Ireland has a lot to offer international students. While it may be small, the country is full of vibrant culture, world-class universities and great graduate opportunities. Together, these things make it a top study abroad destination, and you can find them all in locations nationwide. If you're wondering which would suit you best, keep reading. We set out what you can expect from the best student cities in Ireland.
Dublin
The globally famous Dublin is Ireland's biggest city and capital. Located on the country's east coast, its rich mix of culture and educational institutions makes for the 32nd best student city in the world, according to QS. Around 600,000 people live here and more than 110,000 attend university, including almost 23,000 international students.
Dublin's universities often rank among the best in the world. Both Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin appear in the top 200 of the QS World University Rankings 2025, with the former being Ireland's highest placed, in 87th position. Great alternatives include Dublin City University, which is 59th on the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings of institutions that are less than 50 years old.
There's also plenty for students to see and do in Dublin. The city's nightlife is world-renowned, with welcoming pubs, clubs and restaurants all around, and especially in the Temple Bar area. If you enjoy cultural history, there is Dublin Castle, the National Gallery, Dublin Writers Museum and the historic Guinness Storehouse. Plus, when you want green space, you'll find lots. Dublin's vast Phoenix Park is one of Europe's largest urban parks, and is home to both fallow deer and the President of Ireland.
Discover the things you should know before studying in Ireland.
Cork
The second largest city in Ireland, Cork is known for its natural harbour and medieval history. Many of its main streets are built over canals that were once key connections to the winding River Lee. The water is still central to the city, which is home to the primary port for the south of the country, as well as several of the world's biggest tech companies. Both employ some of the 224,000 local residents, and are ready to hire some of its 5,000 international students.
The city's main university is the historic University College Cork. The institution is the joint-most highly rated outside of the country's capital, with a top 300 placing on the QS rankings and a top 400 position on the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025. Alternatively, you could study at the recently founded Munster Technological University. This region-spanning institution has four campuses in the Cork area, with roots in its former Institute of Technology.
Cork is well-connected by public transport, and offers plenty to enjoy when you are not studying. Notably, it is just a few miles from Blarney Castle and the iconic Blarney Stone. This is said to bestow the powers of charm and eloquence on all those who kiss it. If you are a fan of the outdoors, you might also like the wealth of activities you can pursue around the coast and countryside. Hiking, biking and sailing are just the start of what you can do.
Get to know the top universities in Ireland.
Galway
At the heart of Ireland's west coast is beautiful Galway. With a population of around 86,000, this city has a strong sense of community and identity, as well as a welcoming nature. More than 4,000 international students are currently getting their education here. The city is also known as a centre for the arts, having been immortalised in centuries of songs and literature, and as a recent European Capital of Culture.
Higher education in the area is led by the University of Galway, which is jointly ranked as Ireland's top university outside Dublin. QS places it 273rd among all institutions worldwide, reflecting a reputation that has attracted many international students, including around 3,500 who are currently enrolled. More are based at the Galway campus of Atlantic Technological University, which has seven locations across the west of Ireland.
Each of those who choose Galway as a study destination can fill their diary with an array of exciting activities. The city hosts numerous big events throughout the year, including music, film and food festivals. The cultural calendar peaks in July with the Galway International Arts Festival, which draws attendances of more than 400,000. While in the area, you can also explore its historic architecture, and even pick up a new language. Almost half of people in County Galway say they can speak Irish – the highest proportion of any region in the country.
Want to study with the country's newest institutions? Learn all about technological universities in Ireland.
Limerick
Slightly inland in the west of Ireland is the city of Limerick. It's the third most populous city in the country and known for its picturesque location on the long River Shannon. In the ninth century, Vikings sailed up to the area through this body of water, going on to establish a walled city on what is now known as King's Island. This later became the site of King John's Castle, a fine example of Norman architecture that is today a popular attraction.
Another jewel in the city's crown is the University of Limerick. With around 18,000 students – including more than 2,300 international students – the institution plays a big role in local life. What's more, it stands strong on the global stage. Ranked 421st in the world by QS, it is also 139th on the Times Higher Education Interdisciplinary Science Rankings, where it is the only Irish university to feature. Here, you can get a quality education on a very green campus, one often cited as the most beautiful in the country.
Students at the university and the nearby Technological University of the Shannon have a lot to keep them busy. Limerick's position by the water and unspoiled countryside make it a great place for outdoor pursuits. The Limerick Greenway and nearby Lough Gur – a lake of huge historical significance – are popular places to get active. For those who prefer to watch rather than participate, a trip to the Gaelic Grounds may appeal. There, you can see the best hurling and Gaelic football teams compete alongside thousands of passionate fans.
Now that you know more about the best student cities in Ireland, you might want to explore further. Start by getting to know what Ireland offers international students, or our reasons to study a master's in Ireland. Then, you can learn how to apply to study in Ireland, or find your ideal course in the country with our simple search tool.
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