Ireland is a dream destination for solo travelers — friendly locals, vibrant cities, breathtaking countryside, and a welcoming social scene. But for many solo adventurers, the challenge is finding affordable yet comfortable accommodation where it’s easy to meet people. That’s where hostels shine.
Not all hostels are created equal, though. Some are noisy party hubs (fun for some, exhausting for others), while others balance comfort, safety, and sociability — exactly what solo travelers need. Over the years, I’ve stayed in or visited hostels across Ireland, from Dublin’s bustling Temple Bar to the remote beauty of Dingle. This list focuses on the best hostels that combine great locations, good value, and a friendly atmosphere perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
1. Generator Hostel Dublin – Modern Comfort in the Capital
- Location: Smithfield Square, Dublin 7 – walking distance to Temple Bar & city centre.
- Price Range: €25–€45 per night (dorm bed), €80–€120 (private room).
- Why It’s Great: One of the most stylish hostels in Dublin, Generator has modern interiors, large dorms with personal lights & plugs, and a lively bar that hosts quizzes, live music, and social nights. Perfect for meeting other travelers while still having space to unwind.
- Personal Tip: Book directly through their website for free breakfast deals and early check-in perks.
2. Jacobs Inn Hostel – Dublin’s Social Hub
- Location: Talbot Place, Dublin 1 – 5 mins from Connolly Station.
- Price Range: €28–€50 dorm, €90–€130 private.
- Why It’s Great: Pod-style dorm beds give you privacy while keeping the hostel budget vibe. Daily walking tours, pub crawls, and rooftop gatherings make it one of the easiest spots to make friends in Dublin.
- Personal Tip: Their free luggage storage is a lifesaver if you have a late train or flight.
3. Kinlay Hostel Galway – The West’s Friendly Base
- Location: Eyre Square, Galway City Centre.
- Price Range: €25–€40 dorm, €85–€120 private.
- Why It’s Great: Large common areas, a free breakfast, and the warm Galway vibe. Staff help organise Connemara and Cliffs of Moher tours, which are great for meeting people.
- Personal Tip: Join their free evening walking tour for a genuine Galway cultural introduction.
4. Sleepzone Galway City
- Location: Bothar na mBan, Galway – 3 mins from Eyre Square.
- Price Range: €22–€38 dorm, €80–€110 private.
- Why It’s Great: A clean, quiet, and secure option for solo travelers who want easy access to nightlife but still want a good night’s rest.
- Personal Tip: They also have sister hostels in Connemara and The Burren — perfect for an Ireland west coast trip.
5. Killarney International Hostel – Nature Lover’s Dream
- Location: Aghadoe, just outside Killarney town, County Kerry.
- Price Range: €20–€35 dorm, €70–€95 private.
- Why It’s Great: Set in a beautiful old mansion with gardens, it’s ideal for solo travelers looking to explore Killarney National Park.
- Personal Tip: Rent a bike from town and cycle into the park — one of my favourite Irish travel memories.
6. Neptune’s Hostel – Killarney Town
- Location: New Street, Killarney town centre.
- Price Range: €23–€38 dorm, €75–€100 private.
- Why It’s Great: Central location with a laid-back atmosphere. The shared kitchen is a great place to strike up conversations.
- Personal Tip: Ask at reception about local music nights — they often know where the best trad sessions are happening.
7. Bru Bar & Hostel – Cork City Buzz
- Location: MacCurtain Street, Cork City Centre.
- Price Range: €22–€35 dorm, €70–€95 private.
- Why It’s Great: A mix of a hostel and a music bar. Perfect for outgoing solo travelers looking for nightlife.
- Personal Tip: If you’re noise-sensitive, ask for a room on the upper floors.
8. Sheila’s Hostel – Budget-Friendly in Cork
- Location: Wellington Road, Cork – 5 mins walk from centre.
- Price Range: €20–€30 dorm, €65–€90 private.
- Why It’s Great: Affordable with a homey atmosphere. Includes a small cinema room and kitchen.
- Personal Tip: Great option if you’re spending more money on tours and less on accommodation.
9. The Hideout Hostel – Dingle’s Coastal Charm
- Location: Dingle town centre, County Kerry.
- Price Range: €25–€40 dorm, €85–€110 private.
- Why It’s Great: Cosy, modern interiors with easy access to pubs and the harbour. Ideal for exploring the Dingle Peninsula.
- Personal Tip: Take a dolphin-watching tour — the hostel can help arrange it.
10. Errisbeg Hostel – Connemara Escape
- Location: Roundstone, County Galway.
- Price Range: €18–€30 dorm, €65–€85 private.
- Why It’s Great: Quiet and surrounded by nature. Perfect for solo travelers seeking a peaceful break from the city.
- Personal Tip: Bring supplies — the area is remote, and shops close early.
Tips for Solo Travelers Booking Hostels in Ireland
- Book early in summer – June to August is peak season, and beds sell fast.
- Check facilities – not all hostels include towels, breakfast, or lockers.
- Join activities – free walking tours, pub crawls, and cooking nights help you meet people faster.
- Choose location carefully – in cities, being central saves on transport; in rural areas, being near attractions saves time.
FAQs
Q: Are hostels in Ireland safe for solo travelers?
Yes. Ireland is generally safe, and hostels have security features like key card access and lockers. Always use a locker for valuables.
Q: How much do hostels cost in Ireland?
Expect to pay €20–€45 for a dorm bed and €70–€120 for a private room in most cities. Rural hostels are often cheaper.
Q: Best time to visit?
May–September offers the best weather, but April and October are quieter and cheaper.
Final Thoughts
Ireland’s hostel scene offers something for every type of solo traveler — whether you want a lively social hub in Dublin, a peaceful retreat in Connemara, or a coastal adventure in Dingle. From my own travels, I’ve found that the people you meet in Irish hostels often become the highlight of the trip, sharing not just rooms but stories, tips, and even future travel plans.
Hi, I’m Tanvir, the founder and author of Explore Ireland Now. With a deep love for Ireland and its rich culture, history, and landscapes, I created this site to share everything that makes this beautiful country worth exploring. Whether you’re a local looking for hidden gems or a traveler planning your next adventure, I provide insightful guides, tips, and recommendations to help you experience Ireland to the fullest.
From stunning landscapes to vibrant cities and quaint villages, Ireland is full of wonders waiting to be discovered. Through my personal experiences and research, I aim to bring you the most up-to-date information and inspiration for your journey.
Thank you for visiting Explore Ireland Now—I hope my content helps you uncover all that this incredible country has to offer! If you have any questions or need travel advice, feel free to reach out.
