Day Trips from Galway 

Must-See Day Trip Options from Galway: Our Picks 

From rugged national parks to traditional seaside villages, Galway offers access to a remarkable variety of landscapes, all within a day’s reach - perfect outings for families and groups of friends alike. Many of these trips also pair well with sustainable family activities in Galway, making the region appealing for responsible and enriching travel.

Connemara National Park

Connemara National Park is one of the most stunning and accessible day trips from Galway. Located around an hour’s drive from the city, the park spans almost 2,000 hectares of mountains, bogs, grasslands and woodland. Well-marked walking trails cater to all abilities, from gentle strolls to the popular Diamond Hill hike, which offers panoramic views across Connemara and the Atlantic on clear days.

The surrounding region is equally scenic, with quiet beaches, stone walls and open countryside that capture the essence of the west of Ireland. A must-see.

Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey is often combined with a visit to Connemara National Park and makes for a great day out. Set beside a tranquil lake and backed by mountains, the neo-Gothic Abbey is home to a visitor centre, restored Victorian walled gardens and woodland walks.

Easily reached by car or coach tour, Kylemore Abbey suits families, groups, and anyone interested in Irish history, architecture and natural beauty. It’s also a popular choice for couples seeking slower-paced, scenic experiences similar to other things to do in Galway for couples.

Cliffs of Moher & The Burren

A Cliffs of Moher day trip from Galway is one of Ireland’s most iconic experiences and for good reason. Rising dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean, the cliffs stretch for several kilometres along the Clare coastline and offer unforgettable views in all weather conditions.

Many visitors combine the cliffs with a journey through the Burren, a unique limestone landscape scattered with ancient tombs, rare flora and winding rural roads. Doolin, a gorgeous small town near the cliffs, is also well worth a stop for a spot of lunch on the day.

Aran Islands

One of the easiest day trips from Galway is to grab a bus in Eyre Square or drive out to the port at Rossaveel and catch the Aran Island Ferry (pre-booking advised) to Inis Mór, the largest of Galway Bay’s Aran Islands.

The Aran Islands are known for their stone walls, traditional Irish-speaking communities and dramatic coastal forts, including Dún Aonghasa. Bicycles can be hired on arrival, allowing you to explore the island at your own pace before returning to the mainland the same evening.

Salthill Promenade

Not every memorable day trip requires leaving the city entirely. Salthill Promenade is just a short walk or bus ride from Galway City Centre and offers sweeping views across Galway Bay. It’s ideal for a seaside stroll, a relaxed coffee stop or access to nearby beaches. On clear days, views stretch towards the Burren and the Aran Islands.

Spiddal

Spiddal is a traditional coastal village located around 30 minutes from Galway. Known for its craft studios, fishing harbour and Irish-language heritage, it offers a chance to see a more authentic west-of-Ireland village with a strong sense of local culture. The coastal drive itself is worth it in itself, with beautiful sea views and small beaches to stop at along the way.  

Clifden

Often referred to as the capital of Connemara, Clifden is a lively town surrounded by mountains, beaches and scenic routes. It’s an excellent base for exploring the Sky Road, a scenic 16km looped driving route which provides panoramic views across the bay. Clifden combines its dramatic scenery with a welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a full-day excursion from Galway.

Why Galway is the Perfect Base for West Coast Day Trips

Galway’s appeal lies not only in the city itself but in how easily it connects visitors to the wider west coast. Within a couple of hours, you can reach Connemara, County Clare and many of the highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way, all while returning to the same hotel each evening.

Galway’s transport links, compact size and range of nearby attractions make it one of the most practical bases in Ireland for a multi-day break built around day trips. You will really feel like you are taking in some of the best Ireland has to offer.

Where to Stay in Galway for Day Trips

When planning day trips from Galway, choosing the right base can make all the difference. Staying just outside the city allows for easy access to major routes, early starts for longer excursions and relaxed evenings without navigating city-centre traffic.

Located in Ballybrit, our four-star Clayton Hotel Galway is just off the N6 with convenient access to key routes across the west of Ireland. This makes it an ideal base for day trips to Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher, Spiddal and other highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way. The hotel also benefits from quick and straightforward access to Galway City Centre, with the city reachable by car or public transport in a short time.  

With spacious rooms, on-site dining and ample parking, Clayton Hotel Galway is particularly well-suited to families and groups planning multiple day trips. Its position between city and countryside makes organising coastal, cultural and scenic outings simple and stress-free.