The Best Hostels in Ireland for Every Traveller

Whether your plan is to explore the wilds of Killarney, or enjoy the delights of the town, both are a minute away from the Black Sheep Hostel. Located in a 19th-century townhouse, the timber-built, pod-style beds are comfortable and private. The hostel is well equipped, with a communal guitar for the impromptu sing-song and a fully equipped kitchen with free pasta for travellers famished after their outdoor pursuits.

Lively and full of good vibes, Galway is a great city to explore, and there is music everywhere you turn. Voted the best hostel in Ireland by Hostelworld is a great place to be based on your trip to the city, and it is situated right in the heart of the vibrant Eyre Square. Facilities include mixed dorms, a fully equipped self-catering kitchen and a chill-out area.

Once a 19th-century wine store, Isaacs Hostel is full of character and has a really great atmosphere. With a mix of private rooms and multi-bed dormitories, this hostel caters for solo travellers as well as larger groups. It’s close to Dublin’s main bus and train stations, which makes getting around really simple. The common area has a pool table, the internet and Netflix, and is certainly one of the best places to meet new people in Dublin.

Situated in a restored 17th-century building in the heart of Ennis, the Rowan Tree has family-friendly rooms, dorms for groups and private rooms for couples. Ennis is a lively town, known for its Irish music scene. The town is close to some of Ireland’s most compelling landscapes: the Burren and the Cliffs of Moher. Fans of 1990s sitcom Father Ted will recognise the town, with the iconic Parochial House from the series not far away in Lackareagh, County Clare.

Having undergone a complete refurbishment in 2020, Kinlay Hostel is ideally located on Galway’s Eyre Square in the middle of the city. Rooms range from private single rooms to groups of eight, while dorm rooms are also available. Staff know the best places in town and also organise tours for guests.