Western Ireland’s best full-day excursions radiate from Galway, offering no-nonsense exploration of the region’s top sights. I’m especially fond of the Connemara trips, which combine rugged mountain scenery with excellent hiking in the national park. The castle-focused tours – featuring Aughnanure, Kylemore Abbey, and Ballynahinch – give you three stunning medieval sites in one efficient day. For dramatic coastal views, nothing beats combining the Cliffs of Moher with The Burren’s limestone landscape. Private tours work well for those wanting flexibility with timing and stops. Let’s look at the top tour options from Galway.
Key Points
- The Connemara Tours offer a private, full-day experience showcasing Connemara’s natural beauty, including visits to Kylemore Abbey and Doolough Valley.
- The Hiking and Nature Tours in Connemara National Park provide a guided hike up Diamond Hill with multiple route options and free hiking time.
- The Castle Exploration tour visits three historic castles in a small-group format with transportation, entrance fees, and lunch included.
- The Coastal and Scenic Tours from Galway cover the Cliffs of Moher, The Burren, and other scenic stops along the Wild Atlantic Way.
- The Private and Customized Tours offer a personalized experience to the Burren and Cliffs of Moher, with flexibility for hikes and pub visits.
Connemara, Kylemore Abbey and Doolough Valley Full Day Private Tour From Galway
This full-day private tour whisks travelers away to the captivating region of Connemara, where they’ll enjoy the area’s breathtaking natural beauty.
The personalized itinerary allows visitors to explore Kylemore Abbey, the Doolough Valley, and other highlights, all while enjoying the expertise of a knowledgeable local guide, Ulla.
With convenient hotel pickup, a scenic drive along the Wild Atlantic coast, and a delicious lunch, this tour provides an exceptional experience.
Travelers consistently rate it 5.0 out of 5, praising the tour’s attention to detail and the guide’s enthusiasm and expertise.
For those seeking an unforgettable day in Galway, this private tour is a must-consider option.
Read our full review: Connemara, Kylemore Abbey and Doolough Valley Full Day Private Tour From Galway Review
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From Galway: Connemara National Park Full Day Tour
A guided tour of Connemara National Park whisks travelers through the region’s captivating natural landscapes. Priced from €40 per person, the full-day excursion includes a hike up Diamond Hill and insights into local traditions.
With two hours of free time for hiking, adventurers can choose from three routes of varying difficulty. The knowledgeable driver-guide provides commentary throughout the 7.5-hour journey, which features frequent photo stops and coffee breaks.
Pickup is available from Galway hotels, and the tour earns high marks for its value, transportation, and engaging guide experience. Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund, making this an enticing option for visitors to the area.
Read our full review: From Galway: Connemara National Park Full Day Tour Review
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Castles of Connemara Tour Departing Galway City. Guided. Full Day
Visitors to Galway can often discover the captivating castles of Connemara on a guided full-day tour departing from the city center.
The tour visits three historic castles: Aughnanure, Kylemore Abbey, and Ballynahinch. With a maximum of 15 travelers, the small-group format provides an intimate experience.
Roundtrip transportation, entrance fees, and a lunch stop are included. The tour receives high praise, with 90% of travelers recommending it and a 5.0 rating.
Highlights include scenic drives, engaging guides, and the opportunity to explore castle grounds.
While some wished for more time at certain locations, the tour is considered an excellent way to experience Connemara’s rich heritage.
Read our full review: Castles of Connemara Tour Departing Galway City. Guided. Full Day Review
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From Galway: Cliffs of Moher and The Burren Full Day Tour
Travelers seeking to explore the rugged beauty of Ireland’s west coast can join a full-day tour from Galway to the stunning Cliffs of Moher and the unique landscape of The Burren.
Priced from $52.84 per person, the 8-hour tour includes stops at Dunguaire Castle, Aillwee Cave, and the traditional Irish village of Doolin. Guests will have 1.5 hours to experience the Cliffs of Moher and travel along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Transportation is provided by an air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable driver/guide. While not suitable for those with mobility issues, the tour receives high marks for its organization, flexibility, and the enthusiasm of its guides, showcasing Ireland’s captivating natural wonders.
Read our full review: From Galway: Cliffs of Moher and The Burren Full Day Tour Review
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Full Day Private Tour to Ireland
Frequently, visitors to Galway, Ireland, opt for the Full Day Private Tour to experience the region’s captivating natural wonders.
This highly recommended tour, rated 5.0/5 by travelers, covers the Caherconnell Stone Fort and the iconic Cliffs of Moher.
Travelers are transported in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi and bottled water, accompanied by a Failte Ireland trained guide.
The tour includes lunch and flexible pickup and drop-off arrangements.
Operating daily from 8 AM to 7 PM, the tour is accessible to most, with infant seats available.
Priced at $697.09 per group (up to 6 people), the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, making it a convenient and hassle-free option for a full day in Galway.
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The Burren and Cliffs of Moher Full Day Private Tour From Galway
Explore the rugged beauty of the Burren and the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher on this private full-day tour from Galway. A local driver-guide will provide insights and tips as you customize your itinerary, which may include hikes, pub visits, and other attractions.
Priced from $643.46 per group of up to 3 people, the tour includes all fees, taxes, bottled water, and lunch. Pickup is available from any hotel or B&B within 10 km of Galway city center, with an additional fee for longer distances.
With a 5.0 rating from 11 reviews and 100% recommendation, this private tour offers an unforgettable experience exploring the stunning landscapes of Ireland’s west coast.
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Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher Cruise Full Day Tour From Galway
While visiting Galway, travelers can embark on an unforgettable full-day tour that combines a cruise to the Aran Islands with a visit to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher.
This small-group tour, limited to 20 participants, promises an immersive experience with licensed guides, ferry tickets, and entrance fees to the Dun Aonghasa fort.
The itinerary allows time to explore the Aran Islands, with the chance to spot seals, dolphins, and puffins, and to relax and capture stunning photographs of the Irish sea air.
The tour provides convenient transportation, starting and ending at the Harbour Hotel in Galway, and has received exceptional reviews, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and the intimate group size.
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Private Burren and Cliffs of Moher Full Day Tour
For those seeking a more personalized experience, the Private Burren and Cliffs of Moher Full Day Tour offers an immersive journey through the stunning landscapes of western Ireland.
Boasting a 5.0 rating from 14 reviews, this highly-recommended tour includes guided access to Dunguaire Castle, the Cliffs of Moher, and a sheepdog demonstration.
With pickup and drop-off within 15 km of Galway City, travelers can customize their schedule and meet at a convenient location.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and accommodates service animals and infants.
Priced at $493.32 per group (up to 7), the tour provides excellent value with no cancellation fees up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: Private Burren and Cliffs of Moher Full Day Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Galway offers a variety of full-day tour options that allow visitors to explore the stunning natural landscapes of the region. From the rugged beauty of Connemara and the Cliffs of Moher to the historical sites like Kylemore Abbey, there’s something for all. These tours provide a convenient and comprehensive way to experience the best of what Galway has to offer in a single day.