If you’re staying in Galway and planning a trip to the Cliffs of Moher, you’ve got a few different options. Some are scenic, some are practical, and one of them involves spending the day with me… which is obviously my favourite option.
I’ve been driving this route for years, so here’s my honest guide to getting from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher in 2026 and 2027.
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Drive Yourself
Driving is probably the most flexible way to visit the Cliffs of Moher.
The journey is around 75 km (47 miles) each way and usually takes between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours, depending on traffic and how many times you stop to say, “Right… this view deserves another photo.”
Personally, I wouldn’t rush it.
Instead of taking the quickest route, I’d recommend driving through the Burren. This incredible limestone landscape is unlike anywhere else in Ireland. One minute you’re surrounded by grey rock that looks like the moon, and the next you’re looking out over Galway Bay with the Aran Islands in the distance.
Along the way you can stop at places like:
- Kinvara
- Dunguaire Castle
- Ballyvaughan
- Black Head
- Fanore Beach
- The Burren National Park
By the time you reach the Cliffs of Moher, you’ve already had a fantastic day.
Parking at the Cliffs of Moher
The official Cliffs of Moher Experience has a large visitor car park. Parking is included with your visitor admission ticket, which also gives you access to the visitor centre, exhibitions, walking paths and facilities.
During summer months (especially June to August), the car park can become extremely busy between late morning and mid-afternoon. If you’re driving yourself, arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon makes for a much more enjoyable visit.
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Come With Me on an Ollie’s Tour (My Totally Unbiased Recommendation…)
Now… am I biased?
Absolutely.
Do I still think it’s the best way to experience the Cliffs of Moher?
Also absolutely.
My tours aren’t about ticking boxes or spending ten minutes jumping on and off a coach.
I keep my groups small, which means we can actually enjoy the day without feeling like we’re part of a school trip.
We’ll drive the Wild Atlantic Way towards Doolin, where we start our Cliffs of Moher walking tour. This route is breathtaking and brought to life with the help of your captivating guide.
There’ll be history. There’ll be Irish folklore. There’ll probably be terrible jokes. There may even be an unnecessary heel-clicks! It’s the kind of day that feels less like a tour and more like heading out exploring Ireland with a local friend.
(Yes… I’m calling myself your friend before we’ve even met.)
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Take the Public Bus
If you don’t have a car and prefer to travel independently, the public bus is a good budget-friendly option.
Bus Éireann operates Route 350, which connects Galway with the Cliffs of Moher and stops in Doolin, Lisdoonvarna and Ennis.
The journey usually takes around 2 hours each way.
Depending on the season, there are typically several departures throughout the day, with more services running during the busy tourist season.
Adult single fares generally fall in the region of €10–€20 depending on the ticket type and whether you book online in advance. Booking ahead is usually the cheapest option.
One thing to keep in mind is that you’re travelling on a public service rather than a sightseeing tour, so there aren’t scenic stops along the Burren or Wild Atlantic Way. It’s a straightforward journey designed to get you from A to B.
If you’re happy to simply visit the cliffs and make your own plans, it’s a solid option.
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Take a Taxi
Yes… people do ask me this.
Can you take a taxi from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher?
Absolutely.
Should you?
Well… that depends on your budget.
The drive takes around 90 minutes each way, and a one-way taxi fare can easily cost approx €150 each way, depending on the time of day, traffic and the company.
If you’d like the driver to wait while you explore before bringing you back to Galway, you’ll usually be paying for waiting time as well.
For couples wanting complete flexibility, it can work.
For most travellers though, hiring a car or joining a tour offers much better value.
So… What’s the Best Way?
If you enjoy driving and want complete freedom, hire a car and take your time exploring the Burren.
If you’re travelling on a tighter budget, Bus Éireann is a reliable and affordable way to reach the cliffs.
If money is no object and convenience is everything, a taxi will certainly get you there.
But if you want local stories, hidden stops, plenty of laughs, spectacular scenery, and a guide who gets far too excited about Irish history… I’d love to show you around.
After all, anyone can drive to the Cliffs of Moher.
The fun part is everything you discover along the way. Contact me here to book your tour.
