With sprawling landscapes, towering cliffs, EPIC views and bustling pubs, Galway is an Irish gem. Whether you’re heading to the land of the Irish to get back to nature, embark on a road trip, deep dive into history or pub crawl around the town – Galway has it all.
Galway is a cultural hub, known for its festivals, music, history and arts. It’s a vibrant city full of Irish character. There always seems to be something exciting to do or somewhere new to explore.
With so many towns and villages to explore, choosing where to stay in Galway can be pretty overwhelming. But don’t you worry bout a thing, I’ve got you covered. I’ve spent the time exploring this gorgeous city and I’ve put this no-stress guide together for where the best places to stay in Galway are.
This article breaks down the best neighbourhoods in Galway into easy-to-digest categories, so you can quickly find the neighbourhood that suits your travel style.
So grab yourself a Guinness and settle in while I take you through everything I know.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
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- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Galway
- Galway Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Galway
- Galway’s Six Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Galway
- What To Pack For Galway
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Galway
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Galway
- Buy Us a Coffee!
If you’re travelling to Ireland and have Galway locked into your itinerary, you’re off to a good start. Heading to Galway is a sure way to experience true Irish culture. From the pubs to the INSANE landscapes, you’ll see some of the best of what Ireland has to offer.
Your next step is likely to be deciding where you’re going to stay in Galway. This is no easy task, especially when there are loads of different, unique places to choose from. If this sounds like a bit of you, you’ve come to the right place.
Here are my go-to recommendations for the best hotels in Galway, Ireland.
The g Hotel | Best Hotel in Galway
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, which is perfectly situated close to the National University of Ireland and the Latin Quarter. Experience the luxury of stylish rooms with custom furnishings and contemporary conveniences; upgraded suites include special features like dining areas and terraces.
The Nest Boutique Hostel | Best Hostel in Galway
This amazing hostel blurs the lines between a hotel, a guesthouse and a hostel. It offers quality accommodations with a social atmosphere. Centrally located in Salthill, this hostel is close to the beach, bars and shops. This is why it’s my pick for the best hostel in Galway.
The Rest @ Sea | Best Airbnb in Galway
This flat is located in Galway’s picturesque Salthill neighbourhood beside the sea. With views of the promenade and the sea, you can stroll to the city centre in 20 minutes and the beach in just a few short steps. A fully furnished kitchen and a Smart TV with Netflix, Wii, and WiFi are among the amenities. It’s the perfect city oasis to kickstart your Galway getaway!
If you’re looking for more epic Irish holiday rentals check out my guide here!
Galway Neighborhood Guide – Best Places 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 a small community set to the west of Galway City Centre. This charming seaside village is home to a great variety of activities and attractions, including white-sand beaches and diving platforms, as well as lively casinos and interesting aquariums.
Kinvara
Across the bay from Galway City centre, Kinvara is a small town famous for its towering castle, its tiny harbour and its traditional Irish bars
Inis Mor (Inishmore) Island, The Aran Islands
The Aran Islands are an archipelago of three islands located in Galway Bay. Barren and rocky, they are home to some incredible historic attractions as well as some of the most beautiful vistas in the world.
Clifden
Clifden is the most prominent area in the greater Connemara region, and it is my top pick for people looking for stunning scenery. This region is home to Connemara National Park, one of Ireland’s six national parks.
Oranmore
A stone’s throw outside of Galway City is the community of Oranmore. Nestled between the city and nature, Oranmore is where you can enjoy incredible sights and natural surroundings as well as modern conveniences and amazing sightseeing.
Located on Ireland’s west coast in the Atlantic Ocean, Galway is the fifth largest city in the country. It’s home to approximately 70,000 people. Galway is an important tourist centre and a gateway to some of Ireland’s most impressive landscapes and natural scenery, making it a popular stop-off in an ultimate Irish road trip.
From pub hopping and exploring Irish castles to lounging on the beach and experiencing history, Galway is packed with amazing activities and attractions. It’s perfect for all types of travellers. Each area of Galways offers slightly different, so let’s run through each to see which is best suited for you.
Galway City sits at the centre of County Galway. A bustling town with fantastic nightlife, diverse history and numerous pubs to enjoy, Galway City is perfect for first-time visitors to the region as it’s home to some of the best hotels in Galway. It’s also where you can experience the Latin Quarter and other hidden gems in one of Europe’s best party cities.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
Set to the west of Galway City is the rustic and charming community of Salthill. Home to a vibrant pedestrian walkway, Salthill is where you’ll find stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and plenty of interesting attractions. Travelling to Ireland isn’t always cheap, so finding more affordable areas like Salthill is super handy to stretch out the budget.
Travel east around Galway Bay and you’ll pass through the communities of Kinvara and Oranmore. Bursting with spectacular natural attractions, these two communities are where you can enjoy stunning sights and that charming Irish way of life.
At the centre of Galway Bay on the Aran Islands is Inis Mor. It boasts some of the most incredible views and beautiful scenery in the world. Inis Mor is an ideal rustic retreat for intrepid and adventurous travellers.
And finally, to the northwest of Galway city is Clifden. Clifden is the most notable place in the broader Connemara region, which includes Connemara National Park, and it is my top choice for anyone seeking some breathtaking views.
Still not sure where to stay in Galway? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Keep on scrollin’
Let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best neighbourhoods to stay in County Galway. Each is a little different from the last, so be sure to pick the neighbourhood that’s the best fit for you.
1. Galway City – Where to Stay in Galway for Your First Time
Galway City is the heart, soul and centre of Galway County. Home to great shopping, bustling nightlife and incredible views. Galway City is my recommendation for where to stay in when visiting Galway for the first time.
Galway is comprised of charming pedestrian streets like Quay Street and the Latin Quarter, both of which are dotted with shops, pubs and restaurants. You can head to the Galway City Museum for a taste of the city’s history.
One of the best ways to experience the city is to simply take a stroll through its centre. You can admire the colourful facades, and soak in that fantastic Irish atmosphere.
The city’s Latin Quarter contains many amazing reminders of the city’s mediaeval heritage, and each twist and turn of its cobblestone streets unveils more of Galway’s top attractions. Whether you’re seeking old historical landmarks, indie stores, or simply want to roam aimlessly for the afternoon, the Latin Quarter has it all.
When you’re ready for a break, head over from the Latin Quarter to Eyre Square. Here you’ll find everything from al-fresco drinking and dining to quirky markets and unique architecture.
Park House Hotel Galway | Best Hotel in Galway City
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!
The g Hotel | Best Luxury Hotel in Galway City
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, which is perfectly 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.
The Galmont Hotel & Spa | Another Great Luxury Hotel in Galway City
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.
Kinlay Eyre Square Hostel | Best Hostel in Galway City
This is a great hostel 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.
Things to See and Do in Galway City
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Soak in the brilliant atmosphere of Quay Street.
- Explore Galway’s colourful and vibrant Latin Quarter.
- View the impressive Galway Cathedral.
- Learn about Galway’s rich and diverse history at the Galway City Museum.
- Wander through bustling Spanish Eyre Square.
- Join a walking tour of the city.
- See the Medieval City Walls, which are now located within Eyre Square Centre.
- Get a haircut at one of the oldest barbers in Ireland – Healy’s Barbers.
- Visit An Púcán to enjoy live music in a big ol’ beer garden and dance the night away
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Salthill – Best Place to Stay in Galway on a Budget
Salthill is a small community set to the west of Galway City Centre. This charming seaside village is home to a great variety of activities and attractions. It has white-sand beaches and diving platforms, as well as lively casinos. Here you can enjoy a hip and laid-back vibe with stunning ocean views.
Salthill is also a relatively short road trip to the Connemara National Park, one of Ireland’s best National Parks. Here you can experience incredible mountain views amongst bogs, grasslands and woodlands. It’s not one to miss off your Galway to-do list.
In addition to being a quaint and relaxing village, Salthill is also where you’ll find a high concentration of budget accommodation options. Salthill has a selection of backpacker hostels and inexpensive boutique Galway hotels. This is why it is my suggested place to stay in Galway as you’ll find some of the best hotels that are a whole lotta bang for your buck. Plus, it’s a super safe neighbourhood if you are travelling solo.
The Ardilaun Hotel | Best Hotel in Salthill
This stylish 4-star hotel is ideal for your trip to Galway. It has a central position among stunning beaches, shopping in the city centre, theatres and movie theatres, parks, and a plethora of outdoor activities. The Ardilaun Hotel has award winning spa facilities as well as all of the conveniences and amenities you’d expect from your own private hideaway. The spacious rooms provide free Wi-Fi, televisions, and tea and coffee-making amenities.
The Salthill Hotel | Another Great Hotel in Salthill
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.
Galway Bay Hotel Conference & Leisure Centre | Best Luxury Hotel in Salthill
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.
The Nest Boutique Hostel | Best Hostel in Salthill
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.
The Rest @ Sea | Best Airbnb in Salthill
This Airbnb in Ireland is perfect for two couples as it’s 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, which is excellent. The flat was 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!
Things to See and Do in Salthill
- Spend a day at the Salthill Beaches where you’ll find white sand, the Blackrock diving platform and plenty of fun.
- 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.
- Try Galway Bay Beer on Galway Bay at the Oslo.
- Go for a stroll along the bustling Salthill Promenade.
- Take a short road trip or join a tour of Connemara National Park.
3. Kinvara – Best Area to Stay in Galway For Nightlife
Across the bay from Galway City centre, Kinvara is a small town famous for its towering castle, its tiny harbour and its traditional pubs. This quaint little neighbourhood is nestled in the shores of Galway Bay, just outside of County Clare. Checking out the gorgeous Galway bars is one of the best things to do in Galway.
One of Kinvara’s main tourist attractions is Green’s Bar. A traditional Irish haunt, this bar is home to one of the largest collections of whiskeys in the world. Whether you like yours smooth and sweet or smoky and subtle, Green’s is sure to have a whiskey that’s perfect for you!
But that’s not all, Kinvara is also home to a great selection of traditional pubs, restaurants and bars. This is why it’s my pick for where to stay in Galway for nightlife.
Fallon’s Bed & Breakfast | Best Budget Hotel in Kinvara
Immerse yourself in the heart of Kinvara at this beautiful bed & breakfast, where cosy rooms await after a day of adventure. Enjoy a wonderful Irish breakfast every morning to fuel your activities, and take advantage of complimentary WiFi and parking for a hassle-free stay. With so many neighbouring restaurants and pubs, your Kinvara holiday guarantees convenience and entertainment at every turn!
Kinvara Guesthouse | Best Hotel in Kinvara
The Kinvara Guesthouse is in a great location for exploring the best of Galway. It allows easy access not only to nature but also to the best bars, restaurants and Kinvara pubs. Round up the troops, this hotel has multiple guest room options that can fit up to five people! With wonderful staff and amazing views, it’s my pick for where to stay in Kinvara.
Massive 2-Story Cottage | Best Airbnb in Kinvara
This two-story home can accommodate up to six people, which is excellent if you want to invite some friends. Please feel free to ask any questions you may have; the hosts are renowned to be very helpful and courteous. It is perfectly situated in the centre of Kinvara and offers all the amenities you need to enjoy the many local pubs around.
Things to See and Do in Kinvara
- Explore Dungaire Castle and its sprawling and beautiful landscape.
- Go for a stroll around the Kinvara Harbour.
- Take a swim or go for a stroll at Traught Beach, one of Ireland’s Blue Flag beaches.
- Soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the awesome views from The Pier Head.
- See the sights of Corcomroe Abbey, a 13th-century monastery.
- Discover a hidden oasis at the Burren Nature Sanctuary.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Inis Mor (Inishmore) Island, The Aran Islands – Coolest Places to Stay in Galway
The Aran Islands are an archipelago of three islands located in Galway Bay, County Galway. Barren and rocky, they are home to some incredible historic attractions. As well as, some of the most beautiful vistas in the world.
A day trip from Galway City is another option if your Galway itinerary does not allow you to spend a few days in the Aran Islands. There’s no excuse not to visit these stunning islands in the Atlantic Ocean!
Inis Mor is the largest of the Aran Islands. Famous for its white-sand beaches, the pretty views overlooking County Clare, its close proximity to nature and its abundance of bars. This small island gets my vote for the coolest neighbourhood in Galway.
Love to eat? Kilronan in Inis Mor is for you! This small town specializes in seafood-based food culture. Whether you’re craving cod or mussels, you can savour fresh and delicious seafood almost every day of the year.
Kilronan Holiday Homes | Best Hotel in Inis Mor
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, shops and the bustling harbour are only a short walk away, allowing you to fully explore and enjoy your surroundings.
Private 4 bed Room Kilronan Hostel | Best Hostel in Inis Mor
A hostel on Airbnb? You betcha! This is the perfect spot for friends looking to book a weekend away in Kilronan. The shared spaces are well-maintained and the breakfast is a great addition. The Airbnb is in a beautiful location and just a short walk from the port and the village.
Island Guest Room | Best Airbnb in Inis Mor
This is a great Airbnb in Galway, perfect for travellers who love to walk and hike. Get ready for a workout; It’s located uphill so you will surely get a little sweat going. The most important thing about this place is the view- it’s epic!
Although you may find yourself stuck staring at the random gnomes, strategically placed in the garden, I think to scare off the animals? Not entirely sure but they’re groovy.
Things to See and Do on Inis Mor
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Shop for handmade, high-quality jumpers, socks and souvenirs at the Aran Sweater Market.
- Rent bikes and tour the island on two wheels.
- Take in the spectacular views as you explore Dun Aonghasa, a large prehistoric stone fort that sits perched on a cliff.
- Rest and relax on beautiful Kilmurvey Beach.
- Hike to and wander throughout the ruins of Dun Eochla.
- Take a day trip from Galway City to see these beautiful islands.
- Gaze across the Atlantic Ocean and admire Cliffs of Moher in County Clare.
- Take a chilly dip at one of the Atlantic Ocean beaches.
5. Clifden – Best Neighborhood in Galway for Nature Lovers
Clifden is the most prominent area in the greater Connemara region, and it is my top pick for people looking for stunning scenery. This region is home to Connemara National Park, one of Ireland’s six national parks. Between that and the Twelve Bens Mountains, this neighbourhood is a nature lover’s dreeeeeeeeam.
Connemara National Park offers spectacular vistas of mountains, bogs, and grasslands. You might easily spend an entire morning, afternoon, or even a day exploring the paths that provide panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and coast. What else could you want in your great Irish road trip?
One of the most popular things to do in the area is to visit Kylemore Abbey, a Benedictine monastery founded in 1920 on the grounds of Kylemore Castle. It is regarded as one of the greatest things to do in the Connemara region and is one of the most romantic buildings in Ireland.
When I’m not trecking up mountain trails or wandering around old castles, my favourite thing to do in this region is to go up to Sky Road in the evening and try to catch the sunset. That’s assuming I’m lucky enough with the notoriously unreliable Irish weather.
Waterfront Rest B&B | Best Budget Hotel in Clifden
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.
Alcock & Brown Hotel | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Clifden
The Alcock and Brown Hotel in Clifden is a boutique-style, family-run establishment that provides personalised, warm service in an idyllic setting. Guestrooms with contemporary designs and conventional furnishings have TVs, free Wi-Fi, and tea and coffee-making facilities. The restaurant is decorated with art inspired by the Connemara countryside, serves world cuisine and Connemara seafood, and frequently has live music.
Connemara Coast Hotel | Best Luxury Hotel in Clifden
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.
Things to Do and See in Clifden
- Book a kayak tour and paddle through Ireland’s remote Connemara coastline.
- Take a stroll up Clifton Castle.
- Spend an afternoon spinning around Connemara National Park.
- Stroll the grounds of Kylemore Abbey.
- Enjoy some of Galway’s most breathtaking vistas from Diamond Hill.
6. Oranmore – Best Neighborhood in Galway for Families to Stay In
A stone’s throw outside of Galway City is the community of Oranmore. Nestled between the city and nature, Oranmore is where you can enjoy incredible sights and natural surroundings. As well as modern conveniences and amazing sightseeing.
My recommendation for where to stay in Galway for families is Oranmore, a waterside village packed with attractions. Home to everything from the awesome Oranmore Castle to sprawling Renville Park, Oranmore is a small village that packs a very big punch.
Want to get your heart pumping? Rent bikes and see the very best of Galway by riding along the shoreline and following the curve of Galway Bay.
Oranmore Lodge Hotel Conference and Leisure Centre Galway | Best Budget Hotel in Oranmore
This is a great place to stay if you’re looking for good value accommodations in Oranmore as its one of the best hotels in the area. 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 kid’s swimming pool.
Maldron Hotel & Leisure Centre | Best Hotel in Oranmore
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 kid’s club and pool.
Oranhill Lodge Guesthouse | Best Lodge in Oranmore
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.
Spectacular Sea View Lodge | Best Airbnb in Oranmore
This lovely Airbnb is an excellent alternative to a premium hotel and 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.
Things to See and Do in Oranmore
- Wander through the lush landscapes of Rinville Park.
- Explore the trails, fields and forests of Merlin Woods Park.
- Take a swing around the beautiful Galway Bay Golf Resort.
- Visit the Oranmore Castle and dive deep into the history of Galway.
- Rent bikes and explore Galway Bay.
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Hide Yo’ Money!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.
What To Pack For Galway
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
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Sea To Summit Micro Towel
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Where is the best place to stay in Galway if I don’t have a car?
The city centre is the best place to be if you don’t have a car. Everything is super walkable, so be sure to pack your trainers. Pedestrianised areas like the Latin Quarter are perfect for an afternoon meander. You can even join the many locals and tourists on the walking trail to Salthill.
Where is the most unique place to stay in Galway?
The Aran Islands are an EPIC place to explore from Galway, I recommend Inir Mor in the Aran Islands. You can jump on a ferry or a plane (depending on your budget) from Galway City to get there.
What is the best Bed & Breakfast to stay at in Galway?
Fallon’s Bed & Breakfast is a perfect little B&B in Kinvara, Co Galway. They have cosy rooms and a delicious restaurant that offers a tasty Irish breakfast every morning. It’s also in perfect walking distance to shops and pubs.
Where to stay in Galway if I want to party?
Galway city centre is the place for you partygoers. There is a great selection of bars and pubs where you can enjoy a few Guinness’ and get a bit loose. The Latin Quarter is perfect for the ultimate Galway pub crawl!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Galway
Galway is absolutely one of the gems in Ireland’s crown. Set on the west coast, this charming region is home to incredible history, ancient ruins and amazing landscapes. But that’s not all, the fifth-largest city in Ireland is also packed with traditional pubs, bars and adventure. There truly is something for everyone in Galway.
I loved my time exploring this incredible area and I know you will too. Each neighbourhood has something unique and magical 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 and cosy is one of the best hotels around. It offers a range of amenities and features including a library and a stunning large 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.
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