Better than Dublin? According to the Irish Star, that’s what some tourists are raving about after their recent trip to one of Ireland’s biggest surprises.
If you have had the chance to visit Dublin before, you’ve likely been in the midst of the city’s bustle.
You know…people scurrying around trying to make it to work on time and all the usual sights, sounds, and aromas of the world’s iconic metropolises.
While there aren’t many household names in Ireland from a global perspective, recent travelers have nothing but glowing things to say about the coastal charm, authentic nature, laid-back vibes for pub-hopping, and buzzing arts and music scene of this underrated getaway.
Not to mention, there are postcard-worthy castles to visit speckled throughout the county.
Sure, you could cap off summer with an epic trip, or you can patiently wait ’til fall rolls around.
That’s when this coastal gem really shines with fun-filled festivals and fewer crowds before the winter chills make the vibrant city of Galway far less desirable until the spring sunshine arrives.
Dublin In Decline: Unveiling Ireland’s Bright Spot
Ireland is truly a bucket list destination for travelers, though 2025 hasn’t exactly been peaches and cream for what’s normally one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations.
A recent report claims Ireland’s tourism is at a ‘tipping point’, but that doesn’t seem to be deterring travelers from visiting such places as Galway.
Dublin, however, is another story…
We at Travel Off Path actually covered Dublin’s lack of appeal earlier this year, largely due to skyrocketing prices, especially in terms of airfare.
The irony being Dublin is home to perhaps Europe’s most popular (for better or worse) budget airline, Ryanair.
However, those hesitant to cross Ireland off their travel wishlist right now shouldn’t be deterred. There are multiple Irish airports to fly into from the U.S, including nearby Shannon, where you can catch a $10 bus ride into the city.
Best of all, you can tackle Galway on a budget while Dublin figures out how to better approach 2026.
Ireland’s Liveliest City
Somehow, Galway has mastered being both laid-back and lively at the same time, with captivating Boho vibes and music echoing from seemingly every corner in the heart of town.
Galway is known for buskers. You’ve probably seen them in America from time to time, but our culture doesn’t always embrace them as Galway does, where it’s totally normal to see street performers with Euros overflowing open guitar cases.
All while New York’s subway stations seem to only welcome rats…
Buskers are the backbone of Galway’s entertainment, even standing outside in the fall’s nippy air, belting out their favorite tunes, both Irish hits and indie rock.
There’s no need for festivals here, though the city’s event calendar is packed throughout the fall.
Quay Street is one of the best spots to take in live music for free (but sparing a few bucks is encouraged).
Of course, it’s no trip to anywhere in Ireland without snagging a barstool at an old-timey pub and gracing your lips with a pint of Guinness.
Pubs are plentiful here and a great way to mingle with friendly locals, happy to welcome you to their highly underrated hometown.
Here are a few of Travel Off Path’s favorites for both Guinness and music:
Swap Coastlines For Castles: Fulfill Your Fairytale Dreams
Galway is one of Ireland’s most beautiful coastal destinations. In fact, you might be surprised to know Galway is home to a pair of Blue Flag-certified beaches.
The downside is that the window for summer sun is dwindling fast! Fall brings chilly weather, not suitable for what you’d picture for an ideal beach day, though the views are stunning year-round, especially the Cliffs of Moher.
Instead, pack a jacket and fulfill your fairytale dreams. There are countless castles to visit on the outskirts of the city, many of which will be backdropped with a natural curtain of lush, beaming tree lines displaying vibrant autumn hues.
According to TripAdvisor, these are the top 5 castles to visit in Galway in 2025:
- Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden (pictured above)
- Aughnanure Castle
- Portumna Castle
- Clifden Castle
- Dungaire Castle
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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