Galway Harbour

Galway Harbour featuring boating, a bay or harbour and sailing
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Cruise around the scenic sights of Galway Bay, see the historic Spanish Arch, spot charmingly colorful houses and dine in restaurants with water views.

The city has grown around the important hub of Galway Harbour over the past millennium. Home to the famous red-sailed Galway hookers that searched the seas for fish for centuries, the port has picturesque views and serene neighboring parks. It is also the starting point for trips to the stunning Aran Islands, which have fascinating ruins. Bring your family to this marina to appreciate the bustling port’s atmosphere and feel the history.

Admire the rows of colorful houses decorating the port, generating a quaint charm. Walk through the harbor for views of Galway Bay and rows of yachts. Capture pretty photos of the boats at sunset with the water reflecting changing hues of the sky. Stay at one of the hotels in the area and dine at a restaurant overlooking the water.

Go on a boat trip with a tour operator in the port. These usually include views and information about the docks, the city center, Mutton Island, Kilgolan and the beach area of Salthill. Choose between short trips and more comprehensive day voyages.

Embark on a trip from the harbor to the Aran Islands, where Irish Gaelic is spoken as a first language. Visit the island’s World Heritage Site of Dun Aonghasa, which consists of a 1500 B.C. prehistoric stone fort overlooking scenic rugged cliffs.

Visit the Galway City Museum to learn the story of Galway through relics dating back to prehistoric times. See a Galway hooker sailboat that was constructed specifically for the museum. The Spanish Arch, part of the historic city walls, is adjacent to the museum.

The harbor’s settlement dates back to the early 1100s, when a castle was built here. In the 13th century, the port was established as an important trading point. Learn about the famous Galway hooker, a type of sailing vessel from the region.

Galway Harbour is about 1 mile (1.5 kilometers) east of the city center at the point where the River Corrib meets the sea. Ride one of the many buses to this part of the town, in the sheltered eastern part of Galway Bay.

Top Trending Hotels Near Galway Harbour

The Snug Townhouse
The Snug Townhouse
3 out of 5
10 Quay Street, Galway, Galway, H91 FXY4
The price is €110 per night from 30 Mar to 31 Mar
€110
per night
30 Mar - 31 Mar
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Galway. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk and daily housekeeping. Popular attractions Quay Street and Hall of the Red Earl are ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (116 reviews)
"Great location, walkable from train station, near shops and restaurants."

Reviewed on 25 Mar 2023

The Snug Townhouse
Jurys Inn Galway
Jurys Inn Galway
4 out of 5
Quay Street, Galway, Galway
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is €145 per night from 2 Apr to 3 Apr
€145
per night
2 Apr - 3 Apr
Stay at this 4-star eco-friendly hotel in Galway. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the comfy rooms ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,005 reviews)
"Great location. Under construction at the time we were there but construction only happening between 10am-6pm."

Reviewed on 26 Mar 2023

Jurys Inn Galway
Eyre Square Hotel
Eyre Square Hotel
3 out of 5
Forster Street, Eyre Square, Galway, HP1 TCP0
The price is €120 per night from 23 Apr to 24 Apr
€120
per night
23 Apr - 24 Apr
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Galway. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,004 reviews)
"We stayed two nights in this hotel, would definitely recommend it. The hotel was clean, convenient to transport hubs, shops, bars and restaurants. The staff were extremely helpful, will definitely stay here next time I am in Galway."

Reviewed on 24 Mar 2023

Eyre Square Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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