If you didn’t already know, Christmas Markets are becoming kind of a big thing in Ireland, with lots of great markets to choose from across the island. Being one of the most bustling cities, having just been named “fourth best city in the world to visit” by Lonely Planet, Galway triumphs as one of the top spots for Christmas festivities.

The 2019 Christmas Market is the tenth year of the market in Galway, awaiting visitors with a wide variety of entertainment. With more than 50 wooden chalets located at Eyre Square in Galway City centre, the market will be host to Santa’s Grotto, the German Bier Keller and numerous other stalls and activities throughout the four-week fair.

Even without the Christmas Markets, Galway has much to offer during the festive season. Expect blankets of fairy lights hanging above the streets and the usual cosy pubs enhanced with the addition of Christmas trees and, in some cases, roaring fires.

Thinking of visiting Galway this Christmas for last minute shopping ideas and to see what else the city has to offer? We put together a list of the top things to do and see while visiting Galway this Christmas.

Top things to do while visiting Galway City and its Christmas Market in 2019

The View Wheel’s VIP Experience

The big wheel is back this year along with an extra VIP experience. Hop onto the Ferris Wheel and witness the stunning sights above Eyre Square. Looking to treat that special someone or take the family on a special ride? The VIP package will be priced at €50 for four people and will include 25 minutes in the VIP Christmas gondola, a bottle of Prosecco, a box of chocolates and fluffy blankets to keep warm.

Ticket info: For those, choosing not to go for the VIP experience, general tickets are €5, and €4 for under 14s. Family tickets (two adults and two children) are priced at €15. Visit the View Wheel on Facebook to check for availability.

Indulge in Delicious Food and Drinks at the Festive Market

Of course, like in most Christmas Markets, in Galway you will find an abundance of stalls with a selection of food and drinks.

We recommend rambling around to see what tickles your fancy, as there will be lots of different types of cuisines from all around the world to suit all taste buds. Whether its French pastries, pretzels and confectionery, Belgian waffles, handmade Italian chocolates, Czech chimney cakes or Irish fudge – you will be spoilt for choice!

For drink lovers we recommend a visit to The Galway Beer Tent at Eyre Square where you can enjoy some local Irish beers, the Après Ski Bar offering a wide range of traditional fine German Beers or perhaps even a pint in the ever-popular Bier Keller.

Irish & European Gift Ideas

Looking for a unique Christmas gift? Look no further than the Galway Christmas Market! Not different from previous years, the 2019 market will boast large number of stalls featuring artisan Christmas gifts and foods from local and European traders alike. Here you will find the ideal stocking fillers on offer including wooden toys, ceramics, jewelry and more.

A Visit to Santa’s Grotto

Would Christmas be Christmas without a visit to Santa’s Grotto? Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves will be welcoming their visitors to Eyre Square. Run by local charities, a visit to Santa’s Grotto will see you get on the nice list! Families and children will love their Santa photo and surprise gift! A wonderful memory for the whole family.

Nothing shows the success of an event more than the number of people who decide to join and enjoy themselves with friends and family. Galway’s Christmas Market attracted over 650,000 visitors last year with similarly high numbers expected in 2019. Join the fun, attend the markets between Friday 15th of November and Sunday 22nd of December in 2019.

Travelodge Galway

If you are thinking of traveling to Galway this Christmas for festive fun and cheer, be sure to book your stay in advance at Galway’s newest Hotel, which has just been refurbished in 2018. Located minutes from Eyre Square - Travelodge Plus Galway city boasts brand new standard along with the option to upgrade to SuperRooms. Stay cosy with a choice of firm or soft hypoallergenic pillows, blackout curtains and mood lighting for a restful night’s sleep. To help you wake up refreshed all our SuperRooms feature a Hansgrohe Raindance 3jet adjustable shower and a Lavazza A Modo Mio fresh capsule coffee machine. All of this combined with a stylish new room design makes this the ideal choice for Hotels near Eyre Square.

Rooms available from €99.

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Read about things to do in Galway City