The Cliffs of Moher are on every traveller’s list when they plan their trip to Ireland. For a good reason. They’re stunning.
If you read through the online reviews of the Cliffs of Moher, some people are put off by the high parking fees, which are paid per person.
So how do you combine seeing your bucket list items but sticking to your budget? We’ll give you a budget-friendly travel hack to see the Cliffs of Moher for free. You won’t have to miss out.
The how – options to see the Cliffs
Who doesn’t like options? Sometimes, those options make it harder to decide, though. It really depends on the type of traveller that you are. For the Cliffs of Moher, you can either take a day trip with an organised tour or drive there yourself.
The organised tours are very enjoyable, and you get to see other places along the way. Just note, the bus often arrives during peak hours – so it’ll be quite crowded according to some reviews (yes, even the amazing cliffs get bad reviews).
If you want to add a bit more flexibility to your schedule or are travelling with a bigger group, driving to the cliffs yourself might be an option for you – but that’s when the parking fees hit.
Let’s talk money –what’s included in the ticket?
You can either book online or get your tickets at the gate. If you book ahead, you can save some money. Currently, the gate price is €15 per person. An adult ticket booked online for off-peak hours is €8. So what’s included?
The fully accessible Visitor Centre with a self-guided exhibition, secure parking, access to O’Brien’s Tower, an audio guide plus app, restrooms, luggage storage, and Wi-Fi. With the ticket, you can even get binoculars and picnic blankets on loan.
So, is the ticket worth it? Yes. The Cliffs of Moher are absolutely impressive and the work that goes into protecting them and making the place safe for visitors definitely justifies the ticket price.
It’s about that base – location, location, location
The closer you are, the better, right? That makes sense. So, depending on how much time you have set aside for your Ireland trip, you can leave the cities for a bit and spend some time in a charming village in the beautiful west of Ireland.
Where, though? Doolin definitely comes to mind, known for trad music and right in the Burren area. There’s a lot you can do here. Your next option is Lisdoonvarna, where the famous matchmaking festival takes place.
A lesser-known base for your trip to the Cliffs of Moher is Liscannor. Those three are not the only villages in the area. There are many more villages to choose from.
Free summer shuttle bus – right to the doorstep of the Cliffs
Here’s your travel hack. All three of these villages are on a summer shuttle bus route. The Burren & Cliffs Explorer Shuttle Bus started in 2025 as a test run – successfully. It’s a free shuttle bus that takes you right to the Cliffs car park and back.
The Explorer Bus will continue in 2026, and it has several other villages on the route. So do check the route schedule first to see your shuttle options. As the name suggests, it’s for the Cliffs and the Burren, so you can also see the marvellous Burren National Park.
How it works: There is a main pick-up point for the shuttle. It’s best to book your free ticket online, so you know you can get a seat for your preferred time. If you go early in the morning, you can even beat the crowds.
The bus will also take you back to your base. Again, just book your free ticket to secure your spot and meet the shuttle in the main car park. Just make sure you’re getting onto the right bus because there are different routes, going to different villages.
Just note: The shuttle bus ticket won’t give you access to the Visitor’s Centre. If you want to see that, you have to get the ticket mentioned in the previous section.
These boots are made for walking – cliff walk options
For the walkers and hikers, there’s another option as well: The Doolin Cliff Walk. Rugged coastal scenery, fresh air, getting your steps in – sounds great, doesn’t it? The walk takes around 4 to 4.5 hours, but it does take a bit of planning and preparation.
In recent years, some parts of the Cliff Walk have been closed off because it can get pretty narrow and dangerous. So this is where you really need to plan your route and check what’s open and if you’re really up for it.
You can also book a guided Cliff Walk tour with a local. So that might be an option for you as well. On the way back, why not take the free shuttle bus?
Accessibility tip – use the buggies
The Cliffs of Moher team is ensuring that everyone has a great time at the Cliffs. It’s a bit of a walk from the car park to the main viewing area.
However, they offer little buggies driven by experienced guides to take people with limited mobility up and back down.
This service is included in the ticket price. Everyone really can enjoy the wonderful views and experience Ireland’s natural beauty.
Seeing the Cliffs of Moher doesn’t have to break the bank. Staying close by in a cute village is great. Add the free shuttle bus, and it’s clearly a win-win. You’re saving on parking, choosing an environmentally friendly option, and it’s hassle-free.
So what’s stopping you? Also, you can always leave a donation if you want to support the Cliffs of Moher and the work that’s being done there. Whichever option you choose to see the Cliffs, you won’t regret it.
