The Residence Hotel Galway Exterior photoThe Residence Hotel Galway Beds photoThe Residence Hotel Galway Exterior photo
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From129US$ /night
Check-in
07May2026Select date
Check-out
08May2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Quay Street, Galway, Ireland
-
Near Galway Bay
Great
8.5
8.3
/10
4.3
4.3
/5

Location

The Residence Hotel is strategically positioned at The Spanish Arch, where the river meets the sea. This location provides views of the Galway Hooker boats and seals following the fishing boats. Visitors can explore the historical charm of medieval Galway right at their doorstep.

Culinary Experiences

Dining options at the hotel include Ard Bia at Nimmo's, which offers scenic river views and locally inspired dishes. Guests can also enjoy a meal at Martines Restaurant and Wine Bar, renowned for its extensive wine list and pre-theatre meals. Mc Donaghs Seafood House serves fresh seafood, having delighted patrons for over four generations.

Local Attractions

The Residence Hotel offers easy access to attractions such as the Galway Tourist Road Train, which provides a 45-minute journey through the city. Culinary enthusiasts can join Galway Food Tours, offering two-hour walking experiences to sample local cuisine. The historical Spanish Arch provides a unique connection to Galway's rich maritime past.

Entertainment

Guests can experience local performances by buskers at the Spanish Arch, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the area. The surrounding scene also includes opportunities for outdoor strolls along the Long Walk. Cultural activities abound with local events frequently hosted nearby.

Room Options

The hotel offers a variety of accommodations suitable for diverse guests. Each room provides the ideal setting to unwind after exploring the city. Guests can expect timely services and convenient access to local attractions directly from their rooms.

Highlights

Location: The Spanish Arch, where the river meets the sea

Culinary: Ard Bia at Nimmo's with river views

Local Tours: Galway Tourist Road Train for city exploration

Entertainment: Buskers performing regularly at the arch

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll through Quay Street for vibrant shops and street performances.
  • Savor a bowl of Galway seafood chowder at The Druid Lane Café.
  • Explore the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, just an hour away.
  • Visit the Galway City Museum for fascinating local history.
  • Experience live traditional music at Tig Coili on Mainguard Street.
View all

Choose the Room

From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.
Standard Double Room
2 persons
220 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Standard Twin Room
2 persons
220 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Coffee machine
Standard Triple Room
3 persons
230 sq. feet 
3 Single beds
Shower
Coffee machine

Check Dates & Room Rates

See what's available for your travel dates

Amenities

Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay
Facilities: Great
8.6/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Golf course

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Special diet menus

Children

  • Children's menu

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled
  • Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Live entertainment

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Dining Onsite

The Residence Hotel offers enticing dining options that celebrate local flavors with vibrant atmospheres. Guests can indulge in hearty Irish favorites or savor authentic Italian dishes prepared with fresh ingredients, complemented by a selection of craft beers and cocktails.
The Residence Hotel Galway Restaurant photo
The Residence Hotel Galway Restaurant photo

M Fitzgerald's Bar

Irish
Ambiance
Casual and welcoming, M Fitzgerald's Bar boasts a chic-but-casual atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Key Offerings
Guests can enjoy hearty daily specials, a variety of lunch and dinner options, alongside an impressive selection of craft beers and creative cocktails.
Reservation
No
Open daily from 10:30 AM to 11:30 PM, extending to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Freddy's Italian

Italian
Ambiance
Located on Quay Street, this restaurant offers a cozy setting where the aroma of fresh Italian cooking fills the air, creating a charming dining experience.
Key Offerings
Freddy's features authentic Italian dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, ensuring every bite resonates with the heart of Italy.
Reservation
Recommended
Hours vary.

The 1520 Restaurant

Local flavors
Ambiance
The 1520 Restaurant offers an inviting and warm atmosphere, combining rustic charm with contemporary design, making it a delightful spot for dining.
Key Offerings
The menu is bursting with local flavors, complimenting the cozy ambiance with exceptional service that enhances the dining experience.
Reservation
Recommended
Hours vary.

The Residence Hotel Location

Quay Street, Galway, Ireland
Map view
Quay Street, Galway, Ireland
Nearby
Park
Eyre Square
2000 ft
Square
Spanish Arch
1000 ft
Museum
Galway City Museum
900 ft
Galway City Centre
Quay Street
400 ft
Church
Collegiate Church of St Nicholas of Myra
700 ft
Castle
Lynch's Castle
1000 ft
The Tower Wolfe Tone Bridge
The Galway Fisheries Watchtower Museum
500 ft
Mall
Galway's Latin Quarter
300 ft
Museum
Nora Barnacle House
800 ft
Kirwan's Lane off Quay St
Kirwan's Lane
100 ft
Art object
Statue of Oscar Wilde and Eduard Vilde
1200 ft
Druid Lane
Hall of the Red Earl
200 ft
GalwayIreland
Galway Bay
900 ft
26 Shop Street
The Claddagh Ring Museum
600 ft
12-13 Market St
Lynch Memorial Window
800 ft
Eyre Square Shopping Centre
The Medieval City Walls
1900 ft
36-40 Eyre Square
Quincentennial Fountain
1800 ft
Bridge
Wolfe Tone Bridge
500 ft
Eyre Square
The Browne Doorway
1800 ft
Church
St Augustine's Parish Galway
700 ft
GalwayIreland
Riverside Walk
1500 ft
Store
My Shop... Granny Likes It
1100 ft
Saint Francis Abbey 8 Saint Francis Street
The Abbey
1600 ft
Market
Galway Market
600 ft
Restaurants
MacDonagh
100 ft
Dublin Road Junction Shopping Centre
Xian Street Food
100 ft
9 Quay Street
The Dough Bros
1000 ft
1 Middle Street Middle Street
The Burgerstory
200 ft
1 Quay Lane
Boojum - Galway
400 ft
Unit 1 Cois Ce Spanish Parade
Aunty Nellies Sweet Shop
400 ft
10 High Street
Deelys Cafe
600 ft
6 Mainguard Street
Cafe Express
600 ft
28 Shop Street
Explore Galway
Explore Galway
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Galway City Museum
Galway City Museum
3 minutes' walk
Showcasing Galway's rich history, this museum features art and artifacts, with free admission on select days.
Spanish Arch
Spanish Arch
4 minutes' walk
A historic landmark near the river, known for its beautiful stone arches and scenic views, perfect for photos.
Eyre Square Centre
Eyre Square Centre
8 minutes' walk
A bustling shopping and dining hub featuring various local stores and eateries, ideal for a leisurely afternoon.
Galway Cathedral
Galway Cathedral
10 minutes' walk
An impressive structure with stunning stained glass, it's a must-visit for architecture and religious history enthusiasts.
Salthill Promenade
Salthill Promenade
5 minutes' drive
A scenic seaside walkway perfect for walking, jogging, or biking, offering stunning views of Galway Bay.
Galway Atlantaquaria
5 minutes' drive
Ireland's largest native species aquarium featuring interactive exhibits, great for families and marine enthusiasts.
Kayaking Tour
5 minutes' drive
Experience thrilling kayaking on the River Corrib, guided by experts. Rentals and tours available in summer.
MacDonagh
MacDonagh
1 minute' walk
Offering delicious local dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Known for its seafood and hearty Irish meals.
Boojum - Galway
Boojum - Galway
2 minutes' walk
A vibrant spot for Mexican street food lovers, famous for their burritos and fresh ingredients, with vegetarian options.
The Dough Bros
The Dough Bros
4 minutes' walk
A casual pizzeria serving artisanal pizzas with locally sourced toppings. Ideal for a quick bite after sightseeing.
Roisin Dubh
10 minutes' walk
A popular live music venue hosting diverse gigs, from traditional Irish to contemporary acts. Check their schedule for events.
Salthill Beaches
5 minutes' drive
Family-friendly beaches featuring sunbathing spots and picnic areas. A great place to unwind and watch the sunset.
Getting around
City Centre
Galway5 min  ·  1400 ft
Airports
Connemara (NNR)46 min  ·  19.0 mi
Shannon (SNN)128 min  ·  52.9 mi
Train
Galway Railway Station8 min  ·  2000 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible at a location nearby at EUR 12 per day.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room.  There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
18
Former name
Spanish Arch Hotel

Guest Ratings & Reviews

Real Guest Experiences & Ratings
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Residence Hotel's prime location puts you right in the heart of Galway, moments from Quay Street and within easy walking distance of many attractions, as well as restaurants and bars. Guests often praise the clean, tidy, and modern rooms, some of which include coffee makers. While some guests have noted noise from nearby establishments at night, the double-pane windows help mitigate this for many.
Show moreShow less
Review score
Based on 267 verified reviews
8.0/10
Great
78%
Recommend
Location
9.7/10
Staff
9.2/10
Value for money
8.4/10
Facilities
8.6/10
Pros
Central location
Friendly staff
Modern hotel
Cons
Noisy rooms
Creaky beds
Guest reviews
based on 267 reviews
8.0/10
based on 467 reviews
8.5/10
Joseph from Ireland
Single
Standard Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 07, 2026
9.2/10

very central location!

central positionfriendly staffnice amenitiesnearby restaurant
i really loved the central position near everything. the staff was friendly and helpful during check in. my room had nice amenities. And many restaurants and shops nearby was a big plus for me.
the room was a little smaller than i expected, but it worked for my short stay. it wasn't a huge deal.
Facilities
9/10
the hotel provides easy access to many attractions. there is live music in the bar until late.
Rooms
8/10
my standard double room features comfy bed and a big television. the bathroom had a rainfall shower and fresh towels. it all contributed to a relaxed stay.
Dining
10/10
the hotel's bar downstairs has a amazing restaurant. the food tasted amazing and i really enjoyed it. it stays open pretty late too.
Location
10/10
the building is smack dab in the center of town, so everything is walkable. shopping and restaurants are very close. i found it pretty convenient.
Service
9/10
the staff was very cute from the start. they quickly addressed all my questions, very helpful. i felt very valued as guest.
0 Helpful
|
Show less
Rod from Australia
Couple
Standard Double Room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed:December 23, 2025
7/10

Acceptable stay, some issues

bright roomhigh standardfriendly staffunmanned receptionsmall roomhorrifying mural
The room was bright and well decorated. The styling was great and to a high standard. The bathroom was modern and fresh.
I couldn't find anybody at the front desk for the first 20 minutes when trying to check in. The room was unbelievably small. You almost can't walk through it. The mural above the bed was horrifying, it had a woman with all sorts of liquid running out of her mouth.
0 Helpful
Questions of the users
About The Residence Hotel
What options are available for guests with disabilities at the hotel?
08 November 2024
One room is specially adapted for wheelchair users, and most rooms can accommodate mobility needs. There's also a fully wheelchair-accessible bar and restaurant with a disabled access toilet nearby.
Can bags be stored at reception before the official check-in time?
15 February 2025
Absolutely! Bags can be left at reception if a room isn't ready when arriving.
Is it easy to find parking near the hotel, and can an extra night be added last minute?
23 March 2025
The nearest parking is at the Spanish Arch, just a 30-second walk away. If availability allows, it's possible to add an extra night to the stay.
Does the quoted price cover all taxes and fees? Also, how far is the hotel from Galway City, and is breakfast available?
10 May 2024
Yes, all taxes and charges are included in the quoted price. The hotel is a short walk from Galway City, and a continental breakfast is available for €4.50 per person.
Is breakfast part of the booking rate, and where is the best place to park?
16 June 2024
Breakfast is not included in the booking rate. The most convenient parking is at the Spanish Arch car park, located next to the hotel, costing €10.00 for 24 hours.
Are there lift facilities in the hotel or ground floor rooms for guests who may have difficulty with stairs?
12 August 2024
Yes, the hotel features a lift for all guests, ensuring easy access to upper floors.
What is the atmosphere like in the hotel given its location above a bar?
05 September 2024
The hotel is situated on lively Quay Street, close to the action. While efforts are made to minimize noise, a vibrant social scene can still be expected, especially at night.
Are guests able to order brunch or breakfast during their stay?
27 October 2024
Yes, brunch can be ordered at €13 per person, while breakfast to-go is available for €4.50 each.
What are the options for laundry services at the hotel, including costs and turnaround times?
14 January 2025
Laundry can be dropped off at reception before 9 PM, costing €12.00 per bag, with a turnaround time of returning it by 5 PM the next day.
Are there any special rates available for frontline healthcare staff?
30 March 2025
Yes, a 15% discount is offered to HSE and other frontline staff. It's best to call directly to apply the discount.
Is it permissible for a child to share a double bed with their parents in the hotel?
18 November 2024
Children can share a bed with parents in a double room, provided this is noted in the booking.
Can guests enjoy drinks in the bar without ordering food?
22 February 2025
To enjoy a drink in the bar, guests must order a meal worth €9.00, allowing them to stay for 105 minutes as per government regulations.

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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room