The best hotels in Galway

What are the best hotels in Galway?

This is a city where you can stay in a buzzing boutique hotel in the Latin Quarter, opt for a sleek spa retreat overlooking the water, or escape to an elegant country estate just beyond the city. The right choice depends on whether you want Galway's lively pub and music scene on your doorstep or somewhere more peaceful. For us, one hotel stands out from the rest. Set in an 18th century house on a tranquil estate, Glenlo Abbey Hotel has the grandeur, character and old-school Irish hospitality that makes a hotel stay feel like somewhere truly special. Its antique-filled rooms, attentive service, excellent facilities, beautiful grounds and golf course give it a real sense of occasion, while Galway city is still within easy reach. 

Bohemian Galway (Gaillimh) is one of Ireland’s best-known cities, famed for its live music scene, foodie delights and fabulous fusion of contemporary arts and medieval history. For a taste of Galway’s innovative arts scene, catch a performance penned by a budding Irish playwright at the Druid Performing Arts Company or perch in the city’s bars for toe-tapping gigs and a pint or three. Enlivened by its energetic student population, Galway is a great place for a night out, and some of the best pubs and restaurants are located in the charming Latin Quarter, a magical maze of cobbled streets and excellent eateries spilling out onto the streets. Food is a tremendous part of life in Galway, and there’s splendid seafood to savour, as well as regular annual foodie festivals, including the Galway Food Festival and the Galway Oyster & Seafood Festival, both of which also feature lots of live music. Beyond the city itself are myriad heritage attractions, as well as the beautiful landscapes of the dramatic Wild Atlantic Way, the road trip of a lifetime.

Scroll down the page for our full selection of recommended hotels in Galway.

The Best Places to Stay in Galway

For contemporary chic

• The House Hotel features stylish interiors with bright splashes of pattern and colour in a beautifully refurbished historic building. Pick this place for its hip feel and wonderful location in the Latin Quarter -- ideal for enjoying the best of Galway's nightlife. The Yard Kitchen/Bar is a great place for a cocktail, too! One for couples, groups or trendy business travellers.
• The Galmont promises cool, contemporary decor in beautifully-appointed rooms, with a fabulous seafood restaurant, lively bar, and excellent fitness centre. The indulgent Spirit One Spa is a real highlight. A chic, luxurious choice with waterfront views and top-notch facilities.
• The G is a glamorous property with sophisticated rooms and suites designed by world-famous milliner Philip Treacy, set on the banks of Lough Atalia. Facilities include a soothing spa and a superb fine dining restaurant. A fun, flamboyant choice!
• The Dean Galway is a colourful boutique stay near Eyre Square, with playful rooms featuring turntables, coffee machines and mini SMEGs. There’s plenty happening on-site too: an outdoor pool, rooftop Sophie’s Restaurant & Rooftop Bar, a cosy pub and American-style eatery. Add city views from some of the balconies and you’ve got a fun, design-led base.
• Right by Galway’s bus and train stations, Hyde Hotel puts the city at your feet. Inside, expect bold contemporary interiors, a lively feel and plenty of character. The restaurant uses fresh local ingredients, while the popular gin bar keeps things sociable. Eyre Square, Shop Street and the Latin Quarter are all close by.

For a traditional townhouse

• Set in a Georgian townhouse beside the River Corrib, Corrib House is packed with period character, from antique furnishings to individually decorated bedrooms. There’s a pretty garden, cosy tearoom serving breakfast and treats, and the centre’s restaurants, bars and theatres are an easy walk away.

For a country house hotel

• Glenlo Abbey Hotel offers luxurious, antique-filled rooms and suites in an eighteenth century house on a peaceful County Galway estate. Pick this place for opulent interiors, a calm, restorative atmosphere, and the property's fantastic golf course. The city is within easy reach. A sumptuous country retreat.

For an apartment or holiday cottage

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Shannon Airport in County Clare and hop into a bus or taxi to Galway. The journey should take less than two hours by road. Alternatively, travel by car, bus or train from Dublin (2 - 2.5 hours).
• Galway and the surrounding region are wonderful to explore by road. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel between May and September for warmer weather, averaging at around 17°C. Winters are cold and sometimes rainy, but can be very cosy! The summer is a hugely popular time to visit, so book your stay well in advance, or consider coming in the spring for fewer crowds and long, bright evenings.

Still not sure?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in County Galway,
• Expand your search to see our pick of all the best places to stay in Ireland,
• Or, contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.