The city of the Tribes is the perfect place for a pint, if you are just stopping by or have a full weekend to explore the many pubs, bars and restaurants. With a lively college and international population, great street music as well as pub performances and delicious food, there is something for everyone in Galway city.
Once you have decided where to stay in Galway city, the next thing to do is to find the best places to eat and drink. No need to worry, we have it covered! In this article we will list our top pubs and bars in the city of Galway, from the traditional Irish pub experience to modern bars and everything in between!
Why not skip ahead to check out the best times of the year to visit Galway.
1. An Púcán
Home to one of Galway’s best outdoor spaces, An Púcán is the ideal spot to watch your favourite sports team on the big screen.
With great food and a large beer garden, an púcán is a must-visit during your stay in Galway city. An púcán has won countless awards for its beer garden and cocktails as well as being recognised as one of the best places in Galway city to watch a sports match.
Where: 11 Forster Street, Galway city
Opening hours:
- Mon – Thu: 12:00pm – 11:30pm
- Fri: 12:00pm – 02:00am
- Sat: 10:30am – 02:00am
- Sun: 10:30am – 11:00pm
FAQ’s:
- Is an Púcán dog friendly? unfortunately no, unless they are registered guide dogs.
- Does an Púcán have a beer garden? Yes there is a heated beer garden
- Does an Púcán have live music? Yes, there is live music 7 nights a week
- Can I watch sports matches at an Púcán? Yes, there are 11 large TV’s throughout the pub.
- Does an Púcán have a website? Yes, you can find all of their details at anpucan.ie
2. The Quays Bar Galway
Located in Galway’s Latin Quarter, the Quays is abundant with historical features, from the 250 year old stained glass windows that illuminates the bar in golden light. The entire pub has unique medieval church fittings that make any visit a truly memorable experience. There are lots of great restaurants nearby, or if you are already settled in the pub why not try the new bar menu!
You can also sit outside and watch the bustling crowd drift through shop street and listen to the many musicians busking outside.
At night the bar transforms into a hub for live music and craic as crowds gather to listen to their favourite artists.
Live traditional music is hosted each week upstairs in Quay’s music hall. Many famous TV specials including TG4’s Glór Tíre are filmed in the hall as well as live performances from some of Ireland’s most popular country music stars.
Where: Quay Ln, Galway city
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 11.30am-2am
Why you should visit: 400 years of character preserved in a Galway pub.
3. Carroll’s Bar
A good old fashioned pub merged with one of the best beer gardens in Galway city, Carrolls bar is a great location for every occasion.
The pub recently underwent renovations, installing a full sized double decker bus in the beer garden, also known as the ‘crust bucket’. With pints, cocktails and pizza ready to serve, a great night out is guaranteed!
The Double Decker Bus doubles up as the Bird house for dine-in and takeaway Chicken.
Opening hours:
- Mon – Thu: 3pm – 11pm
- Fri – Sun: 1pm – 11pm
4. Caribou
Board games and craft beer, what more could you ask for? A trendy social hub with mismatched chairs, moody lighting and plenty of your favourite board games, the Caribou is the definitive place in Galway city to catch up with old friends in a relaxed atmosphere.
Cool and quirky, the Carribou offer something different from the traditional Irish pub. Cocktails and food are also available, making the pub the perfect spot for a cosy night out.
Why you should visit: Beer and Board games.
Where: 31 Woodquay, Galway, Ireland
Opening hours: Mon – Thu: 5pm -12am, Fri-Sat: 1pm-1am, Sun: 1pm-12am
5. Róisín Dubh
The best place in Galway city for live music and Comedy acts, the Rósín Dubh is home to all things entertainment. The resident spot for established artist’s as well as a platform for emerging musicians and comedians, performing at the Róisín Dubh is a milestone for any eager performer.
For larger gigs the Róisín Dubh brings acts to other venues such as Seapoint, Town Hall Theatre and the Black Box, as well as co promoting the Galway International Arts Festival Big Top.
With musicians such as Ed Sheeran, Two Door Cinema Club and the Coronas, as well as comedians such as Tommy Tiernan and Kevin Bridges, the pub has hosted some iconic shows. you can check the listings to see whats on when your visiting at roisindubh.net.
Sisco, Galway’s Silent Disco takes place every Tuesday and Wednesday and is a student favourite. There is a large outdoor area upstairs where you can relax and take in the sunshine.
Where: Róisín Dubh, 9 Dominic Street Upper, Galway city
Opening hours:
- Mon – Sun 3pm-2am
Why you should visit: Attend one of the many live shows or dance the night away at Sisco.
6. Barr an Chaladh
A country pub in the middle of Galway City, Barr an Chaladh hosts 2 live music sessions every night. The perfect place for a quiet pint of Guinness during the day, you can pass the time by looking at the many signs plastered around the bar. The pub is a truly authentic traditional Irish spot with a roaring fire and comfy booths.
A modest pub in terms of size, Barr an Chaladh is sure to be wedged full at night time when the live music kicks off. The pub transforms into a lively get together with Guinness, great music and friends.
Featuring the finest of Irish bands and upcoming talent, the lively pub is full of character and any night out here will be one to remember.
Traditional charm bursts to life in a university city, where the old world decór and mood is enjoyed by students and locals alike.
Where: Daly’s Place, 3 Woodquay, Galway city
Opening hours:
Mon – Thu: 10am -11.30pm
Fri-Sun: 10am -12.30pm
Why you should visit: A lively night of music in a traditional Irish pub
7. Darcy’s Bar
With live music every night of the week, Darcy’s is a guaranteed good night out in the city.
Located just off Eyre Square and near the bus station, Darcy’s should be one of your first stops in Galway city.
Where: 2 Forster St, Galway, H91 W862
Opening Hours:
Mon – Thu: 12pm-11.30pm
Fri – Sat: 12pm-12.30pm
Sun: 12pm-11pm
Why you should visit: Great live music, great staff.
8. Freeney’s
Family owned and operated since 1938, Freeney’s is one of Galway’s best pubs for superb whiskey and a traditional ambiance. With a roaring fire and traditional music you’ll feel right at home.
Where: 19 High St, Galway, H91 TD79
Opening Hours
Mon – Tue: 1pm – 11.30pm
Wed – Thu: 12pm-11.30pm
Fri: 11am – 11.30pm
Sat: 10am – 11.30pm
Sun:12.30pm-11.30pm
Why you should visit: A great place to meet locals, tourists and new friends.
9. Taylor’s
A pub with a historic legacy as the epicentre of culture and the arts, Taylors has since transformed into a popular pub accompanied by a heated beer garden and outdoor cocktail bar. This dog friendly pub hosts live music every night.
Where: 7 Dominick Street Upper, Galway’s Westend, Galway city
Opening hours:
- Mon – Thurs: 5pm – 11.30pm
- Fri: 3pm – 2am
- Sat: 12.30pm– 2am
- Sun: 1pm – 11pm
FAQ’s:
- Is Taylor’s dog friendly? Yes!
- Does Taylor’s have a beer garden? Yes there is a heated beer garden
- Does Taylor’s have live music? Yes, there is live music 7 nights a week
- Can I watch sports matches at Taylor’s ? Yes, there are 7 large TV’s throughout the pub.
- Does Taylor’s have a website? Yes, you can find all of their details at taylorsgalway.ie
Why you should visit: Beer garden, cocktail bar and live music that your dog can enjoy too.
10. The Front Door
One of the most popular late bars in Galway city, The Front Door has live music from Sunday to Thursday each week as well as a late DJ every night
If you’re a gin and tonic lover, then look no further, The Front Door pub offers a ‘G&T tree’!
Where: Cross Street & High Street, Galway, Ireland
Opening Hours:
Mon – Sat: 10.30am – 2am
Sun: 11am – 2am
Why you should visit: A late night bar for when you’re not ready to call it a night in Galway city
11. Taaffes Bar
This 150 year old establishment is the best place in Galway city to experience traditional Irish music. Often cited as having the best pint of Guinness in Galway, Taaffes is also a keen GAA sports bar.
Taaffes also serve generous portions of food with dinner available until 5pm and breakfast ending at noon.
Where: 9 Shop Street Galway, Ireland H91 WF20
Opening Hours:
Mon – Sat: 10.30am-11pm
Sun: 12.30pm-11pm
Why you should visit: The best pint of Guinness in Galway city? Find out for yourself!
12. Tigh Neachtain
Since 1894 Tigh Neachtain has been a pub that embraces Irish traditional music, featring some of the most talented Irish traditional musicians such as Sharon Shannon, Brendan O’Regan, and Deirbhile Ni Bhrolchain.
Home to historic animal rights activist Richard Martin, Tigh Neachtain has always been a diverse meeting place where all are welcome.
Located on the corner of Cross Street and Quay Street, Tigh Neachtain is the perfect place to sit out and soak up the atmosphere of the city, or if its too cold for people watching you can warm up by the fire inside.
The pub also stocks their own home brewed beers if you are looking to try something different. Light lunches are served daily. You can catch a performance of trad music throughout the week and depending on the time at which you visit you may find that the pub is hosting an event as they are prominent supporters of growing talent in the arts in Galway city.
Where: 17 Cross Street, Galway
Opening Hours:
Mon – Thurs: 10.30am – 11.30pm
Fri – Sat: 10.30am – 12.30pm
Why you should visit: If you are a fan of music, beer and art you are in the right place!
13. Monroes
With live music 7 nights a week and a large upstairs live venue that can accommodate 600 people Monroes can cater to any occasion.
The tavern downstairs is a warm and friendly area with plenty of food and drinks options as well as live music.
Where: 14 Dominick Street Upper, Galway
Opening hours:
Mon-Sat:10:00 AM Till Late
Sun: 12:PM-11:30PM
Why you should visit: Great spot for live events, DJ’s and even a weekly salsa night.
14. Harry’s Bar
A relatively new bar, only founded in 2017, Harry’s has been voted National Burger Day’s Best Burger Bar in Ireland 2021. If you’re looking for delicious food and maybe even a few cocktails, Harry’s is the place to be.
They offer a wide range of mouth-watering food, including brunch, wings, burgers, steak, nachos & desserts
With burger names like Brie-yonce, Hennifer Lopez and Cluck Norris as well as loaded fries and milkshakes, Harrys is a quintessential stop for any food lover in Galway city.
Where: Harry’s Bar 77 Bohermore Galway, H91 E7FN
Opening Hours:
Brunch: Fri – Sun: 9am-12.30pm
Evenings: Mon – Thu: 3pm-11.30pm, Fri-Sat: 1pm-12.30am, Sun: 1pm-11.30pm
Why you should visit: The burgers and loaded fries are a must have in Galway city.
15. Tig Cóilí
The perfect place to sit back and enjoy a pint while listening to traditional Irish music in the heart of Galway city, Tig Cóilí is located in the Latin Quarter.
You can also try their special IPA ‘Galway’s Nan Frank’ brewed especially for Tig Cóilí.
With 2 sessions of music every day you can be sure to have a great time in the pub!
Where: Tigh Cóilí, Mainguard St, Galway, Galway County H91
Opening Hours:
Mon- Thur 10.30AM – 11.30PM
Fri-Sat 10.30AM -12.30AM
Sun: 12.30PM- 11PM
Why you should visit: Try Tigh Cóilís very own IPA ‘Galway’s Nan Frank’.
16. The Kings Head
A piece of history in its own right, the Kings Head is over 800 years old, with links to the 14 tribes of Galway and the former home of the mayor of Galway. You can warm up beside the fireplace built in 1612, and listen to the daily music and comedy performances while soaking up the rich history around you.
Where: The Kings Head, 15 High Street, Galway city
Opening Hours: Everyday 11am -10pm
Why you should visit: Experience Galway’s history from the comfort of your barstool.
17. Dáil bar
Priding themselves on their friendly atmosphere and delicious cocktails, the Dáil bar is a place in Galway city for locals and tourists love to visit. With live sports matches shown, bar food and an extensive menu available, the late bar is the place to be.
Where: 42-44 Middle Street, Galway city
Opening Hours: Everyday 12pm-2am
Why you should visit: Friendly atmosphere and good pints.
17. The Skeff
Established in 1850 in Eyre Square, The Skeff is in the heart of Galway City. Traditionally the first stop of anyone arriving into the city, the Skeffington Arms is a hotel accompanied by a late bar, delicious food and a large range of drinks, notably with an Award winning 1852 whiskey bar.
With live sports matches available to watch to on the large TVs as well as live music and DJ’s seven nights a week, you can be sure that any night in the bar will be a great time.
Where: The Skeff Bar & Kitchen Eyre Square Galway
Opening Hours: 9am – 2am
Why you should visit: Whiskey tasting at the 1852 Whiskey Club.
18. Bierhaus
With over 60 different craft beers and brews from around the globe, Bierhaus is Galway’s finest beer selection. A funky bar, Bierhaus features Galway’s finest underground DJ’s on weekends
Where: 2 Henry St, Galway, H91 E271
Opening Hours:
Mon – Thur: 4pm-11.30pm
Fri: 4pm -12.30pm
Sat: 2pm -12.30pm
Sun: 2pm – 11.30pm
Why you should visit: Can you ever have too many types of craft beers?
19. O’Connells
One of the most interesting beer gardens in Galway is found at O’Connell’s bar which mimics a traditional Irish street.
With great food available from The Dough Bros and Prataí official, O’Connells bar is the ideal place to enjoy yourself on a sunny day in Galway.
It’s not just any pizza you’ll be enjoying on the weekend, the Doughbros have a van onsite that supplies the food. If you dhaven’t heard about the Doughbros yet, they were actually voted the best Takeaway Pizzeria in Europe 2021 & the Top Pizzeria in Ireland 2021.
Why you should visit: Dine in on the double decker bus
Where: 39 Dominick St Lower, Galway city, H91 RX83
Where: 8 Eyre Square, Galway, H91 FT22
Opening Hours:
Mon – Thu: 12pm-11.30pm
Fri – Sat: 11am -12.30pm
Sun 12pm-11pm
Why you should visit: Another great beer garden in Galway city.
20. MP Walshes
A traditional style bar which was once a post office, MP Washes became the pub we know and love in 2008. With many of the original features still in place, your eye will be drawn to the many fantastic details and historic artworks around the bar.
Known for its great pint of Guinness and live music sessions on the weekends MP Walshes combines the very best of both old school charm and contemporary Galway city.
Where: 55 Dominick St Lower, Galway city, H91 PY70
Opening Hours:
Mon – Thu: 2pm – 11pm
Fri – Sun: 1pm -11pm
Why you should visit: Where else could you have a pint in a post office?
21. Seven
Food, Drinks, Sports and live music; you’ll find it all in the Seven bar located in the Latin Quarter. One of the best pubs for food in Galway city, Seven offers breakfast, lunch and dinner
Where: 5-7 Bridge St, Galway city, H91 A588
Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 12pm -11.30pm
Fri:12pm -2am, Sat: 12pm -12am, Sun: 12pm -11.30pm
Why you should visit: A great spot in Galway for food.
22. The Sliding Rock
Pub, Food and Accommodation are all available at the Sliding Rock. Music sessions are ongoing in the pub until 12.30am on Fridays and Saturdays. A fun atmosphere is guaranteed as locals and tourists alike will be in the pub enjoying the music and the pints.
Where: 37 Newcastle Rd, Galwaycity, H91 W42F
Opening Hours: Kitchen 9am-8pm, Pub: Mon – Thur: 9am – 11.30pm, Fri -Sat: 9am – 12.30am, Sun: 10am – 11pm
Why you should visit: A popular gathering place for tourists and locals alike.
23. 1520
A medieval themed bar with a 21st century kick, 1520 prides itself on being a ‘neighbourhood bar’ in Galway city. With many cool historical features including one of the cities ancient medieval walls running through the the pub, you’ll feel as though youo’ve immersed yourself in an ancient medieval pub, (with mood lighting of course.)
With food that embraces the best of local produce, traditional Irish dishes have a unique medieval inspiration.
Full of history, friendly staff and great food and drink, 1520 is a memorable bar to say the least. Of course there is plenty of live music too!
Where: 14 Quay St Galway city
Opening Hours: 10.30am -11.30pm
Why you should visit: A taste of Galway’s local cuisine, surrounded by history.
24. Buddha Bar
The Buddha Bar which opened in 2012 is part of the Asian Tea House which opened in Galway city in 2008, offering the best Asian cuisine in town. A great place to meet friends for dinner, the Buddha Bar also invites customers in who only want drinks.
Guests can admire the unique interiors, delicious food and overall traditional aesthetic combined with a trendy and buzzing atmosphere
Where: 14 & 15 Mary Street, Galway city
Opening Hours: Buddha Bar: Mon – Thurs: 5pm -11.30pm, Fri: 5pm – Late, Sat 3pm – Late, Sun: 5pm -11pm
Why you should visit: Great food and atmosphere.
25. Sally Longs
Sally Longs can easily be spotted by its Rock Legends mural outside. Inside you can find the best alternative jukebox in Galway city, filled with metal, rock, alternative, punk, and everything in between.
Pints, pool tables and live gigs 7 days a week… what more could you ask for?
Where: 33 Abbeygate Street Galway city.
Opening hours: Mon – Thur: 12pm-11.30pm Fri- Sat: 12pm -12.30am Sun: 12pm -11pm
Why you should visit: Galways best Rock bar.
There are so many things to do outside Galway city, including the many local country pubs scattered throughout each town and village!
Best times to visit Galway
St. Patrick’s Day: The 17th of March is a great time to visit Galway, the city with be flooded with people watching the parade and enjoying themselves in pubs. St. Patrick’s day is a time where Irish tradition is in full flow throughout the city.
The Galway Races: Galway race week takes place from Mon 25th July – Sun 31st July for 2022. You can find more information about race week here. If you enjoy a lively atmosphere, horse racing and like to dress up, raceweek is a great time to visit Galway.
Galway International Arts Festival: For lovers of music, art, drama and all things creative, the Galway International Arts Festival is a must see. The colourful city becomes even more vibrant with shows, concerts and parades galore. In 2022 the GIAF takes place from the 11th to 24th of July
Galway International Oyster Festival: For seafood lovers September is the ideal time to visit, as one of Europe’s oldest food festivals takes place. You can find great seafood all around the city, especially during the Galway International Oyster Festival!
The Galway Christmas Market: From late November to the 21st of December, Eyre Square, the centre of Galway city transforms into a Christmas market accompanied by handcrafted gifts, hot chocolate and even a beer tent with large steins of beer and hot whiskeys available.
While the times above mentioned are especially busy, there are always a lot of tourists and locals in the city so if you prefer a quieter visit you should be aware of these annual events!
We hope you have enjoyed our list of the best pubs to visit in Galway city. Have we forgot any pubs? Please let us know in the comments below and if you have already visited Galway let us know the best pub on the list!
Why not check out other pub guides on our site, such as our ultimate guide to over 80 of the best bars in Ireland, broken down region by region!
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