Galway - The Capital of the West
Galway is a thriving, cosmopolitan and diverse medieval city that makes its way into the heart of everyone who visits. There’s something magical about Galway - from its charming, winding cobblestone streets, to its eclectic mix of residents. Ask people how they ended up living here and they’ll tell you they visited for a weekend, and decided to stay - an age old story in the city of the tribes.
Steeped in a long and rich history that’s evident at the turn of every charming street, Galway has managed to retain that sense of history, while riding the wave of progression effortlessly and with style, to become an international centre of cultural and business excellence.
The Culture Capital of Ireland
The number one reason people love Galway? Its’ lifestyle. Imagine cycling home from a satisfying day at work, having a swim in the Atlantic ocean, or a refreshing walk along the promenade, having a bite to eat in one of the city’s excellent restaurants or bistros, then catching an internationally-acclaimed play and being home by 10pm? Just another day in Galway.
Galway People
Galway loves people - all people, from everywhere. With a population of 150,000, almost one fifth of Galwegians were born somewhere else! The friendly, inclusive, open-minded and young population mean you’ll feel right at home in no time.
Play - Galway Style
Ease of living with excellent bars, restaurants and cafes, with an unmistakable vibrancy that’s special to Galway alone, make it one of the most desired cities in Europe to live. With two Michelin-starred restaurants and a host of other high end restaurants, those who enjoy experiential dining will love this city. Casual dining has always been a firm favourite among the more laid back of the population, and with excellent quality, locally-sourced ingredients in most restaurants, the food lover is spoilt for choice.
The social scene in Galway is one to behold...nobody enjoys themselves like the people of Galway do. From impromptu trad sessions in cosy pubs to street entertainment and the extraordinary upbeat vibe on the streets of the city, there’s always ‘craic’ to be had.
Festivals in Galway
Year-round festivals make Galway the festival capital of Ireland, and annual events such as the Galway International Arts Festival, the Galway Races and Cuirt Festival of Literature mean the city is never short of a celebration.
Working in Galway
Galway is leading tech hub in Ireland outside of Dublin, working on a global level with some of the world’s top tech companies. So we’re in good company! Also a centre of excellence for the biotech, medtech and ICT sectors, Galway is home to global leaders Boston Scientific, Medtronic, Creganna, SAP, EA Games, Oracle, HP and Zenimax. People want to live here, people want to work here.
Education
These companies enjoy the talent pool created by Galway’s bright, dynamic student population who flock to its premier third-level colleges. The National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG) boasts world-leading learning clusters such as the Digital Enterprise Research Institute (DERI) and the Huston School of Film and Digital Media. On the other side of the River Corrib, the Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT) is home to the Centre for Creative Arts and Media (CCAM) and the leading-edge Innovation in Business Centre (IBiC) ...lots of places to learn when you are not doing a free course on Alison!
Connemara
Wild, rugged and extraordinarily beautiful, Connemara is a retreat of stunning scenery, adventure and activities. Culture and outdoor enthusiasts are equally captivated by this magical area – one of Ireland’s Gaeltachts where the Irish language thrives. A short drive from the city, it is one of Europe’s best locations for water sports.
Wild Atlantic Way
If it's adventure, the most stunning scenery you’ll ever encounter and a love for all things unspoilt you’re after, you’ll find it all along the Wild Atlantic Way. Winding its way through the beautiful landscape that is the west of Ireland, the wild, rugged, unspoilt and staggering beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way allows you to journey from the very south of the country in Co Cork to the tip of the island in Donegal to experience the true, untamed soul of Ireland.
Accessibility
Galway is located within easy driving distance of both Ireland West Airport Knock and Shannon Airport, and it has excellent road and rail links to Dublin, Ireland’s capital city.
Find out More!
Read more on the latest about Galway and why it has been voted the most friendliest city in the world:
The Irish Times
RSVP Magazine
The Galway Independent
New York Times
