Higher than Dublin? In line with the Irish Star, that is what some vacationers are raving about after their latest journey to considered one of Eire’s greatest surprises.
When you have had the prospect to go to Dublin earlier than, you have possible been within the midst of the town’s bustle.
You recognize…individuals scurrying round attempting to make it to work on time and all the standard sights, sounds, and aromas of the world’s iconic metropolises.
Whereas there aren’t many family names in Eire from a worldwide perspective, latest vacationers don’t have anything however glowing issues to say in regards to the coastal appeal, genuine nature, laid-back vibes for pub-hopping, and buzzing arts and music scene of this underrated getaway.
To not point out, there are postcard-worthy castles to go to speckled all through the county.
Certain, you can cap off summer time with an epic journey, or you’ll be able to patiently wait ’til fall rolls round.
That is when this coastal gem actually shines with fun-filled festivals and fewer crowds earlier than the winter chills make the colourful metropolis of Galway far much less fascinating till the spring sunshine arrives.
Dublin In Decline: Unveiling Eire’s Vibrant Spot
Eire is really a bucket listing vacation spot for vacationers, although 2025 hasn’t precisely been peaches and cream for what’s usually considered one of Europe’s most sought-after locations.
A latest report claims Eire’s tourism is at a ‘tipping level’, however that does not appear to be deterring vacationers from visiting such locations as Galway.
Dublin, nonetheless, is one other story…
We at Journey Off Path truly lined Dublin’s lack of attraction earlier this 12 months, largely attributable to skyrocketing costs, particularly when it comes to airfare.
The irony being Dublin is house to maybe Europe’s hottest (for higher or worse) price range airline, Ryanair.
Nevertheless, these hesitant to cross Eire off their journey wishlist proper now should not be deterred. There are a number of Irish airports to fly into from the U.S, together with close by Shannon, the place you’ll be able to catch a $10 bus trip into the town.
Better of all, you’ll be able to sort out Galway on a price range whereas Dublin figures out the way to higher strategy 2026.
Eire’s Liveliest Metropolis
By some means, Galway has mastered being each laid-back and full of life on the identical time, with charming Boho vibes and music echoing from seemingly each nook within the coronary heart of city.
Galway is thought for buskers. You have in all probability seen them in America occasionally, however our tradition does not all the time embrace them as Galway does, the place it’s very regular to see road performers with Euros overflowing open guitar instances.
All whereas New York’s subway stations appear to solely welcome rats…
Buskers are the spine of Galway’s leisure, even standing outdoors within the fall’s nippy air, belting out their favourite tunes, each Irish hits and indie rock.
There is not any want for festivals right here, although the town’s event calendar is packed all through the autumn.
Quay Avenue is without doubt one of the finest spots to absorb stay music without cost (however sparing a couple of dollars is inspired).
In fact, it is no journey to anyplace in Eire with out snagging a barstool at an old-timey pub and gracing your lips with a pint of Guinness.
Pubs are plentiful right here and a good way to mingle with pleasant locals, completely satisfied to welcome you to their extremely underrated hometown.
Listed here are a couple of of Journey Off Path’s favorites for each Guinness and music:
Swap Coastlines For Castles: Fulfill Your Fairytale Desires
Galway is considered one of Eire’s most stunning coastal locations. Actually, you may be shocked to know Galway is house to a pair of Blue Flag-certified beaches.
The draw back is that the window for summer time solar is dwindling quick! Fall brings chilly climate, not appropriate for what you’d image for a super seaside day, although the views are beautiful year-round, particularly the Cliffs of Moher.
As a substitute, pack a jacket and fulfill your fairytale goals. There are numerous castles to go to on the outskirts of the town, a lot of which shall be backdropped with a pure curtain of lush, beaming tree strains displaying vibrant autumn hues.
In line with TripAdvisor, these are the highest 5 castles to go to in Galway in 2025:
- Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Backyard (pictured above)
- Aughnanure Fort
- Portumna Fort
- Clifden Fort
- Dungaire Fort
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