Galway Nightlife – Clubs, Bars & Nightlife Tips

Galway has endless possibilities when it comes to bars, pubs, and nightclubs. You’ll find quiet spots to relax, places with traditional Irish music and storytelling, and clubs for dancing.

You'll find the best clubs in Salthill, a posh suburb near the water, just outside Galway. Most locals go to a pub first and then continue to Salthill later. The Alley is the premier club in Galway. The GPO is the other big nightclub in Galway with music more "indie" than in the Alley. Floor waives the cover charge before 10 PM. The music is good and the club is definitely a lot of fun. The crowd at Quays is largely, but not exclusively, college students and under-35s. There's a cover charge, but it was well worth it.

Monroe's Tavern features traditional Irish music seven nights a week. Check out M.T. Pockets for a cozy night with an older crowd. The King's Head has live music and a good atmosphere. Despite being a tourist magnet, An Pucan is a lively bar. There is a small stage for traditional bands in the rear, but most of the activity is at the bar itself in the front. If you must have traditional Irish music at its best, try the Western Hotel. As one traveler put it – “This isn't a touristy show, but rather great Irish musicians playing mainly for themselves, a great find!” The Cottage Bar plays traditional Irish music most nights. Someone called it the Bermuda Triangle saying, “once you’re in, you may never find your way out again.”

Editor's Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Galway nightlife.