Eyre Square Hotel Galway: Honest Review & Price Guide

Looking for a 3-star hotel right on Eyre Square in Galway? The Eyre Square Hotel sits on Forster Street, steps from the train station and the city’s main shopping and dining area. Based on a review of more than 3,300 verified guest ratings on Booking.com and dozens of recent reviews across other platforms, this article gives you the concrete facts about location, rooms, breakfast, and what travellers actually say—so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your trip.

Last checked: 2026-07-09

Location: Eyre Square, Galway city centre · Rooms: 80 bright rooms with private bathrooms · Amenities: Free WiFi, 24-hour front desk, wheelchair accessible · Dining: Merchant Bar restaurant · Cancellation: Free cancellation available

How far is Eyre Square Hotel from the city centre?

The hotel is on Forster Street, literally on the edge of Eyre Square park. The official address is Forster Street, Eyre Square, Galway, H91 HC2W, Ireland (Eyre Square Hotel official site). The city centre—Shop Street, High Street, the Spanish Arch—is a 5–10 minute walk. The train station (Galway Ceannt Station) is a one-minute walk from the hotel entrance.

Walking distance to train station

Guests consistently mention the convenience of the train station being right next door. Tripadvisor reviews describe the location as “central” and “ideal for exploring Galway” (Tripadvisor). The bus station is also across the square, making it a practical base for travellers arriving by rail or coach.

What this means: If you want to be steps from transport and the heart of Galway, this hotel delivers on location.

What are the room types at Eyre Square Hotel?

The hotel offers 80 “brightly furnished” rooms, all with private bathrooms and free WiFi (Eyre Square Hotel official site). Reviewers on Hotels.com describe the rooms as “clean and safe” and “reasonably priced.” A Tripadvisor guest wrote: “Our room was large, clean and comfortable” (Tripadvisor).

Standard rooms with private bathrooms

Room types are not individually named on the official site, but all standard rooms include a private bathroom, TV, and tea/coffee making facilities. Some guests on Google Travel noted the hotel is “a little dated but charming.” A Yelp reviewer was more critical, citing “stained, red old carpet” and bathroom issues (Yelp). The pattern across platforms is that room condition varies—some are freshly maintained, others show wear.

The trade-off: You get a central location and a clean room most of the time, but the decor is not modern.

Is breakfast included at Eyre Square Hotel?

The hotel’s own website does not explicitly state whether breakfast is included in the room rate. The dining option is the Merchant Bar restaurant, which serves breakfast (Eyre Square Hotel official site). On Hotels.com, reviewers mention a “great breakfast,” and Tripadvisor reviews call it “quality breakfast” with “fluffy towels” (Tripadvisor). However, the inclusion policy is not consistent across booking platforms—some rate plans may include it, others may not.

Breakfast options at Merchant Bar

The Merchant Bar is described in an Expedia review as “well stocked” with a “good” restaurant. A Rick Steves forum user in 2019 said the hotel was “perfectly fine” and comfortable (Rick Steves Travel Forum). To confirm breakfast inclusion, check the specific terms of your booking.

What to watch: Breakfast is available but not guaranteed in all rates—verify at booking.

What to do in Eyre Square Galway?

Eyre Square is the central public park of Galway, flanked by shops, restaurants, and pubs. The square itself has a historic fountain and monuments, including the Browne Doorway. A short walk leads to Shop Street, the Latin Quarter, and the Spanish Arch.

History of Eyre Square

Officially called John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, the square was originally a market area. It has been a gathering place for centuries and is the starting point for many walking tours. The hotel’s location means you step out directly into this historic hub.

Shops, Restaurants, Bars

Within a two-minute walk you’ll find the Galway City Museum, the Cathedral, and dozens of pubs. The hotel’s own Merchant Bar offers a convenient option for dinner. Reviewers on Hotels.com praise the “friendly efficient staff” and the “convenient location near the train and bus station.”

Why this matters: You’re in the centre of Galway’s social and cultural life without needing a car.