Galway County

County Galway is one of the traditional Counties of Ireland.

It is located in the province of Connacht. It was named after the city of Galway. There are several strongly Irish-speaking areas in the west of the county.

The county is known for its vibrant lifestyle and numerous festivals, celebrations and events including the summer’s Galway Arts Festival which is known for its famous Macnas, arts group’s, parade.

There are many symbols associated with Galway. These include the Claddagh Ring, Galway’s own symbol of love and friendship that is worn the world over, the Aran Sweater, an emblem, not only of the Aran Islands, but of Ireland itself and the Galway Hookers, ships that distinguish themselves as Galway’s signature upon the water.

In 2007, Galway was named one of the top eight “sexiest cities” in the world and in 2008 it was ranked the 42nd best tourist destination in the world and 14th in Europe.

There are 6,870 Irish speakers in Galway city, which is nearly ten percent of the population. Galway is often referred to as the “Cultural Heart of Ireland” as it is most associated with the Irish language, music, song and dance traditions. Galway City is on the doorstep of Galway’s Gaeltacht (an area where Irish is spoken).

The Aran Islands, probably Ireland’s most famous islands, are located just off the coast of Galway. The three islands, Inishmore, Inishmaan and Inisheer are the perfect place to visit to see Ireland at its best. They are also Gaeltacht areas.

Infrastructure, services and amenities around Galway.

Galway has a spectacular rugged coastline dotted with islands and villages, a vast wilderness of bog, mountains and rivers, blankets of green fields with hidden historical treasures and a lively city which oozes with atmosphere, culture, heritage and friendly people.
There is a long list of primary, secondary and educate together schools. It is also home to Galway Mayo IT and the historic NUI Galway.
Galway is well connected by road via the M6 to Dublin, the M17 to Sligo or the M18 to Limerick. To get in and around Galway we have 12 public bus services as well as private bus services to get to Dublin. Galway is also connected by rail to Dublin, Limerick & Athlone.

Galway is home to various GAA, rugby & soccer clubs. Galway GAA, Connacht Rugby & Galway United all play here. We also have Galway Lawn Tennis Club, The Galway Rowing Club and Commercial Boat Club.
It is a foodie’s paradise. Diverse and innovative, Galway’s culinary scene grows more exciting by the year. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hole-in-the-wall falafel joints, there’s something in the county to suit every taste & budget.
Other notable attractions around Galway include: The Burren, The Aran Islands, The Cliffs of Moher, Killary Harbor, Kylemore Abbey etc.

See what’s happening around Galway.

South Galway Music Festival

22 – 24 Jul, 2022

Join us for the South Galway Bay Music Festival which takes place over three nights between July 22nd and July 24th. With a vast array of musical talent to look…

Féile Cloch na Rón Regatta (Roundstone)

23 – 24 Jul, 2022

Regatta in Roundstone with unique Irish boats on display, such as currachs and Galway Hookers including the Bád Mór, Gleoiteog, Leathbhád and Púcán classes of boat traditionally used throughout Galway…

Galway Races 2022

25 – 31 Jul, 2022

Ireland’s biggest and most famous racing festival is held in Galway during the last week of July every year and involves seven days of unrivalled action. The 2022 festival will…

Dunmore Annual Festival

29 Jul – 7 Aug, 2022

Each year, the Dunmore Annual Festival is held in the town of Dunmore in North East County Galway during the first week of August. Dunmore Annual Festival has been putting…