Heading to the Network Ireland Businesswoman of the Year Awards? Here's Your Local Galway Guide
Both events offer a special celebration of connection, learning, and recognition, highlighting the incredible achievements of so many Irish women in 2026.
The conference kicks off in the morning at Dexcom Stadium, with keynote speakers, panels, lightning talks and exhibition stands. In the evening, the celebrations move to The Galmont Hotel for a four course meal, entertainment, and the awards ceremony.
If you're traveling to Galway especially for the event, you may be wondering where are the best spots to grab a coffee, enjoy lunch, or soak up the city's culture.
That's why we've put together an expert Galway mini-guide, so you'll have the inside scoop and can make the most out of your city-break weekend.
Where to grab a coffee
For a coffee to go, hot-spot Coffeewerk + Press is right in the heart of the city and known for it's gorgeous blends. Upstairs they have a beautiful design store worth popping your head into, thoughtfully curated by owner Daniel Ulrich.
For a coffee to go plus a delicious pastry to go with it, Magpie Bakery in The Cornstore is famous for its decadent, freshly-baked treats; from buttery croissants to fragrant pear danishes and vanilla creme buns.
If you'd like to slow down with your coffee and take a breather, Fairhill Coffee + Design has a lovely zen atmosphere and some perfect people-watching spots, whether it's at the tables outside or the cosy window seat upstairs.
To enjoy an over-due catch up with friends, have a casual meeting, or get stuck into some work, newcomer Korner Café has lots of tables and plenty of sockets for charging. They do an excellent matcha, too.
Where to have lunch
If you're looking for something quick and tasty, Álainn's açai bowls are a perfect light bite whipped up in no time and packed with fresh fruit.
For a quality, organic lunch with generous portions, iconic foodie spot Kai serves up lunch dishes that are full of flavourful, locally sourced ingredients. Their daily specials board is nothing short of magical.
Award winning restaurant Rúibín has stunning views, overlooking the docklands, and a beautiful menu designed with seasonal produce in mind. Perfect for a slow lunch with a glass of wine.
Veggies and vegans can't go wrong at Greenes & Co, with a 100% vegan and delightfully creative menu; think creamy eggless carbonara and sticky barbecue 'ribs'.
Where to experience the culture
September is a great month for exploring the rich culture that Galway has to offer, with lots of exhibitions and events – making it the perfect weekend to do some exploring after the awards!
Architecture at the Edge kicks off today, with a number of wonderful events taking place on Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th, from workshops to film screenings and artist talks. The full schedule can be viewed on their website.
John Rainey's exhibition at the Galway Arts Centre continues this weekend, with a striking collection of sculptures exploring form and material.
If you're willing to travel a little further out of the city, the Clifden Arts Festival will be in full swing with some truly amazing shows to be seen.
Galway City Museum is an ideal way to experience Galway's history up close. Aside from their usual collection, they'll also see an immersive traditional weaving demonstration on Saturday, with visitors both learning about the rich heritage of weaving and giving it a spin themselves.
And of course, a peaceful stroll along the Salthill promenade, a relaxed drink on the terrace of The Universal, or a pint in a cosy nook at The Crane will also give you a great taste of Galway's gorgeous local culture.
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