Irish Getaways Blog
Discover Ireland through local insights, travel guides, and cultural stories
Galway Food & Oysters: The Culinary Capital of the Wild Atlantic Way
Forget the stereotype of boiled potatoes. Galway is the European Region of Gastronomy and the oyster capital of the world. From Michelin-starred terroir at Aniar to the world’s best fish and chips on Quay Street, here is your guide to eating your way through the City of Tribes.
Dublin to Galway: How to Cross Ireland (And What to See on the Way)
Crossing Ireland from Coast to Coast takes less than 3 hours, but how you do it matters. Compare the luxury buses, the express trains, and the self-drive options. Plus, discover the 'Secret Middle' of Ireland—including the world’s oldest pub and ancient ruins—that you can only see with a private driver.
The Quiet Man Bridge & Cong: A Film Lover's Guide to John Wayne’s Ireland
For fans of the 1952 classic, this isn't just a day trip; it’s a pilgrimage. Discover the real village of 'Inisfree,' find the iconic stone bridge where Sean Thornton heard his mother’s voice, and learn why hiring a driver is the best way to chase the ghost of John Wayne.
Galway’s Festival Season: A Guide to the Arts, The Races, and The Oysters
Galway is the Festival Capital of Ireland. From the street theater of the Arts Festival to the high-stakes glamour of the Galway Races, the city parties from July to September. Here is your survival guide to the chaos, the culture, and how to find a hotel room when the 'City of Tribes' is full.
Traditional Music in Galway: A Guide to The Crane, Tigh Neachtain, and the Perfect "Session"
Galway is the busking capital of the world and the spiritual home of Irish traditional music. But finding a real 'session' requires local knowledge. This guide takes you inside the legendary Crane Bar and Tigh Neachtain, teaches you the etiquette of the 'Seisiún,' and explains why you should never clap along unless asked.
The History of the Claddagh Ring: A Guide to Meaning, Myths, and Where to Buy It in Galway
The Claddagh Ring is Ireland’s most famous symbol of love. But did you know it was invented by a goldsmith captured by pirates? Discover the true history of the ring, the secret code of how to wear it, and the only shops in Galway entitled to call themselves the 'Original' makers.
The Aran Islands (Inis Mór): A Day Trip to the Edge of the World
Stepping onto Inis Mór feels like stepping back 50 years. Stone walls, Gaelic speakers, and ancient forts clinging to 300-foot cliffs wait for you. Here is the complete guide to ferries, bike rentals, and finding the filming locations of 'The Banshees of Inisherin'.
Connemara & Kylemore Abbey: A Guide to Ireland’s "Savage Beauty"
Oscar Wilde called it a 'savage beauty.' Connemara is a landscape of rusty bogs, grey mountains, and the fairytale castle of Kylemore Abbey. Here is how to explore the wildest part of Galway—and why the narrow roads mean you should leave the driving to a local.
The Cliffs of Moher from Galway: How to Plan the Perfect Day Trip (Without the Crowds)
The Cliffs of Moher are on every American’s bucket list. But do you take the big bus, brave the narrow roads in a rental car, or hire a local? This guide reveals the 'Secret' viewing points, the lunar landscape of the Burren, and how to see Ireland’s most famous sight without the stress.