Regardless of your reasons to visit Galway – perhaps you’re planning a romantic retreat with your other half, or you’re organizing a stag do that will be memorable for all the right reasons – the county of Galway has something for everyone. The city of Galway itself is jam-packed with culture, nightlife and food, and drink establishments while it also acts as a gateway to the natural beauty of its surroundings.
Whatever reasons bring you to the city, base yourself at a centrally located hotel, which will place you in a perfect position to enjoy what the city and its surroundings have to offer.
Make the most of what is on offer that is free to do. While some attractions and activities may mean dipping into your purse, you should make the most of those that don’t and with such breathtaking scenery, there’s a lot to be done that doesn’t cost a penny. Venture into the nearby Connemara National Park or wander along the Salthill beach before walking the Long Walk – a promenade that takes you to one side of the Spanish Arch.
Take some time out of your day to listen to the myriad of buskers that you’ll find on Shop Street – you’ll be amazed at the talent of some of the musicians and street artists who are well worth stopping to admire.
The castles in the county are well worth adding to your itinerary too – Dunguaire, Dunsandle, and Bunowen are all local enough to access without much ado. Dunguaire Castle has been carefully restored over the years to provide an excellent reflection of what it was like when it was constructed in the 16th century.
Fancy a little retail therapy? There are boutiques galore in the center of Galway, while quaint woodwork, handicrafts, and jewelry shops are also in abundance – a perfect chance to pick up a couple of gifts for friends and family back home.
September is the month of the Oyster Festival – a perfect homage to the native Galway oyster that would be ideal for lovers of this foodie delicacy. With outstanding golf courses, incredible natural beauty, wonderful cuisine, and charismatic locals, there’s a lot to love about Galway and with a stay at Travelodge’s Galway hotel, you can enjoy it all this summer.
Photo credit: [carlo cravero] tom-herbert