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Located in the heart of Galway City on the corner of Eyre Square.
Summary of reviewsKinlay Hostel Eyre Square appears to be a top-rated accommodation option in Galway, primarily praised for its exceptional location, spotless facilities and warm, inviting atmosphere. Situated in the heart of Galway, right on Eyre Square, the hostel provides unparalleled convenience with easy access to train and bus stations, as well as a myriad of shops, restaurants, pubs and tourist attractions just steps away.
Guests consistently commend the inclusive, high-quality breakfast offerings, which feature a variety of fresh and homemade items, including banana bread and scones. The well-equipped communal kitchen and spacious dining areas add to the appeal, making meal times both enjoyable and social, especially through budget-friendly communal dinners like the popular €5 pasta bolognese.
The accommodations themselves are clean and comfortable, although some rooms may feel a bit small or have occasional ventilation issues. The presence of daily housekeeping and modern conveniences like individual power outlets and USB plugins at each bed, as well as secure storage options, ensure a pleasant stay. The exceptional cleanliness extends to the common areas, maintained by a diligent cleaning staff.
One of the hostel’s standout facets is its friendly, helpful staff, often mentioned by name in reviews for their professionalism and kindness. This high level of customer service greatly enhances the guest experience.
WiFi generally performs well, particularly in common areas, though some guests report issues with connectivity in the rooms. Parking, albeit limited on-site, is made convenient with discounted rates at nearby facilities, adding to the hostel’s practicality for travelers with cars.
The vibrant nightlife facilitated by organized pub crawls and bar tours makes Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square a popular choice for young and outgoing travelers. Beds are highly rated for their comfort and privacy-enhancing curtains, equipped with modern amenities like power outlets and USB charging points.
Overall, Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square is highly regarded for its central location, cleanliness, excellent amenities and welcoming staff, making it a prime choice for travelers looking to explore Galway. Show more
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Categories
Hostel near Nightlife Spots
The hotel has 2 restaurants and a gastropub.
Luxury Hostel
Hostel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Hostel with Parking
Accessible Hostel
Room Types
Bed in 8-Bed Mixed Dormitory with Shared BathroomOne bed in an 8-bed dormitory with unlimited free Wi-Fi available.
Bed in 6-Bed Mixed Dormitory with Shared BathroomOne bed in 6-bed dormitory with unlimited free Wi-Fi available.
Bed in a 6-Bed Female Dormitory En SuiteOne bed in 6-bed dormitory with unlimited free Wi-Fi available. Please note that this is a female only dormitory room.
Double Room En suiteThe double room features heating, as well as a private bathroom boasting a shower. Rooms on the upper floors are reachable by lift. The unit has 1 bed.
3 Bed Private Room En SuiteThe triple room offers heating, as well as a private bathroom boasting a shower. Rooms on the upper floors are reachable by lift. The unit has 3 beds.
Bed in 6-Bed Mixed Dormitory En SuiteRooms are 9 square metres.
Bed in 4-Bed Mixed Dormitory with Shared BathroomRooms are 6 square metres.
Single Room En SuiteThe single room features heating, as well as a private bathroom boasting a shower. Rooms on the upper floors are reachable by lift. The unit has 1 bed.
Double Or Twin Room En SuiteThe twin/double room offers heating, as well as a private bathroom boasting a shower. Rooms on the upper floors are reachable by lift. The unit has 2 beds.
Bed in 12 bed mixed dormitory roomRooms are 9 square metres.
4 Bed Family Room en suiteThe family room features heating, as well as a private bathroom boasting a shower. Rooms on the upper floors are reachable by lift. The unit has 2 beds.
4-Bed Private Room with shared BathroomThe dormitory room provides heating, as well as a shared bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 4 beds.
6 Bed PrivateThe dormitory room features heating, as well as a shared bathroom boasting a shower. The unit has 6 beds.
6 Bed Private Room EnsuiteThe dormitory room offers heating, as well as a private bathroom boasting a shower. Rooms on the upper floors are reachable by lift. The unit has 6 beds.
8 Bed Private Room with shared bathroomThe dormitory room offers heating, as well as a shared bathroom featuring a shower. Rooms on the upper floors are reachable by lift. The unit offers 8 beds.
Bed in 6 Bed Female Dormitory with shared bathroomRooms are 6 square metres.
Twin Room with Shared BathroomThe twin room offers heating, as well as a shared bathroom featuring a shower. Rooms on the upper floors are reachable by lift. The unit offers 1 bed.
Bed in 6 Bed Male Dormitory Room En suiteRooms are 6 square metres.
Guest Reviews
8.7
Very Good
Location
Situated in the heart of Galway, Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square boasts an exceptional location that guests consistently praise. Nestled right on Eyre Square, this hostel offers unparalleled convenience with the train and bus stations just a short walk away—ideal for those arriving by public transport or planning day trips.
The central position allows visitors to explore Galway’s vibrant attractions with ease. Shops, pubs, restaurants and tourist spots are all within walking distance, making it a perfect base for both daytime adventures and nighttime entertainment. The proximity to Galway's main pedestrian areas and the Latin Quarter means everything is literally steps away, allowing guests to immerse themselves fully in the local culture.
Guests also appreciate the strategic location for its closeness to various tour departure points, making it simpler to embark on excursions. Additionally, the hostel is lauded for its clean and welcoming environment, enhancing the overall experience.
In summary, Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square offers not only excellent amenities but also a top-tier location that places the best of Galway right at your doorstep.
Breakfast
Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square receives high commendations for its breakfast offerings. Guests consistently describe the breakfast as exceptional with many emphasizing the variety and quality of options available. Freshly baked homemade items like banana bread and scones are particularly highlighted, adding a delightful touch to the morning meal.
A significant number of guests appreciated the inclusive nature of the breakfast, noting its convenience and contribution to starting the day off right. The breakfast includes a range of choices, such as cereals, fresh fruits, yogurt, various types of milk and a good selection of bread, catering to different dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan options.
Although the breakfast is rated positively overall, some guests mention that the variety could be improved, suggesting the inclusion of more cooked options and protein sources. Despite this, the majority are satisfied with the hearty, healthy and plentiful offerings, often stating that the quality surpasses typical hostel standards.
In addition to the breakfast, the hostel also provides free tea and coffee throughout the day, further adding value to the guests' experience. The communal areas where breakfast is served are described as well-organized and clean, enhancing the overall enjoyment.
In conclusion, the breakfast at Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square is a standout feature, noted for its fresh, homemade quality and comprehensive selection that leaves most guests pleased and ready for their day.
Dinner
Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square receives high marks for its dining facilities and communal areas. The hostel boasts a well-equipped kitchen, described as large, spacious and practical, perfect for storing and preparing food. Guests have praised the functionality of the kitchen, noting that it offers everything needed for food preparation, along with a nice water station.
The common area is frequently mentioned as clean, spacious and inviting, providing a comfortable and relaxing environment for guests. The communal spaces, including the common room, have been highlighted as cozy and enjoyable, contributing significantly to the overall pleasant atmosphere of the hostel.
One standout aspect is the communal dining experience, particularly the shared €5 dinners. These budget-friendly meals, including a raved-about pasta bolognese made by Maggie, are highly appreciated by guests and add a social dimension to the stay. Additionally, the centrally located hostel ensures convenience for those looking to explore the area while having access to excellent dining facilities within the hostel itself.
Moreover, the multiple cleaning staff ensures that the communal spaces remain tidy and inviting, enhancing the overall comfort and appeal of the social dining experience. Breakfast availability in the communal kitchen further adds to the positive experience, making it a well-rounded option for budget-conscious travelers seeking a friendly and well-maintained environment.
Rooms
Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square offers clean and comfortable accommodations with well-equipped rooms that meet the needs of various types of travelers. The hostel boasts spacious family rooms and private rooms with en-suite bathrooms that are regularly cleaned and maintained. Dormitories also provide a comfortable stay with individual bathrooms in many cases and the beds are often praised for their comfort with added privacy from curtains. The hostel’s rooms are consistently noted for being spotless with commendable daily housekeeping routines.
Despite these positives, the rooms are often described as small and compact, which can feel a bit cramped for guests, especially in dorms with multiple beds. Ventilation can be an issue with some rooms being noted as too warm or even a little chilly at times. Additionally, minimal decor and basic furnishings are common, though this is balanced by the well-utilized space and the presence of numerous power outlets and USB plugins.
The shared bathrooms, showers and common areas are clean and functional, though there are occasional comments about them needing updates. The rooms are secure and equipped with modern conveniences, such as electronic room keys via phone and secure storage options.
Guests appreciate the hostel’s vibrant and cozy social areas, such as the lounge and lobby and its convenient location near transport links and the city center. The hostel also offers practical amenities, including a well-equipped kitchen and on-site tours. Overall, Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square provides a reliable and comfortable stay, although guests should be prepared for minimalistic room decor and variable room sizes.
Beds
Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square stands out for its beds, which have garnered much praise from guests. The beds are widely reported to be comfortable with many highlighting the additional privacy provided by curtains—a feature that enhances comfort and personal space within the dorm setting. Guests appreciate the clean and well-maintained bedding, which contributes significantly to the overall positive experience.
A recurring advantage mentioned is the presence of individual power outlets and lighting at each bed, along with USB charging capabilities. This modern touch is highly valued by travelers who need to charge devices conveniently. The beds also offer lockable storage underneath, ensuring the security of personal belongings.
Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, there are a few mentions of beds being somewhat hard or less comfortable for taller individuals. Some guests also noted that the bunk beds can be noisy and transmit movement. However, these minor drawbacks do not overshadow the general satisfaction with the bed quality and the amenities provided.
Overall, Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square earns commendations for creating a cozy, private and technologically equipped sleeping environment, making it a favorable choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
Cleanliness
Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square stands out for its exceptional cleanliness. Guests repeatedly highlight the spotless rooms, clean bathrooms and well-maintained common areas. Many reviews praise the hostel as one of the cleanest they have ever stayed in, often noting the facilities are impeccably cleaned daily. The hostel includes large, clean common areas and guests appreciate the cleanliness of the shared kitchens and bathrooms.
Rooms are described as consistently clean and comfortable with bedding and furnishings kept in excellent condition. Many reviewers also note the timely, regular cleaning of rooms and communal spaces, maintaining a consistently high level of hygiene. Despite some minor issues with dirty windows and occasional maintenance concerns, the overall impression is overwhelmingly positive.
The hostel is noted to be very organized and tidy, creating a welcoming and hygienic environment. Guests find it a highly recommendable, clean and cozy place to stay, often underscoring its excellent central location and modern amenities. Overall, Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square upholds high standards of cleanliness, making it a top choice for travelers prioritizing hygiene and comfort.
Staff
The reviews for Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square highlight a consistently positive experience with the staff. Guests frequently describe the team as exceptionally friendly, welcoming and helpful. Specific mentions of receptionists like Pam, Helena and Alfredo indicate that personal attention and excellent customer service are prominent features. The staff's proactive approach, providing valuable advice and tips for local dining and activities, is a noted advantage for travelers.
Receptionists and other personnel are often praised for their professionalism, courtesy, cheerfulness and their willingness to go above and beyond to assist guests. Many reviews emphasize how well the staff handles check-ins and ensures guests feel accommodated throughout their stay. The cleanliness of the hostel, managed by an attentive cleaning team, also adds to the overall positive impression.
Whether it's the front desk, kitchen help or general service staff, the feedback consistently underscores a team that is not only supportive and efficient but also genuinely kind and approachable. This high level of care and hospitality seems to greatly enhance the guest experience, making Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square a recommended destination for those valuing excellent service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Wi-Fi
The WiFi at Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square has received mixed feedback from guests. Many praised it for being flawless, fast and excellent with no significant issues reported. Free WiFi is available throughout the hostel, adding convenience for travelers. In more public or common areas, the WiFi performance tends to be robust and reliable, making it easy to use for various online activities. However, some guests experienced slower speeds and spotty connections, particularly in the rooms. A few reviews noted poor or unsecured connections with reports of difficulty connecting to the network. Despite these occasional challenges, the overall sentiment indicates that the hostel provides generally good WiFi, particularly in common areas, which is a notable advantage for budget-conscious travelers looking for connectedness on the go.
Parking
Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square offers several convenient parking options for guests. The hostel provides good advice regarding nearby parking with multiple parking facilities within a short walk. Many guests appreciated the convenient parking just around the corner, typically only two minutes away. One of the significant perks is the parking discount for hostel clients, reducing the cost to approximately 8 or 9 euros per day, a welcomed benefit for many visitors.
The discounted parking lots are within close proximity, making it easy to park and access the hostel. Though some found parking in the city center to be generally expensive, the hostel’s arrangement for validated parking at nearby garages at a reduced rate was greatly appreciated. Occasionally, there were minor issues with parking garage cards and difficulties parking motorcycles, but overall, the ease of access and affordability due to hostel discounts were highlighted as major positives.
For those driving, these amenities make bringing a car to the city center much more feasible and budget-friendly. Despite the lack of direct on-site parking, the arrangements for discounted nearby parking offset this, making staying at Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square a practical choice for travelers with vehicles.
Nightlife
Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square is a vibrant hub for those seeking an energetic social atmosphere and thriving nightlife. The hostel is renowned for organizing a variety of activities, including popular pub crawls and bar hopping tours, which provide a fantastic opportunity to explore Galway's lively bar scene and meet new people. Guests often rave about the sociable and welcoming nature of these events, recommending them to anyone looking to party and forge new friendships.
Situated in proximity to numerous pubs, restaurants and shops, the location offers easy access to the bustling nightlife of Galway. The hostel’s central position ensures that guests can enjoy the nearby eateries and vibrant streets.
However, the lively environment can sometimes translate to noise, particularly from young travelers returning late at night and occasional disturbances in shared dormitories. This might not be ideal for those seeking a quieter stay, but it’s perfect for young and outgoing travelers looking to immerse themselves in Galway's nightlife. Despite these occasional issues, the overall atmosphere is characterized by camaraderie and fun, making it a great choice for social explorers.
Accessible
Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square stands out for its excellent accessibility, making it a convenient choice for guests with disabilities. The hostel boasts wheelchair-accessible bathrooms and a reliable keycard system, ensuring secure and easy access to all facilities. Located centrally, near the main square, this modern hostel offers easy access to public transportation, including trains and buses and is within walking distance to many city attractions, pubs and restaurants.
Guests can enjoy continuous access to a fully-equipped kitchen, enhancing convenience. The friendly and helpful front desk staff are always ready to assist, whether it's booking tours or providing a city map with dining recommendations. Despite the small size of the elevator, which may pose a minor challenge for larger groups of wheelchair users, the overall accessibility and ease of reaching the hostel make it a top choice. Moreover, the hostel hosts numerous activities and tours that depart directly from its entrance, adding to its appeal. Clean and well-maintained facilities underscore the hostel’s dedication to ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.
No, Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square.
No, Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square.