Dublin to Cliffs of Moher & Galway: Day Trip with Guide & Driver

Summary

From Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway’s lively streets

You’ll leave Dublin early with a small group and guide, heading west past castles toward the wild Cliffs of Moher. Walk windswept paths above crashing waves, then travel through The Burren’s strange beauty before exploring Galway’s lively streets or joining an optional walking tour. There’s music on board and plenty of stories—plus extra time at each stop so nothing feels rushed.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way our guide, Sean, tapped his fingers on the seat as we left Dublin — almost in rhythm with the rain streaking across the bus window. It was early but not quiet; people shuffled bags overhead and someone behind me tried (and failed) to whisper about motion sickness. The city faded fast, replaced by fields so green it almost looked fake. Sean told us stories about Irish kings and pointed out Bunratty Castle as we slowed for photos — I barely caught a glimpse between sheep and hedges, but that’s Ireland for you.

I’d seen photos of the Cliffs of Moher before, but standing there in person is different. The wind actually hums in your ears, and you taste salt when you breathe in. We had two hours — more than I expected — so I wandered past the main lookout and just stood there for a bit. A woman next to me laughed because her hair whipped straight up; I think everyone looked a little wild in that Atlantic air. Sean showed us where puffins sometimes nest (no luck today), and gave tips for photos depending on the light — which kept changing every five minutes anyway.

The road along the Wild Atlantic Way felt endless in a good way. There were these sudden patches of gray stone — The Burren — where flowers somehow grew out of rock. We stopped for a quick walk when the rain let up; my shoes got muddy but honestly, who cares? Onboard, Sean played something on his tin whistle (he said he wasn’t great at it but he was lying). By the time we reached Galway, my head was full of music and random facts about limestone plants.

Galway itself buzzes differently than Dublin. There were buskers near Eyre Square playing trad tunes, and shops selling wool hats I definitely don’t need but kind of wanted anyway. Sean offered a short walking tour — totally optional — so some of us followed him past Lynch’s Castle and down to the Spanish Arch while others ducked into cafés or just wandered off. I grabbed fish and chips from a spot he recommended; they tasted like actual sea air (or maybe that was just my hands still cold from earlier). The ride back felt quieter somehow — maybe everyone was tired or just thinking about cliffs and castles. I still think about that view over the edge.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dublin to Cliffs of Moher and Galway

• Depart Dublin early morning
• Photo stop at Bunratty Castle
• Arrive Cliffs of Moher, fast-track entry
• Explore Cliffs of Moher for two hours
• Travel Wild Atlantic Way to Galway
• Photo stop at the Burren (weather permitting)
• Arrive Galway City, optional guided walking tour
• Free time in Galway City
• Return coach to Dublin in evening

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Dublin to Cliffs of Moher?

The tour departs around 7:00 AM from Dublin and returns by approximately 7:40 PM.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

No lunch is included, but there are opportunities to buy food at stops like Galway City or near the Cliffs of Moher.

Are entry tickets to Cliffs of Moher included?

Yes, premium entry tickets to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre are included in your booking.

Is pickup available from my hotel?

No hotel pickup is provided; you must meet at one of two central locations in Dublin city centre.

Do you get free time in Galway City?

Yes, you have at least two hours in Galway City with an optional free walking tour or time to explore alone.

Is there WiFi on board?

Yes, complimentary WiFi is available on board the coach during your journey.

Are restrooms available on the bus?

No bathrooms are onboard; rest stops are scheduled roughly every two hours.

Can I bring luggage or suitcases on this tour?

Yes, passengers can bring luggage or suitcases at no extra charge.

What’s included

Your day includes central Dublin pickup by air-conditioned coach with both driver and guide onboard, premium entry tickets for all attractions including Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre, an optional guided walking tour through Galway City’s historic center, free WiFi throughout the journey, safe storage for your belongings during stops—and plenty of music and stories along the way before returning to Dublin in the evening.