From castles to luxury spa hotels, we’ve got you covered in our list of the top ten snazziest 5-star hotels in Ireland.
If you’re looking to stay in luxury while visiting Ireland, or maybe just fancy a lovely weekend away, you have to visit one of these 5-star hotels all across Ireland.
The Emerald Isle is home to some of the best hotels, from ancient castles to snazzy boutique hotels and spas, leaving you spoilt for choice. To help you make up your mind, we have made a list of the top ten snazziest five-star hotels from all over Ireland.
The top things you should expect in a 5-star hotel
- 5-star hotels like these offer spacious rooms or suites with high-quality furnishings, comfortable beds, luxurious amenities and extras.
- Exceptional customer service is a hallmark of 5-star hotels, and staff members are trained to anticipate your needs and ensure your stay is comfortable and enjoyable.
- 5-star hotels often feature upscale restaurants offering a variety of cuisines prepared by top chefs with high-quality ingredients and impeccable service.
- These hotels typically have modern and well-maintained facilities such as gyms, swimming pools, spas, and concierge services.
- You can expect thoughtful touches like turn-down service, luxurious bedding and bathrobes, and fancy toiletries.
The Rundown – our top picks
Best Boutique Hotel: The House Hotel, Co. Galway
Best Family Hotel: Fota Island Hotel and Spa, Co. Cork
Best Spa Hotel: Aghadoe Heights Hotel and Spa, Co. Kerry
Best Luxury Hotel: Lough Eske Castle, Co. Donegal
Best Hotel with a Pool: Park Hotel Kenmare, Co. Kerry
Best Golf Hotel: Dromoland Castle Hotel, Co. Clare
Best Hotel Near the Airport: Radisson Blu Hotel, Co. Dublin
Best Hotel in Dublin: The Marker, Co. Dublin
Best Hotel in Galway: The G Hotel and Spa, Co. Galway
Best Hotel in Belfast: The Merchant Hotel, Co. Antrim
Best Hotel in Cork: Hayfield Manor, Co. Cork
5-star Hotels in Ireland – tips & advice
Booking.com – the best site for booking hotels in Ireland
When to book: NEVER book last minute! Many of these hotels are very popular. Your trip will be much better value, and you will get to stay in the best hotels, by booking at least three months in advance.
Where to stay in Ireland – the best areas for everyone
Dublin City: Dublin City is a great place from which to explore Ireland, especially if it’s your first time. With many flights landing at Dublin Airport, this is a handy destination to start. You can spend a couple of days exploring all the sights and sounds of Ireland’s capital city, then rent a car or hop on a bus or train to a new destination, arriving somewhere new within a couple of hours.
Galway or Cork: Galway and Cork are great bases for those who want to discover Ireland’s rugged west coast or begin an adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way. You can spend a couple of days discovering Ireland’s Cultural Capital of Galway or the Culinary Capital of the Emerald Isle, Cork, before heading off on an unforgettable Irish road trip.
Belfast: If you want to explore the North of Ireland, booking a stay in Belfast is the perfect choice as all the main attractions in Northern Ireland are within a three-hour drive from the capital. Start by delving into the history of the Northern Irish capital, then take to the road and explore the stunning Causeway Coast or visit the Walled City of Derry.
1. Lyrath Estate, Co. Kilkenny – a historic location in picturesque countryside
Overview: A night at this five-star hotel and country resort is sure to make you feel relaxed and refreshed. Located in the heart of Kilkenny City, Lyrath Estate blends old with new as the historic 17th-century house sits alongside a modern-day extension.
This hotel is close to… HISTORIC KILKENNY CITY! For those who want to discover one of the most historic cities in Ireland and sights, such as Kilkenny Castle, this is the perfect place to stay.
This hotel is perfect for… HISTORY BUFFS! Set in the historic heart of County Kilkenny, this is one of the snazziest 5-star hotels in Ireland and a perfect location for history fanatics.
Facilities here include:
- Deluxe rooms and suites with en-suite bathrooms and comfortable beds
- Spectacular views of the 170-acre picturesque Irish countryside estate
- Multi-award-winning Oasis Spa
- Yew Restaurant, The Grill and Bar, and Tupper’s Bar
- Afternoon Tea and an outdoor BBQ Pavillion
Address: Dublin Rd, Lyrath, County Kilkenny, Ireland
READ ALSO: The 10 Best Hotels in Kilkenny, According to Reviews
2. The g Hotel and Spa, Co. Galway – glamorous and modern, a must-stay as one of the snazziest 5-star hotels in Ireland
Overview: A five-minute drive from the centre of Galway City, the chic g Hotel overlooks Lough Atalia. On their website, they claim to be ‘the only 5-star hotel in Galway’, so the G Hotel and Spa is a must-visit if you’re going to be in town.
This hotel is close to… GALWAY CITY! Set in the heart of Ireland’s Capital of Culture, this is the perfect location for those looking to explore one of Ireland’s most famous cities.
This hotel is perfect for… A STYLISH SPA BREAK! Trendy and distinctive, the pink and purple furnishings add to the appeal of this luxurious spa hotel
Facilities here include:
- Comfortable guest rooms and luxury suites with en-suite bathrooms and king-size beds
- 2 AA Rosette award-winning restaurant GiGi’s
- Casual dining at the Grand Salon, the Pink Ladies Lounge, or the Gentleman’s Lounge
- The award-winning spa, with various treatments and facilities
- ESPA products at the spa and in your room
Address: Old Dublin Rd, Galway, Ireland
READ ALSO: The 10 best hotels in Galway, according to reviews
3. Merchant Hotel, Co. Antrim – the art-deco interior makes this building feel alive
Overview: When it comes to luxury hotels in Ireland, The Merchant Hotel in Northern Ireland is one of the finest hotels we could find. Located on the site of a former bank, it’s no surprise that this hotel screams decadence with its antique furniture, making it one of the snazziest 5-star hotels in Ireland.
This hotel is close to… BELFAST CITY! Set in the heart of Belfast’s bustling Cathedral Quarter, you’re right at the heart of the action with a stay at The Merchant.
This hotel is perfect for… AN OPULENT STAY! Historic and decadent, you won’t forget a stay at The Merchant Hotel in Northern Ireland.
IN HIGH DEMAND: This is an extremely popular hotel. NEVER book last minute! Your trip will be much better value, and you will get to stay in the best hotels by booking at least three months in advance.
Facilities here include:
- Glamorous art deco and Victorian-inspired rooms with en-suite bathrooms and king-size beds
- Flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, and tea and coffee-making facilities
- Opulent Great Room Restaurant, serving delicious meals and afternoon tea, The Cloth Ear Restaurant and Irish Pub, Berts Jazz Bar, and the Cocktail Bar
- Unrivalled Irish hospitality
- Luxurious spa with five treatment rooms, a relaxation room, and a hydrotherapy area
Address: 16 Skipper St, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT1 2DZ
READ ALSO: Top 5 most luxurious hotels in Northern Ireland
4. Powerscourt Hotel Resort and Spa, Co. Wicklow – you have to eat in their Sika restaurant
Overview: Set on Ireland’s beautiful east coast, the Powerscourt Hotel Resort and Spa is located on a 1000-acre estate and features one of Wicklow’s best golf courses. So, it has a lot to offer visitors looking for a relaxing break, from the fantastic walled garden to the hotel grounds and garden views.
This hotel is close to… WICKLOW MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK! Located just south of Dublin in County Wicklow, you will be right at the heart of the beautiful Wicklow countryside.
This hotel is perfect for… A MEMORABLE STAY IN THE IRISH COUNTRYSIDE! Set in one of the most picturesque areas in Ireland, a stay at the Powerscourt Hotel Resort and Spa is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Facilities here include:
- Deluxe rooms and suites with king-sized beds and en-suite marble bathrooms, complete with rainfall showers
- Luxury suites with separate living areas, fireplaces, stunning views, and rooftop terraces with private jacuzzis
- Indoor spa, complete with an indoor pool, saunas, steam rooms, and a gym.
- Elegant glass-walled Sika Restaurant, specialising in modern Irish dishes, Sugar Loaf Lounge, and McGill’s Traditional Irish Pub
- 1000-acre estate and formal gardens to explore
Address: Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa, Powerscourt Estate, Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
5. Adare Manor, Co. Limerick – four-poster beds and claw-foot baths
Overview: This Neo-Gothic manor in County Limerick is not just one of the finest country houses and top luxury hotels in Ireland. It is also one of the most historic hotels in the country and has recently been voted among the most romantic hotels in the world.
This hotel is close to… ADARE VILLAGE! A quaint and historic village at the heart of County Limerick, Adare Manor is the perfect spot for an Irish country escape.
This hotel is perfect for… UNFORGETTABLE LUXURY! As one of the most luxurious hotels in Ireland, a stay at Adare Manor is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
IN HIGH DEMAND: This is an extremely popular hotel. NEVER book last minute! Your trip will be much better value, and you will get to stay in the best hotels by booking at least three months in advance.
Facilities here include:
- Classic and deluxe rooms and suites with king-size four-poster beds and en-suite bathrooms featuring decadent claw-foot baths.
- Modern villas and townhouses are available to stay, fitted with full kitchens.
- Michelin Star Oak Room Restaurant or breakfast and afternoon tea in The Gallery
- The Drawing Room Lounge, The Tack Room Bar, and The Carriage House Restaurant
- Luxury spa with various treatments and experiences and an indoor pool
- 850-acre estate, formal landscaped gardens, a library, bike hire, and clay pigeon shooting
Address: Adare, Co. Limerick, V94 W8WR, Ireland
READ ALSO: The five best LUXURY SPA hotels in Limerick, ranked
6. Ashford Castle, Co. Mayo – kick back in a historical beauty close to Lough Corrib
Overview: Located on a stunning 350 acres of parkland, Ashford Castle in County Mayo is a 13th-century castle that sits elegantly overlooking Lake Corrib. This medieval and Victorian hotel has continued to expand over the years to become the 5-star hotel it is today.
This hotel is close to… CONG! Located close to the town of Cong in County Mayo, fans of The Quiet Man will be in their element at one of the snazziest 5-star hotels in Ireland.
This hotel is perfect for… A LUXURY CASTLE STAY! Ashford Castle is one of the most luxurious castle hotels in Ireland, making this a must-visit destination for a truly magical stay.
Facilities here include:
- Elegant rooms and suites with feature beds, rosewood furnishings, and en-suite bathrooms
- Fine-dining at the George V Dining Room, casual dining at Cullen’s at the Cottage or the Dungeon
- Afternoon tea in the Connaught Room, and drinks in the Prince of Wales Bar and The Billiards Room and Cigarette Terrace
- State-of-the-art spa, gym, and salon
- Various on-site shops and boutiques
- Activities such as golf, falconry, lake cruising, and much more
Address: Ashford Castle Estate, Cong, Co. Mayo, F31 CA48, Ireland
READ ALSO: The 5 BEST luxury spa hotels in MAYO
7. Slieve Donard Hotel and Spa, Co. Down – for sea and mountain views
Overview: Set in the beautiful seaside town of Newcastle, Northern Ireland, the coastal location of the Slieve Donard Resort and Spa is one of the most luxurious hotels for the perfect weekend retreat.
This hotel is close to… NEWCASTLE! Set at the heart of the beautiful County Down coastal town of Newcastle, you can enjoy unrivalled views of the Mournes and the Irish Sea. With the fantastic Mourne Mountain range on your doorstep, this is the ultimate location for outdoor pursuits.
This hotel is perfect for… A TRANQUIL ESCAPE. With unrivalled views of the stunning Irish coastal scenery, you are sure to feel relaxed with a stay here.
Facilities here include:
- Comfortable rooms with king-size beds and en-suite bathrooms
- Stunning sea and mountain views
- Elegant Oak Restaurant, Percy French Inn, and Lighthouse Lounge
- Irish breakfast buffet and afternoon tea available
- Fantastic spa facilities, including an exercise room, heated pools, a sauna, a steam room, and a range of treatments.
Address: Downs Rd, Newcastle BT33 0AH
8. Aghadoe Heights Hotel and Spa, Co. Kerry – for a relaxing break
Overview: Aghadoe Heights Hotel and Spa in County Kerry overlooks the stunning Lake Leane, offering visitors a relaxing lakeside retreat. The stunning views here are like none other. Views from the hotel stretch into the distance as you can see the Killarney Lakes and Ireland’s highest mountain range, The McGillycuddy Reeks.
This hotel is close to… KILLARNEY NATIONAL PARK! As one of the most scenic places in Ireland, the views of County Kerry’s Killaney National Park from Aghadoe Heights Hotel and Spa are truly breathtaking.
This hotel is perfect for… A RELAXING BREAK! With fantastic spa facilities and a tranquil location in natural surroundings, you’ll feel rested and relaxed with a stay here.
Facilities here include:
- Luxury rooms and suites with king-size beds and en-suite bathrooms
- Suites are fitted with custom beds and floor-to-ceiling windows, two with private kitchens, wraparound terraces, and jacuzzis
- Lake-view balconies, flat-screen TVs, Bose stereo systems
- Dining options at the Lake Room Restaurant, The Heights Lounge & Piano Bar, or the View Bar & Terrace
- Luxury spa with ten treatment rooms, a thermal suite, and a relaxation area
Address: Lakes of Killarney, Nunstown, Killarney, County Kerry, V93 DH59, Ireland
READ ALSO: Top 5 best LUXURY spa hotels in KERRY
9. Lough Eske Castle, Co. Donegal – dripping in opulence and extravagance
Overview: On the shores of the breathtaking Lough Eske, you will find Lough Eske Castle, a restored 17th-century castle. As one of the top 5-star hotels in Ireland, it is pet-friendly and family-friendly, so it offers something for everyone.
This hotel is close to… DONEGAL TOWN! Set on the shores of the beautiful Lough Eske, Lough Eske Castle is just a short drive from Donegal Town.
This hotel is perfect for… A FIVE-STAR HOTEL EXPERIENCE! This historic castle is one of the most decadent hotels in Ireland, making it the perfect spot for a luxury getaway.
IN HIGH DEMAND: This is an extremely popular hotel. NEVER book last minute! Your trip will be much better value, and you will get to stay in the best hotels by booking at least three months in advance.
Facilities here include:
- Deluxe rooms and suites with four-poster and canopy beds, as well as en-suite bathrooms
- Suites boast separate living areas, fireplaces, and free-standing baths
- Dining at the elegant Cedar Restaurant, with floor-to-ceiling windows and fantastic terrace views
- The Father Browne Bar, Gallery Bar and Lobby Lounge, and Afternoon Tea.
- Idyllic spa and wellness facilities, with a pool, seven treatment rooms, and a fully-equipped thermal suite
Address: Lough Eske Castle, Donegal, F94 HX59, Ireland
READ ALSO: Top 5 best spa hotels in Donegal, RANKED
10. The Marker Hotel, Co. Dublin – our top pick for 5-star luxury hotels in Ireland
Overview: This stylishly-modern hotel sits right in Dublin City Centre at the urban hub, Grand Canal Quay. The checkerboard façade distinguishes this hotel from the rest, making it completely unique. Set at the heart of the city, you can visit Dublin’s most popular sights, including Trinity College and the Grafton Street, without having to travel too far.
This hotel is close to… DUBLIN CITY! Set in Dublin’s modern and vibrant Docklands, as one of the snazziest 5-star hotels in Ireland, the Marker is the perfect location to explore Ireland’s capital city.
This hotel is perfect for… A STYLISH WEEKEND BREAK! This contemporary hotel is ideal for the trendy set, with a unique design and fantastic facilities.
Facilities here include:
- Contemporary rooms and suites with king-size beds, en-suite bathrooms complete with rainfall showers, and high-tech amenities
- Dining at The Brasserie, which was recently awarded “Best Hotel Restaurant in Dublin” by RAI
- The buzzing Marker Bar and a Rooftop Bar and Terrace Boasting panoramic views of Dublin City.
- Luxury spa and wellness facilities, including an infinity pool, fitness centre, five treatment rooms, and relaxation areas
Address: Square, Docklands, Grand Canal Quay, Dublin Docklands, Dublin 2, D02 CK38, Ireland
There you have it; our top picks for the snazziest 5-star hotels in Ireland. Which one would you most love to stay at?
Other notable mentions for the snazziest 5-star hotels in Ireland
Boutique Hotels: Dylan Hotel, Co. Dublin, The Ross Hotel, Co. Kerry, The Driftwood Hotel, Co. Sligo.
Family Hotels: Renvyle House Hotel, Co. Galway, Druid’s Glen Resort, Co. Wicklow, Delphi Adventure Resort, Co. Galway.
Spa Hotels: Cliff House Hotel, Co. Waterford, Wineport Lodge, Co. Westmeath, The Monart, Co. Wexford.
Luxury 5-Star Hotels: Glenlo Abbey Hotel, Co. Galway, Westbury Hotel, Co. Dublin, Castle Leslie Estate, Co. Monaghan.
Hotels with a Pool: Kilronan Castle Hotel, Co. Roscommon, The Heritage, Co. Laois, Mount Juliet Estate and Spa, Co. Kilkenny
Best Golf Hotels: The K Club, Co. Kildare, Portmarnock Hotel and Golf Links, Co. Dublin, Castlemartyr Resort, Co. Cork.
Hotels near the Airport: Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport, Roganstown Hotel Country Club, Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport.
Hotels in Dublin: Riu Plaza at The Gresham, The Merrion Hotel, The Shelbourne Hotel.
Best Hotels in Galway: The Hardiman, Co Galway, The Twelve Hotel, Co Galway, Menlo Park Hotel, Co. Galway.
Hotels in Belfast: Culloden Estate and Spa, Co. Down, Stormont Hotel, Co. Antrim, Fitzwilliam Hotel, Co. Antrim.
Hotels in Cork: Imperial Hotel and Spa, The Montenotte Hotel, The River Lee Hotel.
Your questions answered about the best hotels in Ireland
If you still have questions, worry not! In this section below, we’ve put together some of our readers’ most popular questions that have been asked online about this topic.
Where should I stay when visiting Ireland?
Choosing where to stay in Ireland depends on what you want to see and do while you’re here. Dublin, Belfast, Cork, and Galway are great for city breaks. Meanwhile, while a road trip around the Ring of Kerry or along the Wild Atlantic Way or Causeway Coastal Route are perfect for soaking up Ireland’s stunning scenery.
What is the average cost of a hotel room in Ireland?
The average cost of a hotel room in Ireland ranges from around €100-€150 per night for a double room. Prices will fluctuate depending on where you’re staying, with Dublin being more expensive than rural areas, and the grade of hotel you choose.
Where should I go in Ireland for the first time?
If you’re visiting Ireland for the first time, we recommend making Dublin your base. As the capital city of Ireland, this is the easiest place to access via plane or ferry. It is also on the main transport routes, meaning you can easily visit other locations around Ireland by travelling from the city.
