McSwiggin's Bar is a late-night dive bar in Eyre Square, Galway.
Editorially verified May 29, 2026 by Lewis Vaughan, TableJourney editor. Source.
Tip: The back room is the best place to find locals on a midweek evening; the GAA match Sundays are the most evocative occasions and the cheapest pint in the city centre.
Address: 3 Eyre Street, Galway, H91 E4T1
Lena's Rooftop on Crown Square at Joyce's Road is Galway's only rooftop bar; the elevated terrace above the city centre offers views over the rooftops.
Tip: Book the corner table for the best views; the Galway Bay Gin cocktail is the house signature and the terrace is heated in spring and autumn.
Cellar Bar on Eglinton Street operates from a historic below-street-level room; the Irish whiskey cocktail menu and music programme make it the most.
Tip: The bar is quieter before 22:00 on Thursday and Friday; Connemara Negroni is the house pour in the vaulted basement room.
Roisin Dubh on Upper Dominick Street is Galway's principal live-music venue; the 400-capacity room has launched or hosted every major Irish act since.
Tip: Buy tickets in advance for Saturday headliners; the downstairs bar is free entry on weeknights and runs a great craft tap list until 02:30.
The Crane Bar on Sea Road runs the most authentic trad sessions in Galway; the nightly music is played by working musicians rather than for-tourists.
Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before the session starts for a seat; the front bar is standing-room only after 22:00 on weekends and that is exactly how you want to experience it.
Monroe's Tavern on Upper Dominick Street stages live music every single night; the bill moves from trad through folk and into rock over the course.
Tip: Tuesday is the best trad night for musicians rather than tourists; Saturday has the largest crowd but also the most eclectic bill.
Lena's Rooftop on Crown Square at Joyce's Road is Galway's only rooftop bar; the elevated terrace above the city centre offers views over the rooftops.
Tip: Book the corner table for the best views; the Galway Bay Gin cocktail is the house signature and the terrace is heated in spring and autumn.
Cellar Bar on Eglinton Street operates from a historic below-street-level room; the Irish whiskey cocktail menu and music programme make it the most.
Tip: The bar is quieter before 22:00 on Thursday and Friday; Connemara Negroni is the house pour in the vaulted basement room.
Front Door Bar on High Street is Galway's most established LGBTQ-welcoming bar; the mixed crowd, occasional drag nights and no-dress-code policy make.
Tip: The Thursday-night events are community-run and free; Arts Festival week in July has the best programming of the year with themed LGBTQ nights and performance.
