Killarney is a village that’s found itself in a PRIME spot for anybody exploring the famous Ring of Kerry. The surrounding area is literally bursting with stuff to see and do, most of it based in the extremely stunning outdoors. Think national parks, lakes, dramatic coastlines. It’s all here.
The town itself is small but vibrant, and super historic. It feels welcoming as soon as you arrive.
But it’s a small town, right? How are you ever going to find a hostel to stay at here? Plus if it’s touristy, aren’t most of the places going to be, y’know, pricey? Out of budget for a backpacker?
But don’t you worry! We’ve done the hard work for you and made a list of the best hostels in Killarney – plus a few of its best budget hotels, too – so you can easily find a place to suit you (and your budget)!
What are you waiting for? Peep our handy list of Killarney’s top hostels below!
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Quick answer: The Best Hostels in Killarney
- Best Overall Hostel in Killarney – The Black Sheep Hostel
Best Hostels in Killarney
There was a time… back in the day… when Killarney had a bounty of hostels to choose from for us backpackers. But unfortunately, we are down to slim pickings with just the one decent hostel to rest our heads. So, here is THE best (and only) hostel in Killarney.
The Black Sheep Hostel – Best Overall Hostel in Killarney
Inside a 19th-century townhouse… sounds good already right? But yeah, this Killarney backpackers hostel is pretty nice. It’s super warm and cosy inside, with sofas around the open fireplace, loads of books to read, chickens in the garden… and hammocks.
Aside from looking part, this place is just a one-minute walk away from the Killarney National Park AND Killarney town centre. If that ain’t good, we dunno what is? However, the atmosphere truly makes this the best hostel in Killarney. The staff make everyone feel at home.
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View on Osprey View on REIBest Budget Hotels In Killarney
As you can see, the hostel scene in Killarney is rather limited… but never fear! There’s also a good selection of other budget stays in Killarney. So here’s a small selection of the best budget hotels in Killarney which should be perfect for your trip to the town.
Killarney Court Hotel
This budget hotel in Killarney is a 10 min walk from the centre of town. And it’s sort of a mix between a typical old-school kinda hotel and one that’s been renovated for a more modern millennial (perhaps) guest.
Rooms are clean and comfortable like it’s not weird or anything – in fact, there are even spa treatments on offer here. There’s also an onsite pub and restaurant for all your food and drink needs if you don’t wanna move from your spot.
Murphys of Killarney
We all go to Ireland to experience an Irish pub, right? So… why not go one step further and stay in one? Murphys of Killarney is a fab place to stay to get the full Irish experience. With live music every night in summer, you’ll be in for an absolute treat. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel right at home from the moment you walk through the door.
Don’t just take my word for it either, this stay gets stellar reviews from all of its guests. Check it out for yourself 🙂
Nead Neamhaí
This one-bedroom tiny home is ideal if you feel like escaping the city and being at home with nature! The location is quiet and the views are incredible. Although it feels like a tranquil escape, you’ll be just a five-minute walk from the centre of town. The tiny home is equipped with everything you could need for a short or longer stay – including a well-stocked kitchen.
The check-in process is super simple via a key box. Although the owners are absolutely lovely, you may not need to meet them! So, you really do get complete privacy at this place. Ideal if you’re a couple travelling to Killarney.
Doughlasha House
If you want to get a real stay of Irish hospitality, Douglasha House is where you’ll find it. Joan, the host, goes above and beyond to make sure that every guest has a wonderful stay. A couple of highlights of this stay are the FREE breakfast (it is top-notch) and the ridiculously comfortable beds. Plus, it’s an extremely good bang for your buck! If you’re after a home away from home, you’ll find that here.
The Fairview Boutique Hotel
When these guys say boutique, they really mean boutique. So you may have to shell out a bit more coin for the privilege of staying here, but if you do you won’t regret it. Probably.
The location is top notch and staying here literally does feel like you’re staying somewhere dripping in luxury. I mean, some rooms have Jacuzzis. Yep. It’s definitely on the higher end of the best-budget hotels in Killarney, but you’ll feel it when you’re there.
Eviston House Hotel
Family run. Central location. Pub with Irish music playing every night. Doesn’t get much better than this at a budget hotel in Killarney. Though if you’re backpacking you may feel a bit weird checking into such a… um… grown-up place.
But sometimes, well, if you wanna treat yourself for a night then DO IT. Why not? It’s not only pretty plush, but it’s a grand place to catch some live Irish music, classic pub craic, and some good food too.
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Hide Yo’ Money!What to Pack for your Killarney Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out our definitive Hostel Packing list for our top packing tips!
FAQs About Hostels in Killarney
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Killarney.
How much does a hostel cost in Killarney?
The average price of hostels in Killarney starts from $29 – $46+ per night. Of course, the private rooms are on the higher end of the scale than the dorm beds.
What are the best hostels in Killarney for couples?
The Black Sheep Hostel is an ideal hostel for couples in Killarney. It’s cosy, top-rated, and in a great location.
What are the best hostels in Killarney near the airport?
Killarney Court Hotel, one of the best budget hotels in Killarney, is a 14-minute drive from the Kerry Airport.
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Final Thoughts on the Hostels in Killarney
Now you know all about the best hostels in Killarney!
That means you’ll be able to explore the amazing Ring of Kerry and loads of other cool stuff in the area and stick to your shoestring budget!
(We know that’s important!)
Not only do all of these hostels come complete with Irish charm, but they’re also charming places themselves. Think old buildings, fireplaces, pubs downstairs, and some really tasty food.
When it comes to budget hotels in Killarney, sure, some of them may be a little pricey – but for 1, or 2, nights, these are surprisingly affordable options to treat yourself to a bit of luxury.
Given all the choices we’ve fired at you, we don’t blame you if you can’t decide where to stay in Killarney!
And if not? Don’t worry! There’s always The Black Sheep Hostel – our top pick for the best overall hostel in Killarney.
If you think we’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit us up in the comments!
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Ireland for a wealth of info!
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Ireland if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Killarney before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for Europe to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Europe backpacking guide.
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