Planning a trip from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher without hiring a car? The journey is straightforward, with two public bus routes and several organised tours available. The best choice depends on whether you value the lowest fare, a scenic coastal ride, or a full day exploring the Burren.
Both direct public buses take roughly two hours and arrive at the Cliffs of Moher Coach Park. However, Route 350 offers more departures, while Route 351 provides the more scenic journey along the Clare coastline.
Galway to Cliffs of Moher: Your Main Travel Options
Visitors have three practical ways to make the trip:
- Bus Éireann Route 350: The most frequent scheduled service.
- TFI Local Link Route 351: A scenic coastal route through the Burren.
- Organised tour: A convenient option that combines the cliffs with other County Clare attractions.
Public transport is generally the most affordable option, but it involves a long return journey. Tours cost more yet may include admission, reserved transport and additional destinations such as Doolin, Poulnabrone Dolmen or the Aran Islands.
Taking the 350 Bus from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher
Route 350 is the established public bus connection between Galway and the Cliffs of Moher. It departs from Galway Bus Station, close to Eyre Square, and travels through parts of south Galway and County Clare before reaching the visitor attraction.
The route typically passes through Kinvara, Ballyvaughan, Doolin and Lisdoonvarna, making it useful for travellers who want flexibility rather than a tightly scheduled excursion. During the busier summer period, there can be up to 10 services in each direction, although exact times vary by season.
Route 350 at a glance
- Departure: Galway Bus Station
- Destination: Cliffs of Moher Coach Park
- Journey time: Approximately two hours
- Best for: Flexible itineraries and frequent departures
- Indicative fare: About €13.50 each way for an adult, or approximately €9.45 with a TFI Leap Card
Check the current timetable and fare before travelling, as schedules and ticket prices can change.
Taking the 351 Bus from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher
Route 351 leaves from Eyre Square South and follows a more coastal path. After travelling through Kinvara and Ballyvaughan, it continues past Black Head and Fanore before reaching Doolin and the Cliffs of Moher.
This is arguably the better public transport choice for travellers who want to experience the Burren coastline from the window. The trade-off is a smaller number of full-route services, so return planning is especially important.
Route 351 at a glance
- Departure: Eyre Square South
- Journey time: Approximately two hours
- Frequency: Around four full-route services in each direction
- Best for: Scenic views of the Burren and Clare coast
- Indicative fare: €9 each way in cash, or €18 return
Passengers may be able to pay using cash, a TFI Leap Card or contactless payment, depending on the service and current fare rules.
Is the Express Bus Worth Considering?
A private express service operated by Lally’s offers another way to travel from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher. The return excursion is priced at about €50 and generally includes admission to the cliffs, direct transport and approximately two hours to explore independently.
The principal benefit is certainty: passengers can reserve a seat in advance and avoid relying on a scheduled public bus for the return journey. Departures have included morning and lunchtime options, with the direct journey taking roughly 1.5 hours each way.
It is worth noting that this option does not include a guide or extra sightseeing stops. Although advertised as a five-hour experience, some traveller reviews have reported longer overall durations. Confirm the latest details when booking.
Organised Tours from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher
An organised excursion may offer better value for visitors who have only one day to explore County Clare. Rather than spending around four hours on return bus travel alone, a guided trip can include several major attractions.
Cliffs of Moher and Burren day tour
A typical full-day Burren itinerary lasts about 8.5 hours and includes the Cliffs of Moher, Dunguaire Castle, Poulnabrone Dolmen and Doolin. Transport, a driver-guide and cliff admission are generally included, while lunch is usually separate.
This style of tour suits travellers who want to see several highlights in one day. The disadvantage is that the schedule can be busy, with limited time at each stop.
Aran Islands, Cliffs and cruise experience
Another option combines a visit to Inis Oírr, the smallest of the Aran Islands, with a boat cruise beneath the Cliffs of Moher and time at the clifftop visitor site. These tours can last around 10.5 hours and usually include bus transport, ferry travel, admission and a driver-guide.
It is a fuller experience but may leave less time for exploring the cliffs from above. Travellers prone to seasickness should also consider the ferry and cruise elements carefully.
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Which Galway to Cliffs of Moher Option Is Best?
The best option depends on your priorities:
- Choose the 350 if you want the greatest timetable flexibility.
- Choose the 351 if the scenic Burren coastline is a major part of your plans.
- Choose the express service if you want a reserved seat, direct transport and independent time at the cliffs.
- Choose a guided tour if you want to combine the cliffs with castles, prehistoric monuments, coastal villages or the Aran Islands.
Public buses are affordable and convenient, but the two-hour journey each way means that a day trip can become travel-heavy. A tour is usually the more efficient choice for first-time visitors with limited time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I travel from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher without a car?
Yes. Routes 350 and 351 provide direct public bus connections, while organised tours offer guided alternatives with additional stops.
How long does the bus journey take?
The scheduled public buses take approximately two hours each way, depending on traffic and operating conditions.
Where do the buses leave from in Galway?
Route 350 departs from Galway Bus Station. Route 351 leaves from Eyre Square South. Both arrive at the Cliffs of Moher Coach Park.
Should I book a tour or take public transport?
Public transport suits travellers who want a lower-cost, independent visit and have enough time for the return journey. A guided tour is better for visitors who want to see several County Clare attractions in one day.
Final Takeaway
Getting from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher is easy without a car. Route 350 is the most flexible, Route 351 offers the most scenic coastal ride, and organised tours make the most of a full day in the Burren. Compare the timetable, total cost and sightseeing priorities before booking—the right Galway to Cliffs of Moher option can make the journey as memorable as the destination.
