It’s almost that time of year when everyone’s favourite question is creeping into the conversation again.. so what is Santy bringing ye for Christmas?
Christmas music is playing in the shops, the decorations are being installed, and most importantly, the Christmas markets are coming to towns across Ireland. We love the hustle and bustle these markets bring at Christmas time, with the beautifully crafted gift options and festive appetisers to keep us all jolly. We have compiled a list of the best markets to visit during the holiday season to get you right in the Christmas spirit!
Coming in at number 1 is the Galway Christmas market! Close to our hearts and in the City of Tribes, the Galway Christmas market is back to bring its beautiful sparkle from 6pm on Friday, 11th November, until Thursday, 22nd December 2022.
This will be the thirteenth year of the market in Galway. Visitors can enjoy various stalls in Eyre Square along with amusement rides, including a 32-metre-high Ferris Wheel and Santa’s Express Train! Enjoy a magical walk through the enchanted light gardens with friends and family, which can make for the perfect insta photo!
The 2022 Market will also feature Christmas gift ideas from local and European traders.
Looking to get to the Galway Markets this year? We have daily services up to every 30 minutes from Dublin Airport and Dublin City to Galway!
Every year, Glow Cork transforms Bishop Lucey Park into an enchanting Christmas festival in the centre of Cork city. This year Glow runs from November 25th – January 8th. Here you will find Santa’s magical workshop deep within a winter wonderland. Here, Santa’s elves prepare him for his busiest night of the year, delivering presents to the world! But, before you go, get the kids to write their Santa letter before going so they can post it in Glow’s letterbox when you get there.
If you plan on making the family trip to Glow Cork from Galway or Dublin, you can travel with Irish Citylink or Gobus!
3. Dublin Castle Christmas Market
At number 3, we have the Dublin Castle Christmas Market! Making its return to the courtyard of the castle for the fourth time, the market will be filled with more than 30 traditional market stalls. A little bit different to other markets, this is a tickets market that only lasts the 13 days before Christmas! Each stall features an array of crafts and gift ideas for treating your loved ones with some unique gifts. Not to mention the food and drinks stalls that will have some delicious festive goodies on offer! So let your inner child roam free and enjoy the light displays and fun fair with a vintage carousel.
Don’t miss out on the festive fun! Book your journey NOW at Irish Citylink or Gobus to any of these amazing destinations over the Christmas holiday season!
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Double, double toil and trouble; Fire burn, and cauldron bubble!
The air is getting crisper, the leaves are getting crunchier, and pumpkin-spiced lattes are back in town. All of this means one important thing… Spooky Season is upon us! As the land of myths and legends, Halloween is a tradition that has been celebrated in Ireland for well over a thousand years.
Which got us wondering… what exactly are the origins of Halloween? Although wildly popular in America (as one of the best nights of the year), Halloween is filled with street decorations, on people’s houses and costumed kids running around. Some might think it came from Mexico’s Day of the Dead. However, the festival of Halloween actually originated in Ireland as a pagan festival called Samhain (pronounced saw-when). This was when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts before welcoming the darker months of the year.
In modern times though, Ireland is very similar to America in the tradition of good old trick or treating, not to mention the barmbrack tradition, bopping for apples and fireworks! Since this Halloween is the first without social distancing in two years, we imagine everyone will only be itching to get out and have some spooky-filled fun.
We’ve done you the favour of finding some of the best Halloween-themed events happening in Ireland over the next few weeks!
THE NIGHTMARE REALM – DUBLIN
At Number One is The Nightmare Realm, known for being the ‘Most Entertaining Horror Experience’ and even awarded ‘No.1 Haunt in the world!’
From humble beginningsin Tralee, Kerry, back in 2009, to now having its 7th year in the Big Smoke (Dublin City), The Nightmare Realm set out to terrorise the people of Ireland. Each year is different to the last as they redesign haunt themes and mazes, switch up characters and update their most infamous rooms! Nothing is ever the same as it once was. It’s innovative, entertaining and, most importantly.. absolutely terrifying!
Sounds like a bit of you? Check them out here for more information: The Nightmare Realm
Known for their infamous Halloween Parades, Macnas are up to something very different this year. Instead of roaming the streets of Galway, you can find them at Macnas HQ at Fisheries Field, Galway, where apparently an ancient giant named Con Mór lives! Professor Marjorie Morrigan, an expert in Giants & Where They Come From, has said – “This giant seems to have been here for centuries. There is a very large iron nose, so big and rusty, you could park a car in one of the nostrils.”
The word on the street is this big fella belongs to the legendary Tuatha De Danann tribe and comes from an ancient Island of Giants off the coast of Connaught. Con Mór was so famous across Ireland for his love of birds and nature that his friends called him The Bird King!
Perfect for the family and kids, or even those really big kids who just never knew how to grow up. You can see CON MÓR, The Giant, situated on the banks of the River Corrib from 12 noon on Saturday, 29th & Sunday, 30th October 2022. Keep an eye out and see if you catch the pop-up performances from the Macnas Drummers, Macnas Brass, Macnas Stilters and Macnas Youth Theatre across Galway city!
Travel from Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Ballinasloe, Athlone, Kinnegad and more! Check out our website for more details at citylink.ie
3. LIMERICK CIVID TRUST HAUNTED HALLOWEEN WALKING TOUR
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This year, the Limerick Civic Trust offers the opportunity to take a walking tour of Limerick’s haunted medieval quarter in St. Munchin’s Graveyard and Bishop’s Palace, Church Street, Kings Island. Hear about all the tales of Limerick’s ghastly past with tales of ghosts that are said to haunt The Bishop’s Palace and the area of King’s Island to this very day!
You’ll get to hear first-hand about the haunting experiences that the Limerick Civic Trust staff and volunteers have experienced in the building. The tour takes you all around these areas where terrible murders took place. Where ghosts that warn of impending death live, such as the Delmedge ghost that is said to haunt the area.
Due to the scary nature of the tour, apparently, participants are even asked to sign a waiver before partaking in the tour! Saying all those who manage to complete the tour will receive a certificate of completion will show just how brave you are.
Tours run every day from Wednesday, 25th October to Tuesday, 31st October, inclusive at 5 pm & 6 pm.
This year marks the awakening of a giant and beautiful beast. Coming out of her slumber and calling out to her legion of otherworldly night creatures to celebrate Samhain. The moment when our human world and the other world, the unseen world of shadows, coexist freely.
Welcoming its 17th year, the Dragon of Shandon Parade is the highlight of CCAL’s annual arts calendar. Working with local artists to create a cultural hub and provide a friendly and carnival atmosphere within the entire city on Halloween night.
Some of the groups already involved in this year’s parade so far are the Cope Foundation, National Learning Network, YMCA, Aisling Cap, Joan Denise School of Dance, Cork City Samba, Circus Factory, The Tribe Dance Academy, UCC Film and Screen Media, Aatma Indian Dance Troupe and many more.
It looks and sounds like it is NOT to be missed! For more information, click here: DRAGON OF THE SHANDON
Nothing beats the post Summer blues like a cheeky Autumn getaway to look forward to. There are many amazing destinations at our doorstep in Europe, waiting to be explored. Keep reading to find out about our Top 5 picks for an Autumn City Break in Europe.
Edinburgh
The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, is well known for its sovereign heritage, cobbled streets lined with historic facades, and is the 2nd most bicycle-friendly city in the world. The beautiful city’s historical and cultural attractions have made it the second-most visited destination in the UK!
Recognised as the capital of Scotland since at least the 15th century, Edinburgh is the seat of the Scottish Government, the Scottish Parliament and the highest courts in Scotland. The city’s Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarchy in Scotland, making it rich in history and artefacts.
You can fly to Edinburgh from all major airports in Ireland, including Cork Airport and Dublin Airport, served by Citylink Routes 251 and 761/763.
Some of the main attractions in Edinburgh include:
Arthurs Seat: An ancient volcano site in Edinburgh
Calton Hill: An exceptional viewpoint and site of many historical monuments
The Royal Mile: The walk from Holyroodhouse to Edinburgh Castle
Illusion Museum: A really cool spectral museum near Edinburgh Castle
Travel time from Dublin Airport is 1 hr 10 mins
Travel time from Cork Airport is 1hr 20 mins
2. Brussels
The capital of Belgium, Brussels, is home to the seat of the European Parliament and the Belgian Royal Family is a wonderland to visit. Walking through the streets, you’re met with incredible buildings and sites.
Brussels is known for its exquisite cuisine and beverages, including its local waffles, chocolate, french fries and its numerous types of beers.
As well as its historical and architectural landmarks; some of them registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. To top it all off, Brussels is a hub for rail, road and air traffic. Sometimes considered, together with Belgium, as the geographic, economic and cultural crossroads of Europe. Brussels will be beautiful in Autumn, with the evenings turning a bit colder and the leaves changing colour.
You can travel to Brussels from Dublin Airport daily, and it is well worth a weekend getaway.
Some things to see in Brussels:
The Royal Palace of Brussels – Seat of the Royal Family
European Commission/Parliament Buildings – Government buildings of the EU
Grand Place – Historic Square in Central Brussels
Mannekin Pis – Famous Bronze Statue in Brussels
Atomium – Museum, an art centre and a cultural place.
Travel time from Dublin Airport is 1hr 30 mins
3. Madrid
The capital of Spain, Madrid, lies on the River Manzanares in the central part of the Iberian Peninsula. Madrid is a hub of business and tourism in Spain, housing the headquarters of the UN’s World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the Ibero-American General Secretariat (SEGIB), the Organization of Ibero-American States (OEI), and the Public Interest Oversight Board (PIOB).
As well as Spain’s political capital, Madrid is Spain’s royal capital, with the Palacio Real (Royal Palace) situated in the centre of the city. Madrid is bursting with activities and sites, including the Buen Retiro Park, the Reina Sofia and Prado Museum. Enjoy amazing art museums, the Gran Via shopping district, and a thriving nightlife.
The autonomous region of Madrid also hosts cities like Toledo and Segovia, both sites oozing with history.
You can fly directly to Madrid from Dublin Airport, making it a very convenient city to travel to!
Some sites to see include:
Retiro Park – Huge park in the City Centre with 2 leisurely lakes
Gran Via – Shopping district in Madrid with many famous brand stores
Segovia – Medieval town in Madrid with a massive viaduct at the entrance of the town
Museums – The Reina Sofia and Prado are famous museums hosting artists like Picasso and Goya
Teatro Real – The Spanish Opera, hosting magnificent operatic art performances
Palacio Real – The Royal Palace of Spain and the city residence of the Spanish royal family
Travel time from Dublin Airport is 2hrs 30 mins
4. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is a world of culture, politics, media and science. It is Germany’s capital and largest city, bursting with a fascinating history. Not only that, but it is one of the most populous cities in Europe!
The city’s main features are the many lakes in the western and southeastern boroughs formed by the Spree, Havel, and Dahme rivers. Due to its location in the European Plain, Berlin is influenced by a temperate seasonal climate. As a result, about one-third of the city’s area comprises forests, parks, gardens, rivers, canals and lakes.
The city has numerous orchestras, museums, and entertainment venues and hosts many sporting events. Its Zoological Garden is the most visited zoo in Europe and one of the most popular worldwide. The city is also well known for its festivals, diverse architecture, nightlife, contemporary arts and very high quality of living.
Things to do:
Brandenburg Gate – Grand classical archway and city divide
Reichstag Building – Historic, glass-domed home of Parliament
East Side Gallery – Section of Berlin Wall for street art
Memorial of the Murdered Jews of Europe – Columns commemorating the Holocaust
Checkpoint Charlie– Cold War and East/West border landmark
Museum Island – Art museum and Cathedral
Travel Time from Dublin Airport is 2hrs 20 Mins
5. Venice, Italy
Venice is a city in northeastern Italy and the capital of the Veneto region. It is situated on a group of 118 small islands separated by canals and linked by over 400 bridges. Venice was once a financial and maritime power during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. And a staging area for the Crusades and the Battle of Lepanto. During this period, it was also an important centre of commerce – especially for silk, grain, spices, and art from the 13th century to the end of the 17th.
The lagoon and a part of the city are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Parts of Venice are renowned for the beauty of their settings, architecture, and artwork. In addition, Venice is known for several important artistic movements – especially during the Renaissance period.
Although the city is facing some challenges (including an excessive number of tourists and problems caused by pollution), Venice remains a top-rated tourist destination. It has been ranked the most beautiful city in the world numerous times. It has been described by the Times Online as one of Europe’s most romantic cities and by The New York Times as “undoubtedly the most beautiful city built by man”.
Things to do:
Grand Canal – Canal, basilica and palace
Rialto Bridge – Ornate footbridge over the Grand Canal
St. Mark’s Square – Landmark basilica-dominated square
St. Mark’s Basilica – Landmark cathedral with gilded domes
Burano – Island of lace-making and colourful fishermen’s homes
Murano – Museo del Vetro and glass souvenirs
Bridge of Sighs – Iconic white-stone enclosed bridge
Flight time from Dublin Airport is 2 hrs 40 mins
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No matter where you decide to travel, you are guaranteed to find some delicious cuisine, historic landmarks, fantastic nightlife, beautiful scenery and much more!
Travelling to Dublin Airport? Travel in luxury with Citylink. Our coaches offer onboard toilets, Free WiFi, charging points, generous luggage allowances, comfortable seats and friendly and helpful drivers.
Have any queries about our services? All information about our services can be found on http://www.citylink.ie
It’s that time of year again – School’s back, and I’m sure all the students are super excited to get back to class and study for another year!
We’re living in a weird time – students are having a major struggle to get accommodation, and even transport is getting challenging to organize. School is either starting this week or in the coming days/weeks, and it’s a real stress point. Citylink proudly serves many towns and cities around the country, including major third-level institutes – for example, NUIG, University of Limerick, MTU, TUS, and ATU.
Citylink prides itself on the volume of services it provides to communities across Ireland. These volumes of services can make it easier for students who are going to commute to/from school this year.
We give students the option of regular services and offer a “10 Journey Ticket” on our Galway-Dublin Multi-Stop service (763). We are also delighted to announce that from Sunday, September 4th, 2022, we will be offering our BEST EVER DISCOUNTED FARES with discounts of up to 85% across ALL routes for Young Adult/Student Leap Card Holders.
Not to toot our own horn, but that’s pretty amazing!
To find out more about how YOU can avail of these amazing discounts, click here .
We want to ensure that young people have an affordable and reliable way to get to and from college, work, or social outings without breaking the bank! So, Irish Citylink & Gobus are giving THREE lucky Students/Young Adult Card Holders an ENTIRE year of free travel with a Golden Free Travel Card!
For a relatively small island, Ireland is blessed to have several airports for passengers to travel through. Each of the four provinces has at least one international airport, which makes Ireland a very well-connected country. In recent months, now that travel has returned to near normal, major airports across the world have seen delays and disruptions. However, cork Airport, Ireland’s second-largest airport, was ready to adapt and grow and is still expanding services, offering a lot of international routes.
Citylink proudly serves Cork Airport as part of the 251 Galway-Limerick-Cork Route, offering times to compliment outgoing and incoming flights. Our team recently took a trip down to Cork Airport to see how handy it is to get through the airport – From Door to Departures.
Citylink services pull up right outside the terminal building of Cork Airport. If the bus was any closer, it’d be on the tarmac with the plane! When you disembark the bus, you’re just a few metres away from the entrance to the building. Cork Airport is pretty compact. Everything is there for you as you walk through the main doors. You have your check-in desks in front of you, cafes and shops to the left, seating areas dotted along the building, and cool displays showing local bars and restaurants.
When you start making your way through the airport and get through security, it will literally take a couple of minutes to get from the front door to your departure gate (not including a stop in Duty-Free, mind you).
A trip through the airport is not complete until you spend some time in Duty-Free. When you get through security, you’ll find yourself in “The Loop.” Alcohol, perfumes, chocolates, and Clonakilty sausages and rashers are the perfect items to be shopping for before boarding your plane.
On our trip through the airport, we were amazed at how quick and convenient the airport was and how easy it was to navigate, which, for any traveler, is very reassuring.
The same can be said for inbound passengers to Cork Airport. You disembark the aircraft, and you’re nearly immediately at passport control. Once you’ve finished up there, you simply turn around the corner, and you’re at baggage claim! Before you know it, you’re passing through the doors to the arrivals lounge – back to where your journey through Cork Airport began.
Citylink offers 8 daily services to and 8 daily services from Cork Airport, bringing you to/from the airport’s front door.
Now that Cork Airport is adding more departures – including new routes to Rome and Newcastle, maybe a winter break is on the cards? We sure are tempted anyways!
At Citylink, we are proud to serve the region of Connemara. Clifden, Cleggan, Oughterard, Letterfrack – the list of stops along our 923 route are as beautiful as each other. Connemara is the perfect place for any visitor to experience the Wild Atlantic Way. It offers visitors some of the most scenic views and natural beauty you can find across Ireland. Places like Inishbofin Island, Clifden Town, Wildlands Adventures, and others provide top-notch experiences for anyone who finds themselves out in this beautiful part of Ireland.
We had the pleasure of filming and producing our brand new “Hidden Gems” ad campaign highlighting Citylink 923 Galway to Clifden/Cleggan route. With each diverse shot, you’ll be amazed by the stunning surroundings of the Wild Atlantic Coast. To coincide with this ad, we thought we’d run through some of the iconic landmarks featured in the clip that you just MUST Visit.
Known as one of the best pubs in Clifden and Voted Best Traditional Bar, Ireland 2019, 2018 & 2015, Lowry’s Bar is the perfect place for a bite to eat and a lovely pint. You will have a fantastic time with their amazing traditional style interior and charming staff. A special shout out to barman Damien, whose smile would brighten up any oul grumps day! Lowry’s Bar also has one of the most fascinating backstories we’ve ever heard, bringing a rich character to the place.
Lowry’s Bar Clifden has been in the Lowry family since 1949. At this time, Patrick Lowry, a Garda sergeant stationed in Donegal, decided to retire and move back home to his native Connemara. Upon his return, he decided to buy a pub. As chance would have it, a cousin of his was selling a pub in Clifden located at Market Street, then known as Connolly’s Bar.
So he bought the pub in Clifden, renamed it Lowry’s Bar, and sure the rest, as they say, is history! Patrick ran the business as not only a pub but a grocery as well. The grocery section was situated at the front, and the public house section was at the back. We can imagine that was very handy if you were tired after doing a day’s shopping! You could stop out the back to Lowrys Bar, where a well-poured Guinness would give you some strength for the walk home!
The most interesting part of Lowry’s history is the unique selling point of offering patrons the chance to cure a toothache! A dentist called Mr. John Bermingham operated his dental practice from a small room at the back of the pub. The story goes that patrons in Lowrys Bar would be sent out to have a sizeable Jameson after a visit to the dentist to numb any pain and, of course, settle the nerves. It’s no wonder it soon developed the reputation for being one of the best pubs in Clifden!
In 1977 Patrick’s niece Eilish and her husband Paul took ownership of Lowry’s Bar which they ran until Paul passed away in 2010. Paul was a natural in the pub, a particularly popular figure with all customers, locals, and visitors, and is sorely missed. Eilish is still involved in the pub but is now taking a well-deserved break from the business’s day-to-day running. Damien, the current owner, is the third generation of the family to own and run the pub. He hopes to emulate the great success of Patrick, Paul, and Eilish before him.
If you are looking for a place to stay while in Connemara, the Clifden Station House is the perfect base to explore the majestic beauty of Connemara.
The Clifden Station House is Galway’s most popular family hotel. Immersed in the heart of the Wild Atlantic way. The cosy modern hotel has many rooms to choose from, with double rooms, family rooms, junior suites, and deluxe double rooms available. As well as an indoor swimming pool, spa and free kids throughout the school holidays including movies shown in our own 200-seat theatre.
You can also indulge in their delicious gourmet dinners created for you by our award-winning Chef Pascal Marino. They have a fantastic 10% discount on their Gourmet Dining Breaks which are not to be missed. We treated ourselves to their stunning lunch menu at their Signal Bar & Restaurant, and we must Connemara seafood tastes divine!
Clifden Bookshop is one of the staple retail outlets in Clifden. Based on Main Street, this little gem is the perfect store to visit when you’re in the area.
The Clifden Bookshop opened in 1997. It is a niche business in the beautiful town of Clifden, known as the Capital of Connemara. When you walk through the door, you’re greeted by walls filled with gorgeous colourful books and the lovely smiling face of Nicole, the owner of Clifden Bookshop. They state, “Our mantra is that there is a book out there that is the key to unlocking a lifelong love of reading.” And have first-hand knowledge of their stock in their “Room with the Books.”
One of the very cool parts of Clifden Bookshop is you’ll see walls of familiar faces who have passed through the store over the past 25 years. You’re sure to find some inspiration here and a chance to chat about your most recently read books!
Cleggan is a beautiful seaside village right on the edge of Ireland. Cleggan is also the point for those wishing to travel to Inishbofin Island will catch the boat. When you arrive in Cleggan via Citylink, you’ll see the village has four bars Olivers, Joyces, Newmans, and The Pier Bar. One a grocer, a sit-down restaurant, and a seasonal take-out.
In addition to trips to the local islands, leisure activities for visitors include horseback riding and fishing.
We’d always recommend a trip out to Inishbofin Island – It’s the perfect place for a bike ride or a stroll. The lads at Inishbofin Ferries and the office staff are quick to recommend things to do or places to go for a bite on the island.
Last but not least, situated in the West of Ireland in County Galway, Connemara National Park covers some 2,000 hectares of scenic mountains, expanses of bogs, heaths, grasslands and woodlands. Some of the Park’s mountains, namely Benbaun, Bencullagh, Benbrack and Muckanaght, are part of the famous Twelve Bens or Beanna Beola range. Connemara National Park was established and opened to the public in 1980.
Much of the present Park lands formed part of the Kylemore Abbey Estate and the Letterfrack Industrial School, the remainder having been owned by private individuals. The southern part of the Park was at one time owned by Richard (Humanity Dick) Martin who helped to form the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals during the early 19th century. The Park lands are now wholly owned by the State and managed solely for National Park purpose.
The views here are absolutely breath taking and the hike will be sure to get those steps in!
Does this sound like the perfect weekend for you? Well then you are in luck! We are hosting a Weekend Giveaway for Connemara over on our Instagram page. Head there now to enter!
We understand that life is hectic and sometimes plans change. We here at Citylink want to make your experience as pleasant and seamless as possible.
A question we get asked a lot is “Can I change my booking?” and the answer is, yes! To help our customers have more flexibility and control over their travel plans customers can now amend their booking up to 3 times prior to the scheduled service departure time.
Conditions:
You can amend your booking with Citylink up to 30 minutes before a service departs its first stop
We are happy to change the time and date of your booking but we cannot change the destination.
How to manage your booking:
If you need help with amending your ticket, check out our handy video tutorial below.
Or check out our step by step guide below:
How to manage your booking:
When you go to our website www.citylink.ie, click “Manage my Booking” in the top right corner as seen below:
When you click on the “Manage My Booking” section the following page will appear:
Enter your booking reference number which can be found in your confirmation email, or if you chose to have your ticket text to your mobile, your booking reference number can also be found here. You will also need to enter the email you used to book your initial journey.
Once you have submitted these details, you can proceed to change the date and time of your booking. Your new ticket will be sent to your email.
Galway is one of those places that when the sun starts to shine, you just don’t want to be at home. You’d much rather be out and about, taking in the sights and sounds of everyone enjoying the summer sun. Galway has some iconic places to spend a summer evening like Spanish Arch, Eyre Square and Woodquay – all with stunning views and perfect for a cheeky drink.
Summers in Galway can be electric. You’ll see tourists and locals mixing with culture and music and there’s always so much to do. We’ve decided to give you guys an idea of how to best spend a summer night in Galway and make the most of the upcoming warm and sunny days.
Dinner in the Dean
The Dean, a recently opened hotspot, is one of those iconic landmarks in Galway. Situated just off of Eyre Square, sitting on their rooftop terrace on a warm day while you eat is idyllic. Acknowledged as “a slice of boutique bliss in the heart of Galway, one of Europe’s friendliest cities”, The Dean and their rooftop restaurant, Sophie’s will offer any visitor a high-class, spectacular dining experience while you take in the view of Galway City.
The Dean, Galway.
Swan Out To Salthill
It’s almost criminal to be in Galway on a warm summer day or evening and not venture out to Salthill. Salthill on a warm day is world-class – you may even think you were in Spain. Taking the 401 city bus from Galway and getting off near the church in Salthill, you’re only a stones throw away from the beach. There’s a lot of cool places to stop and grab a bite, a drink or a coffee in Salthill. O’Reilly’s Bar has a stunning rooftop veranda where you can have a chilled drink and look out to the ocean.
Head down towards Blackrock Diving Tower and you’ll arrive upon up to Jungle Café where you can get delicious coffee and treats which are just perfect for a warm summers evening while listening to the waves.
The Promenade, Salthill.
Booze in the Blue Note
Galway’s Westend is where it happens. There are so many cool bars, restaurants and cafes. The Blue Note is a staple of the Westend’s bar scene. Just on the corner of William Street, the Blue Note is a perfect place to continue your day out in Galway in the sunshine. Sit in their beer garden, which is a hub of activity in the evenings and weekends and listen to some great local music – we can’t think of a better way to chill out!
According to galwaywestend.ie, the philosophy of the Blue Note is “drinks are something to enjoy while you talk to friends, not something you talk about.”
The Blue Note, Wiliam Street.
Get A Load of GIAF
July in Galway is massive. From mid to end July, you’ll meet some of the finest talent and artists both local and international under the roof of Galway International Arts Festival. GIAF 2022 kicks off on July 11th and is the first full programmed festival since 2019. Have a pint and ice-cream at the Festival Garden in Eyre Square, take in a world-class music act at the Heineken Big Top or see one of the street acts – there’ll be plenty of music, art, theatre and performances for everyone to go and see.
As proud Friends of the Festival, Citylink will be giving away tickets to shows during the festival so be sure to check out @citylinkireland on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for your chance to win!
Satori and Unfolding, Galway International Arts Festival.
With the acquisition of GoBus, Irish Citylink will become one of the largest private land transport companies in Ireland.
Irish Citylink, a wholly owned subsidiary of ComfortDelGro group headquartered in Singapore, has successfully completed the purchase of GoBus from its present owners. The acquisition marks a significant step forward for the company in expanding its network throughout Ireland.
On reviewing the market to identify companies that offer an excellent level of service, it was imperative to choose a company whose values and reputation aligned with the core values and level of service Citylink is known for. GoBus epitomizes these values that are important to our company and passengers.
David Conway, Regional Director of Irish Citylink, commented, “Having navigated the challenges of COVID-19 and as we are rebuilding and expanding the range of services we offer to the traveling public, the addition of the GoBus network will enable us to provide significantly more options to both Citylink and GoBus customers. This enhanced network of services will encourage more people to travel via public transport and support our greater green agenda of moving towards a sustainable public transport network”.
The acquisition of GoBus fits into Citylink’s strategy to become the largest operator of intercity coach services in Ireland. GoBus’ convenient services and fleet of modern and comfortable coaches, alongside Citylink’s premium and reliable services, provide major opportunities for the company to become the largest intercity coach operator in Ireland.
When asked about the acquisition, Frances Cahill, General Manager of Irish Citylink, commented, “This is just the beginning – The acquisition of GoBus brings so many new opportunities to the business in terms of employment, funding for local sponsorships, and the services we can provide for our passengers. We are absolutely delighted to bring two reputable transport providers together to provide an expanded network of routes and an even better customer experience for our current and future passengers!”
The stories behind Irish Citylink and GoBus
Irish Citylink first began right in the heart of Galway almost 20 years ago. The company’s distinctive blue and yellow coaches have become synonymous with high-quality, reliable, and affordable coach travel. In the beginning, Citylink ran up to 12 daily services between Galway and Dublin. Since then, they have expanded their business and network of routes to over 100 daily direct, express, and multi-stop services across all routes. Over 150 people are employed in the provision of Irish Citylink’s services in Galway, Dublin, Limerick, and Cork.
GoBus was established in 2009 and operates frequent and flexible coach services across three main routes serving Galway, Dublin, Cork, and Ballina. GoBus prides itself on offering flexibility and the best in comfort and safety on board.
Pairing GoBus with Citylink’s mission to connect Ireland’s towns, cities, villages, and airports across the nation by providing reliable travel is both ambitious and vital. Particularly as the need for public transport increases each year.
Irish Citylink operates a range of services in Galway, Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Clifden, Loughrea, Athlone, Ballinasloe, and more. The company currently carry over 28,000 passengers per week across all routes which is forecasted to surpass 35,000 later this year. With these numbers in mind, it is clear that transport is an essential and vital service in today’s society. With this acquisition, Irish Citylink is determined to create a reality where transport is more accessible in Ireland than ever before!
For more information on how this acquisition will affect Irish Citylink and GoBus’ customers, please click here.
Galway is the fourth largest city in the Republic of Ireland and has one of the island’s most vibrant and diverse cultural scenes! From Art, music, and theatre to just the people you meet on the street, there is a reason Galway was voted the Capital of Culture in 2020. With many events happening here, it’s difficult to get bored. Especially during the summer months!
Citylink is proud to become a Friend of the Galway International Arts Festival this year as we appreciate how important the arts are for fostering creativity, empathy, and education. In July, GIAF invites world-class acts from all over the globe to the City of Tribes for two weeks of cultural extravagance! 2022 will be a particularly special year for the Festival as it will be the first full programme of events since Covid, and it’s set to be a big one!
In 2019, over 200 events took place in 30 venues for 14 days, with attendance above 260,000. The festival not only attracts the locals but people from all over the world travel to Galway for these two weeks as well. The Guardian has even named the Festival one of Europe’s Top 5 Summer Festivals.
Previous festival highlights include Medicine, Madness, Robert Plant, Joni Mitchell, Sam Jinks, Jenny Greene, Gavin James, Kodaline, St. Vincent, Burt Bacharach, Macy Grey, etc.
Lifestyle details, old retro room interior, a lot of various retro technology equipment and personal things.02/07/2019 repro free: Ahead of their Heineken Big Top headline show as part of the Galway International Arts Festival on Saturday 20 July, indie rock sensation The Academic popped down to Galway this week to play an intimate set in the Róisín Dubh.
The Westmeath school friends wowed audiences at GIAF 2018, when they played support to The Stunning at their unforgettable 2018 GIAF gig. Now one of Ireland’s biggest success stories, The Academic, is set to headline the Heineken Big Top on Saturday 20 July with support from Wild Youth.
Back with brand new music, their single SUPERLIKE could well be the soundtrack to this summer. It follows the release of their debut album Tales From The Backseat in 2018, which reached No1 in the Official Irish Album Charts, received a Choice Music Prize Nomination for album of the year and saw them enter the US Billboard Chart as well has being album of the week on BBC Radio 1.
The Academic
Heineken Big Top
8.30pm Saturday 20 July
Tickets 35
https://www.giaf.ie/festival/event/the-academic
THE ACADEMIC will play the Heineken Big Top as part of Galway International Arts Festival on Saturday 20 July with support from Wild Youth.
From Left Stephen Murtagh, Matthew Murtagh, Craig Fitzgerald and Dean Gavin. Photo:Andrew Downes,xposure
Some of the gigs and shows our team is looking forward to the most are:
The Academic:
Deservedly billed as “One of Ireland’s most exciting live acts,” the Academic is one of Ireland’s prolific rock bands, with several sold-out shows. They have also supported some huge acts like Twenty-One Pilots on tour! Some of their hits include “Bear Claws” and “Fake ID” – This is set to be one of the festival highlight shows, and they’re sure to rock the Big Top Tent!
“Middle Bedroom”:
This will be the ninth installment of “The Rooms” series by Tony Award-winning playwright Enda Walsh. Enda Walsh is a multi-award-winning Irish playwright who has had many shows in the festival over the years! Previous installments of this series include “A Girls Bedroom,” “Bathroom,” and “Kitchen.” This immersive theatre piece is held in Columban Hall, a unique venue in Galway. The “Rooms” series has toured to Washington and New York; most recently, five of the works were presented at the Barbican, London. This is definitely a must-see show.
“Remember”:
An art installation in the main gallery of the Festival. Ana Maria Pacheco is a Brazilian sculptor and artist. Recently exhibiting at the Galway International Arts Festival in 2017, pieces like The Longest Journey, Dark Night of the Soul, a masterpiece of myth and history, and a plethora of prints lined the gallery. Her exhibition was incredibly popular and drew a crowd to see the beautiful sculptures.
Orla Gartland:
Dublin-born singer-songwriter Orla Gartland began her career posting videos on Youtube in 2009. Skip to now, and she has amassed 24+ million total views. She has now gone on to have her music featured on the acclaimed Netflix series “Heartstopper,” which was released earlier this year. Orla’s indie pop/folk vibe is definitely going to create a fantastic atmosphere for the audience, and we are super excited to go!
Druid Debuts 2022:
This is undoubtedly one of the biggest highlights of the Galway theatre and culture scene. Druid Debuts is an event of rehearsed readings that takes place annually and showcases some of their “New Writing Programme submissions.” Each summer, the selected playwrights are provided with professional support, a director, a cast, and space to develop their script to a rehearsed reading level. After the reading, audience feedback is invited as a means of further development.
