Galway's primary tourist attractions include the Aran Islands (along with their prehistoric ruins) as well as the Spanish Arch and accompanying remnant of the ancient city walls along the River Corrib. You'll find the only other portion of the city ramparts at Eyre Square, the centrepiece of the old city. Many of the local historic buildings, such as Lynch's Castle, date to the 1400s and earlier.

Aran Islands
This series of three islands is cradled by Galway Bay. Best known for the prehistoric forts found here, these islands draw crowds of tourists during the summer months. Inishmor is the most popular of the three islands and in addition to its well-known prehistoric fort (Dun Aengus), you'll also be able to peruse the ruins of early-Christian monasteries.

Eyre Square
This is the central city plaza in Galway, home to one of two surviving remnants of the old city walls. Recently restored, this green space is an excellent place for picnicking and people-watching. On the fringes of the square, you'll find the 17th century Browne's Doorway which was pulled from the historic home of an important mercantile family.

Galway Cathedral
Stationed on the banks of the Corrib River, this imposing cathedral blends a stoic (if not stern) exterior with a subtly elegant interior framed by sweeping arches. The structure itself is essentially modern (construction began in the late 1950s) though its features capture the architectural movements of various ages. Most notably, the dome and its pillars recall the Renaissance period. Phone: +353 91 563 577.

Lynch’s Castle
This stone house was built in spurts between the 1300s and 1500s centuries. The Lynch family was an important clan that supplied from its ranks more than 80 town mayors between the years of 1480 and 1650. The castle boasts a number of superb stone features, ranging from gargoyles (unusual in this area) to the coat of arms of Henry VII. Surprisingly, the castle now belongs to the Allied Irish Bank, and is open both for limited tours and banking.

Spanish Arch
In many ways the central piece of architecture in Galway, the Spanish Arch is situated east of Wolfe Tone Bridge near the Corrib River. This set of archways was built in the late 16th century as an arm of the city walls, serving to regulate traffic along the river. As only scant portions of the wall remain today, the Spanish Arch is an important stop on most tourists' itineraries.