What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?

For budget-conscious travellers, many free and low-cost activities are available. Walking tours of Dublin, Galway, or Kilkenny are a great way to explore historical sites and charming streets without spending a fortune. Many national parks, such as Killarney National Park and Connemara National Park, offer stunning scenery and hiking trails with minimal entrance fees. Visiting smaller, lesser-known towns and villages often provides a more authentic Irish experience at a lower cost. Free activities include exploring beaches like Inch Beach or enjoying traditional music sessions in pubs (though drinks will add cost).

What are the best hostels in Ireland?

Among the hostels in Ireland, Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square , Galway City Hostel - Solo Traveller Hostel and The Black Sheep Hostel are the most popular ones.

Which airports handle most of the traffic to and from Ireland?

Dublin Airport (DUB) is the largest and busiest airport, handling the majority of international flights. Cork Airport (ORK) and Shannon Airport (SNN) are also significant, serving both domestic and international routes, but handle considerably less traffic than Dublin.

What are the best hostels with a pool in Ireland?

Latroupe Jacobs Inn , Trinity College - Campus Accommodation and Old Mill Holiday Hostel are the best hostels with a pool in Ireland.

What currency is used in Ireland?

The currency used in Ireland is the euro (€).

What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Ireland?

The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Ireland are Gardiner House Hostel , Generator Dublin and Easkey Hostel .

How easy is it to navigate the roads in Ireland?

Navigating Ireland's roads can be straightforward, but it's important to be aware of narrow, winding roads, especially in rural areas. A GPS or satnav is highly recommended, particularly outside of major cities. Driving on the left-hand side of the road is essential to remember. Be prepared for some single-track roads requiring careful negotiation and consideration for oncoming traffic.

What are the best hostels for families and kids in Ireland?

The best hostels for families and kids in Ireland are Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square , The Black Sheep Hostel and The Nest Boutique Hostel .

How can travellers best respect local customs while in Ireland?

Respectful travel involves being mindful of local customs. Saying 'please' and 'thank you' goes a long way. It's polite to engage in conversation with locals but avoid intrusive questions about personal matters. When visiting pubs, it's customary to take turns buying rounds of drinks. Respect quiet times in residential areas, especially in smaller villages. Learning a few basic Irish phrases is always appreciated.

What are the best pet friendly hostels in Ireland?

The best pet friendly hostels in Ireland are Latroupe Jacobs Inn , Rainbow Hostel and Lakeland House .

Which traditional festivals define the spirit of Ireland?

St. Patrick's Day (March 17th) is the most internationally recognised Irish festival, with parades and celebrations nationwide. However, many other local festivals showcase Irish culture. Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, a major traditional Irish music festival, is held annually in a different location. Numerous smaller, local festivals celebrate harvest time, often involving traditional music, dance, and food.

What are the best hostels with parking in Ireland?

Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square , Galway City Hostel - Solo Traveller Hostel and The Black Sheep Hostel are the best hostels with parking in Ireland.

What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns in Ireland?

For medical emergencies, dial 112 or 999. The Garda Síochána (Irish police) can be reached at 999 or 112 for non-medical emergencies.

What are the best areas to spend a week in Ireland?

A week allows for exploring a good portion of the country. A popular itinerary might involve exploring Dublin for a couple of days, then heading west to Galway and the Connemara region for stunning scenery. A loop through the Ring of Kerry in County Kerry is another option, offering dramatic coastal views and charming towns. Alternatively, focusing on the north, exploring Belfast and the Antrim Coast with its Giant's Causeway, offers a different perspective.

What are the best areas to spend a weekend in Ireland?

For a weekend getaway, Dublin offers a concentrated dose of Irish history, culture, and nightlife. Alternatively, a trip to Galway provides a vibrant city experience with easy access to the beautiful Connemara region. Cork city offers a more relaxed atmosphere with historical sites and nearby coastal areas.

Are there specific regions known for great weather?

Ireland's weather is notoriously unpredictable. However, the south-west coast, including areas like County Kerry and County Cork, generally experiences slightly milder temperatures and more sunshine than other parts of the country, though this is not a guarantee.

Ireland Hostels at the Best Price

8.0 264 reviews

University Hall - Ucc Summer Beds

hostel, Cork

University Hall Apartments are located near University College Cork, a 10-minute walk away, and a 20-minute walk from Cork city centre. The residence enjoys a very good rating for cleanliness, location, and user experience.
The University Hall Apartments offer modern and spacious accommodation, featuring large work areas, comfortable living spaces, and fully equipped kitchens. Guests can benefit from free Wi-Fi, parking, a laundromat, a common room, and a tourist information desk.

8.0 3134 reviews

The Dawson Hostel Galway

hostel, Galway

The Dawson Hostel Galway is centrally located in Galway city, 0.1 kilometres from Eyre Square and a three-minute walk from Galway Bus Station.
This family-friendly guesthouse offers free Wi-Fi, a terrace, and a garden, providing 24-hour reception, currency exchange, and luggage storage in a modern, alcohol-free environment.

8.8 634 reviews

Heyday Hostel Ballina

hostel, Ballina

Heyday Hostel Ballina is located in Ballina, just 15km from the Mayo North Heritage Centre and 16km from the Foxford Woolen Mills Visitor Center. This hostel has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The accommodation features a shared kitchen and lounge, perfect for meeting other travellers. Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast, free Wi-Fi and private bathrooms.

8.6 327 reviews

Wild Atlantic Hostel

hostel, Leenaun

The Wild Atlantic Hostel is situated in Leenaun, a 15-minute drive from the nearest beach and 35 minutes from Westport, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of the Irish countryside. This hostel has received very good user ratings, with excellent location and cleanliness ratings, making it a popular choice for travellers.
The hostel offers a shared dormitory-style accommodation with private bathrooms for each room. Guests can enjoy a range of facilities including a restaurant, spa, terrace, garden, sauna, and free parking, as well as access to the Dephi Adventure Resort's amenities.

8.6 1757 reviews

The Hideout, Twin Room, Centre Of Dingle

hostel

The Hideout is a guesthouse in the centre of Dingle town, within easy walking distance of the harbour, shops, and restaurants. It has consistently received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The Hideout offers a twin room with en-suite facilities, suitable for two guests. It provides a simple and clean stay with limited common areas, focusing on providing a comfortable and affordable experience for travellers.

8.9 286 reviews

The Common Knowledge Centre

hostel, Kilfenora

The Common Knowledge Centre is a hostel situated just 9.2 miles from the Cliffs of Moher, in the charming village of Kilfenora, which is also close to Doolin Cave. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and overall experience, with a good rating for its location.
The hostel has a shared lounge and terrace, perfect for socialising. Guests can enjoy free parking, Wi-Fi, and bed linen, as well as a garden and the opportunity to enjoy nearby hiking trails.

9.3 1178 reviews

The Valley House

hostel, Valley

The Valley House Hostel & Bar is located on Achill Island, just a short drive from Achill Sound and Keel, making it a great base for exploring the island’s stunning scenery and beaches. It consistently receives very good ratings for its cleanliness, location and overall experience.
The hostel is housed in a charming Victorian building with a self-catering kitchen and a guest sitting room, providing a comfortable and sociable space for guests. Amenities include a garden, a woodland faerie trail, a bar with live music and free Wi-Fi and parking, offering a variety of options for relaxation and entertainment.

8.6 60 reviews

Castle Hostel

hostel, Tralee

Castle Hostel in Tralee enjoys a central location, a 0.8km walk from both Tralee railway and bus stations and a 2.4km drive from Tralee Airport.
This three-storey guesthouse sleeps 26 guests, offering a kitchen with microwave and dishwasher, laundry facilities, bicycle storage, and accepts various payment methods; it's ideal for groups.

8.4 2668 reviews

Swuite Galway

hostel, Galway

Swiite Galway is conveniently located near Eyre Square, a 10-minute walk away, and just over half a mile from Galway Greyhound Stadium, making it ideal for exploring the city's attractions. The hostel has received very good user ratings, particularly for its cleanliness and location.
The accommodation offers a range of self-catering studios and apartments, as well as spacious suites, all with private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a fitness centre, and a terrace or balcony, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring the Wild Atlantic Way.

9.0 110 reviews

Clare's Rock Self-catering Accommodation

hostel, Carron

Clare's Rock Self-catering Accommodation is located in the village of Carron, just a short drive from the Wild Atlantic Way and a few miles from the Caherconnell Stone Fort. The hostel has received very good user ratings, with excellent scores for location and cleanliness.
The accommodation offers a choice of private rooms, self-catering apartments, and a whole house. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a fitness centre, a games room, a garden, and a terrace, as well as walking maps and recommendations for exploring the stunning Burren landscape.

8.1 15428 reviews

Clink I Lár

hostel, Dublin

Clink I Lár is a hostel conveniently located in Dublin city centre, just a short walk from St. Michan's Church, Chester Beatty Library, and the Gaiety Theatre. It has consistently received very good ratings for cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The hostel has a shared lounge, perfect for meeting fellow travellers, and offers a range of amenities including free Wi-Fi, a kitchen, and a bar with evening entertainment. Breakfast is included, with options for vegetarian and gluten-free diets.

9.4 11 reviews

The Forum-mountmellick - Stunning Renovated Church

hostel, Mountmellick

The Forum - Mountmellick - Church hostel is located in Mountmellick, 11km from the Sky Venue, 23km from the Tullamore Dew Visitor Centre, and 31km from the Athy Heritage Centre and Museum.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom lodging offers free Wi-Fi, private parking, a communal kitchen, garden, terrace, and spa facilities, plus family rooms and barbecue use, with nearby hiking and cycling opportunities.

Best Ireland hostels with breakfast

Among the 576 hostels in Ireland, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast

9.7 129 reviews

Barrow House

hostel, Tralee

Barrow House, a hostel in Tralee, offers convenient airport shuttle service and on-site parking, making it an accessible choice for travellers.
This accommodation provides a swimming pool, sauna, spa, fitness centre, and a garden, with some rooms featuring separate living areas and balconies for added comfort.

8.6 27717 reviews

Latroupe Jacobs Inn

hostel, Dublin

Jacobs Inn Dublin is conveniently located in the city centre, just a five-minute walk from Temple Bar and opposite Connolly Station, making it easy to explore the city's attractions. The hostel consistently receives very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel offers a range of private rooms and dormitories, all with en-suite bathrooms, ensuring comfort and privacy. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities including a common room, laundry facilities, luggage storage, and a restaurant and bar, along with free guided city walks, a fitness centre, and swimming pool.

No reviews

Birchdale House B&b

hostel, Rathdrum

Birchdale House B&B is a guesthouse located in Rathdrum, 4 kilometres from the town centre, offering access to Dublin landmarks such as Aviva Stadium, St. Stephen's Green, and the National Museum of Ireland. This accommodation provides guests with complimentary Wi-Fi, on-site parking, a library, picnic area, barbecue space, and a games room for children, with private check-in and check-out services available.

9.4 248 reviews

Artist Letterkenny

hostel, Letterkenny

Artist Letterkenny is situated in the centre of Letterkenny, just a short walk from the main street and the Aura Leisure Centre. This family-run hostel is highly rated and offers a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere despite its central location.
The hostel features a self-catering kitchen with a microwave, and guests can also choose from complimentary meals. Enjoy free access to the Aura Leisure Centre, unwind by the fire, or unleash your creativity in the art studio.

Top cities

Best Ireland hostels with a locker

9.0 395 reviews

ÉAlú Lodge

hostel, Sligo

Éalú Lodge, a Sligo guesthouse, is conveniently located in Sligo town, a short walk from Sligo County Museum and within easy reach (11.4km and 16km respectively) of Parkes Castle and Lissadell House.
This single-bedroom lodging offers a shared kitchen and lounge, free Wi-Fi, a private bathroom with shower and flat-screen TV, and is suitable for solo travellers or small groups.

No reviews

The Dawson Hostel

hostel, Dublin

The Dawson Hostel in Dublin offers budget-friendly accommodation within walking distance of Dublin city centre, close to the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology, St Stephen's Green, and Powerscourt Townhouse.
This Dublin hostel provides shared kitchen facilities for self-catering, sleeps two guests, and is conveniently located for exploring the local area's restaurants and shops.

9.6 4 reviews

Brú Na Dromoda Dromid Hostel

hostel

Brú Na Dromoda Dromid Hostel, located in Killeenleagh, Ireland, is a family-friendly establishment offering a golf-focused stay within 15 kilometres of Waterville Beach and Waterville Golf Links.
This budget accommodation provides complimentary WiFi in public areas, free self-parking, on-site laundry facilities, a computer station, a library, and common areas with a microwave and refrigerator, with bedsheet changes available upon request.

9.0 1352 reviews

The Black Sheep Hostel

hostel, Killarney

The Black Sheep Hostel is located just a short walk from St. Mary's Cathedral in the heart of Killarney, making it a great base for exploring this charming town. The hostel enjoys excellent ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The hostel offers a shared lounge, a sun terrace, and a shared kitchen, perfect for socialising with fellow travellers. Guests can also benefit from a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, bike rentals, luggage storage, and a concierge service to help plan their stay.

Frequently asked questions about hostels in Ireland

What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?
For budget-conscious travellers, many free and low-cost activities are available. Walking tours of Dublin, Galway, or Kilkenny are a great way to explore historical sites and charming streets without spending a fortune. Many national parks, such as Killarney National Park and Connemara National Park, offer stunning scenery and hiking trails with minimal entrance fees. Visiting smaller, lesser-known towns and villages often provides a more authentic Irish experience at a lower cost. Free activities include exploring beaches like Inch Beach or enjoying traditional music sessions in pubs (though drinks will add cost).
What are the best hostels in Ireland?
Among the hostels in Ireland, Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square, Galway City Hostel - Solo Traveller Hostel and The Black Sheep Hostel are the most popular ones.
Which airports handle most of the traffic to and from Ireland?
Dublin Airport (DUB) is the largest and busiest airport, handling the majority of international flights. Cork Airport (ORK) and Shannon Airport (SNN) are also significant, serving both domestic and international routes, but handle considerably less traffic than Dublin.
What are the best hostels with a pool in Ireland?
Latroupe Jacobs Inn, Trinity College - Campus Accommodation and Old Mill Holiday Hostel are the best hostels with a pool in Ireland.
What currency is used in Ireland?
The currency used in Ireland is the euro (€).
What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Ireland?
The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Ireland are Gardiner House Hostel, Generator Dublin and Easkey Hostel.
How easy is it to navigate the roads in Ireland?
Navigating Ireland's roads can be straightforward, but it's important to be aware of narrow, winding roads, especially in rural areas. A GPS or satnav is highly recommended, particularly outside of major cities. Driving on the left-hand side of the road is essential to remember. Be prepared for some single-track roads requiring careful negotiation and consideration for oncoming traffic.
What are the best hostels for families and kids in Ireland?
The best hostels for families and kids in Ireland are Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square, The Black Sheep Hostel and The Nest Boutique Hostel.
How can travellers best respect local customs while in Ireland?
Respectful travel involves being mindful of local customs. Saying 'please' and 'thank you' goes a long way. It's polite to engage in conversation with locals but avoid intrusive questions about personal matters. When visiting pubs, it's customary to take turns buying rounds of drinks. Respect quiet times in residential areas, especially in smaller villages. Learning a few basic Irish phrases is always appreciated.
What are the best pet friendly hostels in Ireland?
The best pet friendly hostels in Ireland are Latroupe Jacobs Inn, Rainbow Hostel and Lakeland House.
Which traditional festivals define the spirit of Ireland?
St. Patrick's Day (March 17th) is the most internationally recognised Irish festival, with parades and celebrations nationwide. However, many other local festivals showcase Irish culture. Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, a major traditional Irish music festival, is held annually in a different location. Numerous smaller, local festivals celebrate harvest time, often involving traditional music, dance, and food.
What are the best hostels with parking in Ireland?
Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square, Galway City Hostel - Solo Traveller Hostel and The Black Sheep Hostel are the best hostels with parking in Ireland.
What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns in Ireland?
For medical emergencies, dial 112 or 999. The Garda Síochána (Irish police) can be reached at 999 or 112 for non-medical emergencies.
What are the best areas to spend a week in Ireland?
A week allows for exploring a good portion of the country. A popular itinerary might involve exploring Dublin for a couple of days, then heading west to Galway and the Connemara region for stunning scenery. A loop through the Ring of Kerry in County Kerry is another option, offering dramatic coastal views and charming towns. Alternatively, focusing on the north, exploring Belfast and the Antrim Coast with its Giant's Causeway, offers a different perspective.
What are the best areas to spend a weekend in Ireland?
For a weekend getaway, Dublin offers a concentrated dose of Irish history, culture, and nightlife. Alternatively, a trip to Galway provides a vibrant city experience with easy access to the beautiful Connemara region. Cork city offers a more relaxed atmosphere with historical sites and nearby coastal areas.
Are there specific regions known for great weather?
Ireland's weather is notoriously unpredictable. However, the south-west coast, including areas like County Kerry and County Cork, generally experiences slightly milder temperatures and more sunshine than other parts of the country, though this is not a guarantee.

Top regions Ireland

Best Ireland hostels with air conditioning

No reviews

Number 59 Dublin

hostel, Dublin

Hostel listing. You will be in Dublin.
Services and facilities include a massage service, an access for persons with reduced mobility and a terrace. This accommodation in Dublin also has air conditioning!

9.5 5750 reviews

Galway City Hostel

hostel, Galway

Galway City Hostel is ideally located right beside the Galway Railway and Bus Station, overlooking Eyre Square and within easy walking distance of Lynch Castle, Galway Cathedral, and the Spanish Arch. The hostel has received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness and overall user experience.
The hostel offers a range of facilities including a shared lounge, kitchen, laundry facilities, and a terrace. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, luggage storage, and a tour desk that can arrange excursions to popular destinations such as the Cliffs of Moher.

8.3 234 reviews

Latroupe Jacobs Inn

hostel, Dublin

Latroupe Jacobs Inn, a central Dublin hostel, offers easy access to numerous landmarks within walking distance.
This accommodation provides complimentary Wi-Fi, an on-site ticketing service, laundry, room service, and daily breakfast, with some rooms featuring air conditioning and linen service.

10 1 review

The Bailie Hotel

hostel, Kingscourt

The Bailie Hotel is a well-regarded hostel located in Kingscourt, providing excellent access to local attractions.
This family-friendly establishment offers guests free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, bar, kitchen facilities, air conditioning, and parking, with complimentary breakfast and room service available.

Best Ireland hostels with laundry available

9.4 1274 reviews

One Bed In A Mixed Dorm At Sleepzone Clare

hostel

The Burren Hostel - Sleepzone in Lisdoonvarna offers convenient access to the Cliffs of Moher (approximately 30km away) and the Burren Geopark, plus proximity to local attractions like the Burren Smokehouse and Poulnabrone Dolmen.
This family-friendly guesthouse provides a fully equipped kitchen, a terrace, a fitness centre, and on-site parking, alongside private rooms and dorm rooms, each with a private bathroom and garden views; a light breakfast is included.

8.5 498 reviews

Peggy Moores

hostel, Drogheda

Peggy Moores is a hostel situated just 8.5 kilometres from the Bru na Boinne Visitor Centre and the ancient sites of Monasterboice, Sonairte Ecology Centre and Dowth, offering a peaceful retreat outside the town centre. The hostel has received very good user ratings, with excellent ratings for location and cleanliness.
The hostel has a private bathroom in each room and features a bar, kitchen, terrace, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy a drink at the bar, relax on the terrace, or explore the nearby ancient sites and attractions.

8.9 333 reviews

Slane Farm Hostel, Cottages And Camping

hostel, Slane

Slane Farm Hostel, Cottages and Camping is located in the Boyne Valley, just 16 kilometres from the historic sites of Tara and Newgrange, offering a peaceful setting close to some of Ireland's most significant historical landmarks. The hostel consistently receives very good user ratings, with excellent scores for location and cleanliness.
The hostel provides a range of accommodation options, from comfortable rooms in the main building to private cottages. Guests can enjoy a self-catering kitchen, a lounge with local guidebooks and a TV lounge with a movie library and board games, as well as a garden, a restaurant, and a fitness centre.

9.0 7051 reviews

The Nest Boutique Hostel

hostel, Galway

The Nest Boutique Hostel is in Galway city, a short walk from Salthill promenade and about a mile from St. Nicholas Collegiate Church, making it easy to explore both the bustling city centre and the scenic coastline. The hostel is highly rated by guests, with excellent cleanliness, a very good location and a very good overall rating.
The hostel has a comfortable common area with a fireplace, perfect for socialising with fellow travellers. It also offers a range of amenities, including a kitchen with a fridge and microwave, a terrace, a garden, a restaurant, a fitness centre, free Wi-Fi and free parking.

All Hostels in Ireland

576 Hostels in Ireland

University Hall - Ucc Summer Beds

The Dawson Hostel Galway

Heyday Hostel Ballina

Wild Atlantic Hostel

The Hideout, Twin Room, Centre Of Dingle

The Common Knowledge Centre

The Valley House

Castle Hostel

Swuite Galway

Clare's Rock Self-catering Accommodation

Clink I Lár

The Forum-mountmellick - Stunning Renovated Church

Best Ireland hostels with breakfast

Barrow House

Latroupe Jacobs Inn

Birchdale House B&b

Artist Letterkenny

Top cities

Best Ireland hostels with a locker

ÉAlú Lodge

The Dawson Hostel

Brú Na Dromoda Dromid Hostel

The Black Sheep Hostel

Frequently asked questions about hostels in Ireland

Top regions Ireland

Best Ireland hostels with air conditioning

Number 59 Dublin

Galway City Hostel

Latroupe Jacobs Inn

The Bailie Hotel

Best Ireland hostels with laundry available

One Bed In A Mixed Dorm At Sleepzone Clare

Peggy Moores

Slane Farm Hostel, Cottages And Camping

The Nest Boutique Hostel