Galway might be Ireland's most charming city: compact, walkable and filled to the brim with independent shops and restaurants that walk the fine line between cool and kitsch.

Galway is widely considered one of the most walkable cities in Ireland and Europe in 2026. The medieval city center is largely pedestrianized, particularly the vibrant Latin Quarter and Shop Street, where cobblestone paths are lined with traditional pubs, buskers, and local boutiques. You can easily walk from Eyre Square down to the Spanish Arch and the Claddagh in under 15 minutes. In early 2026, the city completed new "Greenways" that allow visitors to walk or cycle from the city center all the way to the Salthill Promenade along the coast with minimal interaction with car traffic. The compact nature of the city means that for a typical tourist itinerary, there is almost no need for public transport or taxis once you have arrived in the city center, making it a favorite for those who enjoy exploring historic alleys and riverside paths on foot.