The road distance from Dingle to Galway is 160 miles. The journey should take between 3 and 3.5 hours, driving at a safe speed. The lack of main roads is the key reason this journey is longer than expected.
Why is Dingle famous?
Dingle is famous for its lively pub culture. Local and foreign tourists come here to indulge in one of the highest concentrations of pubs per person in Ireland. However, most visitors leave with a vivid image of its charming town and stunning nature encircling the area.
How long should I spend in Galway?
Although Galway is loaded with fun and exciting attractions, its compact size allows you to explore its streets and tick off the main sights in just two days. If you plan to take a day trip to another nearby city, you should add an extra night to your travel itinerary.
What's the most convenient way to travel from Dingle to Galway?
A private car with Daytrip is the most convenient way to travel from Dingle to Galway. After you select your desired vehicle, departure time, and sightseeing stops, your local driver will manage your luggage and weave through the narrow country lanes for you.
Is there anywhere to stop on the road from Dingle to Galway?
Yes, the drive from Dingle to Galway is part of Ireland's most iconic tourist trail, the Wild Atlantic Way. On your journey, you can stop at Limerick, the state's third-most populous city, or the Cliffs of Moher, the most visited attraction in the Republic of Ireland.
Are there trains from Dingle to Galway?
No, there are no trains from Dingle to Galway. The closest train station is in Tralee, over 30 miles east. From here, you can catch a connecting train via Limerick Train Station before arriving at Galway Train Station.
From mystical folklore tales to craggy landscapes and ancient ruins to traditional Irish villages, the journey from Dingle to Galway is like stepping foot into a time machine. The thrill of passing through villages concealed in a time capsule and the assurance of being in one of the most welcoming countries worldwide allow you to experience an adventurous yet carefree car trip.
Every second along the 3.5-hour journey looks like a picture book of Ireland's best bits. The Cliffs of Moher in the south, the hilly woods in the heartlands, and the busy streets of Galway in the north await your venture up the Wild Atlantic Ways Coastline.
If you're ready to explore one of Europe's best road trips, read our ultimate guide for getting from Dingle to Galway below!
About Galway
Galway is the Republic of Ireland's fourth-largest city, home to 84,000 locals. It sits on the River Corrib in the extreme west of the nation. Despite its compact size, you'll notice it's oozing with history and unique ways of life after driving from Dingle to Galway.
Beginning of Galway
The area's been inhabited since the 1120s, but the town of Galway wasn't officially developed until over a century later. Following the English invasion of Ireland in the 13th century, the Normans built a fort, and the city began to evolve.
### The Ups and Downs of Galway
Galway's position along the coast allowed it to grow financially. However, it suffered numerous setbacks, including two fires, plagues, battles during the Williamite War, and switching rulers of the land.
After years of uncertainty, the town could grow sustainably in the 1900s. The population grew to over 20,000, the Roman Catholic Cathedral was erected, and President Kennedy visited in 1963.
### Modern Galway
In the 21st century, Galway is a beloved tourist destination. It's the third most visited space on the island, and in 2020, it was named the European Capital of Culture. Traditional Irish pubs, cobbled streets, and friendly locals all call Galway home today!
From Dingle to Galway: Travel Tips
The drive from Dingle to Galway isn't like most journeys. Although it's painfully beautiful, there are a few hurdles to overcome. So, our local drivers want to share travel tips to ensure a stress-free trip!
Prepare for Rain
People know the Republic of Ireland as a windy and rainy destination. And the west of Ireland is the wettest region on the island. Even if it's sunshine and rainbows in the morning, pack an umbrella and waterproof jacket, as the weather can change instantly.
### Choose the Right Mode of Transportation
The west of Ireland isn't blessed with a ferry port, a bullet train, a world-renowned airport, or a sprawling motorway. So, prioritizing your needs and preferences is vital. Some essential factors to consider are:
- Luggage
- Cost
- Time in Galway
- Comfort/convenience
- Family or group travel
- Access to stops en route
### Go Sightseeing
The west of Ireland is the most remote part of the island. Public transport is scarce, which makes visiting attractions between the two cities difficult. Take a private car with Daytrip and you can easily explore isolated sights, such as Crag Cave and Athery Castle, during the ride.
How to Get From Dingle to Galway
Crossing 160 miles of rugged terrain on narrow country lanes isn't a walk in the park. To help create a smooth trip, we explain how to get from Dingle to Galway below.
Bus From Dingle to Galway
The majority of visitors traveling from Dingle to Galway opt for the bus. It's a cheap transportation method, but unfortunately, no direct routes are available.
To use the bus, you can buy a ticket online or onboard Ireland's national bus provider, Bus Eireann. There's no station. Instead, it leaves from a bus stop and will take you to Tralee. From here, you must go via Limerick before changing one last time for a direct one to Galway. The trip will cost around тВм30 and take between 6.5 and 7.5 hours.
### Tours From Dingle to Galway
If you're short on time, tours from Dingle to Galway can be convenient. Most excursions last between 8 and 9 hours and stop at several points of interest, including the Conor Pass, the Cliffs of Moher, and Listowel. It's also pre-arranged. So you don't have to do any planning.
Since Dingle and Galway are tourist hotspots, plenty of companies operate on this route. The price per person varies but is often between тВм90 and тВм150.
### Daytrip From Dingle to Galway
Imagine if a vehicle of your choice could collect you from your hotel in a Dingle. After handling your bags and whisking you away, you recline your seat and adjust the thermostat to a cozy setting as the rain splashes against your window. Just as the sun breaks through the clouds, you step out to explore postcard-worthy natural wonders and breathe in the fresh coastal air.
You can turn this dream into a reality by booking a door-to-door service from Dingle to Galway. For 4 hours and 20 minutes, you have full access to a private car and a local expert to learn more about the region you're exploring, with plenty of opportunities to stop for sightseeing!
What to Do When You Get to Galway
Despite covering just 20 square miles of land, there are many things to do when you get to Galway. Put the activities below on your to-do list so you don't miss the regional highlights.
Get Lost in the City Center
Every trip to Galway must begin by getting lost in the charming streets of Galway's city center. Turn off Google Maps and simply roam through unknown territories to uncover hidden stores and eateries. Look for traditional seafood dishes and some of the world's best oysters.
In the colorful Latin Quarter, traditional pubs, street performers, and local artisans selling handmade crafts all line the walkways. Also, look out for the Spanish Arch, Eyre Square, and Galway Cathedral!
### Listen to Traditional Irish Music
If you visit Galway on the weekend, you can listen to the streets come alive. Street performers mostly play traditional Irish folk music. Or, if you're lucky, you can witness a short Irish dance session!
But if you want to take shelter from the rain and blend in with the locals, head to a pub and watch a live band. Order a pint of your favorite beer or stout at one of the endless bars in Galway. Some favorites for Celtic music and clinking glasses are Tigh Neachtain, Taaffes Bar, and Crane Bar.
### Visit Salthill
Salthill is a lovely seaside town just a mile south of downtown Galway. When the sun is out, you can take a 30-minute stroll here while admiring the Atlantic coast and a ferry crossing out at sea.
Although itтАЩs just a stone's throw from the high streets, you're transported to sandy beaches and a stretching promenade. The Ferris wheel, old-fashioned arcades, and ice cream stands give off a carnival atmosphere all year round!
When Is the Best Time to Visit Galway?
The City of Tribes is a beautiful area bursting with charm and filled with energy. Whenever you visit, you will have the experience of a lifetime. However, one season sets itself apart from the rest. Spring is the best time to travel from Dingle to Galway.
Since the area doesn't possess the space needed to welcome thousands of daily visitors, the paths can often feel crowded in the summer. From March to May, the streets are free-flowing, like the pints of Guinness consumed in bars.
You can enjoy the average daily high temperature of 61┬░ Fahrenheit if you travel later in the season. If you come early, attend the famous St. Patrick's festival on March 17th.
Many of striking formations in this show cave are named after locations or characters from the world of J.R.R. Tolkien.┬аThe Middle of the Earth┬а
Trinitarian Abbey of Adare
This Neo-Gothic church incorporates the medieval elements of IrelandтАЩs only Trinitarian stronghold.┬аOne for Three┬а
Limerick
With historic charms it just canтАЩt hide; best known as a poem most raunchy; but with castles, churches, and coffee; this city must be tried. ┬аThere was a City Shannonside┬а
Bunratty Castle
From medieval feasts to a pre-industrial village, this historic castle and grounds proudly preserves several centuries of Irish history.┬аA Feast for the Ages┬а
Ennis
This friendly town flourished for centuries thanks to restrictive religious laws that encumbered other cities.┬аThe Ennis Mightier┬а
Athenry Castle
This austere medieval keep offers an informative glimpse at life in the Middle Ages.┬аStark Insights┬а
