Galway is a city of vibrant energy, evocative history, and unparalleled natural beauty. Its scenic coastlines, idyllic countryside, and dramatic mountains offer the perfect backdrop for a day trip adventure. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, an adrenaline junkie, or a nature lover, Galway has something for everyone. In this post, we’ll take a look at the five best day trips in Galway that will leave you with lasting memories of this remarkable city. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes and fascinating history of Galway.
The 5 Best Day Trips in Galway
- From Galway: Full-Day Cliffs of Moher & Burren Tour
- Aran Islands Bike Tour with Tea & Scones – Day Trip to Inisheer from Doolin
- Hike Connemara National Park depart from Galway City. Galway. Guided. Full day.
- Inis Mór (Aran Islands) Day Trip: Return Ferry from Rossaveel, Galway
- Inis Oírr (Aran Islands) Day Trip: Return Ferry from Rossaveel, Galway
The 5 Best Day Trips in Galway
1. From Galway: Full-Day Cliffs of Moher & Burren Tour
Discover two of Ireland’s most breathtaking national landmarks on a full-day tour starting from Galway. Join the guided bus tour and drive to the charming fishing village of Kinvara to witness the stunning view of the medieval Dunguaire Castle. Afterward, visit the lunar-like landscape of the Burren and take a closer look at the ancient Poulnabrone Dolmen, which dates back to 3800 BC.
The highlight of the tour is the exploration of the Cliffs of Moher with a minimum of 1.5 hours to embrace its natural beauty fully. A truly mesmerizing experience!
Learn about Lisdoonvarna, the hometown of the world’s most renowned matchmaking festival, and enjoy your lunch in the cozy ambiance of one of the traditional pubs/restaurants in Doolin town.
Enjoy this fantastic tour with transportation by bus, a driver/guide, and the Cliffs of Moher entrance fee. Food and drink costs and tips are not included.
2. Aran Islands Bike Tour with Tea & Scones – Day Trip to Inisheer from Doolin
Explore the stunning Aran Islands in Ireland with this day trip from Doolin. Skip the lines and have everything taken care of from lunch reservations to bike rentals and ferry tickets. Your guide will accompany you during your bike ride to discover graveyards, shipwrecks, castles and more. Enjoy leisure time to explore the island’s fascinating culture and beautiful nature. If biking is not your preference, take the tractor and carriage tour with ease. End the tour with free time to spend at the beach or pub in your preferred manner. Join the tour at Doolin Pier where you’ll be greeted by your guide in a bright orange hoodie. Tips and gratuities for your talented guide are appreciated. Don’t miss this opportunity to go beyond Cliffs of Moher and experience the beauty of Aran Islands.
3. Hike Connemara National Park depart from Galway City. Galway. Guided. Full day.
Explore Ireland beyond Galway City with a full day guided hike in Connemara National Park. Depart from Galway by bus and admire breathtaking views during the journey to Connemara National Park. Join an experienced guide to climb to the top of Diamond Hill and get fascinated by stories about local flora, fauna, history, and culture. After the hike, relax and enjoy a light lunch in the park’s tea room before returning to Galway City. This tour includes return public bus tickets from Galway City, a guided hike to the summit of Diamond hill, and lunch. The meeting point is the Galway Coach Station and the tour starts at 08:30 AM. Don’t miss the chance to experience the best of Connemara National Park with this amazing tour.
4. Inis Mór (Aran Islands) Day Trip: Return Ferry from Rossaveel, Galway
Experience a day trip to Inis Mór, one of the picturesque Aran Islands, located off the coast of western Ireland. Book your round-trip ferry tickets from Rossaveel Village in Connemara for a stress-free journey. Alternatively, opt for shuttle transportation from Galway City to the ferry terminal. On board, revel in the comfortable seating and full bar service as you take in the stunning coastal views. Upon arrival, spend your day at leisure exploring the island’s scenic highlights before boarding the evening ferry back to Rossaveel. Parking at Rossaveel pier is also included for your convenience.
No need to worry about booking ferry tickets on the day of travel; book in advance to prevent travel stress. Take advantage of the scenic views and full onboard bar as you travel between the mainland and the island, where you can explore the highlights of Inis Mór at your leisure. Enjoy Ireland’s lovely coastal scenery as you go, and return to Rossaveel by evening for a convenient end to your day trip.
Meeting point for this tour is at Rossaveel Ferry, located 23 miles west of Galway City centre. Passengers are advised to arrive at the port ahead of the scheduled departure time.
5. Inis Oírr (Aran Islands) Day Trip: Return Ferry from Rossaveel, Galway
Explore beyond the mainland with a day trip to Inis Oírr, the smallest of the Aran Islands. Take a round-trip ferry from Rossaveel County Galway and discover the island’s fishing village atmosphere and historic sites. Enjoy a 50-minute ferry ride along the Atlantic coast before you spend several hours exploring the island at your own pace. Rent a bike, join a mini-bus tour, or relax in one of the pubs. The tour includes a return journey on the ferry, parking at Rossaveel pier, and return shuttle bus transfer from Galway city to Rossaveel Port. Meet at Rossaveel Ferry, Ireland, and allow one hour for the journey from Galway City center to the port. Don’t miss the opportunity to see one of Ireland’s most beautiful islands on this day trip from Galway.
Frequently Asked Questions About Galway
Galway is a vibrant city located in the West of Ireland, known for its vibrant lifestyle, arts and culture, and scenic beauty. If you’re planning a trip to Galway, you may have some questions in mind. In this blog post, we’ll answer the most common questions about Galway to make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
1. What is the Best time to Visit Galway?
Galway is a city with a mild climate, and there isn’t any “bad” time to visit. However, the peak tourist season is from June to August when the weather is warm, and the festivals are in full swing. July is the most popular month for tourists as the Galway International Arts Festival takes place. If you want to avoid the crowds, you can visit during the shoulder season from March to May, or September to November. During these times, you can enjoy the city’s beauty without the hustle and bustle of the peak season.
2. Where is Galway Located?
Galway is located on the west coast of Ireland, in the province of Connacht. It is the fourth-largest city in Ireland, after Dublin, Cork, and Limerick. It’s about 208 km (129 miles) from Dublin, 235 km (146 miles) from Cork, and 93 km (58 miles) from Shannon Airport.
3. How Do I Get to Galway?
Galway is well-connected to the rest of Ireland by road, rail, and air. If you’re flying in, Shannon Airport is the closest airport, and it’s around 1.5 hours from Galway by road. There are also direct flights from Dublin Airport to Galway Airport. If you prefer train travel, there are frequent services from major cities like Dublin, Cork, Limerick, and Waterford. There are also direct bus services from Dublin, Cork, and Limerick.
4. What are the Must-See Attractions in Galway?
There are several must-see attractions in Galway, from historic landmarks to cultural institutions to scenic wonders. Some of the top attractions include:
The Cliffs of Moher:
Located about an hour’s drive from Galway, the Cliffs of Moher are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland. These stunning cliffs rise over 200m above the Atlantic Ocean and offer breathtaking views.
Eyre Square:
Eyre Square, also known as John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, is a beautiful public park in the heart of Galway City. The square is surrounded by shops, cafes and restaurants, making it a great spot for a stroll or a meal.
The Spanish Arch:
The Spanish Arch is a historic landmark in Galway, built in the 16th century as part of the city’s fortifications. Today, it’s a popular spot for visitors to take photos and to enjoy the beautiful views.
Galway City Museum:
The Galway City Museum is an award-winning museum that showcases the history and culture of Galway. The museum’s exhibits include artefacts from the city’s medieval past, as well as more modern items.
Galway Cathedral:
The Galway Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, is a stunning building that dominates the Galway skyline. The cathedral is open to visitors and is a must-see for architecture lovers.
5. What is the Main Industry in Galway?
Galway is a vibrant city with a thriving economy. The main industries in Galway include:
Tourism:
Tourism is a significant industry in Galway, and the city welcomes millions of visitors each year. From the Cliffs of Moher to the city’s historic landmarks, Galway has plenty to offer tourists.
Technology:
Galway is home to several major technology companies, including Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Intel, and Cisco Systems. These companies have brought high-skilled jobs to Galway and have helped to boost the local economy.
Education:
Galway is home to two major universities, NUI Galway and Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology. These institutions attract students from all over the world, and they have helped to establish Galway as a hub for education.
6. What is the Nightlife Like in Galway?
Galway is famous for its nightlife, and there is no shortage of bars, pubs, and clubs in the city. Some of the best-known spots include:
The Quays Bar:
This iconic bar is located in the heart of Galway City and is known for its live traditional music sessions.
Roisin Dubh:
A popular music venue that hosts local and international acts.
The Blue Note:
This trendy cocktail bar is a favourite with the hip crowd, offering a range of classic and bespoke cocktails.
Conclusion
Galway is a beautiful city with plenty to offer visitors. Its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes make it an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore the west coast of Ireland. Whether you’re interested in history, art, music, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Galway has something for everyone. We hope this guide has answered any questions you may have had about Galway and has left you excited to explore this wonderful city!
The 5 Best Day Trips in Galway
Galway is a city located in West Ireland. It has been called one of the most charming cities in the world and is known for its rich culture, warm hospitality, lively music, and stunning scenery. But when it comes to day trips, there is a lot more to explore beyond the city. Galway is surrounded by natural wonders, historic sites, and hidden gems that make for perfect day trips. Here are the 5 best day trips in Galway.
1. Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher are one of the most popular natural attractions in Ireland, and for a good reason. They are a stunning sight to behold, with sheer drops of up to 700 feet into the Atlantic Ocean. The cliffs stretch for 5 miles along the coast, and a visit here is a must-do day trip from Galway. You can expect breathtaking scenery, fresh air, and some incredible photo opportunities.
How to get there: There are regular buses available from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher. Alternatively, you can drive there yourself, but be aware that parking can be challenging, especially during peak tourist season.
What to do: Take a walk along the cliff edge, visit the visitor center, see the O’Brien’s tower, and take a boat trip below the cliffs.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, dress in layers, and be prepared for unpredictable weather.
2. Connemara
Connemara is a vast and rugged region located on the west coast of Ireland. It is known for its untouched landscapes, mountains, lakes, and peat bogs. A day trip to Connemara is perfect for those who love to explore nature, discover Ireland’s history, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the country.
How to get there: There are many guided tours available from Galway to Connemara. Alternatively, you can rent a car and explore at your own pace.
What to do: Take a drive along the Sky Road, visit Kylemore Abbey, hike in the Connemara National Park or go horseback riding.
Tips: Check the weather forecast beforehand, as the region can be prone to sudden changes in weather due to its location on the Wild Atlantic Way.
3. Aran Islands
The Aran Islands are a chain of three islands located off the coast of Galway. The islands are known for their unique culture, scenic landscapes, and archaeological sites. They are a great place to explore the traditional Irish way of life and experience some of Ireland’s oldest history.
How to get there: You can take a ferry from Galway or nearby Doolin. The crossing takes around 45 minutes to one hour, depending on the weather.
What to do: Visit the prehistoric fort of Dun Aengus, see the wormhole, take a boat tour or hire a bike to explore the islands.
Tips: Bring a camera to capture the stunning views, and wear comfortable shoes for exploring the rugged landscape.
4. Kylemore Abbey
Kylemore Abbey is a must-visit site for any history or architecture fan. It is a stunningly beautiful, neo-gothic castle located in the heart of Connemara. The castle, built in the 19th century, has been restored and converted into a Benedictine monastery. Visitors can explore the castle, its gardens, and the picturesque surrounding landscape, making it an ideal day trip.
How to get there: Kylemore Abbey is located in Connemara, so it is best to take a guided tour or rent a car to visit.
What to do: Visit the castle, explore the garden, take a walk around the lake, and learn about the history of the place.
Tips: Dress appropriately for the weather, and be aware that the castle and grounds can get busy during peak tourist season.
5. The Burren
The Burren is a stunningly unique region located in County Clare, just south of Galway. It is known for its distinctive landscape, rich history, and natural wonders. The Burren covers an area of 350 square kilometers and is home to some of Ireland’s most fascinating and ancient monuments and landmarks.
How to get there: Take a tour or rent a car to explore the Burren. It can be accessed from Galway by driving south along the N18.
What to do: Visit the Poulnabrone dolmen, explore the Aillwee Cave, walk along the Cliffs of Moher, and take a tour of the Burren’s famous lunar-like landscape.
Tips: Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the landscape, and bring a camera to capture some of Ireland’s most unique scenery.
Conclusion
Galway is a city known for its vibrant culture and welcoming people. It is an ideal destination for anyone looking for a taste of the real Ireland. But when it comes to exploring the region, there are many incredible day trips to take that will leave you in awe of Ireland’s natural beauty and history. Whether you’re looking for a scenic drive, a cultural experience, or a chance to explore ancient landmarks, there is something for everyone in Galway’s surroundings.
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