Why learn English in Galway?
A language stay in Galway means living in a small, creative city where the River Corrib meets the Atlantic. Musicians play on the pedestrian streets of the Latin Quarter, pubs host traditional sessions most nights and the arts festival fills July with theatre and concerts. Galway was a European Capital of Culture in 2020, and Irish is still spoken in the nearby countryside.
Galway suits creative teenagers, students who want a sociable, walkable city and adults drawn to music, nature and the outdoors. Many of our partner schools offer general and intensive courses all year. Beginner or advanced, you sit a placement test on arrival and start in the class that fits your level.
- Accredited partner schools in Galway city
- Host family or student residence, carefully vetted and near your school
- Placement test on your first day to confirm your level
- Insurance and airport transfer organised for you
Your stay at a glance
Galway highlights
Make the most of your time beyond the classroom: the places worth seeing, and the city at its best.
The events that bring Galway to life
From major festivals to once-a-year traditions, these are the moments that give the city its own rhythm.
Galway International Arts Festival
July
Two weeks of theatre, concerts, visual art and street spectacle.
Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival
September
One of the world's oldest oyster festivals, with shucking contests and parties.
Galway Races
Late July to early August
A week of horse racing and festivities at Ballybrit racecourse.
Frequently asked questions
Galway is small enough to feel like home within days, yet full of culture. A language stay in Galway gives you daily contact with locals, live music almost every evening and easy access to some of Ireland's most striking landscapes. It's an ideal setting to practise English outside the classroom.
You don't need a minimum level. Our partner schools in Galway run classes from beginner to advanced. A short placement test on your first morning checks your grammar, vocabulary and speaking, so you start in a group where you can progress comfortably.
Yes. Many of our partner schools in Galway offer preparation courses for Cambridge B2 First and C1 Advanced, IELTS and TOEFL. Exam courses can follow fixed start dates, so let us know your target exam early and we'll plan the right dates.
Yes, if you wish. Many students choose a vetted host family, a great way to discover Irish home life and practise English every evening. Student residences are also an option for older students and adults. We book and confirm everything from Brussels before you travel.
Galway has a mild, changeable Atlantic climate, with cool summers and damp winters. Summer is the most popular season, with long evenings and the arts festival in July. Spring and early autumn are calmer and suit adults well. Wind and rain are part of the experience, so bring layers.
Galway works well for teenagers thanks to its compact size and friendly atmosphere. Junior programmes typically include supervised activities, excursions and accommodation with a host family. Minimum ages depend on the school, so get in touch and we'll recommend the programme that suits your teenager best.