoonvarna in the Burren. To explore the heart of the Burren, it’s best to drive or go as part of an organized tour.

When to Get There

The Burren is breathtaking year-round, though perhaps the best time to visit is from mid-May to mid-June, when the blossoming wildflowers inject some color into the landscape. Get there early in the morning to soak up its bleak beauty in solitude.

Wildlife-Viewing in the Burren

In addition to exotic orchids, ferns, and wildflowers, the Burren also sustains an unusual assortment of wildlife. Pine martens, lizards, stoats, frogs, and badgers all live here, while an array of feathered fliers, including sparrow hawks and kestrels, can be seen in the skies above.

Ireland

From $ 35

Dunguaire Castle

Sitting on an outcrop jutting into Galway Bay, the 16th-century Dunguaire Castle appears like a fairy-tale vision to drivers traversing the coastal road, prompting many to pull over and reach for a camera. The site housed prominent local clans for centuries before famous Irish surgeon, poet, and playwright Oliver St. John Gogarty bought it in 1924. He then turned it into a hangout for Ireland’s literary elite, including Lady Gregory, W.B. Yeats, Seán O'Casey, and George Bernard Shaw. Today, most travelers admire the castle from afar, though some do venture inside.

The Basics

Visitors can explore the castle’s modest interior and climb to the top of the 75-foot (22-meter) tower for daytime views over Galway Bay, or purchase tickets for a twice-nightly medieval banquet, which includes a 4-course candlelit dinner complete with Celtic music, mead, and storytelling. The castle is also seen on guided day tours from Galway and Dublin that typically also visit other area attractions such as the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, and the Aillwee Cave, as well as parts of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Things to Know Before You Go

The castle is not wheelchair accessible.
The roof terrace is small and accessible only via a narrow spiral staircase that may not be suitable for those who may get claustrophobic.
It’s best to wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven surfaces.
Banquet experiences must be booked in advance.

How to Get There

Dunguaire Castle is located on the southeastern tip of Galway Bay, about half a mile (900 meters) north of the town of Kinvara. Parking is available across the street. The easiest way to get there is via guided tour, with most departing from central locations in Dublin or Galway, and some included hotel pickup and drop-off.

When to Get There

The castle is open from April to mid-September from 10am to 4pm. Arrive early in the morning to see the castle at its quietest. Medieval banquets take place twice nightly, at 5:30pm and 8:45pm, and last about two hours and 15 minutes.

Tips for Photographing Dunguaire Castle

Dunguaire is often touted as the most photographed castle in Ireland. With its fabulous setting on the edge of Galway Bay, it’s not hard to see why so many have pointed their lenses in its direction. To get the perfect shot, check out the Galway Bay tide times in advance and schedule your visit for when the tide is in so you can capture the castle’s reflection in the water below.

Ireland

From $ 35

Galway Bay

Off the west coast of Ireland and beside Galway City, Galway Bay is a beautiful bay that has inspired many Irish legends and songs. You may have heard it sung in Arthur Colahan's Galway Bay or John Lennon’s Luck of the Irish. Yet the Atlantic coast of Ireland is a scenic, natural beauty that deserves to be seen with your own eyes. It’s also a magnet of authentic Irish and Celtic culture and has been called “the most Irish place in Ireland.”

Galway Bay is known for a few things in particular, including its morning dew and unique sailing culture, including a boat type called the Galway Hooker. As Galway was the center of maritime activity in western Ireland at the time, the Hooker boats were prominent in the mid-19th century. Many beaches dot the coastline that are accessible for swimming. Deep sea fishing, boating, and visiting the nearby Aran Islands are other popular activities on the bay.

Practical Info

The coastal area beside Galway Bay is best explored by car. Travel time from Dublin is about two hours. Be sure to check out the cobblestone streets and Irish pubs in nearby Galway City.

Galway Bay, Ireland

From $ 29

Aran Islands

Set off Ireland's craggy, wind-battered Atlantic coast on the western edge of Europe, this trio of sparsely populated and starkly beautiful islands is a stronghold of traditional Irish culture. The Aran Islands' jagged coastal cliffs enclose a patchwork of green fields, where the remnants of ancient stone forts and medieval churches can be seen, while in their one- and two-pub towns, locals trade gossip in Irish Gaelic (Gaeilge) and traditional music sessions last well into the night.

The Basics

The Aran archipelago comprises three separate islands: Inishmore (Inis Mor, meaning Big Island in Irish), Inishmaan (Inis Meain, meaning Middle Island), and Inisheer (Inis Oirr, meaning East Island). Though many travelers only see the islands from afar, it is possible to visit all three, either by ferry or plane. For flexibility, book a round-trip ferry ticket in advance and explore independently on foot, by bike, bus, or pony trap from Inishmore's main town, Kilronan. Guided day tours from Galway often combine a trip to the Aran Islands with a visit to the Cliffs of Moher on mainland Ireland and include round-trip transport from the city. Visitors can also take a guided day tour from Dublin, traveling to Galway by train before flying across to the islands.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Aran Islands are primarily an Irish-speaking region known as a Gaeltacht, although English is widely spoken.
Ferries can accommodate passengers with wheelchairs with advance notice.
Ferry sailings are weather dependent and may be canceled if conditions are poor.
Wear warm clothes and bring a waterproof layer.

How to Get There

Take the ferry to any of the three islands from Rossaveal in County Galway or from Doolin in County Clare. Departures from Doolin are seasonal (generally from March to October), while ferries depart from Rossaveal year-round. Ferries usually take between 40 and 90 minutes, while the journey is just 10 minutes by plane.

When to Get There

The best time to visit the Aran Islands is between April and September. During summer, calm conditions and clear skies are more common, though not guaranteed.

Dive into Aran Islands History

The Aran Islands are littered with the ruins of historical structures. Inishmore is home to the Iron Age fortresses of Dun Aengus (Dun Aonghasa) and the Seven Churches, an assortment of crumbling chapels, crosses, and religious buildings dating from the eighth to 11th centuries. The less-visited Inis Meain and the smallest island, Inis Oirr, also have impressive ruins"”the former in the form of a fourth-century fort, and the latter, a three-story 16th-century castle.

Ireland

From $ 58

Cong

Set between the lakes of Lough Corrib and Lough Mask, the idyllic village of Cong is known for its pretty, thatched-roof cottages and its starring role in the Oscar-winning movie, The Quiet Man, where it was upstaged only by the lead actor — John Wayne.

Covering 350 acres, Ashford Castle and its grounds are also a popular visit while in Cong. The old country estate of the Guinness family, today it’s one of Ireland’s finest 5-star hotels that’s hosted everyone from Brad Pitt to Princess Grace of Monaco.

Surrounded by forests, streams, and lakes, Cong sits on the border of County Galway and County Mayo. While in the village, a popular attraction is the ruins of Cong Abbey. Dating back to the 13th century, the abbey is the burial site of the last High King of Ireland, Rory O’Connor, and a National Monument of Ireland that’s said to feature some of the country’s finest medieval ecclesiastic architecture.

Cong is also where Celtic art originated. The original Cross of Cong can be seen at the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin. Kayaking trips along the Cong river are a favorite among visitors, as are boat trips across Lough Corrib — the biggest lake in Ireland, and movie fans can visit the village’s The Quiet Man Museum, which is dedicated to the 1952 film.

Practical Info

28 miles from Galway City, there are about three buses a day that will take you to Cong. The Quiet Man Museum is open from 10am to 4pm, and entrance costs €5. Admission to Cong Abbey is free, and the ruins are open from dawn til dusk.

Cong, Ireland

From $ 35

Wild Atlantic Way

Zigzagging along Ireland’s west coast, the 2,175-mile (3,500-kilometer) Wild Atlantic Way driving route shows off some of the country’s most thrilling coastal scenery. From the wave-battered sea cliffs of Slieve League and Moher to edge-of-the-world archipelagos such as the Skelligs and the Aran Islands, this route is a visual feast.

The Basics

With so much to see along the Wild Atlantic Way, most travelers only manage to explore a portion of the route on any one trip. Travelers based in Dublin can take day trips to explore highlights of the route, such as the Cliffs of Moher and Galway City.

Visitors based in west Ireland cities such as Galway can choose between a wider range of Wild Atlantic Way tours, from boat trips and short kayaking, walking, and horse-riding excursions to full-day trips to the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands. Some multi-day tours focus exclusively on the Wild Atlantic Way and the west of Ireland, while others continue onward to explore Northern Ireland, too.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Wild Atlantic Way is a must for active travelers and outdoors lovers.
Stretches of the Wild Atlantic Way are rural; keep an eye out for sheep and other animals who may wander out onto the road.
Should you encounter slow-moving farm machinery on the roads, reduce your speed immediately.

How to Get There

There are lots of entry points to the Wild Atlantic Way. Dublin Airport is about three hours’ drive from Donegal, Galway City, and Cork City, three of the biggest urban hubs along the route. Cork Airport is just 20 minutes’ drive from Cork City, while Shannon Airport is about 70 minutes from Galway City, though flight options at some airports are limited.

When to Get There

The best time to explore the Wild Atlantic Way is in summer, when the weather is better suited to outdoor activities, and daylight lasts until as late as 10pm. In winter, country roads can be poorly lit, and ice and snow in mountainous areas can make driving treacherous.

Where to Stop Along the Wild Atlantic Way

To savor spectacular coastal scenery, stop at Mizen Head in County Cork or Malin Head in County Donegal. For insight into Irish culture, visit Doolin, a small town in County Clare with a lively traditional Irish music scene, or Galway, which is known for its artistic community. Many of the islands along the route, including the Aran Islands, Blaskets, and Skelligs, showcase Ireland at its most rugged and remote.

Ireland

From $ 29

Salthill

One of Ireland’s premier seaside resorts, on the cusp of Galway Bay, Salthill has been drawing in tourists since the early 20th century and remains a hugely popular vacation spot during the summer months. Sandy beaches, surrounded by windswept rocky coastline, are the main attraction at Salthill, but its not just swimming and sunbathing that’s on offer - jet skiing, boating, sail-boarding and sea angling are all popular activities; there’s a dedicated high board diving area; and snorkeling and scuba diving sites abound along the coastline.

The postcard-worthy location is best admired with a stroll along the 2km seafront ‘Prom’ (promenade), a lively walkway crammed with bars, restaurants and hotels, as well as hosting a vibrant nightlife from its many casinos and nightclubs. One of a number of casinos and leisure centers that opened up in the 1970’s, the famous Leisureland complex is still a prime attraction, featuring a summer fairground, swimming pool, mini golf course and concert hall that has hosted acts like U2 and AC/DC over the years.

Once you tire of beach life, there’s plenty of alternatives, too - visit the Galway Atlantaquaria – Ireland’s National Aquarium, home to the world’s only White Skate on public display; enjoy a stroll through nearby Salthill Park or Quincentennial Park; or explore Galway’s myriad of iconic sights, like the immense Cliffs of Moher or the unique landscape of the Burren.

Ireland

From $ 14

Lough Corrib

Covering 69 square miles, Lough Corrib is the biggest lake in Ireland and a famous fishing spot that’s well-known for its wild brown trout and salmon. Practically cutting off western Galway from the rest of the country, the lake has inspired artists and writers for centuries, and in 1867, Oscar Wilde’s father, the historian William Wilde, wrote a book about Lough Corrib.

Straddling counties Galway and Mayo, Lough Corrib is a Special Area of Conservation. Since surveys began in 2007, objects that have been discovered in its waters include dugout canoes from the Bronze and Iron Age, a 40th-foot longboat that’s 4,500 years old, and a 10th century ship that was found carrying 3 Viking battleaxes.

365 islands dot the lake, the most famous of which is Inchagoill Island. Known for its secluded beaches and woodland, from Inchagoill you can look out to the Connemara mountains and visit the island’s ancient remains, which include the ruins of a 5th century monastery.

Practical Info

Cruises of Lough Corrib can be taken from Cong, Ashford Castle, Galway City, and Oughterard. You’ll need to purchase a licence to fish for salmon, which populate the lake from June.

Ireland

From $ 35

Kylemore Abbey and Gardens

Standing along the edge of Kylemore Lake, the neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey is every inch a storybook castle. Built in 1868, the abbey’s construction employed grateful locals still reeling from the Irish Potato Famine. Today, the resident Benedictine nuns welcome the public into parts of the abbey and the grounds.

The Basics

The crenelated grey-stone silhouette of Kylemore Abbey is a striking sight amid the rugged, scree-patched hills of the west of Ireland. While you can admire and photograph the abbey and its scenic surrounds from the parking lot, an admission fee is required to enter the grounds. Entrance tickets provide access to the restored ground floor rooms of the abbey, the neo-Gothic church, and the Victorian walled gardens and teahouse, as well as to complimentary history talks and guided garden tours in summer. The abbey is often included on Connemara and Wild Atlantic Way bus and rail day tours from Dublin and Galway city.

Things to Know Before You Go

Most guided day tours do not include the price of admission to the grounds and gardens.
Visitors without tickets can access the gift shop and café.
The property is partially accessible to wheelchair users, though steps and steep gradients prevent access to some sections.

How to Get There

Kylemore Abbey is located along the N59 between Clifden and Westport. If you don’t have a car or aren’t comfortable driving along country roads, it’s easier to come by guided tour. A shuttle bus runs between the house and gardens.

When to Get There

Kylemore Abbey is open year-round; the garden teahouse is open from March through mid-November. Summer is a good time for lakeside picnics on the grounds, while the colder months showcase the barren beauty of the Connemara winter. June through September are peak visiting months. Arrive before 12pm or after 4pm to avoid crowds.

Romance and Tragedy at the Abbey

Part of the abbey’s greatest appeal is the romantic—and tragic—story behind its construction. No expense was spared by politician Mitchell Henry, who built the abbey for his wife, Margaret, after they had honeymooned in the area years before. Sadly for the Henrys, tragedy struck and in 1874, Margaret died after contracting “Nile fever” on a trip to Egypt. A heartbroken Mitchell had a mausoleum built here to house her remains as well as a beautiful neo-Gothic church dedicated to her memory.

Ireland

From $ 29

Dún Aonghasa

Of the scenic Aran Islands off the west coast of Ireland, Dún Aonghasa is the most visited prehistoric fort of the area. Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, it has become a notable place for visitors from all over the country and the world. The semi-circular stone fort dates back to the Late Bronze Age and Iron Age, offering a glimpse into a rarely seen part of history. It is named for "Aonghus mac ÃƒÂšmhóra," a mythical Irish king and pre-Christian god. Its multiple ancient stone walls, stairwells, and chambers create enclosure and different layers to explore.

It is still unknown exactly when and for what purpose Dún Aonghasa was originally constructed. Part of the structure has collapsed into the sea, adding to the site's mystery and intrigue. Aside from its archaeological and historic importance the fort offers some of the most beautiful panoramic views in all of Ireland, with spectacular sights of the coastline and surrounding sea.

Practical Info

Dún Aonghasa is located on the isle of Inismór in the Aran Islands and is accessible by ferry from either Doolin or Galway City. Just 7 kilometers from Kilrónan, it is also a popular destination for a bike ride while on the island. It's open daily from 9 am to 6 pm and costs €2 for adults or €1 for students and children.

Kilmurvy, Ireland

Daily from 9am-6pm

€2 for adults, €1 for students and children

From $ 185

Ross Errilly Friary (Ross Abbey)

Set among green pastures, this 15th-century stone complex—once the home of Franciscan friars—now lies in ruins, peaceful and eerily empty, with tombstones dotted throughout the site. Inside, visitors can explore the roofless remains, including the church, cloister, kitchen area, and living quarters.

The Basics

Ross Errilly Friary, known as Ross Abbey to locals, is one of Galway’s hidden gems, with few tourists passing through the quiet, tranquil ruins. Some day tours around Connemara, departing from Dublin or Galway, stop at the friary en route to other more well-known sights, such as Kylemore Abbey, Killary Harbour, and the village of Cong, which is famous as the location where the John Wayne classic The Quiet Man was filmed.

Things to Know Before You Go

Ross Errilly Friary is a must for history buffs and travelers who want to get off the beaten path.
Bring rain gear, as the roofless ruins provide little protection from the elements.
Ross Errilly Friary is not staffed and has limited signage, so if you want more information on the ruins, it’s best to go as part of a guided tour.

How to Get There

Ross Errilly Friary sits on the border between County Galway and County Mayo, and is a 30- to 40-minute drive from Galway City via the N84. Public transport is scarce in this rural part of Ireland, so if you don’t have access to a car, it’s best come as part of a tour.

When to Get There

Ross Errilly Friary can be visited year-round. The site doesn’t attract large crowds, even during the peak tourist months of July and August. One of the best times to visit is late afternoon when the sun sinks lower in the sky, creating a soft, golden light that’s ideal for photographs.

The History of the Friary

Most likely founded during the 15th century, Ross Errilly Friary was home to a community of Franciscan friars. The friars would have lived a tenuous existence at Ross Errilly, under near-constant threat of eviction, persecution, and attack, usually by English authorities. The turbulent politics of the period would have forced the friars to flee and return to the site several times, before their final departure in the mid-18th century.

Co. Galway, Ireland

From $ 35