I don’t think I managed a single early night in Galway. I mean, I just kept meaning to head back to my accommodation and somehow ended up in another pub instead. Simple mistake, right?!
To be fair, it didn’t take long to see why people love the place. There’s a relaxed feel to Galway that’s hard not to get swept up in.
I also found that picking the right base wasn’t quite as straightforward as I’d expected. Some areas are perfect if you want to be within walking distance of Galway’s pubs and restaurants, while others make more sense if you’re planning day trips along the Wild Atlantic Way.
So grab a Guinness, get comfy, and I’ll walk you through the best areas to stay in Galway and who they’re best suited for.

Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
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Galway Neighbourhood Guide – Where to Stay in Galway

Galway City
Galway City is the heart, soul and centre of Galway County. Home to great shopping, bustling nightlife and incredible views, Galway City is our recommendation for where to stay for your first time in Galway.

Salthill
Salthill is set just west of Galway City Centre and offers a calmer seaside atmosphere. It’s an easy to reach coastal spot where you can slow down, stroll along the promenade, and take in views over Galway Bay.

Kinvara
Sat on the edge of Galway Bay, Kinvara is a small harbour village on Galway Bay known for its colourful houses and traditional fishing heritage. It’s best known for nearby Dunguaire Castle and its relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Inis Mor (Inishmore) Island, The Aran Islands
Inis Mór is the largest of the Aran Islands, known for its dramatic coastal cliffs, ancient stone forts, and traditional Irish culture. Visitors often explore highlights like Dún Aonghasa while cycling or walking across the island’s rugged limestone landscape.

Clifden
Clifden is a vibrant coastal town in the heart of Connemara, known for its colourful streets, welcoming pubs, and surrounding mountain and sea views. I’d highly recommend visiting Kylemore Abbey nearby for its beautiful lakeside setting and Victorian walled gardens.

Oranmore
Oranmore is a charming village just outside Galway, known for its lively pubs and traditional Irish atmosphere. I’d recommend visiting Oranmore Castle, a beautifully preserved 15th-century tower house overlooking Galway Bay.
A Guide to Galway’s Best Neighbourhoods
Galway has a way of grabbing your attention from the moment you arrive. The streets are full of music, and the chatter from cafés and pubs carries through the narrow lanes. During my own trip around Ireland, Galway was one of the places where I found myself lingering the longest, wandering between pubs and street musicians without really having a plan.
At the centre of it all is the Latin Quarter, where colourful shopfronts, traditional pubs and busy restaurants make it easy to spend hours simply wandering. But what I enjoyed most about Galway is how quickly the atmosphere shifts once you step beyond the busiest streets.
Within a short distance of the city centre, you can find quieter coastal walks, small harbour villages and wide open landscapes along Galway Bay. It gives the city a nice balance, lively when you want it to be, but never far from somewhere calmer if you feel like slowing down.
1. Galway City Neighbourhood – Where to Stay for Your First Time
When I first visited Galway, it didn’t take long to see why so many people recommend staying in the city itself, as Galway City really feels like the heart of the county. Everything to see in Galway is pretty close together, there’s always something going on, and it’s an easy place to settle into, whether you’re there for a weekend or longer.
If you want a bit of history, the Galway City Museum is worth a visit and gives a nice introduction to the city’s past. But honestly, one of the best ways to experience Galway is simply by strolling around. The colourful buildings, music drifting out of pubs, and the general buzz of the place make it feel lively without being overwhelming.
I particularly enjoyed exploring the Latin Quarter. Its cobbled streets and older buildings are reminders of Galway’s medieval roots, and around every corner there seems to be something interesting – a small independent shop, a historic building, or a cosy pub (perfect for a pint of Guinness!).
- Best For: First-time visits, lively pubs, a variety of restaurants, and a base for exploring the West of Ireland.
- The Vibe: Friendly, relaxed and energetic. Street musicians, busy pubs, colourful streets and a strong local character.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 1 hour drive from Shannon Airport and approximately 2.5 hours from Dublin Airport.
- Transport Level: Easily Accessible! A walkable city centre with regular buses and easy access to day tours and trains.
- Budget: Mid-range overall. Accommodation can be pricey during the summer.
- Crowds: Busy in peak season and weekends, especially around the Latin Quarter and Quay Street.

Top Things to Do in Galway City
- Soak up the atmosphere on Quay Street, one of Galway’s liveliest streets, packed with pubs, restaurants and street performers.
- Explore the colourful Latin Quarter, where cobbled pedestrian streets are filled with independent shops, traditional pubs and live music.
- Visit the striking Galway Cathedral, one of the largest and most impressive buildings in the city.
- Learn about local history at the Galway City Museum, which explores everything from medieval Galway to modern city life.
- Join a guided walking tour of Galway to discover the stories, legends and characters that shaped the city.
- See the remains of the medieval city walls inside Eyre Square Centre, a reminder of Galway’s historic past hidden within the modern city.
- Experience Galway’s famous live music scene at An Púcán, where the lively beer garden and regular music sessions make it a great spot for a night out.
- Relax in Eyre Square, a central gathering spot with plenty of cafés and outdoor seating nearby. Markets and events often pop up here during the year.
- Wander Galway’s pedestrian streets, popping into local shops, listening to buskers and stopping for coffee whenever something catches your eye, it’s one of the best ways to experience the city’s laid-back charm.
Best Hotel: Park House Hotel
Fantastic dining and stunning décor make Park House Hotel one of the best hotels in Galway. This four-star hotel is in a great location for roaming around the Latin Quarter and enjoying the city’s top attractions, nightlife and shopping. They offer spacious rooms, free wireless internet, and luggage storage. An Irish breakfast is also available each day. Result!
Best Luxury Hotel: The g Hotel & Spa
This is one of my top picks for checking out the sights and sounds of Galway in style. Discover unmatched luxury at The g Hotel & Spa, which is situated close to the National University of Ireland and Eyre Square. Experience the comfort of stylish rooms with custom furnishings and contemporary conveniences; upgraded suites include special features like dining areas and terraces.
Another Luxury Hotel: The Galmont Hotel & Spa
The Galmont Hotel is a gorgeous hotel that overlooks Galway Bay. With its stunning modern style and warm hospitality, this award-winning hotel provides a tranquil refuge for travellers seeking both pleasure and comfort. Indulge in its award-winning spa treatments, dine at excellent eateries, and explore the busy city centre, which is only a short walk away.
Best Hostel: Kinlay Eyre Square Hostel
This is a great option for a hostel stay in Ireland. Thanks to its location at the heart of Eyre Square, this hostel is the best in Galway City. You’ll enjoy a range of modern features, including POD beds (!!!), luggage storage, and a complimentary breakfast. This hostel also has a comfortable lounge with a pool table, a TV, and a full kitchen, so you can chef up a storm for your dorm mates.
2. Salthill Neighbourhood – Best Place to Stay on a Budget
Salthill sits just west of Galway City Centre and has a very different feel from the busy streets of the city. It’s a small seaside community that’s easy to reach but with a more relaxed feel.
The area is known for its beaches and diving platforms, and you’ll often see people heading down to the water even when it’s chilly. There are also a few classic seaside touches, such as amusement arcades and cafés along the front. It’s a nice balance if you want the buzz of Galway nearby but somewhere calmer to stay.
Another thing I noticed about Salthill is that it tends to have more affordable places to stay compared with the centre of Galway. There are a few backpacker hostels as well as smaller hotels and guesthouses, so it’s often easier to find something that fits a tighter budget. For me, it felt like a good option if you want to keep costs reasonable while still being close to the city, and it also felt like a very easy and safe area of Ireland to stay in, even for solo travellers.
- Best For: Seaside stays and quieter evenings. For travellers who want to be close to Galway City without staying right in the centre.
- The Vibe: Relaxed coastal neighbourhood. Think promenade walks, ocean views, with a slower pace than the city centre.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 1 hour from Shannon Airport and roughly 2–2.5 hours from Dublin Airport.
- Transport Level: Moderate. It’s about a 10-minute drive or a 30-minute walk to Galway City Centre, with regular local buses.
- Budget: Generally more affordable than central Galway, with good value guesthouses and B&Bs.
- Crowds: Moderate. Busier in summer and on sunny weekends, but generally calmer than the city centre.

Top Things to Do in Salthill
- Spend a day at the Salthill Beaches, where you’ll find white sand and the Blackrock diving platform. Brave swimmers dive into the Atlantic here, and if you’re not up for a quick dip, it’s also makes for a great spectator sport!
- Walk the trail from Salthill into Galway City (or vice versa).
- Visit Micil Distillery, a working Irish Poitín and gin distillery.
- Grab a sweet treat from the Gourmet Tart Company.
- Hop on a tour bus to see the sights and sounds of Salthill Promenade and the surrounding area.
- Sample a Galway Bay Beer in the town’s Microbrewery.
- Stroll the famous Salthill Promenade, which stretches along Galway Bay. Locals often finish the walk by kicking the wall at the end for some good Irish luck.
- Take a short road trip or join a tour of Connemara National Park.
Best Hotel: The Ardilaun Hotel
This stylish 4-star hotel is a great base for exploring Galway. It’s well located for the city centre, nearby beaches, parks and a range of outdoor activities. The Ardilaun Hotel also has award-winning spa facilities, along with comfortable rooms that include free Wi-Fi, TVs, and tea and coffee-making facilities.
Alternative Hotel: The Salthill Hotel
Featuring amazing views of Galway Bay, this is one of the best hotels in Salthill. It is located close to the Promenade and is a short walk from the neighbourhood’s top attractions. It has a rooftop terrace, a fantastic pool, and a stylish lounge bar.
Best Luxury Hotel: Galway Bay Hotel Conference & Leisure Centre
This hotel is a taste of luxury in Salthill, located on Galway’s Blue Flag beach and overlooking Galway Bay – not a bad location! It’s close to Galway’s vibrant centre and cathedral. The decor in the rooms is bright and cosy with a TV and free Wi-Fi. If you want to go old school, it has free newspapers on request.
Best Hostel: The Nest Boutique Hostel
This amazing hostel blurs the lines between a hotel, a guesthouse and a hostel. It offers quality accommodations with a social atmosphere. Centrally located, this hostel is close to the beach, bars and shops. This is why it’s my pick for where to stay in Salthill.
Best Airbnb: The Rest @ Sea
This Airbnb is perfect for couples and is a stone’s throw away from the beach. It’s a 20-minute walk from the city centre, and the bus into town stops just outside the Airbnb. The apartment has been recently remodelled and has a home-away-from-home vibe. There is a large, comfortable couch where you can unwind after a day of touring and watch some FREE Netflix!
3. Kinvara Neighbourhood – Best Area For Nightlife
Just across the bay from Galway City, you’ll find Kinvara, a small harbour town known for its castle, colourful boats and traditional pubs. It sits right on the edge of Galway Bay and has a quieter, more local feel compared with the city.
One of the places that stood out to me in Kinvara was Green’s Bar, a traditional pub that’s well known for its extensive whiskey collection. I was told that sampling Irish whiskey is one of the ‘things to do‘ when visiting Ireland, and this felt like the perfect place for it. When you step inside, you’re met with shelves lined with bottles from Ireland and beyond, and the staff really know their whiskey too — I was offered a few great recommendations and ended up trying one I probably wouldn’t have picked myself, which made the visit even better.
For me, Kinvara struck a nice balance, plenty of character, good places to eat and drink, and a relaxed atmosphere. That’s why I’d recommend it if you want somewhere with a bit of nightlife but a more laid-back setting than staying right in Galway City.
- Best For: Traditional pubs, relaxed nightlife and a charming harbour village feel.
- The Vibe: Friendly, local and laid-back. Cosy pubs, live music, and a slower pace than Galway City.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 50 minutes from Shannon Airport and roughly 2–2.5 hours from Dublin Airport.
- Transport Level: Best explored with a car, though buses do connect Kinvara to Galway City.
- Budget: Mid-range. Mostly small guesthouses, B&Bs and boutique stays rather than large hotels.
- Crowds: Generally quiet, with a gentle buzz in the evenings and during summer weekends.

Top Things to Do in Kinvara
- Visit Dunguaire Castle, one of Ireland’s most photographed castles, closely linked to the country’s literary revival and cultural heritage.
- Stroll around Kinvara Harbour, where colourful fishing boats sit against a backdrop of traditional cottages and Burren landscapes.
- Swim or relax at Traught Beach, a beautiful Blue Flag beach just outside the village with wide Atlantic views.
- Enjoy a drink with a view at Pier Head Bar & Restaurant, overlooking the harbour and Galway Bay.
- Explore the peaceful ruins of Corcomroe Abbey, a remarkably preserved 13th-century monastery hidden within the Burren landscape.
- Discover wildlife and rare plants at Burren Nature Sanctuary, an excellent introduction to the unique ecosystem of the Burren.
- Experience traditional Irish music in Kinvara’s pubs, where live sessions are common, and the atmosphere is wonderfully authentic.
- Attend the Cruinniú na mBád if visiting in August, when traditional Galway Hooker boats fill the harbour during this lively maritime festival.
- Explore the edge of The Burren, which begins just south of Kinvara. Within a short drive, you’ll reach its famous limestone landscapes, ancient monuments and walking trails.
Best Budget Hotel: Fallon’s Bed & Breakfast
This welcoming bed and breakfast sits in the heart of Kinvara and offers cosy rooms to return to after a day exploring the area. Guests can enjoy a traditional Irish breakfast each morning, along with free Wi-Fi and parking. With plenty of pubs and restaurants nearby, it’s a convenient base for your stay.
Best Hotel: Kinvara Guesthouse
Kinvara Guesthouse is well located for exploring both the surrounding countryside and the town’s pubs, bars and restaurants. It offers a range of room options, including larger rooms that can sleep up to five people. With friendly staff and views over the area, it’s a great base for a stay in Kinvara.
Best Airbnb: 3 Bedroom Cottage
This roomy three-bedroom home is a short walk from Kinvara’s pubs, cafés, seafood restaurants and the historic Dunguaire Castle. It’s a great base for exploring the west of Ireland, from the Cliffs of Moher to Galway City. The house offers spacious living areas, a log-burning stove and a private garden terrace, making it ideal for families, couples or friends travelling together.
4. Inis Mor (Inishmore) Island, The Aran Islands – Coolest Place to Stay
The Aran Islands are a group of three islands sitting out in Galway Bay. They’re known for their rocky landscapes and strong sense of history, and visiting them certainly felt very different from being in Galway City. The scenery is quite rugged, but that’s part of what makes the islands so memorable.
If you don’t have time to stay overnight, you can still visit on a day trip from Galway. The ferries run regularly, so it’s very doable even if you’re short on time. That said, if you can stay a night, it gives you a chance to see the islands when things quieten down a bit.
Inis Mór is the largest of the three islands, and the one most people visit first. When I arrived, it didn’t take long to realise that the best way to see it is simply by getting outside, walking, cycling, or just stopping to take in the views across the bay toward County Clare.
- Best For: Nature lovers, dramatic coastal scenery and a taste of traditional island life.
- The Vibe: Rugged, peaceful and authentic. A slower pace of life.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 2 hours from Shannon Airport to the ferry port (Rossaveal) plus a 40–45 minute ferry crossing. Approx. 3 hours from Dublin Airport.
- Transport Level: Limited as expected. You reach the island by ferry, and most people get around by bike, minibus tours or walking.
- Budget: Mid-range to slightly higher due to the island location. Mostly guesthouses and B&Bs.
- Crowds: Busy with day-trippers in summer but much quieter in the evenings once the ferries leave.

Top Things to Do on Inis Mor
- Browse traditional knitwear at the Aran Sweater Market, known for high-quality Aran jumpers, socks and classic Irish souvenirs.
- Rent a bike and explore the island on two wheels, one of the best ways to see the quiet lanes, stone walls and coastal views at your own pace.
- Visit the spectacular cliff-top fort of Dún Aonghasa, a dramatic prehistoric stone fort perched high above the Atlantic.
- Relax at Kilmurvey Beach, a beautiful sandy stretch with clear water and views towards the Atlantic.
- Walk to the ruins of Dún Eochla, one of the island’s lesser-visited ring forts, offering fantastic panoramic views.
- Take a day trip from Galway to experience the rugged landscapes, Gaelic culture and slower pace of island life.
- Explore Kilronan, the island’s main village, where cafés, pubs and seafood restaurants cluster around the harbour.
- Visit Poll na bPéist, a perfectly rectangular natural rock pool carved into the limestone cliffs.
- Stop at the Seven Churches, the atmospheric ruins of an early Christian monastic settlement surrounded by stone walls and open fields.
Best Holiday Home Rental: Kilronan Holiday Homes
Nestled in an ideal location, these homes are surrounded by tranquil countryside but near bustling pubs. Inside, you’ll find everything you need for a relaxing stay, from comfy beds to a decent shower. Also, the shops and the bustling harbour are only a short walk away, allowing you to fully explore and enjoy your surroundings.
Best Hostel: Ensuite Twin Room
An Airbnb Hostel?! Your eyes are not deceiving you! A private twin en-suite room at Kilronan Hostel with two bunk beds offers a cosy and affordable place to stay. Guests can use shared spaces including a fully equipped kitchen, TV lounge, outdoor seating, and BBQ area, with free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and tea and coffee provided. The hostel is centrally located, just a one-minute walk from the supermarket, ATM, pubs, and restaurants
Best Airbnb: Island Guest Room
This Galway Airbnb is a great option for travellers who enjoy walking and hiking. It’s set on a hill, so there’s a bit of a climb to reach it, but the views from the property make it worthwhile.
The garden also has a few quirky touches, including a collection of gnomes dotted around the space, which definitely add a bit of Irish character to the place!
5. Clifden Neighbourhood – Best for Nature Lovers
Clifden is often considered the main town in the Connemara region and makes a great base if you’re visiting for the scenery. The area is surrounded by some of the most impressive landscapes in the west of Ireland, including Connemara National Park, which is one of Ireland’s must-see national parks and the striking ‘Twelve Bens’ mountains. If you enjoy being outdoors, it’s an easy place to fill a day walking, driving and exploring the surrounding countryside.
Kylemore Abbey is another highlight in the region with a fascinating history. The Benedictine monastery sits beside a lake with mountains rising behind it, and it’s one of those places that really does feel quite peaceful when you’re there. If you visit, it’s worth allowing time to walk through the gardens as well as seeing the abbey itself.
One of the things I’d recommend most to do around Clifden is to take the drive along Sky Road, especially just before sunset. It’s a short route, but the views out over the Atlantic and the surrounding coastline are impressive. The Irish weather can be notoriously unpredictable, so you’re never guaranteed a clear evening, but when the clouds break, and the sun starts to drop over the water, it’s a pretty special place to end the day.
- Best For: Dramatic scenery, hiking, scenic drives and exploring Connemara.
- The Vibe: Relaxed and friendly.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 2.5 hours from Shannon Airport and about 3.5 hours from Dublin Airport.
- Transport Level: Quite limited. Worth hiring a car to explore Connemara and the surrounding coast.
- Budget: Mid-range. Mostly guesthouses, B&Bs and small hotels.
- Crowds: Expect calm, with more visitors during summer and peak road trip season.

Top Things to Do in Clifden
- Kayak along the wild Connemara coastline, where guided tours take you through quiet inlets, sea caves and remote Atlantic scenery.
- Walk to the ruins of Clifden Castle, a short scenic stroll leading to the remains of a 19th-century castle overlooking the coast.
- Wander the beautiful grounds of Kylemore Abbey, one of Ireland’s most picturesque estates set beside a lake and surrounded by mountains.
- Hike up Diamond Hill, a popular trail that rewards walkers with spectacular panoramic views over the Twelve Bens and the Atlantic coastline.
- Drive the famous Sky Road, a breathtaking circular route with sweeping views across the Atlantic and offshore islands.
- Visit the colourful village of Clifden, often considered the capital of Connemara, filled with lively pubs, shops and traditional music.
- Relax on the white sands of Dog’s Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the region.
- Explore Connemara National Park on an ecology or guided nature walk to learn about the region’s unique landscape, wildlife and history.
Best Budget Hotel: Waterfront Rest B&B
This charming hotel spans the waterfront in the centre of Clifden, Connemara, making it ideal for your Galway trip. The Waterfront Rest B&B provides relaxing rooms with classic decor, WiFi, en suite bathrooms, and sea views. It serves as an excellent base for exploring Connemara National Park and the surrounding natural beauty.
Best Mid-Range Hotel: Alcock & Brown Hotel
The Alcock and Brown Hotel in Clifden is a family-run boutique hotel known for its warm, welcoming service. The rooms combine modern design with traditional touches and include TVs, free Wi-Fi, and tea and coffee facilities. The on-site restaurant serves a mix of international dishes and local Connemara seafood, and often hosts live music in the evenings.
Best Luxury Hotel in Clifden: Connemara Coast Hotel
This serene hotel, nestled amid gardens on the shores of Galway Bay, is an ideal base for exploring Clifden’s natural beauty. There are two restaurants overlooking the bay, as well as two cosy bars, one with a fireplace and the other featuring traditional live music. The recreational complex includes an indoor pool, a gym, a spa, and tennis courts. Full Irish breakfasts are served.
6. Oranmore Neighbourhood – Best for Families
Just outside Galway City is the village of Oranmore. It sits in a convenient spot between the city and the surrounding countryside, making it a great option if you want easy access to both. This area feels quieter than the centre of Galway but still has plenty going on.
For families in particular, Oranmore works really well as a base. It’s a small waterside village with a handful of local attractions, including the historic Oranmore Castle and the open green spaces of Rinville Park. It’s the sort of place where you can easily spend a few hours outdoors without needing too much of a plan.
One thing I’d recommend here is getting out along the shoreline. Cycling or walking along Galway Bay is a great way to see the area at a slower pace. Following the coastal paths around Rinville Park is especially worthwhile, and it’s easy to spend an afternoon exploring the trails before heading back into the village for something to eat.
- Best For: Families, quieter stays near Galway City, and easy access to coastal walks and parks.
- The Vibe: A relaxed waterside village with a local feel.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 50 minutes from Shannon Airport and about 2–2.5 hours from Dublin Airport.
- Transport Level: Good! It’s about a 15-minute drive into Galway City, with regular buses and a small train station connecting to the city.
- Budget: Mid-range, with a mix of hotels, guesthouses and a few self-catering options.
- Crowds: Generally calm and residential, with more visitors during the summer season.

Top Things to Do in Oranmore
- Visit Oranmore Castle, a striking 16th-century tower house overlooking the village that offers a fascinating glimpse into Galway’s medieval past.
- Explore the peaceful trails of Rinville Park, where woodland paths, open fields and shoreline views make it ideal for a relaxed walk.
- Take in the views from Rinville Pier, a quiet spot along Galway Bay that’s especially beautiful at sunset.
- Discover the nature trails of Merlin Park Woods, one of the largest remaining native woodlands near Galway, with peaceful forest paths and wildlife.
- Play a round at The Hawthorn by Galway Bay, a scenic coastal golf course with sweeping views across the bay.
- Cycle the coastal roads around Oranmore, where quiet lanes and sea views make for an enjoyable ride.
- Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional pubs in Oranmore village, a friendly spot with a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of places to eat and drink.
- Take a walk along the Oranmore shoreline, where you can watch fishing boats in the bay and enjoy wide views towards Galway city.
- Visit the nearby ruins of Rinville Castle, a lesser-known historic site hidden among the trees near Rinville Park.
Best Budget Hotel: Oranmore Lodge Hotel Conference and Leisure Centre, Galway
This is a great place to stay if you’re looking for good value accommodations in Oranmore. Within walking distance of Galway, this hotel is close to the area’s top restaurants and attractions. It has a variety of features, including a Jacuzzi, sauna and a kids’ swimming pool.
Best Hotel: Maldron Hotel & Leisure Centre
This modern hotel is a fantastic choice for your time in Galway. It has a sauna, a fitness centre and a stunning indoor pool. It boasts a range of family-friendly facilities, including a spacious room, as well as a kids’ club and pool.
Best Lodge: Oranhill Lodge Guesthouse
The Oranhill Lodge is a small and comfortable hotel. It has a range of amenities ideal for providing a comfortable stay. You’ll be able to enjoy a large terrace, a relaxing library, and free wifi throughout your visit. All of this combined makes this my pick for where to stay in Oranmore.
Best Airbnb: Spectacular Sea View Lodge
This lovely Airbnb is an excellent alternative to a premium hotel and is well worth the price! There is a lovely view of the ocean, so you can wake up and have your morning coffee while watching the water hit the bay – the perfect way to begin the day! The house can accommodate up to 6 guests at a time, making it perfect for families or small groups that road trip together.
FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Galway
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of County Galway and where to stay.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Galway
You’re gonna need good travel insurance before you head off on your Irish adventure. No one wants to be caught with unexpected medical bills now, do they?
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Which Part of Galway Should You Choose?
Galway is, without a doubt, one of the gems in Ireland’s crown, and I loved my time exploring this incredible area. I know you will, too. Each neighbourhood has something unique to offer. If you’re still not sure where to stay in Galway, here’s a quick recap of my favourite places.
The Nest Boutique Hostel in Salthill is my favourite hostel. Not only is it close to the beach, bars and shops, but it’s ideally located for exploring Galway’s most famous historic and cultural attractions.
Another great option is the Oranhill Lodge. Charming, cosy and one of the best hotels around. It offers a range of amenities and features, including a library and a stunning terrace.
If you think that I’ve missed anything, let me know in the comments below!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Ireland.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Galway.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Galway instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.




























We are a pop up hotel in Galway City Centre which operates annually.
Thanks in advance for your attention
Thanks
Andreas