On my first trip to Ireland, I only had a very short time to visit the Emerald Isle. However, I still wanted to make the best of the time that I had. For my two day visit in the country, I chose to visit the west coast and overnight in Galway for my first day and then back to Dublin for my second day before I flew out on the morning of the third day. 

It was a little crazy, to be honest. But I'm a firm believer in making the best of whatever time you have in a destination. So, if you happen to find yourself in a similar scenario, with very limited time in Galway, Ireland, these are my top tips to make the most of your west coast Ireland experience.   

Stay in a Centrally Located Spot

This is a crucial tip if you have limited time. I chose the Galway City Hostel and was so glad I did. First, it's super close to the bus station, like less than a five minute walk.

This was ideal considering that (big surprise) it was raining in Galway the day I arrived. It's also super close to everything else in town. It's kitty corner from Eyre Square and about another five minute walk (in the opposite direction of the bus station) to the center of the action on Quay Street. I also really loved the views from the second story windows of Galway City Hostel, the free tea (lovely on a cold April afternoon), and the complimentary breakfast in the morning. 

Checkout the Local Churches

While you're at the Galway Market, be sure to check out the medieval 14th Century St. Nicholas Church since it's literally right by the market. The architecture of this church is unique for Ireland--there's actually gargoyles which are a rarity in this Celtic country. And to make things even cooler with this church, according to local lore, Christopher Columbus is believed to have worshipped here in the 1400s before he sailed off on the ocean blue.

The Galway Cathedral is likely the most popular church to visit while in Galway. Its accessed by crossing over the River Corrib by traversing the Salmon Weir Bridge. The interior of the Cathedral is spectacular with brilliant pink/purple stained glass windows that sparkle when golden sunlight illuminates them. This church has some fun facts associated with it. According to Discover Ireland website, the Galway Cathedral was "the last major stone cathedral to be built in Europe." It is a modern structure having been dedicated in 1965. 

Snap Photos at The Long Walk 

I'll be honest, I didn't have much time to do my research about what to see and do in Galway before I left on my trip, so I kind of just winged it. My friend had a photo from Instagram of a famous spot in the city and she wanted to find its location. I borrowed her phone and popped into one of the sweater shops and just asked, "Where can we find this place?" The kind shop attendant gave easy directions to the place in the photo called The Long Walk. "It borders the Galway Bay and is an easy 10 minute walk to get there from here," she told us.

Before we knew it, we were standing on the other side of the bay snapping photos of these delightful candy-colored fishing houses. It was bitter cold out by the water (and was still drizzling on occasion), but feast for our eyes was worth it.

To find this location yourself, just plunk in "The Long Walk" into Google and request directions from your current location. 

Tickle Your Tastebuds at the Galway Market

The Galway Market, located on Church Lane by the St. Nicholas Church, is open every Saturday and Sunday. So, if you're in Galway over a weekend then you should definitely include this market on your itinerary! I unfortunately was not there on the weekend, so I have not been able to visit (yet!) and will definitely be including it on my list for my next trip to Galway. According to the official website, there's generally a variety of food options at this outdoor street market including traditional Irish cuisine and more ethnic options. During the Christmas Season, this area is the home to a festive Christmas market that is open daily. 

Hit a Local Pub for a Live Music Session

I'll be honest, after visiting Edinburgh and attending a live music session in a pub, I'm now an enormous fan of this type of entertainment. It literally makes me have the hugest smile just sitting there in the pub with those delightful tunes playing in the background.

So, while in Galway, I absolutely wanted to go to a music session. In fact, it was one of my top priorities and something I did not want to miss for any reason. My new friend from the hostel wanted to stay back and call it a night, but I was undeterred. I bundled up in layers and headed out solo to a pub recommended by the hostel front desk. From my hostel to the Crane Bar was about a 10-15 minute walk.

I had a fantastic time! The music that night was played on the second floor of the pub and went on for hours. I was a little late so only caught the last half of their session, but it was still wonderful. If you're in Galway overnight, I highly recommend the Crane Bar! The atmosphere is exactly what you'd picture for a traditional Irish music pub in the center of a lively college town like Galway. 

Checkout the Action on Quay Street

You simply cannot come to Galway without going to the main drag of Quay Street. This is where all the action is pretty much any time of the day or night. You'll find all kinds of shops here ranging from Aran sweater shops (are they actually made in Ireland, I don't know) and kilt shops to pubs, coffee shops, and restaurants. I toured the city with a friend I met at the hostel and we enjoyed a delicious fish and chips dinner on Quay Street at McDonaghs, which if you're looking for quintessential Galway, then you can't miss this spot. After all, they've been serving up happy customers in the city since 1902. The fish and chips were fabulous as was the pea soup. 

Venture off to the Local Nature Spots of the Wild Atlantic Way 

I would have LOVED to have gone to the Cliffs of Moher while I was in Galway, but the weather conditions precluded me from making that a reality. However, I'm totally okay with that, because I know I'll be back another time for sure because there's still so much left of Ireland that I want to see. If the weather gods are kind to you, though, I'd highly recommend visiting any of the following nearby nature spots: 

• The Cliffs of Moher
• The Aran Islands 
• The Dingle Penninsula 
• Connemara National Park

All of these will require their own day each, though, so don't think you can pack all of that into just one day in Galway. I'm crazy and like to pack in as much as possible in one day, but even I know that all of that is not possible!

FAQ: Making the Most of One Day in Galway, Ireland

Q1: How can I maximize a short visit to Galway, Ireland? If you have just one day in Galway, focus on central locations and key attractions to make the most of your time.

Q2: Where should I stay in Galway for a short visit? Choose a centrally located spot like Galway City Hostel for easy access to transportation and attractions. This will help you make the most of your limited time.

Q3: What are some notable churches to visit in Galway? Explore St. Nicholas Church, a medieval 14th-century church with unique architecture and historical significance. Don't miss Galway Cathedral, a modern marvel with stunning stained glass windows.

Q4: How do I find and visit The Long Walk in Galway? The Long Walk is a famous spot along the Galway Bay. Search "The Long Walk" on Google Maps for directions from your location. It's a picturesque location with colorful fishing houses.

Q5: What should I expect at the Galway Market? The Galway Market, open on weekends, offers a variety of food options and more. It's a great place to explore traditional Irish cuisine and enjoy a vibrant market atmosphere.

Q6: Where can I experience live music in Galway? Visit local pubs like the Crane Bar for live music sessions. This traditional Irish entertainment adds to the authentic Galway experience.

Q7: What can I find on Quay Street in Galway? Quay Street is the bustling main street with shops, pubs, coffee shops, and restaurants. Don't miss McDonaghs for a taste of quintessential Galway with fish and chips.

Q8: Are there nature spots to explore near Galway? If weather permits, explore nearby nature spots along the Wild Atlantic Way, such as the Cliffs of Moher, Aran Islands, Dingle Peninsula, and Connemara National Park. Keep in mind that these may require separate days for a thorough visit.

For a memorable day in Galway, follow these tips and enjoy your short time on the west coast of Ireland!