Fáilte Ireland Launches Bold Vision To Revitalize Galway City’s Tourism Landscape: Here’s What You Need To Know

Ireland’s Galway City has recently revealed a new strategy, which Fáilte Ireland believes will transform the city’s tourism market. This vision is being pursued through the five year plancalled the Destination and Experience Development Plan (DEDP) which focuses on tourism’s economic potential, while culturally enhancing the city. This economic vision was showcased on the 29th of October 2025, at the Mick Lally Theatre. Apart from being culturally rich, the plan aims at enhancing Galway’s position as an economically vibrant city on the Wild Atlantic Way.

The Vision Behind the Development Plan

The core of Fáilte Ireland’s new strategy is to ensure Galway remains a dynamic and inclusive city that appeals to both international visitors and the local community. The DEDP aims to balance tourism growth with the preservation of Galway’s unique cultural and social assets, providing long-term benefits for residents and businesses alike.

A significant focus is on reinforcing Galway’s position as a cultural hub, with a spotlight on its bilingual identity. As Ireland’s largest bilingual city and a central part of the Gaeltacht, Galway’s blend of Irish and English offers a unique tourist experience that the DEDP intends to amplify. Among the proposed initiatives are immersive Urban Gaeltacht weekends, Irish language itineraries, and experiences that celebrate Galway’s rich linguistic heritage.

Enhancing Galway’s Visitor Offering

The plan introduces a range of strategic projects aimed at enriching the visitor experience while boosting tourism throughout the city. One key proposal is the creation of a year-round indoor food market. The market would not only showcase Galway’s exceptional local produce but also highlight the culinary talents of local chefs, offering visitors a taste of the city’s vibrant food scene. The plan also seeks to enhance the Galway City Museum, transforming it into a flagship cultural asset for both locals and tourists.

Further developments include the construction of a new cultural venue, designed to host events, performances, and exhibitions that will celebrate Galway’s artistic heritage. By creating spaces where cultural expression can flourish, Galway aims to attract year-round visitors and support local creative industries.

Celebrating Galway’s Atlantic and Cultural Appeal

The DEDP recognises Galway’s location as a major asset. The city’s stunning Atlantic coastline, combined with its cultural vibrancy, makes it an ideal destination for travellers seeking both natural beauty and a rich cultural experience. The plan seeks to build on Galway’s legacy as a European Capital of Culture, further promoting its coastal charm and cultural significance.

Incorporating Galway’s maritime heritage and the nearby Wild Atlantic Way, the plan promotes deeper engagement with the Atlantic setting, encouraging tourists to explore beyond the city centre and discover the picturesque areas surrounding Galway Bay. This approach not only enhances the visitor experience but also alleviates pressure on key tourist hotspots, promoting more sustainable tourism practices.

Key Stakeholder Support for Long-Term Tourism Development

The success of the Galway City DEDP depends on the collaboration of local stakeholders, businesses, and the community. A dedicated working group, the Galway City Tourism Forum, will oversee the implementation of the plan’s initiatives through to 2030. The forum will ensure continued dialogue between public, private, and community groups, fostering a shared vision for sustainable growth.

Fáilte Ireland’s interim CEO, Paul Keeley, emphasised the plan’s potential to drive tourism while ensuring its benefits are widely distributed. He noted that improved connectivity within Galway—linking the city centre with key neighbourhoods such as the Latin Quarter, Eyre Square, and Salthill—will encourage visitors to explore all corners of the city, promoting a more balanced tourism model.

Strengthening Galway’s Identity as a Bilingual City

A defining feature of Galway’s tourism strategy is the integration of the Irish language into its tourism offering. As the largest bilingual city in Ireland, Galway boasts a unique cultural and linguistic heritage that sets it apart from other destinations. The DEDP aims to weave the Irish language into the fabric of the visitor experience, ensuring tourists can explore Galway’s rich linguistic traditions.

The plan includes the development of a dedicated Irish language tourism itinerary that will guide visitors through Galway’s most iconic landmarks while educating them on the history and importance of the Irish language. Additionally, immersive Urban Gaeltacht weekends will provide visitors with the opportunity to experience the language in its natural urban setting, engaging with locals and learning more about Ireland’s Gaeltacht culture.

Tourist Destinations in Galway City

Galway City is home to a variety of iconic attractions that appeal to a wide range of tourists. Some of the must-see destinations include:

• Galway City Museum: A cultural hub that tells the story of Galway’s past, present, and future, located along the River Corrib.
• The Latin Quarter: A bustling area filled with traditional Irish pubs, shops, and restaurants, providing a taste of Galway’s vibrant cultural scene.
• Eyre Square: The heart of the city, offering easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment.
• Salthill Promenade: A scenic coastal path where visitors can enjoy views of Galway Bay.
• Spanish Arch: A historic landmark that marks the location of Galway’s former port and offers a glimpse into the city’s maritime history.

In addition to these well-known spots, the DEDP aims to highlight lesser-visited areas, encouraging tourists to explore hidden gems throughout the city. This will not only reduce congestion in tourist-heavy locations but also provide a more diverse experience for visitors.

The Role of Community and Local Businesses

For the plan to be effective, local businesses and residents must embrace its vision. Leonard Cleary, Chief Executive of Galway City Council, highlighted the importance of ensuring that tourism development benefits the entire community. He stated that the focus on enhancing the city’s tourism infrastructure, such as improved transport links and the creation of cultural venues, would have lasting positive effects for both residents and tourists.

By involving local stakeholders in the development of tourism products and experiences, the DEDP aims to create a more inclusive and sustainable tourism model that benefits everyone. The plan not only seeks to boost the visitor economy but also aims to improve the overall quality of life for those who call Galway home.

The Future of Galway’s Tourism is Sustainable

Galway is very grateful to Fáilte Ireland as they have had the first hand experience of the Galway City DEDP’s launch which is a fascinating new addition to the city’s tourism sector. The addition is thoughtful of the spanning cultural development and citizen participation. Sustainability is at the core and this allows Galway to flourish as a premium destination along the Wild Atlantic Way. Thanks to joint efforts and meticulously planned improvements to Galway’s infrastructure, the city manages to keep its reputation of being distinct and the most colorful city in Ireland. Its uniqueness in providing tourism services and its ever-growing tourism industry is a magnet for visitors around the world.

Image Credit: Fáilte Ireland

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