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Life as an International Student in Cities in Ireland

As an international student the life in Ireland in second to none and one that you would want to experience yourself. Ireland’s landscape apart from the rugged mountains and dramatic cliffs are made up of lush greenery and rolling hills which are mostly forested, which is why it’s called the Emerald Isle. 

The grass, plants, and trees are kept green and blooming because Ireland receives a lot of rain every year. We would be looking at the list of cities in Ireland like Dublin, Galway, Limerick, and Cork. Here are the list of best Irish cities for work and study:

1. Dublin

Population 

Dublin is the capital and largest city of Ireland. At the 2016 census it had a population of 1,173,179, while the preliminary results of the 2022 census recorded that County Dublin as a whole had a population of 1,450,701, and that the population of the Greater Dublin Area was over 2 million, or roughly 40% of the Republic of Ireland's total population. 

Famous Universities 

Dublin is a centre for education, arts and culture, administration, and industry. As of 2018, the city was listed by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network (GaWC) as a global city. Dublin is globally renowned as a student friendly city with top class facilities and historic surroundings.  

One of the best decisions you can make as an international student is to study in Ireland. We have quite several universities in Dublin: 

  • Trinity College Dublin 
  • National College Ireland  
  • University College Dublin  
  • Dublin City University 
  • Institute of Technology Blanchardstown 
  • Dublin Institute of Technology  
  • Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland  
  • National College of Art and Design  
  • Institute of Art, Design and Technology 
  • National University of Ireland 

Types of Accommodation 

The one question that every international student asks before they travel to Ireland is ‘What are the best options for student accommodation in Dublin?’. 

There are many options for student accommodation in Dublin – from homestay to on-campus and specialty-built student accommodation blocks. Each option has its pros and cons, and the best option for you will depend on your own personal needs. 

There are three main options for student accommodation in Dublin for international students: 

  • On-campus 
  • Student accommodation within walking distance 
  • DIFC arranged homestay 

Where to Visit During Study 

One of the biggest benefits of living in Dublin is the huge choice of world-class galleries, museums and cultural attractions located right on your doorstep. Dublin’s rich history and culture means you’ll never run out of interesting places to visit. Best of all, many of them are free. Below, we run through some of the best attractions in Dublin. 

The Book of Kells at Trinity College 

The Book of Kells is a 9th-century copy of the Gospels. It is spectacularly ornate, completely unique and impeccably preserved. During your visit, you’ll also pass-through Trinity College’s iconic Long Room Library – which is worth the trip alone. Right in the heart of Dublin, this attraction should be one of the first you tick off your list. 

The Guinness Storehouse 

Since 1759, the home of Guinness has been right here at St James’ Gate.  

During a visit to the Storehouse, you’ll find out how Guinness is made and discover the story of how it came to be one of the world’s most successful brands. You’ll finish off by tasting a pint of the black stuff while enjoying a 360-degree view of the city. 

The Jeanie Johnston 

Climb aboard The Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship and experience a remarkable voyage of despair, hope, endurance, and triumph against all odds. 

You’ll hear the tales of Irish emigrants who embarked on the treacherous journey across the Atlantic in the hopes of starting a new life. However, the beautiful Jeanie Johnston tall ship is unique because she never lost a single passenger or crew member. 

St. Patrick’s Cathedral 

This Church of Ireland cathedral is breathtakingly beautiful and historically significant. But it is also a place of worship – 800 years after it was originally built. 

Enjoy stunning architecture, vibrant stained-glass windows and grab a cup of coffee in the charming park attached. 

Dublin Castle 

Built on the site of an old Viking settlement back in the 13th century, Dublin Castle was once the seat of British rule in Ireland. Today it’s where Ireland’s presidents are inaugurated. 

Its sprawling buildings have seen centuries of victories and defeats, but it remains a stalwart feature upon the changing face of Dublin. The castle sits right in the heart of the city, but you could easily miss the entrance. You’ll find it just off Dame Street – one of Dublin’s busiest thoroughfares. 

Phoenix Park 

As Europe’s largest enclosed city park, the Phoenix Park provides an escape from the hustle bustle of city life. Even though it is only a short distance from the city centre. 

The park is home to a beautiful array of local flora and fauna, including a herd of fallow deer. Half of Ireland’s mammal species and 40% of its birds reside here too. Nestled within the park, you’ll also find key Dublin attractions like Dublin Zoo, Farmleigh Estate, the President’s House, and the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre. 

2. Galway 

Population 

Galway is a city in the West of Ireland, in the province of Connacht, which is the county town of County Galway. It lies on the River Corrib between Lough Corrib and Galway Bay and is the sixth most populous city on the island of Ireland and the fourth most populous in the Republic of Ireland, with a population at the 2022 census of 83,456.

Famous Universities 

One of the best decisions you can make as an international student is to study in Ireland. We have quite several universities in Galway: 

  • National University of Ireland  
  • Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology 
  • Galway Business School 
  • NUI Galway 
  • St Joseph’s Patrician College 

Types of Accommodation 

Are you looking for student accommodation in Galway? With so many young international students arriving to study each year in Galway, finding good accommodation can be a difficult and competitive task. There are accommodation options for international students in Galway: 

  • Student apartments for rent in Galway 
  • Student room for rent in Galway 
  • Student accommodation in Galway 
  • Apartments for rent in Galway city centre 
  • University residence in Galway 

Where to Visit During Study 

Galway can be described as a place where stunning natural landscapes are intertwined with ancient history, culture, and heritage. With an inordinate number of natural wonders and fascinating places to see, you’ll soon find that your biggest problem is that in your international student life, you simply haven’t enough time to see it all. Below is a list of categories detailing the best places to visit in and around Galway. 

Aillwee Cave 

Nestling unobtrusively within the Burren, and just 4 miles from Ballyvaughan, is the Aillwee Caves. These were discovered in the 1940’s by a local farmer while out flocking sheep. Remains of brown bears and indentations of the bear pits were discovered not far from the entrance. Located near Ballyvaughan, Aillwee Cave is still one of the few caves which has the features of the Clare underground, great caverns, stalactites, subterranean rivers, and is easily accessible to the public. 

Brigit’s Garden & Café 

Brigit’s Garden takes you on a journey through the sacred spiral of the seasons into the heart of Celtic mythology, folklore, and heritage. The extensive gardens span 5 hectares and consist of woodland and natural wildflower meadows. The visitor attraction is in Roscahill only 12 miles from Galway City, just off on the N59 Clifden Road. Brigit’s Garden is divided into four gardens representing each of the Celtic seasons of Samhain, Imbolc, Bealtaine and Lughnasa. Each gardens have its own special features such as basketwork swings, standing stones and flame figure sculptures, There is a nature trail, ogham trees, children’s discovery trail, playground with sandpit, living willow play area, an ancient ring fort (fairy fort), crannóg roundhouse, lily pond and the largest sundial in Ireland with unique calendar feature. 

Atlantaquaria (Galway Aquarium) 

Galway Atlantaquaria is the National Aquarium of Ireland and one of the West of Ireland’s premier attractions. It’s home to 170 marine and freshwater species. Visitors will have the chance to hold starfish or spiny spider crab in the palm of their hands, explore an underwater world in a model submarine or help feed hundreds of hungry fish and sea creatures. Other highlights include the display tanks of seahorses, stingrays, sharks, and an enormous skeleton of a Fin Whale. 

Arigna Mining Experience 

Arigna mines offer an in-depth insight into over 300 years of coal production. An exhibition space explains geological systems and runs through a history of energy production, before moving on to the workings behind renewable energy solutions. The café enjoys striking views of the surrounding area, while a neighbouring gift shop stocks a range of gifts from emblazoned hoodies to mine-ready torches. 

3. Limerick 

Population 

Limerick is a city in Ireland. It is located in the county of Limerick. The city’s population is 94,192, making it the third largest city in Ireland, falling only behind the cities of Dublin and Cork. The larger metro area has a population of over 162,000 people. In recent years, the population has declined in the central city. This has been attributed to migration following an economic collapse in 2008. 

Famous Universities 

One of the best decisions you can make as an international student is to study in Ireland. We have quite several universities in Limerick: 

  • University of Limerick 
  • Limerick Institute of Technology 
  • Mary Immaculate College 
  • Limerick School of Art and Design  
  • Thomond College of Education, Limerick 
  • Mid-West Business Institute 
  • Griffith College Limerick 

Where to Visit During Study 

Limerick, Ireland, is a unique city known for its vibrant atmosphere. International student will love the city as it houses the beautiful 13th-century riverside fort called the King John's Castle. They can explore this breathtaking site and take pictures. Aside from this, the city also features the Hunt Museum which houses various art and artifacts. Below is a list of categories detailing the best places to visit in and around Limerick. 

Cliffs of Moher  

As Ireland's top tourist destination the Cliffs of Moher rarely need an introduction. It's a truly awe-inspiring place to behold. Breathe in the fresh air 215m above the Atlantic Ocean as it rolls into the distance as far as the eye can see. When the sun sets on the horizon, it's as close as we can get to paradise.  The world famous Cliffs of Moher in Co.Clare. 1.5 hours bus drive from Limerick.  

Killarney National Park 

You haven't been to Ireland until you've been to Killarney National Park. A vast area carved by lakes and rivers dotted with hills, castles and waterfalls that is truly divine to see. Situated in Co. Kerry, 1.5 hours from Limerick.

Doolin Cave 

One of Irelands best kept secrets, Doolin Cave is so magnificent yet so underrated, its almost a tragedy. The only explanation is that the pictures don't do it justice. Located in the small traditional village of Doolin, the cave is home to an enormous Stalactite that hangs vertically from a limestone ceiling and looks to defy gravity with its apparent weightlessness. This naturally formed gigantic hanging rock is thousands of years old and is breathtaking to behold. Leave it out of your travel plans at your own loss. As Europe's biggest Stalactite and the world’s 3rd biggest, it should be on everyone's list of travel plans if they visit this region. 

The Aran Islands 

Home to the Red Bull cliff diving Championships, The Aran Islands are located off the coast of Co. Clare and Galway and consist of 3 beautiful Islands with unique topography and scenery to die for. Accessible by boat from Galway or from Doolin in Co.Clare, we highly recommended a visit if you wish to experience some great sea food, beautiful scenery, secluded beaches and friendly Irish locals. As one the Gaeltacht Regions of Ireland you will hear the melodic Irish language being spoken by the locals as you take in the fresh sea air and natural surroundings. Rent a bike and explore or simply put the feet up and admire the landscape with a good book.   

4. Cork 

Population 

Cork is the second largest city in Ireland and third largest city by population on the island of Ireland. It is located in the south-west of Ireland, in the province of Munster. Following an extension to the city's boundary in 2019, its population is over 222,000. 

Famous Universities 

One of the best decisions you can make as an international student is to study in Ireland. We have a few universities in Cork: 

  • University College Cork 
  • Cork English College 
  • Cork Institute of Technology 
  • National Maritime of Ireland   

Where to Visit During Study 

Cork is well known for its fantastic food scene and budget-friendly pubs. Located in the southwest of Ireland, the coastal city is filled with picturesque locations. It offers plenty of sights to dive into and explore the city's vibrant culture notably, the iconic Blarney Castle & Gardens and 18th century English food market. Below is a list of categories detailing the best places to visit in and around Cork. 

  • Bull Rock 
  • Dursey Island 
  • Whale watching in Cork 
  • Glengarriff Nature Reserve  

Let IDP Help You with Your study abroad plans to Ireland  

If you want to learn more about the universities in Ireland, don’t hesitate  Contact your IDP counsellor now and learn more about September intake in Ireland.  

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