Galway

Private car transfer
from Dingle to Galway

Door-to-door
in 3 h 20 min
From ...
per seat
Comfortable
car
One way
Cancel for free 24 hours before departure
Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice 2024
Excellent
trustpilot-stars

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Dingle.

  • Door-to-door service
  • Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 3 h 20 min.

  • Optional sight-seeing
  • Clean, comfortable car
  • Professional driver
  • Bottled water
  • Child seats
  • Prepared for handicapped
  • Smoke-free
  • Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Galway.

  • Door-to-door service
  • Help with your luggage
In total
  • 256 km
  • 3 h 20 min

Car Trip From Dingle to Galway

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 €30 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 €90 and €150.

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 it’s 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.

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Dingle to Galway

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

Visit these sights on the way

Crag Cave

Crag Cave

Many of striking formations in this show cave are named after locations or characters from the world of J.R.R. Tolkien. The Middle of the Earth 

Trinitarian Abbey of Adare

Trinitarian Abbey of Adare

This Neo-Gothic church incorporates the medieval elements of Ireland’s only Trinitarian stronghold. One for Three 

Limerick

Limerick

With historic charms it just can’t hide; best known as a poem most raunchy; but with castles, churches, and coffee; this city must be tried.  There was a City Shannonside 

Bunratty Castle

Bunratty Castle

From medieval feasts to a pre-industrial village, this historic castle and grounds proudly preserves several centuries of Irish history. A Feast for the Ages 

Ennis

Ennis

This friendly town flourished for centuries thanks to restrictive religious laws that encumbered other cities. The Ennis Mightier 

Athenry Castle

Athenry Castle

This austere medieval keep offers an informative glimpse at life in the Middle Ages. Stark Insights 

Why people love Daytrip

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4,800+ reviews
  • 352 travelers took this route with us
Dec 4, 2024

Excellent service for transfers in Thailand

I was unsure about this company but a few good reviews on Trip Advisor made me take the chance. I am so happy that we did. We needed a ride from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. Our driver Saksun was an excellent driver - it's not a long distance to drive (by Texas standards!) but the road is challenging and there are a lot of places where improvements to the road are being made. It took around 3 hours with a stop at a place with very clean bathrooms, very interesting hot springs and a place to get a snack and cold drinks. Saksun had a vehicle that was fantastic for this type of drive - a very comfortable ride indeed and was obviously well maintained and very clean. I highly recommend this company. I used to post on trip advisor as "lakekariba" but got out of the habit of doing so. This company was so easy to use and the result was so enjoyable that I felt that the company Daytrip and the driver Saksun had earned our trust and a glowing review. Gillian and Ted Pearsall Austin, Texas

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler lakekariba
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lakekariba

Dec 4, 2024
Dec 3, 2024

Excellent option to get to Vienna to Budapest!

We used Daytrip to travel between Budapest and Vienna with a 2 hour stop for lunch in Bratislava. Our driver Zsombor arrived on time at our hotel in Budapest and was very friendly and informative throughout our trip. His vehicle was roomy and clean and he was kind enough to provide us with some bottled water for the trip. Our quick visit stop in Bratislava was very nice as well. He gave us plenty of time to explore the city and have lunch before meeting him again when it was time to head for Vienna. Daytrip provided us with a happy and trouble free transfer between Budapest and Vienna. Many thanks to your team and especially to your driver Zsombor!

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler pgh1125
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pgh1125

Dec 3, 2024
Nov 9, 2024

Great communication with an actual person! They will take you ANYWHERE, No pre-set routes to choose from!

Last minute plan change and Daytrip was our last resort so I chatted with them and had an immediate response from a real person, best situation ever. Never used Daytrip before but the reviews were incredible so we took the chance and booked a driver at like 11-12pm and by 7am the next morning when we woke, they found us a driver and the driver had already texed us making contact! Very impressed and will definitely use them again. We went from Dubrovnik, Croatia to Tivat, Montenegro.

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler James B
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James B

Nov 9, 2024
Nov 1, 2024

Perfect Transport

Andreas did a great job picking us up from Pireaus Cruise Port and taking us to our rental in Spata. The three of us had been on a long cruise and had 9 pieces of luggage. He arrived in an appropriate vehicle and loaded and unloaded all of it. We are very happy with out decision to book with Daytrip.

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler LuckyTraveler01
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LuckyTraveler01

Nov 1, 2024

Vehicle options for this trip

Most popular

sedan

Sedan

Comparable to aVolkswagen Passat
Passengers and luggage
  • 1-3
  • 3x
  • 3x
  • Clean
  • Comfortable
  • Air conditioned
  • Handicapped accessible
  • Child seats
  • Pet friendly
  • Smoke-free
From ... per seatSelect

Best reviews

luxury sedan

Luxury sedan

Comparable to aMercedes Benz E-class
Passengers and luggage
  • 1-2
  • 2x
  • 2x
  • All standard sedan features
  • Luxurious vehicle
  • Chauffeur-style service
  • Extra amenities
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More options

mpv

Compact MPV

Comparable to aVolkswagen Touran
Passengers and luggage
  • 4
  • 4x
  • 4x
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van

Van

Comparable to aMercedes Vito
Passengers and luggage
  • 5-7
  • 7x
  • 7x
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The Daytrip driver advantage

Daytrip driver
  • Local knowledge about the route from Dingle to Galway
    Including available sights:
  • English speaking*

    All Daytrip drivers speak English* as well as their native language (and sometimes additional languages too!). They'll be happy to discuss local history and culture with you, as well as answer any questions you may have. And because they speak the language, they're able to provide you with a unique opportunity to connect with local culture. *Drivers for Lite service aren't required to speak English but must meet all other standards.

  • Safety first!

    We screen all our drivers for criminal and traffic records, and personally interview each one. We also inspect their cars for safety, comfort, and reliability. All cars must be less than ten years old, in excellent operating condition, and insured as required by local law. And because our drivers are locals, they're familiar with the rules and customs of the road.

World-class customer support

  • Available 24/7
  • Close relationship with drivers
  • Experts on the route from Dingle to Galway

Flexible cancellation policy

  • Cancellations: 100% refund up to 24 hours before the trip!
  • Changes: Free up to 24 hours before the trip!

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

  • Big luggage
  • 29x21x11 inches
  • 74x53x28 cm
  • Small luggage
  • 22x14x9 inches
  • 56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.

Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 13,800+ cities around the world.

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