Planning your trip to come to Galway Film Fleadh & Fair? We’ve got you covered with a range of our hand-picked favourite accommodation scattered across the city. There’s something here for everyone.

And when it’s time to grab a bite or a drink, Galway’s got plenty of spots to satisfy your cravings. From classic Irish pubs serving up hearty meals to trendy eateries dishing out international flavors, you won’t go hungry here.

So kick back, relax, and start planning your Galway getaway. With our handpicked accommodations and dining recommendations, you’ll be all set for a memorable trip to the West of Ireland!

Check out Where to Stay and Where to Eat on our side panel

First time visiting Galway?

When exploring the west of Ireland, especially around Galway, you’ll find a region rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. Start with a visit to the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, one of the most iconic landscapes in Ireland. Then, head to the Burren for its unique karst landscape, offering scenic hikes and the chance to see rare flora.

In Galway itself, stroll through the Latin Quarter, where you can experience the vibrant arts scene, local crafts, and traditional Irish music. Don’t miss the Galway Cathedral and the historic St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church. For a taste of the region’s natural beauty, venture out to Connemara, known for its rugged terrain, stunning beaches, and the breathtaking Kylemore Abbey.

A visit to Galway wouldn’t be complete without stopping by Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop. Located in the heart of the city, this much-loved independent bookshop is home to over 100,000 new, bargain and second-hand books, with shelves devoted to everything from Irish history and local interest to contemporary fiction and rare finds. More than just a bookshop, it is a cultural hub that regularly hosts author events, book launches and literary gatherings, making it a favourite destination for visitors and locals alike.

Located on Galway’s famous Salthill Promenade, Galway Atlantaquaria is Ireland’s largest native species aquarium. Home to a wide range of marine and freshwater life from Ireland’s waters, it offers visitors the chance to get up close to sharks, rays, jellyfish and many other fascinating species. With interactive exhibits and educational displays, it’s a great attraction for families and anyone interested in Ireland’s rich marine environment.

See Galway from a different perspective aboard the Corrib Princess, a scenic cruise that departs from Woodquay in the heart of the city. The 90-minute journey takes passengers along the River Corrib and onto Lough Corrib, offering stunning views of Galway Cathedral, Menlo Castle, the university campus and the surrounding countryside. With live onboard commentary, comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, and refreshments available, it’s a relaxing way to experience the history, wildlife and beauty of one of Ireland’s most celebrated waterways.

Located in the heart of Salthill, just a stone’s throw from Galway’s spectacular seaside promenade, Leisureland is a popular family destination offering a swimming pool, waterslides and a range of recreational facilities. During the summer months, the adjoining Salthill Funfair brings even more excitement to the area, with thrilling rides, classic amusements and attractions for all ages. Together, they make for a fun-filled day out beside the beautiful shores of Galway Bay.

Located on the banks of the River Corrib, Galway City Museum offers a fascinating insight into the history, culture and heritage of Galway and the west of Ireland. Its engaging exhibitions explore everything from medieval Galway and maritime history to archaeology and contemporary life in the city. Best of all for Film Fleadh visitors, the museum is situated directly across the road from our main festival venue, Pálás Cinema, making it the perfect place to spend an hour or two between screenings.

Discover Galway’s rich history, colourful characters and hidden gems on one of the guided walking tours offered by Galway Tourism. Departing from the historic Spanish Arch, these engaging tours take visitors through the winding streets of the medieval city, exploring landmarks such as the Latin Quarter, Lynch’s Castle, St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church and Eyre Square. Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tours provide a fascinating introduction to Galway’s heritage, culture and storytelling traditions.

What else can I do while I’m in the Galway/West of Ireland region?

Start with the Wild Atlantic Way. A stunning 2,500km road trip along Ireland’s West Coast that stretches from Donegal to West Cork. The Galway Film Fleadh is proud to highlight this experience to all of our European and International Visitors to experience this once in a lifetime opportunity. Fleadh film goers have embraced the many attractions the Wild Atlantic Way has to offer in County Galway from the picturesque fishing port of Kinvara to the wild magic of Connemara.

Lally Tours is an award-winning, second-generation family-run tour company based in Galway that has been showcasing the best of the West of Ireland for decades. Specialising in guided day tours, city tours and private excursions, Lally Tours offers visitors the opportunity to explore some of Ireland’s most iconic destinations, including Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, the Aran Islands and Galway City itself. With knowledgeable local guides and a passion for sharing the region’s history, culture and natural beauty, Lally Tours provides memorable experiences that help visitors discover the authentic spirit of the west coast of Ireland.

Visit the Location of Banshees of Inisherin

The stunning landscapes of Inis Mór (Inishmore) are showcased in The Banshees of Inisherin, the big winner at the Golden Globes in Beverly Hills last night, winning Best Picture – Musical or Comedy, Best Actor for Colin Farrell and Best Screenplay for writer-director Martin McDonagh.

Filming for The Banshees of Inisherin took place on Achill Island and Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands.

Visit the Island whilst in Galway,

Aran Island Ferries is Ireland’s longest and largest ferry company sailing year-round to all three of the Aran Islands: Inis Mór (Inishmore), Inis Meáin (Inishmaan), and Inis Oírr (Inisheer).

For more information on our sailings, please refer their booking page.

https://www.aranislands.ie/uncategorized/the-banshees-of-inisherin-filming-locations-on-inishmore

Food & Music

In addition to the striking views along the Wild Atlantic Way, there are many gastronomic delights that await you along the trail. Food lovers can discover an abundance of artisan restaurants and sustainable food producers that reflect the Western coastline and it’s lush landscape. Alongside sumptuous food, the Wild Atlantic Way is home to a wealth of music, from traditional music sessions to Galway’s vibrant contemporary music scene, there is literally something for everyone.

Taking in the colour, history and atmosphere of Galway city and following the road along the magnetic coastline the Wild Atlantic Way is a must-see attraction. For visitors to the Galway Film Fleadh, this extraordinary journey brings you to the very heart of the West of Ireland in all it’s natural beauty.

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