BLACK CAT | Cheap Hotel in Galway | Book & Save

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Key details

About the Hotel

179 Upper Salthill, Galway, Ireland

Close to Blackrock Beach

Great

8.7

/10

5.0

Loved by Black Cat guests

Comfortable bed
Clean rooms
Friendly staff
Ideal location
Easy check-in

"Not my first stay at the Black Cat, never disappointed, very cosy confortable rooms and neat"

Sandrine from France

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"Food was good and great value for money and service was attentive and efficient."

Honorata D from Ireland

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"Good location if you want to be away from city ."

Jessica from New Zealand

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Dining

Black Cat offers a lively on-site bar with an extensive selection of craft beers, wines, and innovative cocktails. The hotel hosts regular live music events, providing an engaging nightlife experience. It is conveniently located within walking distance to numerous restaurants and cafes in the bustling city center.

Rooms

Accommodations at Black Cat include a variety of well-appointed rooms designed for comfort. Each room features modern amenities and artistic decor, blending functionality and style. Guests can select from an array of room types suited to solo travelers, couples, and groups.

Location

Situated near Galway's vibrant cultural district, the hotel provides easy access to local attractions and entertainment. Its central location allows guests to explore the city on foot, with popular sites such as Eyre Square and the Latin Quarter just minutes away. Public transportation options are also nearby for extended exploration.

Entertainment

Guests at Black Cat can enjoy unique events and activities, including regular themed nights and trivia challenges. The hotel's lively atmosphere is perfect for socializing and making new connections with fellow travelers. Various local entertainment options, such as theater performances and music festivals, can be explored within walking distance.

Additional Amenities

Black Cat offers amenities such as dartboards and board games for guest entertainment. There is also a cozy lounge area, perfect for relaxation and social interaction after a day of exploring. The hotel ensures guests have everything they need for an enjoyable and engaging stay.

Highlights

Dining: on-site bar with craft beers

Rooms: well-appointed rooms with modern amenities

Location: vibrant cultural district, near local attractions

Entertainment: themed nights & trivia challenges

“This adults-only inn, a short walk to Salthill's beaches, distinguishes itself with a modern, romantic atmosphere. Its location near Galway's dining and nightlife is a definite advantage, and the inclusion of flat-screen TVs and private bathrooms in every room adds comfort. I think it's a solid base for couples wanting to explore the city and coastline.”

Olivia SmithEditor-in-Chief at Cheaphotels

Location: Perfect

9.2/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningTapas Heaven

The tapas restaurant downstairs serves great food. Portions are just right. The chunky chips are great!

Emily Carter from United Kingdom

Review on

Room FeaturesCozy Retreat

The room was very nice and cozy and warm all night. Little extras included, even a sleeping kit!

Hans Müller from Germany

Review on

BedroomPerfect Sleep

Very comfortable bed! Bedroom spotless and well planned out. Great attention to detail in the design of the rooms.

Isabelle Dubois from France

Review on

BathroomSpotless Shower

The bathroom was spotless. Brilliant powerful shower and everything was clean. Lots of teas and coffee available.

Kenji Tanaka from Japan

Review on

View all

Select your room type

The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals

Single Room

2 persons

55 sq. feet

1 Single bed

room details

Small Double Room

2 persons

65 sq. feet

1 Double bed

room details

Room rates & availability calendar

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Amenities & services

Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking

Facilities: Great

8.7/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Adults only

Services

Housekeeping

Dining

Restaurant

Room features

Free Wi-Fi in rooms

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Media

Flat-screen TV

Black Cat Location

179 Upper Salthill, Galway, Ireland

Map view

179 Upper Salthill, Galway, Ireland

City landmarks

Park

Eyre Square

1.5 mi

Church

Galway Cathedral

1.3 mi

University

National University of Ireland

1.4 mi

Square

Spanish Arch

1.6 mi

Museum

Galway City Museum

1.6 mi

Church

Collegiate Church of St Nicholas of Myra

1.3 mi

Castle

Lynch's Castle

1.3 mi

Landmark

Quay Street

1.6 mi

Landmark

The Galway Fisheries Watchtower Museum

1.1 mi

Beach

Blackrock Beach

4600 ft

Landmark

Pearse Stadium

2300 ft

Landmark

Circle of Life National Organ Donor Commemorative Garden

4600 ft

Landmark

Galway Bay

1.1 mi

Landmark

Ladies Beach

2600 ft

Landmark

Celia Griffin Memorial Park

2800 ft

Museum

Nora Barnacle House

1.3 mi

Mall

Galway's Latin Quarter

1.6 mi

Landmark

Hall of the Red Earl

1.2 mi

Bridge

Salmon Weir Bridge

1.3 mi

Landmark

Kirwan's Lane

1.2 mi

Art object

Statue of Oscar Wilde and Eduard Vilde

1.4 mi

Landmark

The Claddagh Ring Museum

1.3 mi

Landmark

Lynch Memorial Window

1.3 mi

Nearby

157/159 Upper Salthill

Salthill Promenade

1800 ft

Aquarium

Galway Atlantaquaria

1800 ft

The Promenade Salthill

Leisureland

1600 ft

Seapoint Leisure 185_189

Seapoint Leisure

1600 ft

202 Upper Salthill Road

Caesars Palace Casino

1800 ft

Garden

Circle of Life Commemorative Garden

1600 ft

Casino

Claudes Casino

1600 ft

Restaurants

Salt N' Pepper

1400 ft

228 Upper Salthill

Killorans Bar

900 ft

256 Upper Salthill Salthill Park

Explore Galway

Local Highlights Near Black Cat

Galway Atlantaquaria

7 minutes' walk

Ireland's largest aquarium showcases diverse marine life. Ideal for families; enjoy interactive exhibits and feeding sessions.

Salthill Beaches

7 minutes' walk

Beautiful sandy beaches perfect for a stroll or sunbathing. Close to various eateries, great for families and solo travelers.

Galway City Museum

30 minutes' walk

Modern museum features local history exhibits. Free admission with various interactive displays, great for cultural enthusiasts.

Spanish Arch

30 minutes' walk

Historic landmark near the river; provides insight into Galway's past with stunning views. Perfect for photos and a casual visit.

Salthill Promenade Walk

7 minutes' walk

Scenic boardwalk ideal for walking or cycling. Offers stunning ocean views and a refreshing atmosphere, especially at sunset.

Leisureland

6 minutes' walk

Family-friendly leisure center with pools, slides, and sports facilities. Great for relaxation or active fun within easy reach.

Kayaking on Galway Bay

10 minutes' drive

Thrilling kayaking experiences available nearby. Rentals and guided tours offered, perfect for thrill-seekers looking for adventure.

Yoga at The Cottage

10 minutes' drive

Relaxing yoga sessions in a tranquil setting. Classes available for all levels, a great way to unwind amidst your travels.

Salt N' Pepper

5 minutes' walk

Casual eatery known for its local dishes and friendly atmosphere. Vegetarian options available; reservations recommended.

Killorans Bar

3 minutes' walk

Traditional Irish pub serving hearty dishes and refreshing drinks. A cozy place with local charm; great for casual outings.

The Restaurant at the Twelve

10 minutes' drive

Fine dining venue with a creative menu featuring seasonal ingredients. Ideal for romantic dinners; reservations strongly suggested.

McDonagh's

10 minutes' drive

Famous for its fresh seafood. A casual spot with a bustling atmosphere; noted for its fish and chips.

Caesars Palace Casino

7 minutes' walk

Vibrant casino offering gaming and nightly entertainment. An exciting venue for adults; check for special events and shows.

Roisin Dubh

10 minutes' drive

Popular live music venue with a lively atmosphere. Hosts local bands and DJ nights, appealing to all ages.

Town Hall Theatre

10 minutes' drive

Historic venue presenting a variety of performances. Enjoy theater and comedy shows, suitable for families and couples alike.

Quay Street

30 minutes' walk

Bustling street with shops, bars, and street performances. A lively area great for evening outings with an energetic vibe.

Getting around town

City Centre

Galway28 min · 1.4 mi

Airports

Connemara (NNR)44 min · 18.0 mi

Shannon (SNN)131 min · 54.2 mi

Train

Galway Railway Station29 min · 1.5 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-22:00

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

No parking available.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.

Children & extra beds

There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Languages

Italian, Polish

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

What past guests shared about their stay

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Black Cat in Galway is known for its central location in Salthill, convenient to the Promenade, beach, and a variety of restaurants, including the Black Cat itself. Guests appreciate the clean, modern, and compact rooms equipped with amenities like tea/coffee facilities just outside and luxury toiletries; some have noted that rooms described as "small double" felt even smaller than expected. The hotel is also conveniently located near bus stops for easy access to the harbor, although the walk to the center of Galway might seem long for some.

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Review score

Based on 607 verified reviews

8.6/10

Great

92%

Recommend

Cleanliness

9.3/10

Free Wi-Fi

9.3/10

Value for money

8.5/10

Facilities

8.7/10

Pros

Comfortable bed

Clean bathroom

Central location

Good facilities

Cons

Street noise

Poor soundproofing

No breakfast

Small rooms

Mason from Canada

Single

Small Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:January 07, 2026

9.3/10

fantastic stay!

excellent locationefficient assistancecharming buildingmodern decor

the hotel's location is excellent near the beach. the staff provided quick and efficient assistance and were very polite. i found the building quite charming and the room was very clean. the modern decor added to the pleasant experience i had.

i found only two small towels provided in my room. it was a minor inconvenience for a one-night stay. everything else exceeded my expectations .

Facilities

9/10

the hotel provides complimentary high-quality tea and coffee at all times. this is a convenient amenity . the hotel has a restaurant that gets good reviews.

Dining

9/10

the restaurant offers a menu with tempting options. monkfish and chips are one highly recommended dish. many food places are nearby the building as well as nightlife not too far away.

Rooms

9/10

luxury toiletries, sleep kits, and chocolates were available in my room. water and vanity kits added a nice touch. the room offered everything needed for a comfortable stay and the bed felt cozy.

Service

10/10

the staff ensured efficient check-in. they were well-informed about the accommodations. i received a warm welcome upon arrival. the staff are professional while providing excellent customer service.

0 Helpful

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John from United States

Single

Small Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:December 04, 2025

6/10

Acceptable Stay. Lacking Some Comforts

small roomloud ventilation

The room size was quite small. A significant drawback. The noise from the street was problematic. Closing the window reduced the noise. this was nice. The ventilation in the bathroom created a constant loud sound, I found irritating

0 Helpful

Steve from United States

Single

Small Double Room

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed:November 09, 2025

6/10

clean roomsmall roomstreet noise

the room was clean and the location was acceptable, i suppose.

The room was small! it seemed like i was in a shoebox. also, the noise from the street was awful. Sleeping was a challenge with all that racket. plus, there wasn't even a bin in the room, i had to use the one from the bathroom for everything. twice.

0 Helpful

Eva from Germany

Single

small double room

2 nights in August 2025

Reviewed:September 28, 2025

7/10

decent spot, small room

super clean cleancompact roomsairy roomsmall roomnarrow stairshigh cost

the room was super clean and had everything i needed. i liked that the rooms are compact but stylish. the room felt light and airy. staff were lovely, they really secured my bag while i attend a wedding.

the room was described as a small double and it was smaller than i imagined. access to the room was difficult with my suitcase i found, it was two flights of narrow stairs. the cost for one night was overpriced.

0 Helpful

FAQs

About Black Cat

What is the distance from Black Cat to Shannon Airport?

Black Cat is located 83 km from Shannon Airport.

Which attractions are near Black Cat?

Nearby attractions include Ladies Beach (0.5 km), St Nicholas Collegiate Church (2 km), and Eyre Square (3 km).

What are the check-in and check-out times at Black Cat?

Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.

What dining options are available at Black Cat?

Black Cat features an on-site restaurant serving dinner, and nearby dining options include Oslo Bar and Microbrewery (0.5 km) and Salt N' Pepper (0.5 km).

What room amenities can guests expect at Black Cat?

All rooms at Black Cat are equipped with a flat-screen TV, private bathroom, and free toiletries.

Does Black Cat have a non-smoking policy?

Yes, Black Cat is a non-smoking property.

Is Black Cat an adults-only hotel?

Yes, Black Cat is an adults-only accommodation.

How far is Black Cat from the Galway Railway Station?

Black Cat is 3 km from Galway Railway Station.