Galway - City of Tribes

Galway is known as the City of Tribes. Video by the Galway Convention Bureau.

Galway is a UNESCO City of Film and is internationally recognised for its thriving arts, culture and festival scene. The city’s historic streets, colourful shopfronts, independent cafés, traditional pubs, live music and street performers create a distinctive atmosphere that makes Galway a memorable place to experience student life in Ireland.

At the heart of the city is the lively Latin Quarter, with its narrow streets and historic buildings leading towards the Spanish Arch and the River Corrib. Galway’s medieval character can still be seen throughout the city, while its contemporary cultural scene brings together Irish and international music, theatre, film, literature, dance and visual arts.

A City of Festivals

Galway has a year-round programme of festivals and cultural events, with the city particularly vibrant during the summer months. July is a highlight, with major events including the Galway Film Fleadh and Galway International Arts Festival, attracting artists, filmmakers and audiences from Ireland and around the world. The Galway Races also take place in July, bringing a unique combination of sport, entertainment and Irish culture to the city.

The city’s busy cultural calendar makes it an exciting place for international students to explore Irish culture and experience life beyond the classroom.

A City Made for Exploring

Galway is a compact and walkable city, making it easy to explore its streets, historic landmarks, shops, cafés, galleries and music venues. From the Spanish Arch and Galway City Museum to Eyre Square and the vibrant streets of the Latin Quarter, there is plenty to discover within the city centre.

The city is also an ideal base for discovering the spectacular landscapes of the west of Ireland. The Wild Atlantic Way, Connemara and Galway Bay are all within easy reach, offering opportunities for hiking, cycling, kayaking, sightseeing and experiencing Ireland’s unique coastal and rural landscapes.

The University of Galway campus is at the heart of Galway City, just a short ten minute walk to the city centre.

Connemara

Just west of Galway City lies Connemara, one of Ireland’s most spectacular regions, renowned for its rugged mountains, Atlantic coastline, lakes and traditional Irish-speaking communities.

Connemara offers students the opportunity to experience a different side of Ireland, with its distinctive landscape, culture and strong connection to the Irish language. The Irish Language Summer School is based in Áras Mháirtín Uí Chadhain in An Cheathrú Rua, in the heart of Connemara, approximately one hour from Galway City.

Useful Websites

Discover Ireland – Galway 

Visit Galway

Galway Tourism

What's on in Galway