13 Best Shopping in County Clare, Galway, and the Aran Islands, Ireland

Take extra time to leaf through this treasure trove of literature. Heaving with 10,000 publications, the flagship store has new, discounted, and out-of-print titles, and an unrivaled range of Irish-interest books. Check in on Saturday for good old children's storytelling sessions.

Ceramics by Judy Greene—a local potter specializing in hand-thrown ceramics depicting landscapes and Irish flora---as well as handmade jewelry and knitwear can be found in this two-story store in atmospheric Kirwan's Lane.

Together, Seamus and Kevin Sheridan know all of Ireland's artisanal-cheese makers personally and stock the widest possible range of delectable cheeses in their aromatic store to the rear of St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church. Italian charcuterie and home-branded chutneys along with the fine selection from the wineshop upstairs will complete your picnic.

The candles, body-care products, and perfumes stocked here are produced in nearby Spiddal by dedicated artisans.

Phyllis MacNamara's cute two-story boutique is filled with an irresistible selection of antique jewelry (real and costume) and collectibles for men and women. A selection of jewelry from local goldsmiths is also available.

The choicest selection of Irish-made sweaters can be found here, and all competitively priced.

A factory outlet on the city's ring road, Galway Irish Crystal sells hand-cut Irish glass, Belleek pottery, and other fine porcelain.

A display case of the craft of Irish luthiers, this lovely old-world shop stocks acoustic stringed instruments and some wind instruments, including Irish handmade uilleann pipes, Irish bouzoukis and, more tempting for the traveler, pocket-size tin whistles.

Synonymous with good modern design in Ireland, the Kilkenny Shop stocks the best ceramics, crystal, leatherware, clothing, and other craft items from around the country.

This large, long-established deli on Galway's main street has a large selection of Irish and international specialist foods including home baking, wine, local confectionery, charcuterie, homemade jams and preserves, and farmhouse cheeses. Light snacks are served in the second-floor café.

O'Máille's is popular for its selection of Aran sweaters and handwoven tweeds.

Dating from 1750, Thomas Dillon's claims to be the original maker of Galway's famous claddagh ring. In the back of the crimson shop the Claddagh Ring Museum has a small but interesting display of antique claddagh rings and old Galway memorabilia.