Cliffs of moher and galway tour from dublin

Day trips from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher are some of the most popular excursions in Ireland. In fact, the Cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s most visited tourist attractions, with more than one million people passing through each year.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Cliffs of Moher provide sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and stand between 120 to 214 meters high. An area of outstanding natural beauty, the Cliffs of Moher offer a tranquil alternative to the busyness of Dublin and make for an ideal day trip to capture the essence of Ireland.

You will find below everything you need to know about visiting the Cliffs of Moher, one of the best destination for day trips from Dublin.

How do you get from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher?

There are several ways to get from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher including car and public transport.

From  Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher by car

Getting there by car is fairly easy and takes about 3 and half hours each way. The journey is around 270 kilometers, with much of the route following the M4, M6 and M18 motorways.  

From Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher by public transport

You can also travel there by public transport, but it is more complicated as a direct bus or train service does not exist.

You will need to go to Galway by bus (about 2 and a half hours) and then take the bus from Galway to the Cliffs (approximately 2-3 hours). The total transport time makes it a quite uncomfortable choice if you leave from Dublin.

Guided tours to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin

Alternatively, you can join one of the many Cliffs of Moher tours which travel from Dublin regularly. The tours are great value for money and include a professional guide and all transportation for the day. Choose between private and group tours with a sightseeing itinerary, so all you have to do is relax and enjoy the trip.

How much does the entrance ticket to Cliffs of Moher cost?

Below are the ticket prices for the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre:

Adult: €7

Seniors (65+): €7

Young adults (13+): €7

Children under 12: free

Family ticket (2 adults and 2 children under 12): €14

What is the typical itinerary of a day tour to Cliffs of Moher from Dublin?

A Cliffs of Moher day trip from Dublin usually begins with early morning pickup from your hotel or accommodation. You will meet your tour guide, board the coach or minibus and begin the journey west to the Cliffs of Moher.

One of the first stops on the trip will be the mighty Cliffs of Moher, where you can pose for photographs, explore the visitor center and spend some free time taking in the fresh air and Atlantic views. You will soon forget the long road trip when you see the tall limestone cliffs towering high above the ocean.

Next on the itinerary is a trip to the rocky and moon-like landscape of the Burren. Discover how this somewhat barren-looking terrain is home to a vast selection of rare plant species and is one of the most bio-diverse places in Ireland.

After a drive along the wild west coast of Ireland, arrive in the Medieval city of Galway and spend some time exploring its cobbled streets and alleys on foot. Enjoy free time here to see the sights before heading back to Dublin.

To break up the long journey, you may visit historical attractions such as Kilmacduagh Monastery, Dunguaire Castle and the seaside village of Kinvara along the way.

What kinds of tours are available to go to the Cliffs of Moher?

There are several options when choosing a Cliffs of Moher day trip from Dublin. The most common trips are guided group tours, though small-group and private tours are also available.

Guided tours to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin

The most budget-friendly way to explore Ireland's west coast attractions, guided day tours from Dublin hit all the major sites. Visit the Cliffs of Moher, Galway and the Burren all in one day.

Group day tours to the Cliffs of Moher include a professional tour guide and all transportation for your day trip, often by bus, rail or a combination of the two.

Small group guided tours to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin

If you seek a more intimate sightseeing experience, consider taking a small-group Cliffs of Moher tour. These day excursions include a driver and guide and transportation by a comfortable air-conditioned minivan. The small vehicle tours can visit more places on a day trip and allow for groups of around 20 people.

Private tours to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin

For the ultimate luxurious day-trip experience choose a private Cliffs of Moher tour from Dublin. Travel by private vehicle, reserved only for your group, and enjoy your driver and guide's commentary and insights about the region.

Private tours are available for groups of all sizes, from couples to small, medium or large families.

Multi-day tours to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin

Want to see more on your Cliffs of Moher jaunt? Take a multi-day trip to explore Ireland's wild Atlantic coast in detail.

Spend from two to seven days and enjoy the region's highlights at a slower pace. Eat in the restaurants, visit the museums and enjoy the famous Irish hospitality in the places you stay. Multi-day trips usually include transportation, a guide and some meals.

How much do Cliffs of Moher tours cost?

Cliffs of Moher tours can start as low as €40 and typically include pickup and drop-off from Dublin.

The most popular day trips from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher cost in the region of €50. These include a visit to the cliffs, the moon-like landscape of the Burren, and the city of Galway. An average day trip lasts for around 14 hours, and include pickup and drop-off from a central meeting point in Dublin.

If you plan on visiting for more than one day, prices cost in the region of €250 to €600, depending on how much you want to pack into your trip.

There are different variations of day trips, including a rail tour of the Cliffs of Moher, trips to Limerick, and boat rides. These cost between €70 and €150.

There is also an option for overnight tours that can last up to three days and include visits to Cork. Expect to pay around €530 with accommodation included.

Private Cliffs of Moher tours start from around €600 per group but can be much more expensive.

What will you see and do on day trips from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher?

Cliffs of Moher

As Ireland’s main tourist attraction, the Cliffs of Moher are considered a national treasure and make for the perfect day trip from Dublin. Situated in the County of Clare along the Wild Atlantic Way, the Cliffs of Moher have stood for 350 million years.

Prepare for awe-inspiring views across the ocean, lush green cliffs, and coastal trails that will put you at one with nature.

Burren National Park

If you’re after tranquility and quiet on one of your day trips from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher, look no further than Burren National Park. It is 1,500 hectares in size and is located in the southeastern corner of the Burren.

Visitors can enjoy five marked walking trails that feature limestone grasslands, hazel and ash woodlands, and fascinating natural habitats.

Local wildlife

Expect to see plenty of local wildlife during your Cliffs of Moher journey. Since 1989, the Cliffs of Moher have been a special protection area for birds.

The cliffs are home to more than 20 species of nesting birds, including nine species of breeding seabird. Bird watchers will delight at the opportunity to see so many, especially during the nesting season. The cliffs offer the best bird-watching views in Ireland.

Atlantic Edge Ocean Walk

Witness sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean with the Atlantic Edge Ocean Walk. As you travel along the Wild Atlantic Way, you’ll stand on imposing cliffs that look out over the ocean and golden beaches of the Cliffs of Moher.

Feel the fresh air blowing from the ocean while you snap a few pics of the beauty on offer along the Atlantic Edge Ocean Walk.

Irish pub tours

There are many local pubs dotted around nearby villages, with Egan's Pub perhaps the most well known. Several tours include a visit to the famous pub, where you can enjoy Irish ales and mix it with the locals.

Located in nearby Liscannor, there is live music and traditional pub food — ideal if you work up an appetite during your long walks at the Cliffs of Moher.

The Visitor Centre and Exhibition

No visit to the Cliffs of Moher is complete without a trip to the Visitor and Exhibition Centre. This eco-friendly center was built in 2007 and neatly nestled into the hillside, which helps to minimize its visual impact on the natural beauty of the Cliffs of Moher.

A trip to the center will see you learn about the stories that bring the iconic cliffs to life, adding another dimension in the process.

The Burren

Prepare to visit a limestone paradise at The Burren, where silence is golden, and beauty is expected. The landscape of the Burren is filled with Irish history, both told and untold.

Marvel at the pale grey stones during your journey, and experience a microcosm of Ireland’s wildlife. There’s also plenty of colorful flora on show too, which can be found between the rocks.

Irish National Stud and Gardens

While there is plenty to do and see on your day trip from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher, some tours include handy extras such as the Irish National Stud Garden.

Located on the way from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher, The National Irish Stud is a thoroughbred horse breeding facility that is popular with horse lovers. Visitors can wander the local garden, visit the in-house museum, and see some of Ireland’s best stallions.

Kilmacduagh Monastery

Another extra that’s included with some day trips from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher, Kilmacduagh Monastery is a ruined abbey near Galway. It was reportedly founded in the seventh century and features Ireland’s tallest round tower, which stands at 34 meters.

Galway

Galway is a harbor city on Ireland’s west coast and provides plenty of arty and bohemian vibes. Expect bright colors, quaint pubs, plenty of live music, and street theatre. A visit to Galway is included in plenty of day trip tours from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher and is a great opportunity to experience Irish culture.

What are the opening times?

The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre is open throughout the year.  The opening hours vary by season and are as follows:

May, June, July, August: 8 AM - 9 PM

March, April, September, October: 8 AM - 7 PM

November, December, January, February: 9 AM - 5 PM

When is the best time to visit the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin?

You can visit the Cliffs of Moher all year round, though the weather does change the experience slightly. During the winter months, it can be much colder, so it’s essential to wrap up warm. In the summer, a lack of clouds means you should get better views across the Atlantic ocean.

Travel tips

• Dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket and umbrella in case of wet weather.  
• A trip to the Cliffs of Moher provides plenty of walking opportunities, so wear comfortable and sturdy shoes.
• Be sure to take a camera as you will want to take plenty of snaps of the impressive views.
• These day tours are typically very long so bring plenty of snack and drink to enjoy on the journey.

How do I get from Galway to Cliffs of Moher?

How many days do you need at Cliffs of Moher?

What is there to see between Dublin and Cliffs of Moher?

How far from Dublin Ireland to the Cliffs of Moher?