Galway With Kids

Galway, Ireland’s vibrant city, offers a magical experience for families. This historic city offers a wealth of activities that make it a fantastic destination for your Ireland family vacation. Explore its medieval charm, exciting activities, and stunning scenery with this comprehensive guide to Galway with kids.

Why Visit Galway With Kids?

• A Cultural Melting Pot: Immerse yourselves in Ireland’s rich heritage with lively trad music, captivating storytelling, and ancient castles.
• Adventure Awaits: From exploring the wild Atlantic Coast to learning to surf, Galway offers endless opportunities for exploration and outdoor fun.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Welcoming locals, charming streets, and a relaxed pace make Galway ideal for creating lasting family memories.
• Delicious Food Scene: From fresh seafood to local cheeses and hearty stews, Galway caters to all taste buds, including kids.
• Compact and Walkable: Explore Galway’s main attractions and hidden gems on foot, creating a fun and interactive experience for young explorers.

Things to Do in Galway With Kids

• Embrace the Sea: Take a boat tour to the majestic Cliffs of Moher, explore the Galway Bay with a dolphin-watching cruise, or build sandcastles on Salthill Beach.
• Step Back in Time: Discover the fascinating history of Galway City Museum, explore the medieval Lynch’s Castle, or be captivated by the interactive exhibits at the National Aquarium of Ireland.
• Get Creative: Let imaginations run wild at the Galway Arts Centre, take a pottery painting class, or participate in a family-friendly workshop at the Clifden Workshops.
• Enjoy the Outdoors: Cycle along the stunning Wild Atlantic Way, explore the scenic walks in Barna Woods, or have a picnic in Eyre Square, the lively heart of Galway.
• Catch a Show: Sing along to traditional Irish music in a lively pub, watch a family-friendly play at the Town Hall Theatre, or experience the magic of a traditional Irish dance performance.

Best Places to Visit in Galway With Kids

• Galway City Museum: Explore the fascinating history of Galway through interactive exhibits, engaging activities, and a fascinating collection of artifacts.
• Spanish Arch: Take a walk along the iconic Spanish Arch, learn about its historical significance, and enjoy stunning views of Galway Bay.
• Salthill Promenade: Enjoy a family day out on the bustling Salthill Promenade, with its amusement arcades, ice cream shops, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
• National Aquarium of Ireland: Dive into the underwater world at the National Aquarium, home to over 1,200 fascinating marine creatures, interactive exhibits, and educational talks.
• Dunguaire Castle: Embark on a journey back in time at Dunguaire Castle, a well-preserved 16th-century tower house offering guided tours, traditional music evenings, and stunning coastal views.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Galway

• Salthill: Ideal for beach lovers and families, offering beachfront hotels, proximity to the Salthill Promenade, and easy access to the city center.
• City Center: Immerse yourselves in the heart of the action, close to attractions like the Galway City Museum and Eyre Square, with a variety of family-friendly hotels and restaurants.
• West End: Experience the bohemian atmosphere of the West End, with its colorful houses, quirky shops, and family-run guesthouses, offering a unique local experience.

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Galway

• The Salthill Hotel: This beachfront hotel boasts spacious family rooms, a swimming pool, and a dedicated kids’ club, making it ideal for a relaxing family vacation.
• The Eyre Square Hotel: Located in the heart of the city, this hotel offers family rooms, a children’s play area, and a convenient location near major attractions.
• The Menlo Park Hotel: This family-run hotel provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with spacious rooms, an indoor swimming pool, and a dedicated games room for kids.
• The Park House Hotel: Located in a tranquil setting close to the city center, this hotel offers family rooms, a playground, and a relaxed environment.
• Ard Bia Inn: Enjoy a traditional Irish experience at this charming B&B, offering family-friendly rooms, delicious breakfasts, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit Galway

• May-September: Experience pleasant weather, long daylight hours, and the vibrant Galway International Arts Festival in July.
• April-June & October: Enjoy milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights during the winter months.
• December: Immerse yourselves in the festive atmosphere of Christmas markets, traditional events, and unique Irish Christmas traditions.

How Long to Stay in Galway

The length of your stay will depend on your interests and itinerary, but here are some recommendations:

• Weekend Getaway: Spend a weekend exploring the city and its attractions.
• Weeklong Vacation: A week allows for a more leisurely exploration of the city and surrounding areas.
• Longer Stay: If you have the time, consider a longer stay to fully immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of Galway.

Galway Family Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the City Center

• Morning: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local cafe, like McCambridge’s or The Dough Roller.
• Mid-morning: Explore the interactive exhibits and fascinating history at the Galway City Museum.
• Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch in Eyre Square, surrounded by street performers and lively atmosphere.
• Afternoon: Take a walk along the iconic Spanish Arch, learn about its history, and capture stunning photos with Galway Bay as your backdrop.
• Evening: Immerse yourselves in the vibrant culture of Galway by catching a traditional Irish music performance at a lively pub like O’Donoghue’s or The Quays.

Day 2: Salthill & Beyond

• Morning: Head to Salthill Promenade for a fun-filled day at the beach. Build sandcastles, enjoy a refreshing swim in the Atlantic Ocean (weather permitting!), or explore the amusement arcades.
• Lunch: Grab delicious fish and chips at McDonagh’s, a local favorite, or enjoy fresh seafood at one of Salthill’s many restaurants.
• Afternoon: Take a boat trip from Salthill to the majestic Cliffs of Moher, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at the breathtaking scenery.
• Evening: Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at The King’s Head, a pub known for its delicious food and traditional atmosphere.

Day 3: Exploring the Environs

• Morning: Rent bikes and cycle along a section of the Wild Atlantic Way, enjoying the stunning coastal scenery and fresh air.
• Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch and head to Barna Woods for a scenic walk or explore the nearby village of Barna, known for its craft shops and galleries.
• Afternoon: Visit the National Aquarium of Ireland, where you can discover the fascinating underwater world and learn about the diverse marine life of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at The Ard Bia at Nimmo’s, a renowned restaurant showcasing the best of local Irish cuisine.

Getting Around Galway

• Walking: Galway City is compact and easily walkable, making it a great way to explore the city and its hidden gems at your own pace.
• Cycling: Rent bicycles and explore the city’s designated cycling lanes and scenic routes along the Wild Atlantic Way.
• Public Buses: Galway has a reliable public bus system, making it easy to access various locations within the city and surrounding areas.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available and can be a convenient option for traveling with young children or luggage.

Remember: This itinerary is a suggestion, and you can customize it to fit your family’s interests and preferences. With its vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and endless entertainment options, Galway is sure to provide your family with an unforgettable and magical Irish adventure!