Galway is a vibrant and bustling city on the West Coast of Ireland, known for its lively atmosphere, stunning scenery, and rich history and culture. One of the highlights of any visit to Galway is exploring its many unique shops, from traditional Irish crafts to high-end boutiques.
Best shops in Galway city and what makes them worth a visit
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best shops in Galway and what makes them worth a visit.
- Galway Market
Galway Market is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique shopping experience. Located in the heart of the city, the market features over 50 stalls selling everything from local crafts and jewelry to artisanal food and drink. The market is open every weekend and is a great place to sample some of the best local produce and products.
- Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop
For book lovers, Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop is a must-visit. This independent bookstore is one of the largest in Ireland and stocks a wide range of books, including rare and hard-to-find titles. With a cozy atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, Charlie Byrne’s is a great place to spend a lazy afternoon browsing the shelves.
- The Kilkenny Shop
The Kilkenny Shop is a high-end boutique located in the heart of Galway’s Latin Quarter. The shop features a range of Irish-made products, including fashion, jewelry, and home goods. With a focus on quality and craftsmanship, the Kilkenny Shop is a great place to find a unique souvenir or gift.
- Standun
For those interested in traditional Irish clothing and textiles, Standun is the place to go. This family-run business has been in operation for over 70 years and stocks a wide range of Irish-made clothing and accessories, including Aran sweaters, tweed jackets, and hand-knit scarves. With friendly staff and a warm atmosphere, Standun is a great place to learn about Irish fashion and culture.
- The Claddagh Ring
The Claddagh Ring is a symbol of love, loyalty, and friendship that has been a part of Irish culture for centuries. For those looking to purchase a Claddagh ring, the Claddagh Ring Jewellers in Galway is the place to go. The shop has been in operation for over 60 years and stocks a wide range of Claddagh rings, as well as other Celtic jewelry.
- Thomas Dillon’s Claddagh Gold
Another great option for those interested in Claddagh jewelry is Thomas Dillon’s Claddagh Gold. This family-run business has been in operation for over 350 years and is the oldest jeweler in Ireland. The shop specializes in Claddagh rings and other traditional Irish jewelry, with a focus on quality and craftsmanship.
- Hazel Mountain Chocolate
For chocolate lovers, Hazel Mountain Chocolate is a must-visit. This artisanal chocolate maker produces small-batch, handmade chocolates using locally sourced ingredients. The shop features a range of chocolates, as well as hot chocolate and coffee drinks.
- DesignWorks Studio
DesignWorks Studio is a unique shop located in the heart of Galway’s Latin Quarter. The shop features a range of handmade products, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles. With a focus on sustainability and ethical production, DesignWorks Studio is a great place to find a unique and eco-friendly souvenir.
- Anthony Ryans
For those in need of new clothing, Anthony Ryans is the place to go. This department store stocks a wide range of clothing, including designer brands and Irish-made products. With friendly staff and a wide selection, Anthony Ryans is a great place to find a new outfit for any occasion.
Galway is a shopper’s paradise, with a wide range of unique shops and boutiques to suit any taste.
From traditional Irish crafts and Claddagh jewelry to high-end boutiques and artisanal chocolate, Galway has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a unique souvenir or a new outfit, these shops offer a glimpse into the vibrant culture and history of this beautiful city.
In addition to these shops, Galway is also home to a range of other shopping destinations, including large chain stores, malls, and shopping centers. For those looking for more familiar brands and products, the Galway Shopping Centre and the Eyre Square Shopping Centre are both great options.
One of the best things about shopping in Galway is the opportunity to support local businesses and artisans. Many of the shops in Galway city specialize in products that are made in Ireland, using traditional techniques and locally sourced materials. By shopping at these stores, you’re not only getting a unique and high-quality product, but you’re also supporting the local economy and helping to preserve Ireland’s rich cultural heritage.
Overall, shopping in Galway is a unique and rewarding experience that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for traditional Irish crafts, high-end fashion, or artisanal food and drink, Galway has it all. So next time you’re in the city, be sure to set aside some time to explore its many unique shops and boutiques, and discover the treasures that await you.
Considering Cliffs of Moher tour from Galway? Find out more about several tour companies that offer day trips from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher, each with their own unique itinerary and pricing. Some of the most popular tour operators include Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours, Lally Tours, and Galway Tour Company.
