Transfers Countries Ireland GalwayGalway to Killarney

Private car transfer from Galway to Killarney

Door-to-door
in 2 h 40 min

From €84
per seat

Comfortable
car

One way

One wayReturnMulti-city

New

One way

Cancel for free 24 hours before departure

Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024

Excellent

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Galway.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 2 h 40 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 Killarney.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

In total

218 km2 h 40 min

A car trip from Galway to Killarney

If you ever dreamed about embarking on a scenic road trip through the Emerald Isle, rugged coastlines, lush greenery, and mystical medieval castles hidden among dense woodlands have likely entered your imagination. Luckily, that described just some postcard vistas along the Wild Atlantic Way from Galway to Killarney!

As you stumble out of an Irish pub with live folk music fading in the distance, you'll speed from the lively streets of Galway to unspoiled nature in a matter of minutes. Narrow roads lined by traditional villages and surrounded by fields of sheep make you feel as if you've just driven through a time warp. The enchanting geological wonders remain as they would've been described on page one of the book of Genesis. You'll find it challenging to believe this is the main road to such a sought-after town. But once the flags and banners hanging between the colored buildings stand before you, you'll know you've landed in the historical lanes of Killarney. This bucket-list experience may be an action-packed road trip. But keeping your eyes on the road among the jaw-dropping Irish countryside while remembering the drive on the left side of the road will spoil the venture. So keep reading to uncover how to travel from Galway to Killarney in 2024 and tips to help enhance the occasion!

About Killarney

After driving through the twisting roads from Galway to Killarney, you'll arrive in County Kerry's second-largest town. Less than 15,000 locals live here. But they sincerely welcome over 1 million visitors through their gates annually.

Killarney’s remote location in Ireland's extreme southwest is why so many people visit. Exposed rock formations and dazzling lakes wedged between the Shehy Mountain range make this a paradise for nature enthusiasts. ### History of Killarney St. Finian the Leper founded a permanent settlement here in 640 AD, but it took several centuries before the site transformed into a village. After the Normans invaded in the 12th century, they built many military structures. Most notably, the O'Donoghue clan ordered the construction of Ross Castle in the 15th century. The Desmond Rebellion was the most notable period in the city's history. This series of uprisings spread across Munster, and after the locals failed to prevent more English influence, the O'Donoghue clan lost control of the castle. Fortunately, most of the town remained intact, and by the 19th century, Muscross House Estate established itself as one of the English empire's most beautiful developments. ### Modern Killarney Today, Killarney is one of the few towns where you can experience true Irish culture. Traditional bars, decorated with wooden beams and local flags, scattered themselves from north to south and east to west. The city's charm radiates from the colorful buildings, and several boutique stores selling handmade goods offer the ideal souvenir as a reminder of this unique setting. Although Killarney is like stepping into a time machine, its mindset isn't stuck in the past. The town has a modern rail system to Cork City, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and the top-class Ring of Kerry route. It's also home to Ireland's first national park, and it even has a Michelin-starred restaurant showcasing seasonal goods made from locally grown products! Languages: English and Irish Currency: Euro (EUR) Time zone: GMT Climate: mild oceanic * Plug type: G

From Galway to Killarney: travel tips

The journey from Galway to Killarney isn't your everyday drive to work. Natural wonders, cramped roads, and an unpredictable climate span the 134-mile road. So, you need a few local tips to avoid headaches en route.

### Prepare for the rain The Republic of Ireland is notorious for rain and overcast. Unfortunately, the west of the island sees the most rainfall. Due to the mountainous terrain, relief rain is not uncommon. So pack waterproof clothing and an umbrella, even if the sun is splitting the rocks in Galway. ### Explore the outdoors You can't visit Florida without soaking up the sun on the sand. So don't visit Ireland and miss out on exploring the outdoors. The Cliffs of Moher are one of Europe's most impressive natural wonders, but if you prefer an alternative experience, head underground and roam the labyrinth of Crag Caves! ### Research Killarney With four hours to kill, the drive from Galway to Killarney is the ideal time to research Killarney. Whether searching for hidden gems or researching the tipping cultures, you'll add fun and peace of mind to your venture. Of course, if you're riding with Daytrio, you can just ask your driver! Also, don't forget to check out events such as festivals or Gaelic football matches, where you can mix with fans and indulge in plenty of thrills, spills, and laughter.

How to get from Galway to Killarney

You might be surprised or worried when you discover that there's no direct public transportation connecting Galway to Killarney. But don't worry. We'll show you that this journey is still possible and worthwhile!

### A bus from Galway to Killarney The bus is the cheapest way to travel from Galway to Killarney. However, Citylink seized links between the cities in 2016. So no direct modes of transportation are available. Instead, you can catch a coach from Galway Bus Station to Limerick Bus Station. Then, you'll switch to a new carriage heading for Killarney Bus Station with the national bus provider, Bus Eireann. You can purchase a ticket through their website or at the station. But make sure to bring cash if you're buying tickets in person, as many machines don't have card facilities. Lowest/highest price: €26.40-€37.60 Average bus duration: 5 hours and 35 minutes First/last departure: 7:05 AM–3:05 PM ### *A train from Galway to Killarney Despite being more expensive than the bus, the train is the most popular way for locals and tourists to travel from Galway to Killarney. Many backpackers travel on this route when utilizing the interrail pass, and many residents commuting to larger cities for work often make the services crowded. No direct train operates from Galway to Killarney. After purchasing your ticket from Galway Ceannt to Killarney, you'll swap services at least twice at Limerick Colbert and Mallow. Change your location settings to the Republic of Ireland and book early for the lowest fares. Lowest/average price: €20-€33 Fastest/average duration: 4 hours, 26 minutes; 5 hours, 14 minutes * First/last departure: 5:25 AM–7:50 PM ### A tour from Galway to Killarney A tour is the most expensive and least popular method of travel from Galway to Killarney. Only a handful of tour companies operate on this route, usually during the busy summer. Also, this is only a return day trip, so if you plan on staying in Killarney, you'll still pay the full fare. However, if you want a laid-back experience where stops such as the Cliffs of Moher are pre-planned, this could be a worthwhile experience. Lowest/average cost: €900–€1500 per vehicle (up to seven people) Average duration: 8.5 hours * Departure times: 7 AM–9 AM ### Daytrip from Galway to Killarney* Daytrip's door-to-door car service is the only direct way to get from Galway to Killarney without returning on the same day. Since you'll travel in a modern, private car, this is the most convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities. Your professional driver will manage any luggage you may be traveling with. So you won't have to hurdle bags on and off while transferring on public transportation. Finally, you won't have to search for a storage facility while you explore the stunning sights en route. Although we are a door-to-door service, we allow you to stop and admire the Emerald Isle's top landmarks. Unmissable sights include Athenry Castle, the historic city of Limerick, and, of course, the UNESCO World Heritage Cliffs of Moher! Seats from: €82 Door-to-door Duration: 2 hours, 40 minutes English-speaking driver Equipped for children and those with limited mobility 24/7 English-speaking customer service * Free cancellation 24 hours before departure!

Things to do when you get to Killarney

Though small in size, Kerry's second-largest town punches above its weight with a wealth of attractions. So, after you travel from Galway, take advantage of the highlights below when you get to Killarney!

### Lose yourself in Killarney National Park Killarney National Park is a jewel of Ireland, covering over 26,000 acres of stunning landscapes. The park is home to the famous Lakes of Killarney, lush woodlands, and the rugged terrain of the McGillycuddy's Reeks mountain range, including Ireland's highest point, Carrauntoohil. If you're traveling as a family, you can enjoy scenic walks, cycle paths, and sought-after boat tours. While wandering the walkways, look for highlights, including Muckross House, a Victorian mansion, and the tranquil Muckross Abbey, a Franciscan friary founded in the 15th century. ### Listen to live folk music In Killarney, you have no choice but to visit a traditional Irish pub and listen to authentic folk music. From the moment you step inside a dark tavern, you'll feel the vibrant energy emitting from the band and locals joining, whether singing or dancing. Live music and a pint of beer go together like fine wine and cheese. So, if it's a sunny day, sit outside in a beer garden with the locals' choice of cider. Or, on a cold winter evening, opt for a tall glass of Guinness. And since you're in County Kerry, it would be rude not to sample a small glass of dingle whiskey from the nearby distillery! ### Explore Ross Castle First, you must trek the postcard gardens with fragrant wildflowers and woody aromas from the tree-lined paths. You can hire a romantic horse and cart to the setting, or if you walk, make sure you have waterproof shoes as the paths often flood even in the summer. Once you arrive, Ross Castle’s 15th-century tower looms over its glimmering lake and breathtaking surroundings. The interior may not be as lavish as other medieval castles in Europe. But it offers an in-depth insight into the lives of Irish royalty in previous centuries. ### Take a day trip to Skellig Michael Star Wars fans might already recognize one of Europe’s most iconic movie settings. It's the spot where the blockbuster film introduced Luke Skywalker back to the audience during Episode VII: The Force Awakens. But whether you're a movie fan or not, this magical attraction 60 miles west of Killarney will leave you speechless. Ancient monasteries and settlements pepper themselves throughout the jagged landscape, and you can explore every nook and cranny after a short boat tour from the mainland!

When is the best time to visit Killarney?

Due to Kerry's not-so-desirable year-round weather, the warmer months are the best time to travel from Galway to Killarney. However, its compact space can feel overcrowded in July and August. Therefore, mid-spring and early summer are the best times to visit the region.

From April to mid-June, the average daily high temperature is almost 59° Fahrenheit. Since natural wonders surround Killarney, the weather is warm enough to spend time outdoors but not too overpowering while hiking. Many events start to spring up during this period. Farmers markets draw people from the surrounding towns and villages into Killarney on weekends, creating a buzzing atmosphere. It's also the beginning of the highly anticipated Munster Gaelic football championship, which you can watch live in Fitzgerald Stadium or with the locals in an Irish bar!

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Galway to Killarney

How do I get from Galway to Killarney?

As of 2024, four modes of transportation operate from Galway to Killarney, each offering unique advantages. The bus is the cheapest, a train is the most scenic, a tour is ideal for a day trip, and Daytrip's private door-to-door service is the fastest and most comfortable travel method.

Is there a train from Galway to Killarney?

You can catch a train from Galway to Killarney, but note that no direct train runs between the cities. After purchasing your ticket online at Irish Rail, you'll travel via Limerick before changing carriages and continuing your journey to Killarney. The quickest train takes 4 hours and 26 minutes.

Where should I stop between Galway and Killarney?

The Cliffs of Moher are the most significant tourist attraction en route from Galway to Killarney. It's the Republic of Ireland's most visited attraction, welcoming over 1 million visitors annually. But you can also explore historical castles, including Athenry and Bunratty Castle, or roam charming towns like Limerick or Adare.

Is there a direct bus from Galway to Killarney?

As of 2024, no direct bus operates from Galway to Killarney. Citylink stopped their service in 2016, but you can still get indirect services today. Bus Eireann is the most convenient bus company, which requires only one transfer via Limerick. Tickets start at €26.40, which you can purchase online or at Galway Bus Station.

How far is it from Galway to Killarney?

The shortest road distance from Galway to Killarney is around 134 miles, which can take 2 hours and 40 minutes to drive at a safe speed. However, the harsh weather conditions can increase the overall time to three hours when driving in the winter. Also, you should add more time to your schedule for exploring fascinating landmarks between the cities.

How much is the train from Galway to Killarney?

The average trip from Galway to Killarney costs €33 one way. However, fares start at €20, and you can take advantage of these deals if you book online more than 30 days before your departure and travel during the weekdays.

Visit these sights on the way

Athenry Castle

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

Cliffs of Moher

One of the top attractions in Ireland, this UNESCO Global Geopark appeared as the Cliffs of Insanity in The Princess Bride. Inconceivable Insanity

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

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

Trinitarian Abbey of Adare

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

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

Why people love Daytrip

5,100+ reviews

2,042 travelers took this route with us

Oct 2, 2025

Great transfer option.

“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Robyn C

Sep 20, 2025

It was a fantastic trip.

“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Daydream20046758137

Sep 15, 2025

Best transport company anywhere

“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Mary L

Aug 20, 2025

Excellent experience in traveling

“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N

Apr 22, 2025

Reasonably Priced and Safe Transportation

“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler COCO

Apr 2, 2025

Daytrip never disappoints

“We were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Julie M

Feb 28, 2025

Great driver in Egypt

“Used the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Maps315861

Feb 20, 2025

Comfortable and Safe Rides in Mexico

“Used Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Golourdesduarte

Feb 10, 2025

Great way to travel and see some sights on the way

“We did not know what to expect with this trip and booked from Australia. We were initially looking for an easy way to travel from Granada to Malaga. We decided not to waste the opportunity to see something additional on our way. Miguel certainly exceeded our expectations. His English was excellent (unfortunately we speak very little Spanish), and he was very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the regions as we passed through and also discussing some of the local ways. Miguel took us to Antequera as planned and ensured we were able to easily get our tickets to the attractions without any sense of rushing us. We were picked up and dropped off punctually and really enjoyed our trip. Hopefully we will return to Spain and we can use this service again sometime.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Michelle R

Jan 25, 2025

Excellent service

“We used the service twice while in Thailand. Extremely prompt and efficient customer service. Best rate being offered in Chiang Mai for the travels. Polite, punctual, professional and English speaking drivers. Clean, comfortable vehicles. Being a regular visitor to Thailand, this was hands down the best service. Most pleased with the company. I hope it sustains the excellence of service that was rendered to us.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Omar

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 a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.

Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select “Return” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.

For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.

Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select “One Way” or “Return” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!

Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.

Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.

Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,600+ cities around the world.

Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.