Hi Leo, only getting to this now.
So Galway is a small city on the west coast. Big student and artist population. Recent times have eroded some of the bohemian vibe but it remains one of the most culturally Gaelic parts of the country. Festival 'season' kicks off this month and runs more less till Christmas. Cúirt is on during April, a week of lit events, mix of Irish and international authors doing events all over town in pubs, theatres, etc. The
programme is usually quite good and cheap.
The city itself is compact so you needn't worry about getting around or occupying yourself during the afternoons. There is plenty of shopping outside of generic high street if that's your thing. Recommend
Charlie Bynre's books for whiling away an afternoon. Whatever the weather, walking out the seafront promenade to Salthill village is a must and one of the best things about home,
Galway is much more affordable than Dublin. You certainly can spend money if you want but day to day it wont burn a hole in your pocket.For lunch,
Lighthouse Cafe and
TGO are doing great things.
Tigh Neachtain is a
local institution. 100 year old pub with great history and the real deal. Worth it for the drinks and atmosphere alone. They also do a great lunch or in the evenings there is a quality dinner menu upstairs in the
Kasbah. Besides that
Ard Bia and
Kai are uniquely west of Ireland restaurants and among the best in town. If you're very into food and spending serious money on it,
Loam and
Aniar are one off experiences.
In the evenings check out
The Universal for top notch drinks and dinner. This is over the bridge down 'the west' part of town where there is a better atmosphere and selection of pubs. Where the locals drink basically. A few doors down is the Crane bar if you want to check out an authentic traditional music session while here. Also around the corner is Bierhaus with the best selection of beers, ales, stouts and whatever else in town. On the grill they do great sandwiches. This place is laid back and very popular with university staff more so than students so there is a chance you might end up there some evening. I'm resident DJ too which is a bonus. In terms of night life and entertainment Id say just go with the flow around town and can't really go wrong. I know GZA is doing Liquid Swords on Saturday 6th though you are hardly making such plans!
Just beyond the city to the west is the Connemara region. It is definitely worth a day exploring but only if you do rent a car. Tbh train from the airport is one of the nicest ways to see the country and a lot better than going from Dublin to Galway on a dreary motorway. That's my preferences but up to yourself. Anything else, let me know.