Galway

On the western coast of Ireland, in County Galway, you'll find the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way, and the enchanting Aran Islands. The majority of tourists base themselves in the vibrant university town of Galway City. Many of the top Irish excursions depart from this location and take tourists to these breathtaking natural beauties. The city has a fantastic evening scene with pubs, theaters, and, of course, music because it has such a youthful spirit. Fantastic festivals, such as the Galway International Arts Festival and the Galway International Oyster Festival, take place during the summer.

Galway was selected as one of only five UNESCO Cities of Film in 2014, and it will serve as the European Capital of Culture in 2020. It is also the location of the more than 400-year-old creation of the well-known Irish Claddagh ring, which consists of two hands clasped around a heart with a crown above it (symbolizing love, friendship, and loyalty). Galway is also an excellent place to hear the language because it is the only bilingual city in Ireland, with 20 percent of the population speaking Irish or Gaelic.

Visit Galway between July and October for the greatest weather. The city's outdoor attractions can be visited in beautiful weather, and there are plenty of events scheduled. Plan to bring clothes if you want to visit the area's coastline attractions, such the Cliffs of Moher, where there is little to protect you from the wind. Expect pleasant maximum temperatures in the mid-sixties. Visitors will find fantastic deals on accommodations throughout the "midseason" for tourists, which includes spring and fall. Winters can be frigid, with lows in the mid-thirties. Galway is fortunate to have a wealth of fresh foods thanks to its waterfront setting and proximity to nearby farms. It boasts a good number of outstanding pubs, like other Irish cities, but there are also many restaurants to satisfy any appetite.

Location: the western coast of Ireland.
Ranking:

• #2 in Best Places to Visit in Ireland
• #9 in Best Cheap European Vacations