Hotels in Galway: Where to Stay in 2025
Updated 1 July 2026 · 46 real hotels
Galway's city centre and Latin Quarter are the best bases for most visitors, putting pubs, restaurants and the famous Shop Street within walking distance. Travellers who prefer more space and lower rates can look at Terryland, just a short drive or bus ride from the action.
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| Hotel | Area | Rating | Price / night |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cúirt na Coiribe Self Catering ★★★ | Terryland | ★ 4 | 86 €/nuit |
| University of Galway Rooms ★★★ | Newcastle | ★ 4.6 | 120 €/nuit |
| The Westwood ★★★ | Dangan Upper | ★ 4.1 | 139 €/nuit |
| University of Galway Apartments ★★★★ | Newcastle | ★ 4.5 | 176 €/nuit |
| Queen Street Place ★★★ | Centre-ville de Galway | ★ 5 | 205 €/nuit |
| City HideAway ★★★ | Centre-ville de Galway | ★ 3.6 | 216 €/nuit |
| The Oyster House ★★★ | Galway : à 12,5 km | ★ 4 | 218 €/nuit |
| Eyre Square Townhouse ★★★ | Centre-ville de Galway | ★ 4.3 | 229 €/nuit |
| Flannery's Hotel Galway ★★★ | Ballybaan Beg | ★ 4.3 | 240 €/nuit |
Galway punches well above its size. This compact city on Ireland's west coast carries a reputation for live traditional music, a young university population, and one of the country's most walkable medieval cores. Whether you arrive for the Galway Races, the International Arts Festival or simply to explore Connemara, the city works as both a destination and a gateway.
Staying in Galway means choosing between the energy of a centre where everything is on foot and the calmer residential pockets that sit just a bus ride away. The River Corrib divides east from west, the Atlantic sets the mood, and the weather reminds you that you are firmly on the wild edge of Europe.
Which area to stay in Galway?
- City Centre: The practical default for first-time visitors. Shop Street, Eyre Square and the main bus and rail station are all here, making it easy to arrive, explore and leave without a car. The Dean Galway (4 stars, 535 euros per night) and The G Hotel and Spa (5 stars, 450 euros per night) both sit in this zone.
- Latin Quarter: The beating cultural heart of Galway, packed with traditional music sessions, independent restaurants and medieval laneways. Leonardo Hotel Galway (4 stars, 455 euros per night) is located here, ideal for anyone who wants to step out of the door straight into the atmosphere.
- Terryland: A residential area on the east bank of the Corrib, roughly 10 to 15 minutes by bus from the centre. Rates are noticeably lower and parking is easier. Maldron Hotel Sandy Road Galway (4 stars, 391 euros per night) and Cúirt na Coiribe Self Catering (2.5 stars, 86 euros per night) are both found here, the latter being a strong option for longer stays or families.
- Ballinfoile: A quiet suburban neighbourhood further east, suited to travellers with a rental car who want to avoid city-centre traffic. Menlo Park Hotel (4 stars, 413 euros per night, rated 4.7 out of 5) offers good value relative to its quality and benefits from free parking.
- Salthill: Galway's seaside suburb, about 3 kilometres west of the centre along the coast road. It has its own promenade, traditional pubs and a slower pace. No hotels from the current availability are listed here, but it is worth considering for self-catering searches if you prioritise sea views over walkability.
Good to know
- Book early for festival periods: Galway Arts Festival (July) and Galway Races (July and August) push prices up sharply and fill hotels weeks in advance. The same applies to Saint Patrick's weekend in March.
- You do not need a car in the city centre: Galway's compact core is best explored on foot. A car becomes useful only if you plan day trips to Connemara, the Aran Islands ferry at Rossaveel, or the Cliffs of Moher.
- Ireland West Airport (Knock) versus Shannon: Knock Airport (NOC) is roughly 55 kilometres north-east of Galway and serves several European routes. Shannon Airport is about 100 kilometres south and has more international connections, including transatlantic flights. Both require a bus or car transfer.
- Pack for Atlantic weather: Galway receives significant rainfall year-round. A waterproof jacket is not optional. The mildest and driest stretch is generally May to early September, though even then you should expect changeable days.
- Use Bus Éireann or City Direct for intercity travel: Buses to Dublin run frequently and take roughly two hours and forty-five minutes. The train from Galway Ceannt Station to Dublin Heuston takes about two hours fifteen minutes and is often the most comfortable option.
What to know about hotels in Galway?
What is the best area to stay in Galway for a first visit?+
The city centre, including the Latin Quarter, is the most convenient base. You can walk to the main sights, music venues and restaurants without relying on transport. It also makes early morning departures to Connemara or the Aran Islands ferry straightforward.
When is the best time to visit Galway?+
Late spring and summer (May to August) offer the longest daylight hours, the most festival activity and the mildest temperatures. July is the most vibrant month but also the most crowded and expensive. Shoulder seasons like April and September are quieter, slightly cheaper and still very pleasant.
How much should I budget for a hotel in Galway per night?+
Based on current availability, rates range from around 86 euros per night for self-catering accommodation in Terryland up to 535 euros for a premium four-star in the city centre. A comfortable mid-range stay typically falls between 250 and 420 euros per night, depending on the season and how far in advance you book.
How do I get from the airport to Galway city centre?+
From Ireland West Airport Knock, Bus Éireann and private coaches run direct services to Galway, taking around one hour. From Shannon Airport, Bus Éireann route 51 connects to Galway in approximately one hour forty-five minutes. Taxis and car hire are also available at both airports.
Is Galway a good base for day trips in the west of Ireland?+
Galway is one of the best bases on the island for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way. Connemara National Park, the Aran Islands, Kylemore Abbey and the Cliffs of Moher are all reachable within a day. Most require either a rental car or an organised tour, as public transport to rural areas is limited.
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