Fáilte Ireland has launched a new five-year strategy to sustainably grow the economic value of tourism in Galway City.

Developed in collaboration with local stakeholders, the Galway City Destination and Experience Development (DEDP) plan sets out a clear vision to enhance the city’s unique appeal as a vibrant, cultural and coastal destination while reinforcing its role as a key hub on the Wild Atlantic Way.

The official launch took place tis week in the Mick Lally Theatre, Galway City.

‘Economic Benefits’

The plan outlines a series of strategic projects aimed at enhancing Galway’s visitor offering and supporting long-term tourism growth. These include exploring the potential for a year-round indoor food market that showcases local produce and culinary talent, enhancing Galway City Museum as a flagship cultural asset, and developing a new cultural venue to host events, exhibitions, and performances.

“Galway City is one of Ireland’s most distinctive and dynamic destinations, and this plan sets out a clear framework to ensure tourism continues to thrive for the benefit of all,” said Paul Keeley, Interim CEO at Fáilte Ireland.

“The Galway City DEDP will enhance what we offer to visitors while supporting those who live and work here through investment in infrastructure, protection of cultural and social assets, and more evenly spread economic benefits.”

A central focus of the plan is the integration of the Irish language into the visitor experience, reflecting Galway’s unique status as Ireland’s largest bilingual city and the municipal capital of the Gaeltacht. Key initiatives include the development of a dedicated Irish language tourism itinerary, a programme of immersive Urban Gaeltacht weekends, and a suite of saleable experiences that celebrate the city’s linguistic heritage.

The strategy also aims to deepen engagement with Galway’s Atlantic setting and build on its legacy as a European Capital of Culture, further strengthening its reputation as a vibrant, coastal city of culture.

Galway City Tourism Forum

A dedicated working group, the Galway City Tourism Forum, will oversee delivery of the plan’s actions through to 2030, ensuring continued collaboration across public, private and community stakeholders.

“Initiatives such as new tourism product development, improved connectivity between neighbourhoods, the potential for a year-round indoor food market, and the enhancement of Galway City Museum will not only enrich the visitor experience but also provide lasting benefits for the people who live here,” said Leonard Cleary, chief executive of Galway City Council.

“We are proud to support a plan that places community at its heart and strengthens Galway’s reputation as a vibrant, bilingual city.”