Galway City Hostel
Most central hostel in Galway City 🎒🚉
Overlooking the historic Eyre Square and located literally adjacent to Galway’s main Rail and Bus Station, Galway City Hostel & Bar is the ultimate base for the modern backpacker. This multi-award-winning hostel is famous for its exceptional “Solo Traveller” experience, where the staff (notably Tom and Finn) go above and beyond to introduce new arrivals and foster a social, communal atmosphere.
With its own bar downstairs featuring nightly live music and a generous free breakfast, it captures the high-energy spirit of Galway. Whether you’re here to jump on a tour to the Cliffs of Moher or want to be within a 2-minute walk of the city’s best nightlife, this hostel offers a premium location with “big hostel” amenities and a “boutique” personal touch.
Hostel Facilities
Galway City Hostel is designed for comfort and connection, featuring modern dorm pods and excellent social hubs.
| Feature / Service | Details | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Dorm Pods | Privacy Curtains & Tech | Every bed has a curtain, reading light, USB ports, and power sockets. |
| The Bar | On-site Socializing | A lively spot beneath the hostel with live Irish music every night. |
| Social Kitchen | Fully Equipped | Features iMac access, modern appliances, and communal spices for guests. |
| Freebies | Breakfast & Luggage | Substantial continental breakfast, free luggage storage, and tour booking desk. |
Essential Info
Check-in: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Let them know if arriving late to secure your bed).
Check-out: 10:30 AM.
The Experience: Highly rated for solo travelers; staff are known for matching guests up for pub crawls and day tours.
Note: This is an adults-only hostel (18+). While the bar downstairs is great for fun, light sleepers should bring earplugs as the music is lively until late!
Tip: Take advantage of the staff’s local knowledge—they can often book you onto tours for Connemara or the Aran Islands with guest discounts. If you’re a solo traveler, don’t miss the common room in the early evening; it’s the designated “meet-up” spot before everyone heads out for the night. Also, the “overnight oats” at breakfast are a local legend among long-term guests!
Contact & Location Information
Phone: +353 (0)91 535 878
Email: [email protected]
Location: It is impossible to get more central. If you arrive by train or bus at Ceannt Station, you are less than a 1-minute walk from the front door. Just look for the signage right at the edge of Eyre Square.
FAQs about Galway City Hostel
Is there a safe place for my bags?
Yes, every dorm bed comes with a secure under-bed locker. You will need to bring your own padlock (or you can buy one at reception). They also offer free luggage storage for the day of check-in and check-out.
Are there female-only dorms?
Yes, they offer 5-person and 6-person female-only shared dormitories for those who prefer them. These are very popular, so booking in advance is advised.
Is there parking nearby?
While the hostel has no on-site parking, there is public parking nearby at discounted rates (approx. €6.50 – €10 per day). Ask at reception for the best local voucher or location.
Hostel beside Galway train station
This newly refurbished hostel is directly facing the main train and bus station, with fantastic views of Eyre Square. It has a backpacker bar downstairs, providing the very best in massively discounted beers, cocktails, shots and meals.
A complimentary light breakfast is provided between 6am and 10am. Bring your travel journal and swap email address’ to keep in touch with your new friends.
Best Rate Hotels
