The Best Hostels in Ireland for Students and Backpackers

The Best Hostels in Ireland for Students and Backpackers
Dublin | Killarney | Galway | Malin Head | Doolin

Ireland is a popular tourist destination for its natural beauty and fascinating culture. If you're a backpacker or budget traveler, you'll likely appreciate the variety of hostels and budget friendly bed and breakfasts throughout the country. The official youth hostel association in Ireland is An Oige, but there are many independent options available as well.
How much do hostels in Ireland cost?

You can find our comprehensive analysis of all hostel prices in Ireland here. We've found the average prices of dorms and private rooms, as well as the typical prices of hostels with various amenities, too.


A fun party hostel in Dublin, Ireland.

Dorm Bed from $25.69
Private Room from $30.49
2-4 Frenchmans Lane Dublin 1, Dublin
Isaacs Hostel has been around for a while and it was one of the original backpacker hostels in Dublin. It has a reputation as a fun and social place to stay and there always seems to be something going on. The staff are great at keeping the atmosphere light and fun and it won't be long before you make a few friends here. It can get a bit loud at night, so if you're hoping for a good night's sleep, you may want to find another place to stay, but if you're looking for a fun and lively crowd, then Isaacs Hostel is among the best in Dublin.

The hostel is located just across from Busaras, which is the central bus station. It's also very close to Connolly Train Station and it's near to the stadium, Croke Park, and many restaurants and shops.

The hostel hosts regular events for guests including live concerts, walking tours, movie nights, and trivia nights.


An affordable hostel for backpackers and students in Dublin, Ireland.

Dorm Bed from $30.71
Private Room from $11.99
Overall Rating: 89%
21 Talbot Place, Dublin
Jacobs Hostel is actually a sister hostel to Isaacs Hostel and it's located just around the corner. It's about a fifteen minute walk from Temple Bar and it's near all types of transportation. The rooms are clean and secure and the staff are helpful. The hostel also offers a variety of amenities for guests including free walking tours, Irish Dance Nights, live music, and free movies. Laundry facilities are available as well. The hostel common room has a pool table, PlayStation, and games that guests can use. It's easy to meet other travelers here and this is a great option for young, budget conscious travelers.

This is a large hostel and there are a wide range of dorms available that sleep anywhere from four to twelve people. There are also female only, male only, and co-ed dorms to choose from. If you want a little more privacy, there are private rooms that sleep two, three, or four people.


A great hostel for backpackers, cyclists, and hikers in Killarney, Ireland.

Dorm Bed from $33.37
Private Room from $38.93
Overall Rating: 95%
68 New Street, Killarney
If you're looking for a fun and outdoorsy hostel that lets you explore everything that the area has to offer, then the Black Sheep Hostel is a good option. It's located right in the middle of Killarney town and it's run by travelers, for travelers. There's a very chill vibe with hammocks and an open fire where you can relax after a busy day. There's a nice garden area and a barbecue that guests can use. They even have their own vegetable garden and chickens on the grounds.

The hostel is just a one minute walk from Killarney National Park, but it's also close to the middle of town and Lower New Street. It's a quiet area, but convenient to everything.

There are 36 beds in total that are spread between six and eight bed dorms as well as several private rooms. This is a great place to unwind and meet other travelers.


An affordable hostel for students, backpackers, and budget travellers in Galway, Ireland.

Dorm Bed from $22.48
Private Room from $46.15
Overall Rating: 97%
Eyre Square, Galway
Galway City Hostel and Bar is a popular and fun option in Galway. It's located conveniently close to the bus and train stations and it makes a nice base for exploring the city. It's also conveniently close to some of the area's best nightlife.

The hostel offers a variety of amenities to guests including free wi-fi, free breakfast, travel information, a shared kitchen, and common areas. The staff are also available and can help you book any number of tours including trips to the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara, and the Aran Islands.

The hostel has a wide variety of dorm options available. There are rooms that sleep anywhere from four to sixteen people, with everything in between. There are also some private rooms available if you want a little more personal space.


Private Room from $48.44
(Prices vary by season)
Overall Rating: 100%
40-47 Fleet Street Temple Bar, Dublin
You'll love this hotel because of it's good location and quality amenities. It features friendly service, a bar, and cable tv. When it's time to eat, it's also nice because there's a restaurant. Wi-fi, luggage storage, 24 hour reception, key card access, parking, towels included, internet access, and housekeeping are also on the list to make sure your stay is very comfortable.


Private Room from $35.94
(Prices vary by season)
Overall Rating: 100%
The Wood, Dingle, Co. Kerry, Dingle
Dingle Harbour Lodge is very popular due to the atmosphere, great location, and long list of amenities. It features friendly service and cable tv. Wi-fi, luggage storage, 24 hour reception, parking, towels included, internet access, and housekeeping are also on the list to make sure your stay is very comfortable. And Dingle Harbour Lodge is also child friendly.


Dorm Bed from $46.17
Private Room from $4.44
(Prices vary by season)
Overall Rating: 100%
Sundays Gate, Drogheda
This terrific hostel offers friendly service and a bar. The good location and overall vibe also make it very popular. When it's time to eat, it's also nice because there's a cafe. Wi-fi, laundry facilities, and housekeeping are also on the list to make sure your stay is very comfortable.


Private Room from $57.56
(Prices vary by season)
Overall Rating: 100%
73 Stand Road Wicklow, Bray
You'll love this hotel because of it's good location and quality amenities. It features friendly service, a bar, and cable tv. When it's time to eat, it's also nice because there's a restaurant. Wi-fi, security lockers, luggage storage, 24 hour reception, parking, towels included, internet access, and housekeeping are also on the list to make sure your stay is very comfortable.
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The Best Hostels in Ireland for Students and Backpackers | Budget Your Trip

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