Overview
Galway's central square, officially named John F. Kennedy Memorial Park. President Kennedy visited Galway in June 1963 and was made an honorary citizen — after his assassination, the square was rededicated to him. Flags of the 14 ruling 'tribes' of Galway always fly here, alongside a Kennedy memorial fountain and a Galway hooker boat sculpture. The square hosts the Galway Christmas Market each December — one of Ireland's largest — and serves as the official venue for the July Galway Arts Festival. Famous pubs like the Skeff Bar and The Front Door and hotels cluster around the square. Free entry. 1-minute walk from Galway train station.
Opening Hours
Open 24 hours
Travel Tips
The December Christmas Market is the liveliest time. The Skeff Bar on the square preserves a Victorian-era atmosphere.
Hotels near Eyre Square
Hotels and guesthouses in Galway, City Centre, Galway
Other attractions in Galway
Cliffs of Moher
Atlantic-facing cliffs over 200 m high - Ireland's most stunning natural landscape.
Aran Islands
Atlantic limestone islands where Gaelic language and traditional culture still thrive.
Galway Latin Quarter
A charming district of cosy shops and pubs at the heart of Galway.
Spanish Arch
The last remnant of Galway's medieval walls (built 1584) — a riverside gathering spot.
Galway Cathedral
Ireland's last great stone cathedral, completed in 1965 — a Renaissance dome with Byzantine mosaics.
Salthill Promenade
A 2km seafront promenade along Galway Bay — sunsets and views of the oyster beds.
Connemara National Park
Wild bog, mountains, and lakes — the rugged landscape of Ireland's west.