Galway car rental comparison

The most populous city in the west of Ireland with a population of 75,000 is the capital of Galway. It is known as a vibrant university city whilst not having the rush of a busy metropolis. Using a hire car to explore this wonderfully picturesque city is the best and easiest way to take it all in. It also gives you the opportunity to explore the entire region with a hire car from Shannon Airport, roughly an hour away from Galway itself.

The city is known as, “the City of the Tribes,” because during medieval times up to the early modern period, the city was ruled by 14 different tribes. Following the defeat of the Jacobites and the rise of Protestantism in Ireland, the clans power started to decline. You can sometimes see the flags of the 14 different clans flying in the city.

Sights

The Spanish Arch is one of the few parts of the city’s medieval defenses. It was designed as a passageway for ships carrying goods such as wine to pass through. Nowadays the spot is popular to relax by and watch the river flow gently along.

Lynch's Castle was once home to one of the most powerful clans in the city, the Lynch. The castle has some decorated windows as well as the coat of arms of Henry VII and of the city. Nowadays the castle is home to the Allied Irish Banks.

Galway Cathedral is dedicated to cardinal Richard Cushing in 1965 and it is one of the most impressive buildings in the city.

St. Nicholas Church, built in the 14th century, is dedicated to the saint of seafarers. It is said that Christopher Columbus worshiped in this church. 

Eyre Square is the public square of the city, home to green spaces and sculptures as well as two Crimean War cannons presented to the Irish regiment.

Culture

The Druid Theater is found in one of the oldest buildings in the city, an old tea warehouse. This theater hosts new and experimental plays by young Irish writers.

The city has some great traditional pubs that are well worth a visit should you wish to taste some fine ale and local food. Sehan Ua Neachtain is a very old school pub that is popular with students, tourist and locals alike, the pub often has live music and serves local Galway beer. Crane Bar, another very local bar, where you can hear great traditional live music and take in some storytelling. This pub is a must for anyone wishing to experience a local atmosphere in the city.

Excursions

Use your hire car Galway to explore the rich region of Galway.

The Aran Islands consistes of three small islands, Mor, Meain, and Oirr and you must take a ferry to the islands. The islands are home to historical forts such as “Dun Aonghasa," believed to have been built in the Iron Age and “Dun Duchathair.” O’Brien's Castle dates back to the 15th century, this site offers great views of the harbor. Washed up on the shore of the island is the MV Plassy vessel. In 1960, due to hard weather conditions, the ship was grounded and washed ashore, and it now serves as a popular tourist attraction.

With a HAPPYCAR rental in Galway, you can visit other Irish cities near or far such as Dublin or you can head down south to Cork.

Use your rental car Galway to get to the Burren region and see the Burren National Park. The region is famous for its limestone landscape. The Cliffs of Maher is a must when in the region, as well as the 13th century monastery, Corcomroe Abbey, which is still mainly intact.

Using a car hire Galway gives you the advantage of not being restricted by public transport. It also lets you get out of the city and explore the wonderful city of Galway - with a few clicks you can have your ideal car rental Galway booked.