How to Plan Your Inis Oírr (Aran Islands) Day Trip: Return Ferry from Rossaveel, Galway

If you are planning to visit Galway, don’t miss the opportunity to embark on a day trip to the Aran Islands! The smallest of the three islands, Inis Oírr, is known for its fishing village atmosphere and historical attractions. Reserve a spot on the round-trip ferry departing from Rossaveel County Galway to explore the beauty of the Atlantic coast and Inis Oírr at your own pace! You can rent a bike, join a mini-bus tour, or relax in the pub while exploring this beautiful island. Here’s how to plan your Inis Oírr (Aran Islands) day trip:

Booking Your Tickets

Booking your ticket in advance for your Inis Oírr day trip is recommended to guarantee a spot on the ferry. You can book your round-trip ferry from Rossaveel (Galway) to Inis Oírr online, and prices vary depending on the day and the time of the year. Booking in advance also helps you to secure free parking at Rossaveel pier and a return shuttle bus transfer from Galway city to Rossaveel port. You can book the tour here.

Getting to Rossaveel

Rossaveel is a port 23 miles west of Galway City Centre. You can reach Rossaveel by car or by the return shuttle bus transfer from Galway City. Passengers are advised to allow one hour for travel time. If you’re driving, follow the signs for Connemara on the N59 and turn left on the R336 towards An Spidéal. Continue on the R336 until you get to Rossaveel.

The Ferry Journey

The ferry ride to Inis Oírr is a 50-minute crossing, and it will take you through the beautiful coastline of County Galway. Make sure to arrive early to avoid the queue, and remember to dress warmly and bring a raincoat – the Atlantic sea breeze can be chilly even on a sunny day! Once you arrive on the island, you’ll have several hours to explore it at your leisure, as the return ferry departs later in the afternoon.

What to Do on Inis Oírr

There are plenty of things to do on Inis Oírr! You can discover the island’s historical attractions, such as the 10th-century Church of St. Caomhán or the ancient stone fort, Dún Formna. Additionally, you can explore the island by renting a bicycle or joining a mini-bus tour, which is particularly recommended if you want to see the whole island faster, rain, or shine.
For a more relaxed experience on the island, you can explore the local pubs frequented by fishermen and islanders, and enjoy the traditional Irish hospitality.

Conclusion

Embarking on a day trip to Inis Oírr is an excellent way to explore beyond the mainland and discover the beauty of the Atlantic coast. Make sure to book your tickets in advance and arrive early on the ferry day. You’ll have a great time exploring the island at your own pace, visiting its historical attractions, or enjoying the traditional Irish pubs. Remember to dress warmly and bring a raincoat, and make memories that will last a lifetime!

10 Frequently Asked Questions about Galway

Galway is a charming city located on the west coast of Ireland. It is a popular tourist destination that is well-known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and friendly people. If you are planning to visit Galway, you may have some questions about the city. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Galway.

1. What is the best time to visit Galway?

Galway is a city that can be visited at any time of the year. However, the best time to visit Galway is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is mild, and there are plenty of outdoor events and festivals. The winter months (November-February) can be rainy and cold, but this is also a good time to experience the traditional Irish pub culture. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-October) are also pleasant times to visit Galway, with fewer tourists and lower accommodation rates.

2. What is the weather like in Galway?

The weather in Galway is mild and temperate. The temperature averages around 15°C (59°F) in the summer and around 3°C (37°F) in the winter. It can be quite rainy, especially in the fall and winter months. However, this shouldn’t deter you from visiting Galway, as the city has plenty of indoor activities and attractions.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Galway?

Galway has a lot of attractions to offer visitors. Some of the must-see attractions include the Spanish Arch, Galway Cathedral, Galway City Museum, and the National Aquarium of Ireland. You can also take a stroll down Shop Street and explore the many independent boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.

4. What are the best restaurants in Galway?

Galway is a foodie’s paradise, with plenty of restaurants offering everything from traditional Irish fare to international cuisine. Some of the best restaurants in Galway include Kai, Aniar, Ard Bia, O’Grady’s on the Pier, and the Quay Street Kitchen.

5. What is the nightlife like in Galway?

Galway has a lively nightlife scene that caters to all tastes. You can find everything from traditional Irish pubs to trendy cocktail bars and nightclubs. Some of the best places to check out include The Crane Bar, Tigh Neachtain, The Quays, and Roisin Dubh.

6. How do I get around Galway?

Galway is a relatively small city, and most of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you want to explore further afield, you can take public transport or rent a car. The city has an excellent bus service, which connects to most of the major towns and cities in Ireland.

7. What are the best day trips from Galway?

Galway is an excellent base for exploring the stunning landscapes of the west of Ireland. Some of the best day trips from Galway include the Cliffs of Moher, the Aran Islands, Connemara National Park, and the Burren National Park.

8. Is Galway an expensive city to visit?

Galway can be an expensive city to visit, especially during the peak tourist season. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly options available, such as hostels, B&Bs, and budget hotels. You can also save money by eating at local cafes and restaurants and taking advantage of free attractions and events.

9. What are the best festivals to attend in Galway?

Galway is famous for its festivals, and there is always something going on throughout the year. Some of the best festivals to attend in Galway include the Galway International Arts Festival, Galway Food Festival, Galway Races, and the Galway Oyster Festival.

10. Is Galway a safe city to visit?

Galway is a relatively safe city to visit, and crime rates are low. However, as with any city, it is advisable to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Keep your valuables safe, avoid dark and quiet areas, and stick to well-lit and busy streets.