Discover the rugged beauty of Ireland’s west coast on a Connemara and Galway Day Tour from Dublin. This full-day guided experience combines breathtaking landscapes, traditional Irish culture, and free time in the vibrant city of Galway.
Highlights
- Scenic drive from Dublin to the west of Ireland through the Irish countryside
- Visit the charming village of Cong and explore the historic Cong Abbey
- Travel through the dramatic Maam Valley and Connemara wilderness
- Enjoy spectacular views of Lough Corrib and the Twelve Bens mountains
- Spend approximately 2.5 hours exploring Galway City at your leisure
- Comfortable coach travel with expert commentary from a professional guide
About this tour
Experience one of Ireland’s most beautiful regions on this Connemara and Galway day trip from Dublin. Ideal for travellers short on time, this guided tour takes you from the capital to the wild landscapes of Ireland’s west coast in a single unforgettable day.
After departing Dublin in the morning, you will travel across the country toward the dramatic scenery of Connemara. Known for its rugged mountains, sparkling lakes, and traditional Gaelic culture, Connemara is often described as one of Ireland’s most scenic regions. Along the way, your guide will share stories of Irish history, culture, and the hardships experienced during the Great Famine that shaped this remote landscape.
One of the highlights of the journey is a stop in the picturesque village of Cong. Famous for its historic abbey and lakeside setting, Cong is also known as a filming location for the classic movie The Quiet Man. Visitors can stroll through the charming streets, explore the ruins of Cong Abbey, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this traditional Irish village.
Continuing through Connemara, you will pass through the dramatic Maam Valley and along scenic routes offering panoramic views of mountains, lakes, and the famous Twelve Bens mountain range. There are also spectacular views of Lough Corrib, Ireland’s second-largest lake, dotted with hundreds of islands and surrounded by wildlife.
The tour then arrives in Galway, often called the “City of the Tribes.” Here you’ll enjoy approximately 2.5 hours of free time to explore this lively coastal city. Walk through the colourful streets, visit landmarks like the Spanish Arch, browse the shops along Shop Street, or relax in a traditional pub with live Irish music.
After a memorable afternoon in Galway, sit back and relax on the comfortable coach journey back to Dublin, arriving in the evening with unforgettable memories of Ireland’s spectacular west.
08:00 - Bus Stop 1171, Lower Gardiner Street (at street number 42, beside Trinity Church)
08:05 - Tourist Office, O'Connell Street (34 O'Connell Street Lower at Spire)
Mobile tickets are accepted, so there is no need to print your ticket.
Booking in advance is recommended, particularly during busy travel seasons.
This tour is suitable for visitors who want to see the highlights of western Ireland in one day.
Depart Dublin
Early morning departure from central Dublin
Travel west through Ireland’s scenic countryside
Cong Village
Stop in the historic village of Cong
Visit the ruins of Cong Abbey and enjoy views of Lough Corrib
Connemara Scenic Drive
Travel through the Maam Valley and Connemara wilderness
Views of the Twelve Bens mountains and the Wild Atlantic Way
Lough Corrib
Enjoy panoramic views of Ireland’s second-largest lake and its islands
Galway City
Approximately 2.5 hours of free time
Explore Shop Street, Spanish Arch, and local pubs
Return to Dublin
Comfortable coach journey back to Dublin
Arrival in the city around 8:00 PM
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour departure
Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the departure are non refundable
Meeting points
- Gardiner Street Lwr, stop 1171, North City, Dublin 1, Co. Dublin, Ireland
- 34 O'Connell Street Lower, North City, Dublin 1, D01 EY17, Ireland
