Holiday rentals and lettings in Galway

Nestled along Ireland's stunning Atlantic coastline, holiday rentals in Galway offer travellers an exceptional blend of historic charm and modern comfort in one of Europe's most vibrant cultural cities. From Georgian townhouses in the heart of the Latin Quarter to contemporary apartments overlooking Galway Bay, these accommodations provide the perfect base for exploring Ireland's cultural capital. Whether you're seeking a romantic cottage near the medieval Spanish Arch or spacious holiday accommodation in Galway for the entire family, the city's diverse range of properties caters to every type of traveller.

Galway's vacation rentals showcase the best of Irish hospitality, combining traditional architecture with contemporary amenities to create memorable stays. The city's holiday rentals in Galway are renowned for their prime locations, placing guests within walking distance of bustling Shop Street, the famous Claddagh neighbourhood, and the magnificent Salthill Promenade. These properties range from intimate bed and breakfasts housed in historic buildings dating back to 1807, to luxurious vacation homes featuring panoramic views of the Clare Hills and Aran Islands.

Guests can expect an impressive array of amenities designed to enhance their Irish getaway:

• High-speed WiFi (up to 1000Mbps) for staying connected
• Fully equipped kitchens with modern appliances and Irish breakfast essentials
• Private parking spaces in this compact city centre
• Pet-friendly accommodations for four-legged family members
• Washing machines and dryers for longer stays
• Smart TVs with streaming services for cosy evenings
• Central heating systems perfect for Ireland's mild climate
• Private gardens and outdoor dining areas for al fresco meals
• Luxury touches including whirlpool baths and marble finishes
• Barrier-free access ensuring accommodation for all guests

Culture enthusiasts and music lovers will find themselves perfectly at home in Galway, where traditional Irish music flows from every pub and street performers create an enchanting atmosphere throughout the medieval streets. Large holiday rentals in Galway are ideal for families seeking to explore the Wild Atlantic Way, with spacious accommodations providing comfort after days spent discovering the Cliffs of Moher (just 90 minutes away) or the mystical Aran Islands.

Food lovers can indulge in award-winning restaurants like The Dough Bros (rated 4.8 stars), while couples seeking romance will adore evening strolls along Salthill Promenade, Europe's longest seafront walk.

The best time to visit is during summer months (June-August) when temperatures reach comfortable highs of 19-26°C, though expect premium pricing with holiday rentals averaging $850-984 AUD per night during peak season. Winter visitors (December-February) enjoy a more intimate Galway experience with fewer crowds and rates as low as $458-521 AUD per night, despite cooler temperatures averaging 2-14°C.

Galway offers an extraordinary collection of attractions that showcase both its medieval heritage and vibrant contemporary culture. Here are the essential experiences that make this coastal city truly unforgettable:

1. Eyre Square and the City Centre
2. Salthill Promenade and Beach
3. Galway Cathedral
4. Spanish Arch and City Museum
5. The Latin Quarter

Eyre Square and the City Centre

The bustling heart of Galway, this historic square (rated 4.5 stars by over 14,900 visitors) serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the city's pedestrianised shopping streets, with Shop Street leading directly into the medieval quarter.

Salthill Promenade and Beach

Stretching for 3 kilometres along Galway Bay, this magnificent seafront walk (rated 4.7 stars) offers breathtaking views of the Aran Islands and Clare Hills, particularly spectacular at sunset with the Atlantic Ocean as your backdrop.

Galway Cathedral

One of Ireland's most impressive ecclesiastical buildings, this stunning cathedral (rated 4.6 stars by 6,000+ visitors) showcases beautiful stonework and serves as a peaceful retreat from the city's energetic pace.

Spanish Arch and City Museum

Dating back to 1584, this historical landmark (rated 4.2 stars) stands as a testament to Galway's maritime heritage, with the adjacent museum offering fascinating insights into the city's trading history with Spain.

The Latin Quarter

The cultural soul of Galway, this atmospheric neighbourhood (rated 4.6 stars) pulses with traditional Irish music, artisan shops, and authentic pubs where locals and visitors gather to experience Ireland's famous hospitality.

Galway's dining scene perfectly complements its cultural richness, with exceptional restaurants earning acclaim from both locals and international visitors:

• The Dough Bros (4.8 stars from 5,332 reviews) - Located on Middle Street in the cathedral buildings, this acclaimed pizzeria has earned a cult following for their wood-fired sourdough pizzas made with locally sourced ingredients.
• The Kings Head (4.4 stars from 5,053 reviews) - Situated on High Street, this historic pub combines traditional Irish hospitality with excellent gastropub cuisine, housed in a building that has served food and drink since medieval times.
• The Quays Bar and Restaurant (4.5 stars from 4,130 reviews) - Nestled on atmospheric Quay Lane, this establishment offers contemporary Irish cuisine alongside traditional pub favourites, with live music enhancing the authentic Galway experience.

Galway operates on a uniquely relaxed Irish time schedule, where "Galway time" means events often start 10-15 minutes later than scheduled - embrace this laid-back approach during your stay. The city centre is refreshingly compact and entirely walkable, with most attractions within a 10-minute stroll from each other. Local hosts frequently recommend booking restaurant reservations well in advance, particularly during festival seasons when the city buzzes with extra energy. Holiday rentals with private pool in Galway are rare due to the Atlantic climate, but many properties offer luxurious alternatives like whirlpool baths and saunas for relaxation after exploring. Sustainability is increasingly important here, with many accommodations participating in green initiatives including recycling programmes and locally sourced breakfast ingredients. The famous Galway weather can change quickly, so pack layers regardless of season. Tipping culture is relaxed - rounding up restaurant bills or leaving 10% for exceptional service is perfectly acceptable. Finally, consider staying in a pet-friendly holiday rental in Galway if travelling with companions, as the city's parks and beaches welcome well-behaved dogs with open arms.