Private car transfer
from Killarney to Galway

Starting from Killarney, a town famed for its expansive National Park, the route takes you through parts of County Kerry and alongside the MacGillycuddy's Reeks, Ireland's highest mountain range.

Continuing towards Galway, there will be several cities and spots that are too good to skip. One of these is Bunratty Castle, built in 1425 and Lord Gort decorated its interior in 1956 with artworks displaying the noble past of Ireland. Make this an unforgettable stop by having a real glimpse of the Middle Ages and enjoying a four-course meal and medieval entertainment. Check their website for more information and make sure you add it to your itinerary, sparing enough time for the experience.

Turn your car ride into an Irish tour

Use the luxury of traveling via private car service to create an amazing Irish adventure. This coastal journey offers a rich selection of places to explore, from medieval castles to natural landmarks. Daytrip makes it easy to visit the UNESCO-listed Cliffs of Moher, one of the most sought-after destinations in Ireland. Stretching for more than eight miles and reaching heights of up to 700 feet, these sea cliffs are insane. Make time for walking along cliffs through the trails, or just enjoy the views and save them in your camera.

Killarney to Galway by private car

A private car ride with Daytrip is the only direct transportation option from Killarney to Galway. Your private driver will pick you up at your doorstep in Killarney and safely bring you to your accommodation in Galway in just 2.5 hours. Daytrip gives you complete control over your trip while saving you the drawbacks of driving yourself. Driving in a different country, notably in Ireland where the traffic flows on the left side of the road, can be quite confusing for some.

But Daytrip is more than just the fastest transportation option. Your driver is a proud local who will happily share their insights on the area and offer some travel tips. Plus, Daytrip lets you visit the top sights en route, including the famous Cliffs of Moher. You can personalize your experience by tailoring the stops you’d like to take, restaurants to dine in, and castles to take pictures of!

Killarney to Galway by bus

There are direct buses from Killarney to Galway, but because of the narrow roads and stops, the trip takes roughly four to five hours. Companies like Bus Éireann operate on this route but some require a transfer in Limerick. Taking a bus from Killarney to Galway is generally the most budget-friendly option but not the fastest or most comfortable.

Killarney to Galway by train

Unfortunately, there’s no direct train from Killarney to Galway. You will need to travel from Killarney to Limerick Junction, then to Limerick, and finally catch a train to Galway. Just like the bus ride, this option also takes about four to five hours, considering transfer times. It is definitely more comfortable and scenic than the bus ride though, especially if you appreciate train journeys. Book your tickets in advance here.

Killarney to Galway by rental car

If you want complete control of your trip, you can rent a car and drive from Killarney to Galway. The most direct route is the N22 to Limerick and then the M18 to Galway. The distance between Killarney and Galway is approximately 129 miles (208 km) and driving takes around two hours and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. With a reliable GPS, you shouldn't have much trouble, though things get more hairy if you get off the main road for sightseeing. And remember, they drive on the left! It's easy to slip into your usual driving habits, so be especially careful.

Killarney to Galway by cycling or hiking

If you have the time and are feeling adventurous, you can cycle or hike from Killarney all the way to Galway. Skip this option if you are not a very experienced cyclist or hiker. It is essential to plan your route carefully, considering your fitness level and the weather. Naturally, it takes several days but is an amazing adventure, stopping in small coastal villages as you make your way along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Hang out at the Latin Quarter

Galway's heart beats at the Latin Quarter, where centuries-old streets and historic monuments like the Spanish Arch, Eyre Square, and Galway Cathedral lay the backdrop for the sounds of traditional Irish music. Spend your evenings here and dive into Irish culture through its melodies. While nearly every pub has live music starting at "9-ish", take a look here for up-to-date information on upcoming festivals and events.

Bike your way through the Aran Islands

The Aran Islands are a group of three islands, Inis Mór, Inis Oirr, and Inis Meain, that are a short ferry ride from Galway. They're famous for their rugged beauty and archeological sites, so be sure to save some time for them. If you can't make it to all three, go for Inis Mór. It's the largest and most popular. The islands are perfect for hiking and especially for biking. Hire your bike from Alan Islands Bike Hire for a day here and enjoy the windy, blue, and green atmosphere of the cliffs.

Binge on the best seafood you’ve ever had

Galway boasts some of the best seafood in the whole country. Smoked salmon and eel, seafood chowder, and local mussels cooked with garlic and cream sauce round are staples. And then there’s the local oysters, which are widely lauded as the best in the world. If you’re roaming and need something to bring with you, spice bags (a street food of fries, chicken, and spicy peppers) will keep your tank full. And instead of Dublin-based Guinness, wash your meals down with Galway Hooker Irish Stout.

Galway never gets hot, but this period offers the warmest temperatures, ideal for exploring Galway's streets, beautiful beaches, islands around, and the nearby Connemara National Park. Don’t miss the Galway International Arts Festival in July which is a highlight, showcasing an exciting mix of music, literature, and arts, drawing visitors from around the globe.

The Galway Races in late July and early August are a must-see event, offering a week of thrilling horse racing and lively celebrations. Though these months are the peak tourist season, resulting in higher accommodation prices and busier attractions, the atmosphere, and the array of events make it the best time to experience the true essence of Galway's culture and hospitality.