CityBuddy
Shambles Market
Best time to visit
Mornings on Saturdays offer the freshest picks and smaller crowds, making it easier to chat with vendors and enjoy the vibe.
Budget tips
Entry is free; bring cash for the best deals and to avoid card fees. Early birds often snag discounts on fresh goods just before closing.
Recommended for
Food lovers, Local culture enthusiasts, Casual shoppers, Photographers
Plan your visit
1-2 hours
About
Quick facts: Shambles Market chants with the chatter of over 60 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisan crafts. Local flavors and vibrant colors collide, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate every market day.
Highlights: Rows of striped awnings shelter the stalls, creating a canopy of color and a lively atmosphere where the aroma of homemade pies and fresh baked goods fills the air. Regulars know to look out for the legendary black pudding stand, which has been a crowd favorite for decades.
Insider tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and standing on cobbled streets.
- Arrive early to catch the freshest produce and avoid peak crowds.
- Camera ready: the colorful stalls and bustling scenes make for great photos.
- Skip weekends if you prefer quieter shopping, as Saturdays are busiest.
Have you heard of free walking tours?
After traveling to 30+ countries, there's one thing I wish someone had told me from day one, and it completely changed how I experience new cities.
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
100% tip-based
Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best
You tip what feels right
At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right
I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Ballinasloe, Ireland, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
