Let us discover the top ten hotels in Galway to suit every budget, from luxury countryside hotels to boutique city centre accommodations and more.
Galway is a county rich with history, vibrant Irish pubs, and sensational scenery, so if you seek a holiday to remember, this is a must-visit destination.
Whether you travel solo, as a couple, with friends, or as a family, you will be happy to know that Galway has many accommodation options to suit all budgets.
From fantastic city centre hotels to charming coastal retreats, we have a list of tempting hotels to choose from so you can tailor your getaway to suit you in the best way possible.
So, let’s check out the ten best hotels in Galway to suit all budgets.
Ireland Before You Die’s top tips for your trip to Galway:
- Three days is ideal for visiting Galway, including the city, the coast, and heritage sites.
- Tig Coili is a must-visit for an authentic traditional Irish music session, which the pub is famous for. It is located in Galway City Centre.
- Booking.com is the best booking platform to compare hotel availability and prices. It is advisable to book in advance to get the best price and avoid your dates being booked out.
- One of the top things to do on a sunny day is take a stroll along the Salthill Promenade to soak up views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Do not miss Dog’s Bay and Gurteen Bay, two of Ireland’s best beaches, in Connemara.
The rundown – our top picks for the best hotels in Galway
- Best luxury hotel: Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate
- Best spa hotel: The Galmont
- Best family-friendly hotel: The Connacht Hotel
- Best hotel for couples: The Twelve
- Best hotel with a view: Connemara Coast Hotel
- Best boutique hotel: Residence Hotel
- Best historic hotel: Ballynahinch Castle
- Best-located hotel: The House Hotel
- Best B&B: The Quay House
- Best hostel: Sleepzone Galway City
Where to stay in Galway – the best areas to choose
Galway City Centre: Galway City Centre is a popular choice for visitors to the region, especially if you are seeking a vibrant atmosphere and a variety of restaurants, nightlife, and shopping areas.
Connemara: The region of Connemara is ideal for nature lovers, with plenty of stunning beaches, nature walks, and quaint villages like Roundstone, Clifden, and Spiddal to choose from.
Oranmore: Oranmore is a lively town with lots to offer and can be an excellent choice for families who want to enjoy a range of activities and attractions, just 15 minutes from Galway City.
Aran Islands: The Aran Islands offer visitors a step back in time and are an ideal choice for those who seek a cultural experience, stunning views, and a chance to mingle with the locals.
Kinvara: Kinvara is well known for its lively nightlife and is an excellent choice for visitors who want to be close to bars, restaurants, and vibrant music venues.
1. Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate – ideal for a lakeside escape
Overview: When it comes to hotels that tick all the boxes, Glenlo Abbey is certainly one to consider when visiting Galway.
Set in a quaint countryside location yet close to Galway City, this heritage hotel offers guests luxury, plenty of open space to enjoy, delicious cuisine, and an acclaimed golf course right on site. What more could you ask for?
The hotel is close to: Lough Corrib
The hotel is perfect for: a luxurious countryside escape
Key features include:
- The Pullman Restaurant, located on a former train
- A spa and wellness centre
- 138-acre lakeside golf course
- Stunning views of Lough Corrib
Address: Bushypark, Galway, H91 XD8K, Ireland
2. The Galmont Hotel & Spa – ideal for families and couples
Overview: Overlooking Galway Bay, The Galmont Hotel & Spa is a fantastic choice for a wellness getaway, a romantic retreat, or a luxury spa stay close to the city centre.
Located near bustling Eyre Square, The Galmont features award-winning facilities in a prime location, ideal for exploring the city and surrounding areas.
IN HIGH DEMAND: This is an extremely popular hotel. NEVER book last minute!
The hotel is close to: Eyre Square
The hotel is perfect for: a mix of relaxation and activity
Key features include:
- An indoor pool and hot tub
- An award-winning spa
- The Coopers Bar & Lounge with waterfront terrace
- A children’s pool and sauna on site
Address: Lough Atalia Rd, Galway, H91 CYN3, Ireland
READ MORE: Top 10 best hotels in Galway City Centre.
3. The Connacht Hotel – an excellent option for families
Overview: This family-friendly hotel is ideal for families planning a fun adventure in Galway. The hotel offers a choice of family rooms or apartments, which provide lots of space and plenty of activities to keep all ages entertained.
Located close to Lough Atalia and Galway City Centre, you can’t beat the convenience of staying at The Connacht Hotel in Galway.
The hotel is close to: Lough Atalia
The hotel is perfect for: a fun family adventure in Galway
Key features include:
- A 24-hour leisure centre with a 20 m pool
- A dedicated kids’ club for the younger guests
- Bar Solo offers dining options and live music
- Steam room, hot tub, and sauna to enjoy
Address: Old Dublin Rd, Galway, H91 K5DD, Ireland
4. The Twelve – for a romantic escape
Overview: Located in the picturesque seaside village of Bearna, The Twelve is one of the best hotels for couples since it features luxurious rooms, a gastro pub, a spa, and much more.
This stunning boutique-style hotel offers seaweed baths, massages, and live Irish music at the weekends, which ticks all the boxes for a bonding weekend with your loved one.
The hotel is close to: Bearna
The hotel is perfect for: a luxurious, romantic weekend
Key features include:
- West Restaurant offers fine dining
- Spacious en-suite bathrooms
- Seaweed baths and massages are available
- Fresh breakfast served daily
Address: Barna Rd, Ahaglugger, Bearna, Co. Galway, H91 Y3KA, Ireland
SEE MORE: 32 spa hotels: the best spa hotel in every county of Ireland.
5. Connemara Coast Hotel – a fantastic hotel with spectacular sea views
Overview: Located just ten minutes from Galway City, this fantastic four-star coastal hotel is among the best choices for families, couples, and solo travellers.
The location makes it easy to explore the bustling city and the surrounding areas, plus the hotel features a complimentary kids’ club, indoor pool, and fitness centre for your enjoyment and convenience.
IN HIGH DEMAND: This is an extremely popular hotel. NEVER book last minute!
The hotel is close to: Furbo
The hotel is perfect for: a holiday by the coast
Key features include:
- An 18.5 m indoor swimming pool
- An on-site jacuzzi, steam room, and gym
- Complimentary kids’ club
- Spectacular sea views
Address: Cushmaigmore, Furbogh, Co. Galway, H91 KX27, Ireland
6. Residence Hotel – the best option for a lively getaway
Overview: The Residence Hotel is located in Galway City’s bustling Latin Quarter, home to incredible music venues, iconic restaurants, and shopping opportunities.
This is one of the best hotels in Galway and is known for its individually designed rooms and boutique style, making it one of the top boutique hotels in the city centre.
The hotel is close to: Eyre Square
The hotel is perfect for: an entertaining weekend away
Key features include:
- Located in the heart of Galway City
- Neighbouring 1520 Bar is ideal for live music, cocktails, and beers
- Rooms feature TVs with Netflix and tea/coffee facilities
- Free Wi-Fi and on-site parking
Address: 14 Quay St, Galway, H91 P628, Ireland
7. Ballynahinch Castle – for a luxury four-star experience in Connemara
Overview: If you are searching for a charming accommodation option in Galway that offers history, heritage, and wide-open spaces to soak up the beautiful nature, then look no further.
Ballynahinch Castle is situated in the stunning Connemara region on a whopping 700 acres of woodland, which is ideal for nature lovers and those seeking peace and tranquillity.
The hotel is close to: Ballynahinch Lake
The hotel is perfect for: a Connemara countryside retreat
Key features include:
- An on-site salmon fishery
- Activities include hiking, cycling, walking, and woodcock shooting
- A walled garden and 700 acres to explore
- Rooms feature river, woodland, or lake views
Address: Recess, Connemara, Recess, Co. Galway, Ireland
8. The House Hotel – a beautiful old stone hotel in the city centre
Overview: This four-star hotel in the bustling Latin Quarter is the best hotel to choose if you want to stay in the city’s heart. Surrounded by live entertainment, popular dining options, and historic attractions, this is ideal for an elegant city centre stay.
With art deco furnishings and modern amenities, this understated hotel is a must when visiting Galway City.
The hotel is close to: Galway Cathedral
The hotel is perfect for: an elegant city centre stay
Key features include:
- Located in Galway’s Latin Quarter
- Rooms feature soundproof windows and flat-screen TVs
- Free Wi-Fi and on-site parking
- Ten minutes from major historic attractions
Address: Spanish Parade, Latin Quarter, Galway, H91 X309, Ireland
9. The Quay House – for a homely experience in Connemara
Overview: The Quay House is situated in the quaint town of Clifden, Connemara, one of the country’s most stunning regions.
Boasting a unique accommodation experience, this family-run B&B is an excellent choice for those who want to escape the city and for a serene location close to nature, beaches, and many outdoor activities.
IN HIGH DEMAND: This is an extremely popular hotel. NEVER book last minute!
The hotel is close to: Clifden
The hotel is perfect for: a home-from-home experience
Key features include:
- Close to activities like fishing, swimming, golfing, and sailing
- A harbourside location, seven minutes from Clifden
- Award-winning breakfast served daily
- 14 bedrooms with full bathrooms, many with harbour views
Address: Beach Rd, Clifden, Co. Galway, Ireland
10. The Sleepzone Galway City Hostel – an excellent option for budget travellers
Overview: If you are searching for a great budget-friendly option in the heart of the city, you cannot overlook The Sleepzone. This comfortable and modern hostel is a perfect option for exploring the city by day and the nightlife options in the evening.
With communal areas to meet other travellers and an on-site communal kitchen, guests will feel comfortable in this central hostel.
The hotel is close to: Eyre Square
The hotel is perfect for: a budget-friendly stay in the city
Key features include:
- Free Wi-Fi and a large outdoor terrace
- A communal kitchen and lounge
- A city centre location
- Minutes to restaurants, pubs, and Galway train station
Address: Bóthar Na mBan, Galway, H91 TD66, Ireland
UP NEXT: Top 5 best spa hotels in neighbouring County Clare.
Notable mentions
- Luxury hotels in Galway: The g Hotel, The Dean Galway
- Spa hotels in Galway: Clybaun Hotel, Falls Hotel & Spa
- Family-friendly hotels in Galway: The Clayton Hotel Galway, Flannerys Hotel Galway
- Hotels with a view in Galway: Galway Bay Hotel, The Salthill Hotel
- Best-located hotels in Galway: The Hardiman, Leonardo Hotel Galway
- Best budget hotels in Galway: Travelodge Plus Galway City, The Lane Boutique Residence
Your questions answered about the best hotels in Galway
What is the best part of Galway to stay in?
For first-time visitors or those seeking great nightlife, shopping opportunities, and culture, Galway City is one of the best places to stay in Galway.
Alternatively, staying in the Connemara region or on the city’s outskirts, close to Lough Corrib or Lough Atelia, is an excellent option for a quieter escape.
Is Galway a walkable city?
Galway is a relatively small city, and the city centre and many suburban areas are easily accessible on foot.
What is so special about Galway?
Galway is a remarkable city in many ways. From its contagious atmosphere to its arts and culture scene, Galway attracts plenty of visitors from across the globe.
In addition, the city is famous for its vibrant music venues, cobbled streets, and quirky boutique stores, which add to its overall charm.
