Galway , Ireland

81

Galway is a compact Atlantic city where medieval lanes meet student energy and ocean light. Most of daily life fits easily within a stroll between the River Corrib and Galway Bay, with pubs, markets, and music woven into the streets. On stormy days the wind off the Prom reminds you you’re living on the very edge of Europe.

Est. monthly cost €2,000 – €2,300
Overall score 81
Remote Workers Digital Nomads Car Free Living Retirees

Livability scores

  • Walkability 16 / 20
  • Rail Connectivity 10 / 15
  • Public Transit 6 / 10
  • Affordability 11 / 15
  • Safety 8 / 10
  • Air Quality 9 / 10
  • Quality Of Life 10 / 10
  • Food Culture 4 / 5
  • Car Free Practicality 7 / 5

Food guide

Galway’s food culture blends Atlantic seafood, traditional Irish comfort dishes, and an energetic modern bistro scene driven by small local producers. Creative chefs, casual pubs, and a thriving weekend market make it a standout stop along the Wild Atlantic Way for both travelers and long-term residents.

Signature dishes

  • Galway Bay OystersNative oysters from Galway Bay, typically served raw on the half shell with lemon or simple mignonette.
  • Irish Seafood ChowderCreamy soup with mixed local fish, mussels, and potatoes, often served with brown soda bread.
  • Fish and ChipsFresh Atlantic white fish in crisp batter with chips, tartar sauce, and mushy peas in pubs and chip shops.
  • Irish StewHearty lamb or mutton stew with potatoes, carrots, and onions, a classic pub main across Galway.
  • BoxtyTraditional Irish potato pancake or dumpling, pan-fried and sometimes filled with seafood or bacon.
  • Brown Soda BreadDense wholemeal quick bread made with buttermilk and baking soda, served with soups and seafood.
  • Smoked Atlantic SalmonLocally smoked salmon, often served with brown bread, butter, and lemon as a starter or light meal.

Where to eat

  • Galway Market (St Nicholas’ Market) street marketCompact weekend market near St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church with local produce, baked goods, and hot street food.
  • Kai modern Irish bistroSeasonal farm-to-table restaurant on Sea Road known for creative use of local seafood and produce.
  • The Dough Bros casual pizzeriaLaid-back city-centre spot serving wood-fired pizzas topped with Irish ingredients, popular with locals and visitors.
  • Magpie Bakery (The Cornstore) bakery and cafu00e9Artisan bakery in the Cornstore selling pastries, sourdough, and coffee, ideal for breakfast or snacks.
  • Bierhaus craft beer barCasual bar with rotating craft taps and pub bites, a good alternative to standard stout-focused pubs.
  • The Stop guesthouse with food focusDesign-led guesthouse on Father Griffin Road noted for quality breakfasts and local food recommendations.

Markets & food shopping

  • Galway Market (St Nicholas’ Market)
  • The Cornstore Indoor Market