Lying on the stunning west coast of Ireland, the picturesque college town of Galway has become one of teh country’s top travel destinations. Despite its small size, home to only 80,000 residents, Galway is packed full of beautiful sites to see and interesting things to do, including stunning old churches, gorgeous coastal walks, and a thriving pub culture.
Due to its popularity as an epic travel destination in Ireland, Galway’s hostel scene has been increasing over the years, meaning there are a fair few to choose from in the town. In this guide, we break down five of our favorites, all of which tailor to different travelers’ wants and needs.
So if staying in a hostel in this quaint Irish town appeals to you carry on scrolling!
Quick Answers – The Coolest Hostels in Galway
#1 Best Overall Hostel in Galway – Galway City Hostel & Bar
#2 Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Galway – Sleepzone
#3 Coolest Hostel in Galway – Mountain View Hostel
#4 Best Luxury Hostel in Galway – Kinlay Eyre Square Hostel
#5 Best Centrally Located Hostel in Galway – Woodquay Hostel Galway City
#1 – Galway City Hostel & Bar
Best Overall Hostel in Galway
- Cost – $$
- Location – Eyre Square , Galway
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Galway City Hostel & Bar…
Galway City Hostel & Bar has arguably one of the most sought-after locations in Galway, overlooking the famous Eyre Square, and is positioned right next to Galway’s Rail and Bus Stations, making it easy to access other destinations in Ireland.
It’s also a great place to stay if you’re looking to save some cash, as the hostel offers a free and substantial continental breakfast. The perfect way to fuel yourself for a day of exploring the Irish coast!
Galway City Hostel & Bar is perfect for…
Those wanting to be in the heart of it all in Galway, along with being able to meet plenty of other travelers. The hostel has an incredibly friendly atmosphere with awesome on-site amenities along with helpful reception staff who will go above and beyond to make sure your stay is perfect. They can also arrange tours to the Cliffs of Mother, Connemara, and the Aran Islands.
Editor’s Recommendation! These are the staff pick for the top hostels in Ireland (for all budgets!)
#2 – Sleepzone
Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Galway
- Cost – $$
- Location – Bóthar Na mBan, Galway
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Sleepzone…
We love Sleepzone Hostel’s incredible location located right in the center of Galway but just out of the action to have a good night’s sleep. The hostel is just 100 meters from Eyre Square in a slightly quieter street but is just a few minutes away from lively sites, including the Black Box venue, Town Hall Theatre, and a plethora of Galway’s historic attractions.
Sleepzone is perfect for…
Those who are traveling to Galway solo with plenty of opportunities to socialize and meet other guests. On-site the hostel great variety of social spaces including a large open-plan kitchen along with a cozy lounge area. It also organizes casual nightly events in the town, whether you’re looking for a crazy pub or a cozy pub, some lively Irish music, or perhaps a comedy show, the staff at the hostel will have you covered.
Price anxiety? We get it too, so we made an article for the best budget hostels in Galway!
#3 – Mountain View Hostel
Coolest Hostel in Galway
- Cost – $$
- Location – Clonbur, co. Ballynonagh, Ballynonagh
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Mountain View Hostel…
The name of this hostel is pretty telling about what its top draw is – mountain views! Mountain View Hostel is a gorgeous converted barn that has the most spectacular views overlooking the nearby valleys and coastline and typically leaves guests amazed with the jaw-dropping surroundings.
Staying at the hostel is also the ultimate chance to stay at one of Galway’s most unique properties with the property having a rich history as a cow barn protecting the animals against the wild Atlantic storms.
Mountain View Hostel is perfect for…
The hostel being located slightly out of the main town area and is surrounded by fields, valleys, and breathtaking coastlines. The staff at the hostel are also more than happy to help give you advice on the best walking and hiking trails nearby along with helping you navigate your way into the town.
#4 – Kinlay Eyre Square Hostel
Best Luxury Hostel in Galway
- Cost – $$$
- Location – Eyre Square, Galway
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Kinlay Eyre Square Hostel…
We love the free amenities available at Kinlay Eyre Square Hostel, including its indulgent daily breakfast options, traditional Irish musical instruments along with power outlets in the lockers. The hostel is also primely located in the famous Eyre Square, which is a pretty green space surrounded by cafes and restaurants and is also the center of nightlife in Galway.
Kinlay Eyre Square Hostel is perfect for…
Kinlay Eyre Square is the ultimate place to stay if you want a lively hostel with a slight party essence but also want the luxurious facilities of a modern hotel. The hostel has been recently renovated and has a sleek design with all the guest facilities being modernized, including a very comfortable common room which is equipped with a pool table and 70″ TV screen, along with a spacious and fully equipped self-catered kitchen.
#5 – Woodquay Hostel Galway City
Best Centrally Located Hostel in Galway
- Cost – $$
- Location – 23/24 Woodquay, Galway
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Woodquay Hostel Galway City…
The final hostel on our list is the awesome Woodquay Hostel which is uniquely split into two buildings: Woodquay Terrace and Woodquay Lucky No.7. Woodquay Terrace is for those who have perhaps traveled as a group as it is fully self-catered with 2 outdoor patio areas, free Wi-Fi, living room and can fit up to four guests.
Woodquay Lucky No 7 is better for those traveling solo with it being slightly larger and having more facilities that are catered to meet people including a fancy living area and sociable kitchen.
Woodquay Hostel Galway City is perfect for…
Those who want to be centrally located in the heart of the action with the hostel being in the perfect location for exploring Galway on foot with it being close to coffee shops, restaurants & bars along with some of the top attractions. It is also pretty close by to the main transport links for those who want to explore more of Western Ireland’s great outdoors.
Conclusion to the Best Hostels in Galway
So that’s the incredible town of Galway as you can tell it’s a real gem and one of the most picturesque destinations in Ireland. Whether you want to stay in the heart of town, the nearest you can be to the coast, or want the best opportunity to meet other travelers, Galway has a little something for everyone. If you’re still struggling to pinpoint the hostel for you then when we’d have to recommend Galway City Hostel & Bar. Its social atmosphere is unmatched, it has a great location and it has awesome facilities.
So what’s stopping you? Your coastal Ireland escape is waiting for you. Get booking before they sell out!
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