*This post was originally published in September of 2017.
Galway, a whimsical harbor city, is nestled on Ireland’s picturesque west coast. A stroll down Quay Street is the most pleasant way to get to know the town. There are only a few main streets, so it’s impossible to get lost. An effervescent buzz fills the air; older couples walk hand in hand, children run from shop to shop, and young adults chat outside coffee shops and bars. The colorful storefronts are squished together in a cluttered yet cozy way.
Dip into one of those shops on Quay Street and you might find yourself in Coffeewerk + Press. The place is quaint and modern—an artisanal coffee shop on the first floor, with prints and trinkets upstairs lining wooden shelves. The atmosphere is trendy and friendly, and the little outdoor seating area is perfect to enjoy a masterly crafted brew.
No trip to Galway is complete without stopping by McDonagh’s – the most beloved fish and chip joint in the area. The locals argue it’s the best “chipper” in the whole of Ireland. The food itself is nothing special to look at, but the taste will blow you away. It’s served the same way they’ve done it since 1902!
In the mornings, the city inherits an ethereal quality. It often takes a while for the morning mist to burn off (if it ever burns off, because after all, it is Ireland). But this quiet in the morning is one of the most special times to enjoy Galway—the colors of the buildings are muted, and the flags that are strung up hang with demure confidence. The sky is silver, and the air is saturated and fresh. It’s the best time to wear a traditional Irish sweater.
The perfect way to end a trip to Galway is to watch the sunset over the water. Being a coastal town, the sea is an integral part of the culture. And just beyond the bounds of the city, you can see the bucolic countryside for which Galway is so famous. It’s so quintessentially Ireland you might just think you’re hearing traditional Irish tunes floating off the water.
Bring our Tripp II along with you—its crossbody strap and roomy interior will make adventuring around the city easy.
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