Day Trips & Excursions in Western Ireland

Experience the mighty Cliffs of Moher, a UNESCO World Heritage site, from both land and sea on this full-day tour from Galway. Marvel at the scenery along the Wild Atlantic Way; cruise out to Inisheer, one of the Aran Islands; then hike along the cliff-tops and enjoy spectacular views across the Atlantic.

Delve into the rugged wilderness of Connemara, an Irish county thronged with historic monuments and natural splendor, on a full-day tour from Galway City. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, explore the perfectly preserved Franciscan friary of Ross Errilly Friary and enjoy some leisurely free time in Cong, a picturesque village. Gaze at the tranquil surfaces of Lough Carrib and Loch NaFooey and discover the elaborate walled gardens of Kylemore Abbey. Enjoy pleasant balance of guided tours and independent exploration on this enriching excursion.

Marvel at the natural majesty of the UNESCO-listed Cliffs of Moher on a full-day trip to one of Ireland's most popular attractions from Galway. Accompanied by a professional guide, travel south by luxury coach and pass through quaint fishing villages like Doolin and Kinvara. Admire the ancient fortress of Dunguaire Castle; immerse yourself in the Burren, a limestone landscape reminiscent of the moon's surface; and then spend a leisurely two hours walking the trails surrounding the colossal Cliffs of Moher.

Discover the natural wonders of the Wild Atlantic Way on this full-day horseback riding adventure from Galway. Trek to Omey Island, where you can gallop across the beach, splash through the waves, and enjoy spectacular views of the Twelve Bens mountain range. Suitable for all riding levels.

Home to rolling hills, shimmering lakes, and spectacular coastal scenery, the Connemara Peninsula is one of western Ireland's must-see sites. During this tour, spin through the Connemara countryside in comfort by air-conditioned minivan as your guide talks of the region's colorful history. Reach Wild Atlantic Way attractions including Clifden, Derrygimlagh Bog and Dog's Bay beach, and admire panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean shoreline. Pickup and drop-off in central Galway are included.

The Wild Atlantic Way is home to some of Ireland's most spectacular scenery, but the most adventurous way to explore is on horseback. Gallop across deserted beaches, splash through the waves, and discover Omey Island on this full-day horseback excursion from Galway. Suitable for all riding levels.

Discover magical Inishbofin Island, includes return ferry, light lunch and a film about the island. Take a spectacular self guided walk around the West Quarter, return for tea and scones before catching the ferry back. Inishbofin has become the first Irish island to receive an international ecotourism award. Min 2, Max 35. Available March-Sept. 

Discover the Ireland of old with this unforgettable day trip to Galway from Dublin, including a flight to the Aran island of Inis Mor. Travel to Galway city by train and enjoy a scenic flight to the largest Aran island, set in Galway Bay. On an island tour, admire Inis Mor's stark- but-beautiful landscapes, dry stone walls and thatched villages; visit prehistoric, clifftop Dun Aengus fort, and learn about Inis Mor's rich heritage. Then, fly back to the mainland and enjoy free time in lively Galway before returning to Dublin.

Explore Ireland's beautiful Burren region and discover top natural landmarks including the Cliffs of Moher with ease on this day tour from Galway. Travel through the Burren's rugged landscapes with your guide and discover local attractions such as the 16th-century Dunguaire Castle and Aillwee Cave. Explore walking trails on top of the mighty Cliffs of Moher at your leisure and enjoy panoramic views over the coastal scenery. Watch the skies for sightings of native birdlife, then stop in Doolin on route back to Galway.

Discover top attractions including Leenane Village and Kylemore Abbey on this day trip to Connemara from Galway. Travel to Connemara as your guide sheds light on the region's rich heritage and spectacular natural scenery. Take in fine views over the Twelve Pins mountain range and enjoy free time to explore Leenane Village at your leisure. Visit attractive landmarks such as Killary Fjord and Kylemore Abbey, and gain insight into Ireland's heritage. Stop in the Irish-speaking village of Spiddal and perhaps try chatting to the locals, then head back to Galway.

Embark on a thrilling road trip along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way on this full-day tour from Galway. Discover the natural wonders of Galway Bay and Connemara as you leave the tourist trail behind and journey along the coast. Admire views of Rosmuc, Derrygimlagh Bog and the Twelve Bens Mountains; visit the former residence of political leader Padraic Pearse; and stop for morning tea in Roundstone (not included). Finally, look out for wild Connemara ponies as you hike through Connemara National Park or pay a visit to the magnificent 19th-century Kylemore Abbey.

Visit the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher in one day on this 10.5-hour tour from Galway. Travel along the Wild Atlantic Way with your guide, through pretty villages including Ballindereen, Clarenbridge and Kilcolgan. Take the ferry from the fishing village of Doolin to Inisheer Island and enjoy free time at your leisure. Then, pass beneath the mighty Cliffs of Moher on the return ferry back to Doolin. Soak up spectacular views from atop the Cliffs of Moher, then take in the Burren and Lisdoonvarna on route back to Galway.

Explore the Connemara Coast without the stress of planning on a full day tour with round-trip transport from Galway City. In addition to small towns and landmarks often missed by visitors, the day's itinerary includes rare views of the countryside and coastline from the bus and ferry. Freshly-prepared lunch and drinks are included for your convenience.

Journey along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way on this full-day tour from Galway. Marvel at the mighty Cliffs of Moher and enjoy at least five hours to explore the visitor center, hike the dramatic Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk and admire views that span Galway Bay, Connemara and the Aran Islands. Along the way, discover the dramatic landscape of The Burren, the coastal villages of Ballindereen and Kinvara, and Doolin, the epicenter of Ireland's folk music scene.