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Irish Daily Mirror
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Mirror
The charming Irish city tourists say is 'better than Dublin' but gets overlooked
A pretty little city in Ireland that offers a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary energy has been hailed as "better" than Dublin. Galway often referred to as the "City of Tribes," is a vibrant and culturally rich city located on the west coast of Ireland. This city is known for its artistic spirit, lively atmosphere, and proximity to some of Ireland's most stunning natural landscapes. Travel blogger The Tales of Tiny Boots wrote about Galway: "When I think of Dublin city, I think of people rushing around, walking as fast as they can through the streets, glued to their phones and getting to their next destination. "The atmosphere is cold. Now to jump to Galway. How do you even compare it? As well as cultural capital, the city is bathed in bohemian vibes that every visitor falls in love with. It feels like Galway is one long 24/7 festival. There is music always drifting through the streets, there are crowds of people milling around and if there is sun, you will find every patch of grass occupied by groups of people drinking, laughing and having the craic. "Life is a lot slower in Galway. People walk slower, they are not rushing and focused on where they need to get, they just enjoy walking around the city. The relaxed vibes emanate from the cobbled streets of the Latin quarter. It is such a happy atmosphere in the streets coupled with amazing performers enticing walkers by to stop and enjoy the entertainment." Galway is a cultural powerhouse, renowned for its thriving arts scene, Express reports. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Galway International Arts Festival, Galway Film Fleadh and the Galway Races. Traditional Irish music is a constant presence in Galway's many pubs, where you can enjoy live performances in an authentic setting. The main street in Galway (Image: Douglas Sacha) The city was designated the European Capital of Culture in 2020, highlighting its status as a centre for creativity and cultural expression. The city centre is characterised by its narrow, winding streets that date back to medieval times. Eyre Square, the Spanish Arch and the Claddagh area are just a few of the historic sites that give the city its distinct character. Another interesting reason for the tourists to be in the city is its food scene. The food culture is diverse and thriving, with a strong emphasis on local produce and seafood. The city is home to several award-winning restaurants, as well as a variety of cafes and food markets. Galway's nightlife is legendary, with a wide range of pubs offering everything from traditional Irish music sessions to modern live bands. The Latin Quarter, in particular, is a popular area for both locals and tourists to enjoy a night out. Sunset view over The Claddagh in Galway city (Image: (Image: Getty)) One traveller wrote on TripAdvisor forum: "Galway Bay is the site of a historic city in the West of Ireland. These days, the cobbled narrow backstreets are homes for artisans. Among the artisans are those who knit the ganseys. 'Ganseys' are derived from 'Guernsey,' which are worn by fishermen. "The ganseys are uniquely knit to a family pattern, which helps identify those fishermen who work at sea. The Claddagh is a historic fishing village that is known for its location and beauty. Galway is a wonderful place to wander around in search of artisan products." A second user said: "Sat here while visiting with my daughter in Galway and ate our donuts and bagels from the market that day. The market is a must-do as the food is incredible as well as the arts and crafts you can see and buy." Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here
Daily Mirror
05-08-2025
- Daily Mirror
Pretty Irish city that is 'better than Dublin' but has hardly any tourists
Galway, located on the west coast of Ireland, is a vibrant and culturally rich city that offers a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary energy. But is it better than Dublin? A charming Irish city boasting a distinctive mix of historic appeal and modern vitality has been praised as "better" to Dublin. Galway, commonly known as the "City of Tribes," is a dynamic and culturally abundant city situated on Ireland's western coastline. The destination is renowned for its creative soul, energetic ambience and closeness to some of Ireland's most breathtaking natural scenery. Travel blogger The Tales of Tiny Boots penned about Galway: "When I think of Dublin city, I think of people rushing around, walking as fast as they can through the streets, glued to their phones and getting to their next destination. "The atmosphere is cold. Now to jump to Galway. How do you even compare it? As well as cultural capital, the city is bathed in bohemian vibes that every visitor falls in love with." In other news, an abandoned UK Butlin's site is now seaside town's 'hell hole' hotel. They added: "It feels like Galway is one long 24/7 festival. There is music always drifting through the streets, there are crowds of people milling around and if there is sun, you will find every patch of grass occupied by groups of people drinking, laughing and having the craic. "Life is a lot slower in Galway. People walk slower, they are not rushing and focused on where they need to get, they just enjoy walking around the city. The relaxed vibes emanate from the cobbled streets of the Latin quarter. It is such a happy atmosphere in the streets coupled with amazing performers enticing walkers by to stop and enjoy the entertainment." Galway, a city renowned for its vibrant arts scene, is a cultural powerhouse. The city plays host to a plethora of festivals throughout the year, including the Galway International Arts Festival, Galway Film Fleadh, and the Galway Races, reports the Express. Traditional Irish music is a staple in Galway's numerous pubs, offering live performances in an authentic setting. In 2020, the city was crowned the European Capital of Culture, underscoring its reputation as a hub for creativity and cultural expression. The city centre is marked by its narrow, winding streets that hark back to medieval times. Eyre Square, the Spanish Arch, and the Claddagh area are just a handful of the historic sites that lend the city its unique character. Another draw for tourists is the city's diverse and thriving food culture, with a strong focus on local produce and seafood. The city boasts several award-winning restaurants, as well as a variety of cafes and food markets. Galway's nightlife is legendary, offering a wide array of pubs featuring everything from traditional Irish music sessions to contemporary live bands. The Latin Quarter, in particular, is a favourite spot for both locals and tourists looking for a lively night out. One traveller wrote on TripAdvisor forum: "Galway Bay is the site of a historic city in the West of Ireland. These days, the cobbled narrow back streets are homes for artisans. Among the artisans are those who knit the ganseys. 'Ganseys' are derived from 'Guernsey,' which are worn by fishermen. "The ganseys are uniquely knit to a family pattern, which helps identify those fishermen who work at sea. The Claddagh is a historic fishing village that is known for its location and beauty. Galway is a wonderful place to wander around in search of artisan products." A second user said: "Sat here while visiting with my daughter in Galway and ate our donuts and bagels from the market that day. The market is a must-do as the food is incredible as well as the arts and crafts you can see and buy."
