7 Best Student Cities to Study in Ireland

Ireland is a small island nation located in North Western Europe with approximately 5,255,017 population. Popularly known as the Land of Saints and Scholars, Ireland hosts the best academic institutions and a healthy student lifestyle. The best places to study in Ireland are Dublin, Galway, Limerick, Cork, Belfast, Maynooth and Waterford—featuring QS top-ranking universities and progressive, innovative and promising career options. International students choose these Irish cities to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD and doctoral studies, along with experiencing their pristine landscape and rich cultural heritage. Post-studies, eventually students gain global exposure as Ireland is the headquarters of Information Technology giants, pharma companies and international banks.

If you're looking to embark on higher education in Ireland, read this entire article discussing the best student cities to study in Ireland. It introduces you to the top 2025 QS Ranking Irish universities, popular courses, living costs, things to do, etc., to make an informed decision. The top 7 student cities in Ireland are as follows:

1. Dublin
2. Galway
3. Limerick
4. Cork
5. Belfast
6. Maynooth
7. Waterford

1. Dublin

Dublin is the leading student city in Ireland, serves as an educational hub for the country and features a high international-student ratio. As the capital of the Republic of Ireland, Dublin is ranked #32 in the QS Best Student Cities 2025. Dublin is a student-friendly destination swathed in vibrant culture and nightlife motifs.

Dublin is an expensive place, yet several budget-friendly options are available. Some of the best student accommodations include student residences, apartments and shared houses. For transportation, buses and tram systems are cost-effective and reliable. Prices change depending on location but are reasonably higher compared to other capital cities. Being the largest city in Ireland, Dublin offers various cultural, educational and recreational activities. The city boasts a wide range of museums, art galleries, movie theatres, Dublin Castle and so on.

What is the cost of living in Dublin?

The monthly cost of living in Dublin is 1,180€ (1,04,729 INR) for a single person without rent.

What are the top universities in Dublin?

Universities	QS University Rankings 2025
Trinity College Dublin	87
University of College Dublin	126
Royal College of Surgeons	-

Popular Courses in Dublin

• Data Analysis
• Engineering
• Digital Marketing
• Management

Things To Do in Dublin

• Street Arts
• Pubs for Irish traditional music
• Free Museums
• Dublin Castle and the Dubh Linn (Poddle)
• Kilmainham Gaol 

2. Galway

With excellent academic institutions and a multicultural environment, Galway has become the second-best city to study in Ireland. This city is home to the oldest university in the country (University of Galway), offering many graduate and postgraduate courses. Colleges and universities in Galway guarantee the highest quality teaching. Their full-time study programs emphasise interdisciplinary research programs and collaborations with industry partners. Some popular courses include a Master’s in Business Management, Diploma in Humanities & Social Sciences and other professional degrees.

To meet the expenses, Galway universities offer part-time work, social welfare and other options. There are both on-campus and off-campus student residences available based on individual needs. Galway attracts many international students for its perfect blend of traditional Irish culture and a contemporary outlook. The New York Times calls Galway "Ireland’s most charming city." Located on the west coast of Ireland, this beautiful city is the best place for horseback riding, surfing, hiking, and kayaking. The Latin Quarter, Cliffs of Moher, and Eyre Square are some famous spots. Within the city, quaint pubs, shops, and restaurants are available.

What is the cost of living in Galway?

The monthly cost of living in Galway is 950€ (84,326 INR) for a single person without rent.

What are the top universities in Galway?

Universities	QS University Rankings 2025
University of Galway	273
Galway-Griffith College	-
Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT)	-

Popular Courses in Galway

• Commerce and Accounting
• Arts and Science
• English and Creative Writing
• History and Journalism

Things To Do in Galway

• The Latin Quarter
• Menlo Castle
• Leisureland
• Aran Islands
• Stroll along Salthill Promenade

3. Limerick

Limerick is undoubtedly one of the best places to study in Ireland. Their esteemed universities offer inclusive, practical and industry-based education. Some of their online and in-person programmes are fully accredited and promise employment opportunities for fresh graduates. PostGrad in Science and Engineering is a popular course among international students with new subjects like Mechatronics, Bio-Pharma, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics. 

In terms of quality of life, Limerick is a safe and welcoming city. International students feel like home and enjoy their academic life. The city is well connected through public transportation, so travelling within and outside the city is easy. Students explore other parts of Ireland and Europe due to its proximity to Shannon Airport. Moreover, the living cost in Limerick is lower than other major cities in Ireland. Being the third largest city, Limerick offers diverse entertainment for students, ranging from nightlife clubs and modern bars to the stunning King John’s Castle to the 500-year-old Georgian Quarter. Located in the midwest of Ireland, Limerick excites students with outdoor adventures like walking trails, trekking, windsurfing and sailing.

What is the cost of living in Limerick?

The monthly cost of living in Limerick is 920€ (81,663 INR) for a single person without rent.

What are the top universities in Limerick?

Universities	QS University Rankings 2025
University of Limerick	421
Limerick Institute of Technology	-
Mary Immaculate College	-

Popular Courses in Limerick

• Architecture
• Cyber Security and Forensics
• Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
• Engineering
• Computer Science

Things To Do in Limerick

• Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
• Adare Heritage CentreHorse Riding
• Fishing at Celtic Angling (Game Angling Guide)

4. Cork

Cork is the next best student city in Ireland, especially for its friendly people, world-class universities and stunning landscapes. As the second largest city in the country, it gives shelter to Cork universities, clubs and communities where students engage in intellectual discussions and lively debates. Here, students enjoy pursuing graduate courses and micro-credentials like Fundamentals of Human Structure, Applied Economics, Coastal & Marine Governance, and more. 

Besides academics, international students find Cork a great place for socialising. They meet new people and make friends in cafes and restaurants. During festivals and exhibitions, they explore Irish traditions and culture and indulge in various fun activities. The living expenses are quite affordable, provided students plan their budget. Cork is dotted with cosy beaches, the Blarney Castle, Cork Harbour, and the famous Beara Peninsula. Students can experience both cosmopolitan nightlife and the stunning countryside. Cork is also the best place for hiking and biking trails.

What is the cost of living in Cork?

The monthly cost of living in Cork is 1,080€ (95,835 INR) for a single person without rent.

What are the top universities in Cork?

Universities	QS University Rankings 2025
University of Limerick	421
Limerick Institute of Technology	-
Mary Immaculate College	-

Popular Courses in Cork

• Actuarial Science
• Agricultural Science
• Business and Administration
• Supply Chain Management and Logistics

Things To Do in Cork

• The English Market
• Cork City Gaol
• Crawford Municipal Art Gallery
• Elizabeth Fort
• Franciscan Well Brewery

5. Belfast

Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland, boasting around 6 public universities. Offering an exceptional study abroad experience, Belfast is renowned as one of the top student cities in Ireland. Educational institutions in Belfast encourage students to develop life skills and participate in clubs, societies, sports, and fitness activities. Each university campus features world-class indoor and outdoor facilities catering to all levels of ability. Similarly, numerous activities ranging from surfing, crafting, and gaming to charity work are available to engage students throughout their academic years. 

Belfast is the UK’s most affordable student city (Natwest Student Living Index 2024). This dynamic city is well connected through public transport, ensuring easy access to the rest of Ireland and the UK. Belfast has some of the most attractive landmarks for students. It is home to some of the best parks like the Botanic Gardens and Cave Hill Country Park. Students often prefer venues like The Grand Opera House and the Empire Music Hall to experience a variety of live music. During the Christmas festive season, the entire city transforms into a winter wonderland adorned with beautiful decorations.

What is the cost of living in Belfast?

The monthly cost of living in Belfast is 930€ (82,525 INR) for a single person without rent.

What are the top universities in Belfast?

Universities	QS University Rankings 2025
Queen’s University Belfast	206
Ulster University	559

Popular Courses in Belfast

• Business
• Humanities
• Anthropology
• Sociology
• Film and Theatre Making

Things To Do in Belfast

• Titanic Belfast
• St. George’s Market
• Ulster Museum
• The MAC (Metropolitan Arts Centre)
• Cave Hill Country Park

6. Maynooth

Maynooth is a university town in North County Kildare, Ireland. National and international students love to study in this city mainly due to its quiet, safe and affordable lifestyle.  Maynooth is known for its legacy in humanities and sciences. The city welcomes international students from over 90 countries, fostering a diverse and competitive student population. Students choose Maynooth University to pursue their higher education because of its state-of-the-art infrastructure, amenities, and focused lectures. Moreover, scholarships for their courses ease their financial burden.

Aside from education, this multicultural town has a lot to offer, including Heatons, Next, Dunnes Stores and other high street stores. Students enjoy their leisure time strolling between the Royal Canal Walk admiring nature. This charming city is just a few minutes from the Dublin City Center and has numerous transportation facilities. Students sometimes use bicycles to come to their classes. Above all, there are plenty of restaurants and eateries at affordable prices.

What is the cost of living in Maynooth?

The monthly cost of living in Maynooth is 976€ (86,607 INR) for a single person without rent.

What are the top universities in Maynooth?

Universities	QS University Rankings 2025
Maynooth University	801 - 850
St. Patrick’s College	-

Popular Courses in Maynooth

• Social Studies
• Business Analytics
• Education
• Data Science
• Applied Linguistics

Things To Do in Maynooth

• Carton House Golf
• Royal Canal Greenway
• Maynooth Ecclesiastical Museum
• Avenue Cafe, Restaurant & Bar
• Maynooth National Science Museum

7. Waterford

Waterford is Ireland's oldest city, with a rich history and cultural heritage that goes back to the original Viking settlements. Located in the Southeast part of the country, Waterford is considered one of the best student cities for its quality of education and diverse culture. The student life in Waterford is quite unique as it covers volunteering, career development, P2P peer mentoring, a laptop scheme, leisure and recreation, and many more. The college canteen provides all ranges of food priced to suit all budgets. Moreover, students find new friends here, engage with them and enjoy their student lives happily.  

Waterford is connected by road, rail, bus, air and sea. In fact, proposals for a bus rapid transit system, streetcars, and trams to be used in future. This effective transportation system in Waterford is student-friendly and inexpensive, enabling students to spend less money from their pockets. Waterford is equally renowned as a treasure trove of ancient artefacts, architecture and great local food. Some student getaways in Waterford are surfing in Tramore, southeast beaches, and hiking through the Comeragh Mountains. During semester holidays, students often visit the Waterford City Food and Craft Market, the Granary Cafe, and the Garden Trail.

What is the cost of living in Waterford?

The monthly cost of living in Waterford is 1,020€ (90,511 INR) for a single person without rent.

What are the top universities in Waterford?

Universities	QS University Rankings 2025
Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT)	-
St. John’s College	-

Popular Courses in Waterford

• International Business
• Food Science and Innovation
• Marketing & Digital Media
• Legal Studies 
• Culinary Arts

Things To Do in Waterford

• Mount Congreve Gardens
• The Greenway Man Bike Hire & Cycle Tours
• The Booley House
• Blackwater Valley Opera Festival
• Irish Museum of Time

Is Ireland good for higher education?

Yes, Ireland is good for higher education, especially for MS, MBA and other professional courses. Ireland boasts some top schools and universities ranked in the 2025 QS World University Rankings, offering diverse educational programs. With excellent academic features and faculties, graduates of Irish education institutions are globally connected and have opportunities for many different careers all over the world. In addition, most Irish universities are government-funded, yet they maintain a high standard of education.

Conclusion

Ireland is an English-speaking country offering world-class education in major cities like Dublin, Galway, Limerick, and others. Since each city has its own advantages and disadvantages, consider factors like top universities, courses, living costs, quality of life, etc., and decide which is the best city for you to study in Ireland. If you need an expert's advice, you can reach us anytime. All the best!

FAQs

1. Which city in Ireland is best for studying?

Dublin is the best city for studying in Ireland. According to the QS Best Student Cities 2025, Dublin ranked #32, and it is known for being a student-friendly city. Dublin is the home to four universities and many colleges, offering master’s and doctoral programmes. This vibrant city offers various cultural, educational and recreational activities for students.

2. What are the top 5 cities in Ireland?

The top 5 cities in Ireland are Dublin, Galway, Limerick, Cork and Belfast for their rich academic history and job opportunities for students of all levels of study.

3. Is Ireland a good place to study?

Yes, Ireland is indeed the best place to study abroad due to its high standard of education, cheap and affordable universities, scope for research-led projects, and numerous job prospects. 

4. What are the best cities to study in Ireland for Indian students?

The best cities to study in Ireland for Indian students are Dublin, Limerick, Cork, Maynooth, and Waterford, as they have the highest number of Indian students.

5. Which is the best place to study Law in Ireland?

The best place to study Law in Ireland is the Cork University Business School, as they offer opportunities for work-based learning or projects and work placements.

6. Which is the best place to study Medicine in Ireland?

The best place to study Medicine in Ireland is the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS), as their medical students are some of the best doctors in the world. The RCS teaches students resilience, compassion, and confidence in their abilities.

7. Which is the best place to study Psychology in Ireland?

The best places to study Psychology in Ireland are:

• Trinity College Dublin
• University College Cork
• University College Dulin
• University of Limerick
• University of Galway