excursions galway

Top Tours in Galway, Ireland

Galway tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin

2. Dublin to Cliffs of Moher, Burren, Wild Atlantic and Galway Tour

3. Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Galway

4. Cliffs of Moher and Burren Day Trip, Including Dunguaire Castle, Aillwee Cave, and Doolin from Galway

5. From Galway: Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher including Cliffs of Moher cruise.

6. Cliffs of Moher and the Burren

7. Small Group - Cliffs Cruise, Aran Islands AND Connemara in One Day from Galway

8. Connemara Day Trip Including Leenane Village and Kylemore Abbey from Galway

9. Galway Tasting and Walking Tour

10. Sustainable Dublin to Limerick, Cliffs of Moher, Galway by Rail

11. Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Day Cruise sailing from Galway City Docks

12. Cliffs of Moher, Doolin, Burren & Galway Day Tour From Dublin

13. Cliffs of Moher Day Tour from Dublin: Including The Wild Atlantic Way

14. Independent Cliffs of Moher Half Day Trip from Galway

15. Private Cliffs of Moher Day Tour

16. Cliffs of Moher & Burren Tour - 2 hour stop at Cliffs of Moher

17. Walking and Tasting Tour of Galway City

18. The Legendary Walking Tour of Galway

19. Tour & Taste Galway Food Tour

20. Connemara Day Trip from Galway: Cong and the Kylemore Abbey

21. Aran Islands Bike Tour with Tea and Scones from Galway

22. Evening Walking Tour of Galway

23. Cliffs of Moher and Galway City Day Tour from Dublin

24. The Welcome to Galway Walking Tour

25. From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk.

26. Electric Bike Tour of Galway City with Expert Local Guide

27. Galway Food Tours

28. Small Group Aughnanure Castle, Sheepdog Demo & Connemara Tour

29. Cliffs Of Moher Tour from Galway including Doolin Village

30. Aran Island, Cliffs of Moher & Cruise tour from Galway. Guided.

What travellers are saying.

Book Sightseeing Tours

Top tours, tickets, & experiences in galway 📸.

If exploring the unsurpassed natural beauty and heritage of Galway and its attractions is your aim, you’ll find a range of different tours here which provide an authentic Irish experience. Popular tours include visits to Connemara & Cong, the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren and the Aran Islands. A sightseeing tour departing from Galway offers you a creative, fun and informative experience and walking tours, eco tours and day tours are also available from most of these providers. Explore the panoramic landscapes and ecologically sensitive areas of the west coast, all accompanied by a friendly, knowledgeable guide. It’s an ideal way to see some highlights of the  Wild Atlantic Way ! You may prefer to try a unique experience such as Irish Dancing, or trying your hand at a local sport such as hurling or Gaelic Football. Whatever your preference, you’ll have a wonderful experience in Galway.

Cliffs of Moher Tours    Aran Island Tours    Connemara Tours    City Tours & Experiences

Tour the Aran Islands

Castles of Connemara Tour

Cliffs of Moher Express Bus

Cliffs of Moher & The Burren Day Tour

Connemara Day Tour

Gaelic Games Experience

Galway City Hop-on Hop-off Tour

Galway Food Tours

Haunted Walking Tour of Galway City

Inis Meáin Glass Art Discovery Tour

Inis Oirr trip with Bike or Tractor Tour

Scenic Cruise on the Corrib River and Lake

Popular tours for..., solo travellers, top attractions, bus excursions, historic places, heritage sites, aran islands, cliffs of moher, unique experiences, best rate hotels.

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Take a River Cruise to Lough Corrib from Galway City

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DK Connemara Oysters Farm Tours

Doolin Cave & Visitor Centre

Glengowla Mines

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Corrib Cruises

Getting from Galway City to The Aran Islands

Things to See and Do in Connemara

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THE 10 BEST Galway Tours & Excursions

Tours in galway.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin

2. Dublin to Cliffs of Moher, Burren, Wild Atlantic and Galway Tour

3. Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Galway

4. Cliffs of Moher and Burren Day Trip, Including Dunguaire Castle, Aillwee Cave, and Doolin from Galway

5. From Galway: Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher including Cliffs of Moher cruise.

6. Cliffs of Moher and the Burren

7. Small Group - Cliffs Cruise, Aran Islands AND Connemara in One Day from Galway

8. Connemara Day Trip Including Leenane Village and Kylemore Abbey from Galway

9. Sustainable Dublin to Limerick, Cliffs of Moher, Galway by Rail

10. Medieval Galway Tour

11. Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Day Cruise sailing from Galway City Docks

12. Cliffs of Moher, Doolin, Burren & Galway Day Tour From Dublin

13. Cliffs of Moher Day Tour from Dublin: Including The Wild Atlantic Way

14. Independent Cliffs of Moher Half Day Trip from Galway

15. Private Cliffs of Moher Day Tour

16. Cliffs of Moher & Burren Tour - 2 hour stop at Cliffs of Moher

17. Cliffs of Moher Hiking Tour from Galway - Small Group

18. Walking and Tasting Tour of Galway City

19. The Legendary Walking Tour of Galway

20. Tour & Taste Galway Food Tour

21. Connemara Day Trip from Galway: Cong and the Kylemore Abbey

22. Aran Islands Bike Tour with Tea and Scones from Galway

23. Cliffs of Moher and Galway City Day Tour from Dublin

24. The Welcome to Galway Walking Tour

25. From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk.

26. Electric Bike Tour of Galway City with Expert Local Guide

27. Galway Food Tours

28. Small Group Aughnanure Castle, Sheepdog Demo & Connemara Tour

29. Cliffs Of Moher Tour from Galway including Doolin Village

30. Aran Island, Cliffs of Moher & Cruise tour from Galway. Guided.

What travellers are saying.

• Walking Tour
• Tasting Tour
• Dark History Tour

Experience Galway showcases the rich culture and history of the lively city, offering a range of tours and experiences, including, pub tours, dark history tours, whiskey tasting experiences, and our signature: The "Welcome to Galway" Walking Tour and The "Walk, Talk, Taste" Tour of Galway City.

Led by expert local guides, our tours offer a unique and immersive way to explore Galway City while taking you on a journey through the city's historic landmarks, hidden gems and vibrant streets.

With something to suit every interest, Experience Galway is the one-stop-shop to discover Galway's vibrant culture and history.

Copyright © Experience Galway 2024

Experience Galway The Explore Galway Kiosk,  Eyre Square Galway

Top Tours in Galway, Ireland

Galway tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin

2. Dublin to Cliffs of Moher, Burren, Wild Atlantic and Galway Tour

3. Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Galway

4. Cliffs of Moher and Burren Day Trip, Including Dunguaire Castle, Aillwee Cave, and Doolin from Galway

5. From Galway: Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher including Cliffs of Moher cruise.

6. Cliffs of Moher and the Burren

7. Small Group - Cliffs Cruise, Aran Islands AND Connemara in One Day from Galway

8. Connemara Day Trip Including Leenane Village and Kylemore Abbey from Galway

9. Discover Aran Islands & Connemara Full Day Tour from Galway

10. Sustainable Dublin to Limerick, Cliffs of Moher, Galway by Rail

11. Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Day Cruise sailing from Galway City Docks

12. Cliffs of Moher, Doolin, Burren & Galway Day Tour From Dublin

13. Cliffs of Moher Day Tour from Dublin: Including The Wild Atlantic Way

14. Independent Cliffs of Moher Half Day Trip from Galway

15. Private Cliffs of Moher Day Tour

16. Evening Walking Tour of Galway

17. Cliffs of Moher & Burren Tour - 2 hour stop at Cliffs of Moher

18. Walking and Tasting Tour of Galway City

19. The Legendary Walking Tour of Galway

20. Tour & Taste Galway Food Tour

21. Connemara Day Trip from Galway: Cong and the Kylemore Abbey

22. Aran Islands Bike Tour with Tea and Scones from Galway

23. Cliffs of Moher and Galway City Day Tour from Dublin

24. The Welcome to Galway Walking Tour

25. From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk.

26. Electric Bike Tour of Galway City with Expert Local Guide

27. Galway Food Tours

28. Small Group Aughnanure Castle, Sheepdog Demo & Connemara Tour

29. Cliffs Of Moher Tour from Galway including Doolin Village

30. Aran Island, Cliffs of Moher & Cruise tour from Galway. Guided.

What travellers are saying.

Top 33 Incredible Day Trips and Tours From Galway (2024)

Galway is a beautiful city in western Ireland that is full of culture and history – it’s my favorite city I visited while living in Ireland! Plus, you can use it as a home base to take many incredible day trips through the gorgeous towns and scenery that make up the Wild Atlantic Way.

Here are 33 of the best day trips from Galway… whether you’re looking for stunning hikes and adventures or friendly towns and laid-back vibes, there’s something for everyone here!

Best Day Trips From Galway

Galway is one of the best cities to stay in to experience the Wild Atlantic Way. The most popular day trips from Galway are typically to the Cliffs of Moher, the Aran Islands, the Burren, and Connemara National Park.

In this article, I will share some of the top tips and locations for taking a day trip from Galway, along with some of my favorite tours and options for how to get the most out of your experience!

Cliffs of Moher

📍 Distance from Galway: 1.5 hours

The Cliffs of Moher are dramatic sea cliffs above the North Atlantic Ocean and are one of the main natural attractions in Ireland. They are famous for their beauty, stunning scenery, and spectacular views. They run for about 14 kilometers (9 miles) and reach 214m (702 feet) in height at their highest point.

How to Get To Cliffs of Moher From Galway

Galway is located about 1.5 hours from the Cliffs of Moher, making it pretty easy to get to by car or by bus.

Option 1: Driving or taking a taxi will be the quickest option (just over 1 hour) but could cost more money, depending on whether you have already rented a car or not.

Option 2: Taking a bus costs around €11 to €16 and will take about 2 hours and 15 minutes.

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Option 3: Otherwise, the most popular way to see the Cliffs of Moher is to take a day tour from Galway. There are quite a few options online, these three are my top suggestions for the best-rated Cliffs of Moher day tours from Galway:

1 . Cliffs of Moher Day Trip From Galway

I appreciated taking a tour of the Cliffs of Moher, it’s the best way to see more of the area than you might be able to on your own, and to take the stress out of planning .

This guided tour is exceptional and takes you not only to the Cliffs of Moher, but to other areas of interest such as Poulnabrone Dolmen (one of the most ancient religious sites in Ireland at 5,800 years old), Dungaire Castle , and the small town of Doolin .

Plus, you will hear interesting information about the history, geology, and folklore of the places you visit.

➡️ CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE + BOOK

2. Cliffs of Moher Explorer Tour From Galway

The first tour takes you straight to the Cliffs of Moher, whereas this tour is best for people who want to do the FULL Cliffs of Moher walk from Doolin (about 5mi / 8km).

This tour also takes you past quite a few more places including Kinvara Harbor, Black Head Lighthouse, Fanore Beach, Lisdoonvarna (home of the matchmaking festival), and Corcomroe Abbey.

3. Private Cliffs of Moher Tour + Boat Experience

Or, if you have it in your budget and prefer the utmost comfort… take a luxury private tour that you can customize and personalize to what YOU want to see and do on your Cliffs of Moher day tour from Galway.

This tour also includes a boat experience , which gives you two ways to see the Cliffs of Moher. The Cliffs are especially spectacular to see from below by boat!

Aran Islands

📍 Distance from Galway: 1 hour from Galway City to the ferry dock and 1.5 hours ferry ride

The Aran Islands are a group of three islands in Galway Bay off the Atlantic coast and are well worth the visit. They’re special because of their history, culture, and natural beauty .

The islands have a long history dating back to the Bronze Age, with many ancient ruins to explore. The island of Inis Mór is known as an “outdoor museum.” 

The culture of the islands is unique, and you will find traditional music and dance as well as crafts such as knitwear and pottery.

The landscape of the islands is also stunning , with cliffs, beaches, and rolling hills. If you are looking for a day of adventure, relaxation, or simply want to experience something different, the Aran Islands are the perfect day trip destination.

How to Get to the Aran Islands From Galway

There are two ways I recommend getting to the Aran Islands from Galway.

Option 1: The first is to book a ferry ticket and explore on your own.

Option 2: Otherwise, you can take a tour of the islands and have a local expert guide you through the top sites.

Taking a Ferry to the Aran Islands

If you are heading to the Aran Islands on your own you can either drive to the ferry terminal in Rossaveel (parking is available at the pier for a few euros per 24 hours) or there is a daily shuttle bus.

Ferries to the Aran Islands depart from  Rossaveel port  in Connemara. You can book your ferry ticket and find out more information on the Aran Island Ferries website.

On the islands, you can rent a bike, hike around, join a mini-bus tour, or relax in the pub.

4. From Galway: Aran Islands Including Cliffs of Moher Cruise

Another option to see the Aran Islands is to take this full-day tour from Galway that goes out to Inisheer Island for two hours of exploration . PLUS, you will get to see the Cliffs of Moher and a few other attractions such as Dunguaire Castle and Fanore Beach along the way.

📍 Distance from Galway: 1 hour

The Burren is a unique and fascinating place. The landscape is like nowhere else on earth, with its rocky outcrops, sheltered valleys, and winding rivers.

The history is just as fascinating – the Burren has been home to humans for over 10,000 years , and there are remains of Bronze Age settlements, Iron Age forts, and early Christian churches to be found throughout the region.

Today, a Burren day trip from Galway is popular for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers , with something to offer everyone. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, add the Burren to your must-visit list.

How to Get to the Burren From Galway

Burren National Park is about an hour south of Galway. Many visitors start in a small harbor village called Ballyvaughan.

Option 1: The best way to explore the Burren on your own is to rent a car to drive through the loop and make stops along the way.

Option 2: Otherwise, if you are taking a Burren day trip from Galway without a car, you will need to take an hour bus to Crusheen and then a 20-minute taxi to the Burren.

There aren’t very many tours directly from Galway just to the Burren. Many of the Cliffs of Moher tours though do drive through and see parts of the Burren.

The best thing I can recommend to bundle your transportation and have a guided tour of the Burren is to take this private tour where you can customize and make more stops in the Burren than other tours will:

5. The Burren and Cliffs of Moher Full-Day Private Tour from Galway

With this tour, you will visit the Burren and the Cliffs of Moher, but the day can be customized to fit hikes, pub trips, or other attractions. It’s best if you want a knowledgeable local guide to take you along the safest routes for exploring the Burren.

Otherwise, here are two other ways you can explore the Burren if you can drive yourself down from Galway:

6. Guided Walk of the Burren

The scenery and exploration waiting for you in the Burren are pretty incredible! Get the most out of it by exploring the Burren with your guide and find the most incredible views with ease.

Navigate stony hiking and walking trails and open pastureland safely, and learn about the over 5,000 years of human habitation and Burren’s rich geology along the way.

7. Burren Farm Experience

This farm in the Burren is truly a hidden gem. You will first hike through the land and limestone before taking a moment to look over the stunning Lough Bunny Lake . Take a picnic at the historical remains of the original parish Church and get up close to the livestock.

This is a unique experience and is especially great for families and those with young kids who want a taste of traditional Irish culture

Connemara National Park

📍 Distance from Galway: 1 hour 15 minutes

Connemara National Park is located in County Galway on Ireland’s west coast. The park covers an area of 2,957 hectares and is home to a variety of plant and animal species.

Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, and horse riding trails, as well as picnicking and camping areas. The park also has a Visitor Centre which provides information on the local flora and fauna.

Connemara National Park is a great day trip for those who want to experience the beauty of the Irish countryside outside of Galway.

How to Get to Connemara National Park From Galway

Option 1: The best way to get there on your own is to rent a car and drive.

Option 2: Or, there’s a bus that takes about one hour and 40 minutes to the Letterfrack stop , which is a five-minute walk from the National Park.

Option 3: Luckily, there are a couple of tours to Connemara National Park that will let you explore and experience incredible natural sights with ease.

8. From Galway: Guided Tour of Connemara  

Pass by quaint villages, beautiful beaches, bridges, gardens, castles, and stop at a picturesque little waterfall all along the way to Connemara National Park. The tour allows you three hours to explor e the mountains, bogs, grasslands, and woodlands of the park.

The tour is not much more expensive than taking a bus, and you get to see far more of the coast and scenery along the way. I highly recommend forgoing the public bus for this more fulfilling day trip experience from Galway.

9. Private Tour of Connemara National Park

To customize your trip, take a private tour up to the national park. While the highlights of the tour are often Kylemore Abbey, Connemara, and the Doolough Valley, you can get off the beaten path to check out Ireland’s beautiful scenery including beaches, mountains, and loughs.

10. Castles of Connemara Tour From Galway City

Or, if you happen to be especially interested in Irish castles… this tour is the one for you! You will see three different castles in Connemara and explore the castles and grounds at your own pace.

The castles include Aughnanure Castle, Kylemore Abbey (and the Victorian Walled Garden), and Ballynahinch Castle.

The Ring of Kerry

📍 Distance from Galway: 3 hours

While some articles list the Ring of Kerry as a day trip destination from Galway, I actually highly advise against that. The drive takes over 3 hours one way, and there is just far too much to see to try and cram it into one day with that long of a drive.

If you are looking to experience the Ring of Kerry, you should take at least a night or two and stay in the adorable towns of either Killarney or Kenmare .

For the best Ring of Kerry tours , click below:

Is Dingle Close to Galway?

No, Dingle is also over a 3-hour drive away from Galway.

You can explore the Dingle Peninsula from Killarney (about 1 hour away), or you can stay in Dingle itself . The Dingle Peninsula is gorgeous and well worth a visit!

Day Trips From Galway Without a Car (By Bus)

If you don’t have a car while in Galway, it’s still possible to do some day tripping. There are public buses that you can check out to get between some of the nearby cities and explore from there.

Rome2Rio will be your best friend when planning day trip transportation. It’s a site that provides you with all possible routes and prices to get to a destination.

Or, you can tour in a group by bus or by private chauffeur , depending on your style and budget. See below for the top options.

11. Best of the Wild Atlantic Way Group Tour

This is the best all-around small-group day trip tour, where you can combine several landmarks in one Wild Atlantic Way tour.

This incredible tour combines travel by coach bus and boat to see the top landmarks in the west of Ireland including the Cliffs of Moher, the Aran Islands, and Connemara. One of the highlights is to take a horse and cart ride out to the Plassey Shipwreck !

If you have limited time in Galway but want to see as many of the top sites as you can, this is the tour for you.

12. Private Wild Atlantic Way Tour

Maximize your time in the west of Ireland with a private tour of the Wild Atlantic Way where you can customize what you see and d o. This tour typically extensively explores Connemara National Park and the Cliffs of Moher. However, you will see many sights along the way and can pick and choose what to add to your tour.

Take a look below for ideas and all the possible stops you can take along the way:

Additional Sites to See in a Day From Galway

While I’ve included the above information for the most popular sites and guided tours, there are certainly plenty of options to customize your schedule to fit in the sites you are most interested in by using this list and the Rome2Rio site.

To plan a day trip from Galway on your own, here are a few more sites that are typically of interest to visitors of the west of Ireland.

13. Lough Key Forest Park

📍 Distance from Galway: 2 hours

Forest and activity park with typical outdoor activities such as walking and cycling trails and more unique ones such as the Boda Borg, a challenge and puzzle arena.

14. Limerick City

Limerick is known for its rich medieval history, vibrant cultural scene, and the scenic River Shannon that gracefully flows through the city.

15. Kylemore Abbey

An incredible castle-like Gothic Benedictine nunnery with restored Victorian rooms and free garden tours.

16. Coral Strand Beach

This beach offers an ideal setting for swimmers with its sheltered coast, perfect for enjoying a refreshing swim on sunny days, and many rock pools along the rugged shoreline to explore.

17. Leenane Village

Known for its stunning and varied scenery it has everything from exciting mountain walks to decadent spas and romantic restaurants, plus the unique megalithic tomb on Leenane Hill.

18. Oranmore Castle

📍 Distance from Galway: 30 minutes

Oranmore Castle is an 800-year-old national monument located on one of the historical inlets of Galway Bay and is open for guided tours, staying the night, and hosting events.

19. An Spidéal

📍 Distance from Galway: 25 minutes

Spiddal (An Spidéal) is a charming coastal village situated along the shores of Galway Bay and is a part of An Gaeltacht, an Irish-speaking region.

20. Aughnanure Castle

This castle is a 16th-century tower house with unique ruins to explore.

21. Enniscrone

A sandy beach, campsite, and golf course make it popular.

22. Doolough Valley

Situated between two mountains with two lakes, this untouched nature is gorgeous to visit.

23. Croagh Patrick

📍 Distance from Galway: 1 hour 20 minutes

A mountain that takes two hours to get to the summit, and around an hour-and-a-half to come back down. Popular for hiking and birding.

24. Dunguaire Castle 

Dunguaire Castle was built in 1520, it’s open for tours and hosts popular castle banquets.

25. Fanore Beach

📍 Distance from Galway: 1 hour 10 minutes

Located in the coastal area of the Burren National Park, it’s popular for swimming and it boasts an impressive sand dune system.

26. Poulnabrone Dolmen

One of the most ancient religious sites in Ireland at 5,800 years old.

27. Killary Fjord

The 16 km-long fjord at Killary Harbour is one of Ireland’s three glacial fjords. View the impressive Mweelrea, Connacht’s tallest mountain at 814 meters, as well as the scenic Maumturk Mountains and the Twelve Bens, showcasing some of the country’s most dramatic scenery.

28. Traught Beach

📍 Distance from Galway: 40 minutes

NOT one of the most popular beaches to visit as a day trip from Galway, but it has calm water for those looking to swim.

29. Kinvara Harbor

A small, authentic fishing harbor. Watch the sailboats go by or enjoy freshly caught fish for sale.

30. Ennis City

A small town but has a lot of history, some great spots for a pint, and plenty of charm.

31. Ailwee Cave

One of the oldest caves in Ireland , with geology and history stretching over 330 million years. 

A village with ancient sites and medieval wonders. Its claim to fame is that many sites from the 1952 Hollywood classic, ‘The Quiet Man’, starring John Wayne were filmed here.

33. Westport

A heritage-listed town with plenty to see and do including the Croagh Patrick, Westport House, Clew Bay with its 365 Islands, Achill Island, Clare Island, and the Great Western Greenway.

Half-Day Trips From Galway

If you don’t have as much time in Galway, or if you don’t want an exhausting full day of traveling and sightseeing, here are a couple of amazing options for half-day tours you can take from Galway.

👉 Cliffs of Moher

👉 Doolin Cave Experience

👉 Kayak Along Clare Coast

👉 Explore a Deserted Irish Island

Can You Do a Day Trip From Dublin to Galway?

📍 Distance from Galway: 2 hours and 15 minutes

Yes, it’s possible! A day trip from Dublin to Galway (or vice versa) is entirely feasible and offers a taste of the vibrant culture and scenic beauty of the west of Ireland. You can take a train or drive to maximize your time.

However, my one caveat would be that it would be a very rushed day . If you are short on time and want to get a quick taste of Dublin or Galway, sure you can do the day trip. However, I personally feel that both cities need more than just one quick day of exploration to fully experience them and explore the areas surrounding each city.

For this reason, I would not recommend Dublin as a day trip from Galway but rather its own multiple-day experience. Still want to explore Dublin? Read through my informative guides to the capital city below.

Dublin Posts: Best Things to Do in Dublin at Night Romantic Things to Do as a Couple in Dublin Is Dublin Safe? Is It Expensive? Is It Walkable? 25 Half-Day Tours From Dublin 15 Dublin to Cliffs of Moher Tours Best Churches and Cathedrals to See in Dublin Top 7 Dublin Pub Crawls

Galway FAQs 

Is Galway Ireland Worth Visiting?

Galway is a small city located on the west coast of Ireland. Despite its small size, Galway is a popular tourist destination (my favorite Irish city!) due to its vibrant culture and scenic location with access to much of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Visiting Galway will allow you to enjoy views of the sea and the surrounding countryside, as well as a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. From its lively music scene to its historic buildings , there is something for everyone in Galway. Plus, you will have plenty of opportunities to take day trips to some of the most popular and scenic locations in the west of Ireland.

How Many Days Do You Need in Galway?

It’s worth spending a few days in the city to fully explore all it has to offer. If you want to do multiple day trips from Galway, you could even spend up to a week exploring both the city and the surrounding nature and towns.

I stayed in Galway for one weekend the first time I went, and it was the perfect overview of the city. I lived in Dublin at the time, but as a visitor to Ireland, I honestly would have preferred to spend more of my time staying in Galway rather than the big city of Dublin!

Things to Do in Galway

Galway is a beautiful city renowned for its lively atmosphere and friendly people ( at any time of year, even December ), with plenty of pubs and live music to enjoy. It’s also surrounded by stunning scenery, making it an ideal place to explore the great outdoors.

While the Cliffs of Moher are often a large reason people visit Galway, there are many incredible things to see and do in the city itself.

Some of the top attractions and sights include Eyre Square, the Latin Quarter, Galway Cathedral, and Salthill Promenade .

Eyre Square is the central square of the city, and it’s a great place to people-watch or relax in the park. The Latin Quarter is a vibrant area full of pubs, restaurants, and shops. It’s also home to many of Galway’s historical landmarks .

Salthill Promenade is a beautiful seaside walkway that stretches for 2km along the coast. It’s the perfect place to get some fresh air and enjoy the breathtaking views. The Marina and Galway Docks are a great place to take a walk or go for a swim, and they offer stunning views of Galway Bay .

If you’re looking for some lively nightlife, then head to Quay Street in Galway city center. This street is lined with traditional Irish pubs, where you can enjoy a pint of Guinness and some live music. There are also plenty of restaurants serving delicious local cuisine.

There are plenty of little tours that you can take to explore the city and make the most of your time there. Walking tours (often offered for free at your hostel/hotel, so check there first) are a great way to familiarize yourself with the city and learn some of the history and facts of Galway.

Here are a few top-rated tours in Galway City:

👉 Morning Walking Tour of Galway

👉 Galway City on Foot with Seán “The most informative, funny, and downright passionate walking tour I’ve had in a long time.”

👉 Food Tour of Galway

👉 Whiskey and Food Tour

Where to Stay in Galway

Galway has plenty of adorable places to stay, and it’s a fairly walkable city so location is hardly ever an issue.

OR… Have you thought about  staying in a castle when in Ireland?  It’s pretty magical! And there are a couple near Galway!

I stayed in Galway City Hostel when I was there and had a great time! The people were very friendly and helpful and the stay was clean and comfortable . Hostels will be the most budget-friendly option while staying in Galway, and if you don’t want to stay in a shared dorm you can always check for private rooms.

👉 Check Availability at Galway City Hostel

As far as hotels go… if you want one closer to Eyre Square that is conveniently located to all the top attractions, The Lane is a bright and peaceful hotel with excellent staff.

If you want a stay in the Latin Quarter, the trendy Residence Hotel will be your best bet. It has a bar and restaurant on-site and great live entertainment. This stay is definitely more lively and can be quite happening (read: noisy ) on occasion, so if nightlife is your jam – this one is for you!

👉 Check Availability at The Lane – Boutique Residence 👉 Check Availability at The Residence Hotel

For those seeking 5-star luxury , Glenlo Abbey Hotel is an incredible stay. It’s a gorgeous lakefront property located about 10 minutes outside of Galway City. It almost looks castle-like and has a golf course, two restaurants/bars, and gorgeous gardens.

👉 Check Availability at Glenlo Abbey Hotel

Best Day Trips From Galway Wrap-Up

Galway is a wonderful city both to explore on its own and to take day trips around the Wild Atlantic Way. If you’re looking for some ideas of day trips to take from Galway or sites to see in the area, hopefully, this post has given you a few good options. All of these spots are beautiful and definitely worth a visit. Enjoy!

Bookmark or pin this post for when you’re ready to book your day trips from Galway!

Related Posts: Cliffs of Moher Tours From Dublin Gap of Dunloe Tours Is Dubin Safe?

☘️ Ireland FAQs ☘️ ✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to Ireland? 1. Scott’s Cheap Flights – FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible 2. Skyscanner – FREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal ❗ Is Travel Insurance Required in Ireland? No, it’s not. However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing . >>> CLICK HERE FOR INFO ☔️  When Is the Best Time to Visit Ireland? Summer (June-August) – is the warmest and rains the least but you will have the most crowds. Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have more rain but you will beat the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers ( spring )/greenery (fall). 🏠 Where Should You Stay in Ireland? Hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, and house sitting are all available in Ireland for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are: • Booking.com • Hostelworld • Vrbo (usually better options than Airbnb in Ireland) • Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay) ☘️ Where Can You Find Tours? I found incredible tours in Ireland >>>HERE for private and guided group tours of both the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests. 🚘 Should You Rent a Car in Ireland? I always tell my friends and family to  rent a car  in Ireland so that they don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! However, if you plan to stay only in the cities, then you should be fine getting by with buses and walking. >>> What to know about driving in Ireland >>> The best car rental in Ireland 🍻 Make sure to try out the pubs ! Even if you don’t drink, the atmosphere, live music, and friendly people are very uniquely Irish.

Janelle Axton is a travel consultant and owner of Make the Trip Matter, a service dedicated to helping people create a lifestyle around frequent travel and extended time abroad. She grew up in California and spent time living abroad in Ireland in addition to traveling to over 25 countries.

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12 Of The Best Day Trips From Galway

• By Oisin Feeney
• April 6, 2019
• Category: Galway

Galway City is definitely one of the most beautiful cities in Ireland and is absolutely jam-packed full of things to do , pubs to visit and places to see. But it’s always nice to get out and see as much of the Irish countryside as possible while you’re here.

Here is a list of some of our favourite day trips to take when you’re visiting Galway . Hopefully, we can inspire you to hop in your car and check out some of them! 

Top 12 Day Trips From Galway 

In This Post:

1. Cliffs Of Moher

2. a day on the aran islands, 3. the céide fields, 4. explore the town of clifden in connemara, 5. hike in connemara national park, 6. check out the stairway to heaven in fermanagh, 7. visit the majestic kylemore abbey, 8. wander around augnanure castle, 9. have afternoon tea in ballynahinch castle, 10. buy local in spideal craft village, 11. see the unique flora and fauna in the burren, 12. take the scenic route back from westport, enjoy a day trip from galway.

It’s an obvious one but for good reason. The Cliffs of Moher are among some of the most beautiful and stunning cliffs in the whole world. If you can get down to them on a good day when the sun is shining, they really are just fantastic.

The drive from Galway City is about one hour and thirty minutes. It’s not a very far distance but the roads are small and winding! There’s one especially windy stretch called Corkscrew Hill so be very careful when driving up there.

Once you get to the cliffs you can walk along the official path, which is very safe and then if you aren’t scared of heights you can head along the unofficial path where there are no safety barriers or anything. It’s quite a rush.

You could also climb up O’Brien’s tower which is a beautiful tower perched out on the edge of the cliffs.

You are also right beside the town of Lehinch which is a wonderful place to do a bit of surfing or you could also check out the quaint town of Doolan, which made our list of the most beautiful towns in Ireland .

A day trip to the Cliffs of Moher should be on your Galway Itinerary, even if you’re only visiting Galway for a couple of days . We recommend this tour with Viator as it gives you lots of free time at the Cliffs Of Moher to explore on your own time. 

The Aran Islands are a group of islands located a short distance from Galway Bay. The biggest island is Inismore, followed by Inismaan and then Inisheer.

If you’re looking to find one of the most authentic Irish experiences then these islands are the place to go. It is one of the rare places in Ireland you will still hear people speaking their native language of Irish ( which some tourists incorrectly refer to as Gaelic)

You can’t bring your car on the Aran Islands so most people take the ferry over to the islands and then hop on minibuses or taxis to get around. You can also rent your own bikes for the day which is a lovely way to experience the islands.

On Inishmore, you can check out the Dun Aengus which is a Bronze Age/ Iron Age fort and half of it has collapsed into the sea. It is an incredibly beautiful sight to behold and there are plenty of other wonderful things to see around the area.

The boat to the islands departs from Rossaveal which is a 45-minute drive from Galway City. In the summer months, the boat departs three times a day, 1030am, 1 pm and 6 pm. So you could get the 1030am boat and then come back sometime in the early evening. Click here to see the boat schedule.

If boats aren’t your thing you can also fly over there which is more expensive but offers some stunning views! Check out Aer Arann if you’re interested.

This one is of the lesser-known tourist attractions that you can travel to from Galway but it really shouldn’t be! The Céide Fields were discovered int he 1930s when a farmer was digging for peat and came across a pile of rocks underneath the bog.

It turns out that hiding underneath this bog was one of the oldest settlements in all of Ireland and also contains the oldest examples of fields and organised farming in the whole world.

The fields are about 5 and a half thousand years old and date back to 3,500 BC. Isn’t that mad?! If you are into archaeology then this is a must-see…. Especially if you get the guided tour.

The Céide Fields are a two-hour drive north of Galway City.

Galway City sits just on the edge of a region in Ireland called Connemara. Connemara offers some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Ireland and the town of Clifden is in the heart of the region.

We’ve written about Clifden before and that is because it is a town filled with delicious food, beautiful pubs and friendly people. Be sure to check out the chowder in E.J Kings, it is out of this world. As well as that you will always find some nice Irish music in Griffin’s bar.

To get there from Galway City there is just one road and it takes about an hour. Though it will be hard to keep your eyes on the road when faced with such a beautiful drive!

There’s a lot more to see in Connemara than the town of Clifden and Connemara National Park is definitely somewhere that should be on your bucket list. There is a range in Connemara called the 12 Bens and they make for some incredibly stunning hiking.

One that we love to do and is relatively short is called Diamond Hill. You can start it in the town of Lefferfrack in Connemara and it’s a nice easy climb that offers some incredibly rewarding views.

Also, if you’re tired from the hike and fancy a pint then be sure to pop into Mollys Bar for a lovely pint of Guinness. It’s my favourite pub in Letterfrack!

Depending on where you stay in Galway , it would take you about an hour and a half to get to Letterfrack and the hike should take about 3 hours.

This one is definitely a bit of a stretch if we’re focusing on day trips as its about three hours away, but it is definitely doable! And we have found that a lot of people who come to Ireland have no issues with the three-hour drive.

For Irish people that’s loads but for people from America, three hours is nothing!

The Stairway To Heaven Hike, or rather the Cuilcagh Legnabrocky Trail as it is really called is an absolutely gorgeous 10-mile hike which is in Fermanagh in Northern Ireland. It’s a nice trail that is perfect for beginners or people of average fitness and, again offers some fantastic views of the surrounding countryside.

Kylemore Abbey is a Benedictine Monastery that is nearly 100 years old. The Monastery itself is nestled in the heart of Connemara and gets thousands of visitors each year.

It is definitely one of the most photographed abbeys in Ireland and its not hard to see why,

You can explore the abbey but there is also a beautiful chapel and Victorian walled garden on the grounds which are well worth checking out.

The food is also absolutely delicious and this really is the perfect way to spend an afternoon.

From Galway, it would take about one hour and fifteen minutes to get here.

Ireland has a lot of castles… A whole lot. That’s both a good and a bad thing. Some become incredibly popular tourist hotspots and others sometimes aren’t as well known.

Aughnanure Castle is a classic example of an absolutely beautiful castle that doesn’t have huge crowds.

The castle has been lovingly restored and you can actually go inside and see how it would have looked in it’s prime, 500 years ago.

There are murder holes, moats and gunpowder towers and some very ornate window fittings. We stumbled upon this castle out of sheer luck and it has remained one of my favourite Irish castles to date! If you want to learn about some other beautiful castles, check out our list of Seven Ancient Castles You Need To Explore .

Aughnanure is barely even a day trip from Galway, it’s a thirty-minute drive from the city and well worth a visit.

Ballynahinch Castle is one of the most luxurious castles in Galway and it is the perfect place to spend an afternoon having some tea! The Castle itself is very close to the beautiful seaside town of Connemara and there is plenty to offer in the area.

The grounds are simply stunning and look across over Connemara National Park and you can stay overnight in the castle or just pop in for some food and drink. I had the scones, jam and cream the last time I was there and it was absolutely divine.

This is definitely one to check out if you want to grab a luxurious bite to eat.

Spideal is a small coastal town in the county of Galway that has a lot to offer. It is in what’s known as a Gaeltacht area which is a designated area of Ireland where all of the locals are incentivized to speak our native language of Irish.

That means as you are sitting in a pub you will hear the bartender and the locals speaking beautiful, clear Irish! It’s a very special experience.

Spideal is a town steeped in old Irish tradition and they have a wonderful craft village within the town. There you can take part in basket making and kite making and loads of other handicrafts.

It’s also a great place to buy products made by local Irish artists, click here to learn more about the craft village.

There’s also a cafe there called Builín Blasta and it is absolutely delicious! The drive from Galway to Spideal takes about 30 minutes.

The Burren is a massive area of land that extends from the Cliffs of Moher and up into the county of Clare. The geography of the area is extremely unique and there is nowhere in Ireland like it.

It is an area made up of limestone but surrounded by extremely fertile land dues to the nutrients that can be found in the soil. There are plants in the Burren that grow nowhere else in Ireland!

There are plenty of walking trails in the area and the drive here from Galway takes about an hour, depending on where you want to go.

Westport is a beautiful town that is just one hour away from the town of Galway and makes for the perfect day trip. There are some fantastic pubs and plenty of places to explore there. And if you’re up for the challenge you could also try climbing Croagh Patrick which is a formidable mountain overlooking the city!

If you want to make things interesting and enjoy driving you could drive the regular route along the N84 up to Westport and grab a bite to eat and then drive back a much more scenic way and through one of my favourite drives in Ireland.

Instead of going back along the N84 or the N59 you should follow the R335 Coastal road for a while, then following the same road as it turns left.

Here you will come across the Lost Valley as well as the Doolagh Valley and both of these valleys make for some absolutely breathtaking scenery as you drive. This valley is just about as far off the beaten track as you could want to be but once you’re in here it would take you about one and a half hours to get back to Galway City.

So that’s it! If you can think of any more day trips from Galway please let us know in the comments! The great thing about Ireland is that there is always something fascinating to explore just around the corner so don’t be afraid to just hit the road and see what you find. 

Want More Galway Posts?! Here are our best:

• The Complete Travel Guide to Galway – All You Need To Know
• 25 Fun Things To Do in Galway
• How To Spend The Perfect Weekend in Galway
• Where to Stay in Galway: Top Areas and Accommodations
• The Best Airbnbs in Galway
• 10 Best Pubs in Galway City
• Hiking in Galway: 1o Best Trails for All Levels

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About The Author

Oisin feeney.

Oisin is a journalist and award-winning photographer. Published in Lonelyplanet.com, buzz.ie, Derry Journal and Irishcentral.com. Currently working as a tour guide in Ireland, Italy, France and Iceland, Oisin is an expert on Ireland.

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