If you're planning to visit Galway, then knowing the best pubs in the city is a good idea. Join me on a pub crawl around the best drinking spots in this wonderful city.
When you dream of Ireland, you probably imagine yourself enjoying a drink or two in an Irish pub! Ireland is known for its pubs and lively pub culture. Pubs in Ireland are very different from typical bars in North America.
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Irish Pub Culture
Pubs in Ireland boast a unique culture. A fascinating pub etiquette exists that is good to be aware of.
The Irish pub is an essential place to soak up the culture and atmosphere for anyone visiting the country. But what are the best pubs to visit in Galway, Ireland?
Irish pubs are usually named after their original owners. Sometimes their surroundings or the street they are located on lend naming inspiration.
In the 19th century, Irish pubs transformed, and many began to include both grocery and hardware sections. This practice came to be to make up for declining spirit sales. Business diversification drove the need for Spirit Groceries.
Best Galway Pubs
Today I'm sharing some of the best pubs you should stop by during your stay in Galway. If you find yourself rambling around the historic streets of Galway, grabbing some craft beers at a popular pub is a must. Whether you prefer a cozy pub or lively bar, there's something on this list for you.
Garavan's Bar
After a long day of rambling, sightseeing, and shopping in Galway city center, Garavan's is the perfect cozy bar to stop for a drink.
Grab a pint of whiskey or something on their menu. The atmosphere is relaxing, making it the ideal getaway from the busy streets outside.
An Púcán
If you're looking for a happening place, this pub is the perfect spot. Immerse yourself in Irish culture and traditional Irish music.
An Púcán (pronounced on pook-awn) is the Irish word for an open boat with a mainsail and jib. It is one type of Galway Hooker, the famous boats with red sails found in Galway.
You'll find a range of whiskey, craft beers, and wines. You'll hear Irish folk music at this popular pub any night of the week.
The Front Door
If you're looking for a lively local pub in the city center, The Front Door is the perfect spot.
You'll be able to sample a range of whiskey flavors. If you're a fan of a bustling, friendly atmosphere, this is definitely the pub for you!
Sonny Molloy's Whiskey Bar known as the Front Door is located in an old medieval building that dates back to the 1600's.
O'Connell's Bar
Looking for a beer garden? O'Connell's bar has you covered. Located in Eyre Square, this is one of the best beer gardens in the city.
Its structure resembles old-style cobbled streets, shops, and pubs. If you're in Galway during the summer months, this beer garden is a lovely experience. Grab a beer, walk around and enjoy some people walking.
The Quays
This pub tends to be the most popular among tourists since it's the perfect place to sample everything that is Irish culture. I can't blame them, and I'd recommend anyone new to the city to give The Quays a go!
They have a lovely outdoor space where you can enjoy a drink and some socializing! With a great atmosphere and even better drinks, you can't go wrong with Quays.
The Kings Head
In the Latin Quarter? Kings Head is a great pub to stop by. It's surrounded by some of the best restaurants in Galway. You'll likely enjoy a packed house and some live music.
The King's Head is said to be one of the oldest pubs in the city. Weekends tend to be very busy times, but you might be able to find some seating upstairs.
Taaffe's Bar
Speaking of old pubs, Taaffe's Bar is over 150 years old, and the building alone is over 400 years old!
This spot tends to become pretty crowded, but if crowds are something you enjoy and something you're looking for during your pub experience Taafes is a good option.
You can always stop by to check out how busy they are and make your way to another pub on our list if it's too crowded for your taste.
Crane Bar
For anyone searching for one of the best bars for traditional Irish music, check out the Crane! You can enjoy a glass of Guinness and one of their live music sessions.
Experiencing Irish culture is not complete without fully immersing yourself in Irish pub culture, meaning whiskey, Guinness, and traditional Irish music. Cranes bar is a popular spot to do just that.
A Pub To Suit Everyone in Galway
In the heart of Galway, there are a variety of great pubs serving up the best pint of Guinness, good music, and live events. No matter what you like, there's a pub with an atmosphere you'll love. Even if you're not a fan of drinking, checking out some of Galway's pubs is a must when it comes to Irish culture.
If you want more travel tips, Ireland itineraries, or just want to learn more about Irish culture and cuisine, join my Facebook group! I share all things Irish cuisine, culture, and travel. Plus, you'll find all the latest and greatest posts that I publish on my blog!
Slán agus beannacht,
(Goodbye and blessings)
Mairéad -Irish American Mom
Pronunciation - slawn ah-gus ban-ock-th
Mairéad - rhymes with parade
FHPerkins
Hello, I am just back from a wonderful two weeks going all around the coast of County Cork. I had not been since I was a little boy and now I am 69. I am a seasoned traveller and I travelled alone. I was overwhelmed by the beauty of the land and coast as well as the people. I never had anything but delicious food always thoughtfully served no matter how modest the venue.
My only advice for those who want to travel independently, is to seriously consider renting a car. The public transportation in County Cork is challenging, taxis are few and far between and walking along the side of the road is almost impossible as the country roads have no shoulders along the side. I was frequently jumping into the brambles in order to dodge a speedy driver.
Irish American Mom
Hi there - Lovely to hear you had an amazing time in Ireland. The Wild Atlantic Way in County Cork is simply breathtaing. So glad you took the time to truly enjoy this spectacular scenery, and to savor the wonderful food found all over Ireland.
Thanks for your tip about renting a car. The country roads in Ireland are very narrow and not safe for pedestrians. It amazes me to see a speed sign for 80 km per hour on the narrowest, windiest little boreens in rural Ireland.
Thanks so much for stopping by.
All the best,
Mairéad