The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions, and they’re actually not that far from Galway. So, here is everything you need to know about travelling from Galway to Cliffs of Moher.
The trip from Galway to Cliffs of Moher is a must if you are in Ireland, as the Cliffs of Moher is one of the most beautiful places in Ireland and many movies feature the Cliffs of Moher.
These iconic cliffs that tower over the Atlantic have featured in movies, picture postcards of Ireland, and global travel sites for a good reason – they are truly breathtaking.
Overview – one of Ireland’s most iconic attractions
Visiting the Cliffs of Moher is one of the best things to do in Ireland. Standing at a magnificent 214 metres (702 feet) above the wild Atlantic Ocean below, the views from the Cliffs of Moher are truly a sight to behold.
Situated in County Clare, only 75 km (46 miles) from Galway, the Cliffs of Moher are a must-visit if you’re in Ireland’s capital of culture – even more so if you’re travelling Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.
So, from travel options to tour companies and things to see along the way, here is everything you need to know about travelling from Galway to Cliffs of Moher.
Distance – how long it will take
The Cliffs of Moher are just over 75 km (46 miles) from Galway. Driving via the N67 should take around an hour and a half.
Bear in mind that if you drive, car parking is charged per person in your car.
The journey will be a bit longer if you’re travelling by public transport. A bus between the two will take around two hours and 45 minutes.
If you’re cycling, the journey will last four hours and 15 minutes.
Travel options and tour companies – how to get there
Ireland’s national public transport service Bus Éireann operates a service from Galway City to Ennis. The service stops at the Cliffs of Moher and has 18 stops along the way. The bus takes two and a half hours each way, and an adult return ticket costs €25.
Connemara Wild Escapes run a day tour from Galway city to the Wild Atlantic Way, the Burren, and the Cliffs of Moher.
Prices start at €50 and include entrance to the cliffs and visitor’s centre and five hours to explore them. Plus, you’ll get to visit the dramatic Burren landscape and several points of interest on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Lally Tours run an express five-hour tour, which gives you two hours to explore the cliffs non-guided. Tickets cost €30 and include return transport and entrance to the cliffs and visitor’s centre.
For a unique experience, see the Cliffs of Moher from the sea via a ferry cruise. Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours offer a tour that starts in Galway. Travelling along the Wild Atlantic Way to Doolin, you will board a ferry to experience the cliffs from below.
Prices start at €60 and include free hotel pick up and drop off, all entrance fees, and a local guide.
Things to see along the way – beautiful sights not to be missed
While you may be set on visiting the majestic Cliffs of Moher, there are plenty of stops to see on the road from Galway.
Make sure to stop off at the beautiful towns of Kinvara, Doolin, and Lisdoonvarna. These are great spots to relax and grab a bite to eat.
Poulnabrone Dolmen in Burren is an unusually large dolmen tomb dating back to the Neolithic period, which is well worth visiting.
Also located in the Burren is the Ailwee Cave, a cave system and ‘Ireland’s premier show cave’. Here you can take a 30-minute tour guided by experts to discover the underworld of the Burren.
Located just outside Galway in Kinvara is Dunguaire Castle, a 16th-century tower house situated on the southeastern shore of Galway Bay. The castle was used in the 1969 Disney movie, Guns in the Heather, featuring Kurt Russell, so it is a must-visit for any Disney fans.
Another great stop on the road from Galway to Cliffs of Moher is Hazel Mountain Chocolate. This is Ireland’s only bean to bar chocolate factory. This is not only an interesting place to visit, it is also a great place to find gifts to take home from Ireland.
The Burren Perfumery is another great stop. This family-owned company specialises in perfumes and cosmetics inspired by the incredible Burren landscape.
They also have a beautiful rose-covered tea room, offering a wide selection of organic cakes, scones, and pies. They also serve homemade soups, freshly baked bread, and locally sourced cheeses and vegetables.
