I have been blessed to travel to Ireland on three separate occasions, all three times with a different experience. The first trip was with my dad. I was studying abroad in Preston, England and was fortunate to have my dad travel with me prior to starting my semester abroad. On this trip, we stayed in Dublin and experienced the beauty of the city. Here, we stayed in a quaint, boutique style hotel.
The second trip to Ireland was with my Mom and Sister. While our home base was Dublin, we booked a tour to Glendalough, Ireland, and the Wicklow Mountains. On this trip, we stayed in the penthouse of a luxury hotel. For this trip, we didn’t have any accommodations booked. We got off the train and went where the road took us. The road, that day, happened to be covered in pouring rain. We walked into a beautiful hotel, to which the woman at the counter looked at us, soaking wet and said, “We only have the penthouse available.” I’ll never forget when my mom said, “We’ll take it!” For me, it’s the spontaneous trips that have the best stories and memories made.
The last trip was with a group of friends. We rented a car (remember they drive on the left side of the road) and drove from Dublin to Galway and then looped down through the south of Ireland. On this trip, we stayed in Youth Hostels. I tell you this as I want you to know, there is no right way or wrong way to travel. Whether in a 5 star hotel, a boutique or a youth hostel…whether traveling by car, or tour, you can have a fantastic experience on any budget. It all comes down to what you are comfortable with…both budget and level of adventure.
First, let’s start with recommendations on where to stay:
Affiliate Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you book or purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend places and services I genuinely believe add value to your trip.
Best Places to Stay in Dublin:
1. The Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham:
This is the hotel we stayed at in Dublin. You will love this location as it is located on the iconic O’Connell Street, which is centrally located. Walk to Trinity College, the Temple Bar area, shopping, and my favorite street, Grafton Street!
👉 Check current rates and availability for this hotel here.
https://expedia.com/affiliates/dublin-hotels-hotel-riu-plaza-the-gresham-dublin.Upav7WN
2. Dylan Hotel:
This hotel is located on a quiet side street in an upscale area of Dublin. A quick walk to the action while sleeping in the quiet of a tucked away hotel. If you love modern luxury combined with historic charm, this one’s for you!
👉 See prices, room options, and guest reviews before you book.
https://expedia.com/affiliates/dublin-hotels-dylan-hotel.YFImOFo
3. Clontarf Castle Hotel:
This hotel is just a 10 minute drive or short bus ride from Dublin. If you don’t want to stay in the heart of the city, but looking for easy access, this hotel may be for you! This hotel is located on the grounds of a 12th century castle and on the grounds of the 1014 Battle of Clontarf. This hotel is rich in history!
👉 I recommend booking early—this property often sells out in peak season.
https://expedia.com/affiliates/dublin-hotels-clontarf-castle-hotel.K3rzovu
4. The Leinster Hotel:
If you love art galleries, museums and the Georgian section of Dublin, you may love this hotel. It’s lively in print, color, and ambiance as it boasts a live DJ from Thursday-Saturday! If you love being in the heart of the action, this hotel may be for you!
👉 View this hotel’s location and nearby attractions on the map.
https://expedia.com/affiliates/dublin-hotels-the-leinster.F6TM5LF
Best Places to Stay in Galway:
Galway was my favorite city, combining a lively music scene with rich culture, colorful streets and a stunning coastline.
5. The Dean Hotel-Galway:
This hotel is located in the heart of the city and the action. This hotel caters to music enthusiasts as some rooms even have guitars and turntables!
👉Find out if this hotel is available for your trip.
https://expedia.com/affiliates/galway-hotels-the-dean-galway.2OuRsIh
6. The House Hotel:
Just look at the pictures of this hotel…the stone house is so charming! This is a luxury boutique style hotel located in Galway’s Latin quarters and near the National University of Ireland!
👉Prices vary by season—see today’s best rates.
https://expedia.com/affiliates/galway-hotels-the-house-hotel.u20IsMa
7. The Glenlow Abbey Hotel:
This 5 star hotel is located within an 18th century abbey! Located just outside of Galway’s City Center, this is a retreat located on 130 acres. The hotel looks like a castle, and the grounds and gardens remind me of quintessential Irish countryside. If you are looking to combine luxury, relaxation with proximity to the arts and city, this may be your place!
👉See how close this stay is to major sights
https://expedia.com/affiliates/galway-hotels-glenlo-abbey-hotel.yX22T1W
Best Spa Hotel in Ireland:
8. Parknasilla Resort and Spa:
If the countryside is what you are looking for, this resort and spa in County Kerry may be the place for you! This resort combines nature and adventure as it is located on the Ring of Kerry with breathtaking views of the mountains and Kenmare Bay. This resort boasts a spa, hiking trails, fairy trails and treasure hunts!
👉If you’re looking for a memorable stay, view this property here.
https://expedia.com/affiliates/sneem-hotels-parknasilla-resort-and-spa.zhAsqtj
Best Authentic, Family Owned Hotels in Ireland:
9. Dunmore House Hotel:
This stunning hotel with sea views is located in County Cork. This family owned hotel brings the comfort and genuine nature of the Irish to you. Located near the quaint town of Clonakitty, this is the ideal location to relax. Close to beaches, bike riding and hiking, this is the picture of Irish Charm!
👉This is a great choice for a unique Ireland experience—see details.
https://expedia.com/affiliates/clonakilty-hotels-dunmore-house-hotel.5IYG37Q
10. Perryville House:
This charming, family owned boutique style hotel is located in Kinsale, County Cork. With winding streets, cozy accommodations, and a glimpse into the past, this beautifully restored hotel is in a Georgian Townhouse. With scenic coastal walks and a full Irish breakfast, you will feel like a part of the family!
👉Explore this one-of-a-kind stay here.
https://expedia.com/affiliates/kinsale-hotels-perryville-house.Ac2oHfp
If you are looking for recommendations on the best places to visit in Ireland, check out my blog post below!
https://rollingtravelingstone.com/best-places-to-visit-and-adventure-in-ireland/
Love always,
Shannan🩷