2-Day Cliffs of Moher, Connemara and Galway Bay Rail Tour from Dublin

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Cliffs of Moher, Connemara and Galway Bay Rail Tour from Dublin

This 2-day rail and coach tour from Dublin offers a comprehensive journey through the scenic highlights of Ireland’s west coast for $577.99 per person. It covers iconic sights such as the Cliffs of Moher, the charming Galway, and the rugged landscapes of Connemara, with a comfortable overnight stay in Galway including full Irish breakfast. The tour is operated by Railtours Ireland First Class and features hosted train travel, a friendly and knowledgeable guide, and reserved seats on all rail journeys.

While the tour has earned a solid 4.0-star rating from 30 reviews, it’s most suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of guided sightseeing, relaxing rail travel, and a well-curated itinerary. Some reviews highlight excellent guides and breathtaking scenery, but others point out that the long travel times and limited free time could be drawbacks for those seeking more flexibility or comfort on the bus.

Key Points

• Two-day guided tour exploring Ireland’s west coast from Dublin, including rail and coach travel
• Overnight stay in Galway with full Irish breakfast included
• Visits to Bunratty Castle, Cliffs of Moher, and scenic Connemara
• Stops at Killary Harbour, Kylemore Abbey, and Spiddal craft village
• Tour led by qualified driver-guides with informative commentary
• Suitable for travelers who value well-organized trips with group discounts and live guide insights

How the Tour Combines Rail and Coach Travel

This tour starts early at Dublin Heuston Station at 7:00 am, with hosted train journeys to Limerick and back from Galway. The combination of rail and coach travel offers a relaxed way to see the countryside, with reserved seats on trains ensuring comfort. The guided coach trips around key attractions bring insight and local expertise directly to the scenic stops.

Many reviews appreciate the seamless organization of the rail segments, noting that the train travel adds a touch of luxury and allows for easier movement compared to bus-only tours. The small group size, capped at 10 travelers, ensures a more personalized experience and the chance to ask questions during stops.

Exploring Bunratty Castle and Folk Park

Your first major stop is Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, where admission is included. Completed in 1425, the castle has been carefully restored and stands as a vivid reminder of Ireland’s medieval past. The folk park showcases reconstructed buildings from across the region, including an 18th-century church relocated brick by brick. This stop lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering enough time for exploration and photos.

The castle’s restoration and the dismantled-and-rebuilt buildings give visitors a tangible sense of Irish history. The Folk Park’s authentic architecture offers a glimpse into rural life centuries ago, making it a highlight for history buffs and families alike.

Visiting the Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are among Ireland’s most photographed sights, and on this tour, you get about 1 hour and 10 minutes to take in their majesty. Recognized as one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs, they provide spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean. The guides encourage visitors to enjoy ample time for photos and to appreciate the breathtaking landscape.

The proximity of the Cliffs to the Burren, a rocky national park known for its unique flora, allows for a scenic drive along the coast. Weather conditions can vary, but on clear days, the panoramic vistas are truly stunning. The tour’s timing is designed to give a solid visit while maintaining the overall schedule.

The Burren and Scenic Photography Stops

En route to Galway, the coach travels along the coast road, with short stops in the Burren for photographs. The Burren’s landscape is characterized by karst limestone and diverse plant life, making it a favorite for nature lovers and photographers alike. The rocky terrain and wild flora provide excellent scenery, especially if you’re keen on capturing Ireland’s rugged side.

While the stop is brief, it’s enough to appreciate the geological uniqueness of this region. The tour emphasizes the landscape’s unusual beauty, which has few parallels elsewhere in Europe.

Galway: The Night in Ireland’s Vibrant City

After exploring Connemara and the coast, the tour sets you up with an overnight stay in Galway city. The three-star hotel is centrally located, giving you the opportunity to enjoy Galway’s lively atmosphere in the evening. Many reviews point out that the hotel amenities could be more detailed, and some mention a desire for air conditioning to improve comfort.

The evening is free for guests to explore Galway’s pub scene, shops, or dine at local restaurants. The city’s bustling nightlife and friendly vibe leave a lasting impression, and staying overnight allows for a more relaxed experience compared to a single-day trip.

Day Two: Connemara’s Untamed Beauty and Kylemore Abbey

The second day features a coach trip to Connemara, a region famed for its mountains, lakes, and coastal scenery. The tour passes through Maam Cross and Leenane, at the head of Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord, where a quick 15-minute coffee stop is offered. This area captures the raw, natural beauty of Connemara’s landscape.

Next, travelers visit Spiddal craft village and Inverin, where the Atlantic views and local artisan shops provide authentic Irish cultural snapshots. The highlight of the second day is a visit to Kylemore Abbey and its Victorian Walled Garden, where a lunch break is included. Entrance to the Abbey and Gardens is not included, but optional visits are available.

The scenic drive through Connemara offers views of mountains, lakes, and historic villages, making it a favorite part of the tour for those who enjoy untamed nature.

The Scenic Stop at Killary Harbour

A key highlight is the stop at Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord, at Leenane. The 15-minute stop provides a chance to admire the dramatic landscape and take photos. The free admission makes it an easy addition to the itinerary, with the spectacular wilderness setting standing out as a highlight of the second day.

Visiting Spiddal and the Craft Village

Traveling through the Gaeltacht villages of Inverin and Spiddal, the tour offers a chance to enjoy the blue waters of the Atlantic and explore the local craft scene. The craft village and Standun sweater shop are popular stops for purchasing authentic Irish wool products. These stops last about 30 minutes and are ideal for souvenir shopping or simply soaking in the coastal scenery.

Kylemore Abbey and Its Gardens

The Kylemore Abbey provides a tranquil setting for the lunch stop. The Abbey’s architecture and Victorian Walled Garden are well worth the visit, especially for those interested in Irish heritage and architecture. The optional admission fee allows visitors to explore the Abbey interior and gardens more deeply, although this is not included in the tour price.

Practical Details and Group Size

This tour operates with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience. The meeting point for the tour is Dublin Heuston Station, and hotel pickup and drop-off are not included—guests are asked to specify their Dublin hotel during booking for potential arrangements. The tour begins at 7:00 am and ends back at the same meeting point.

The tour features friendly, professional guides and provides an information pack. It’s suitable for most travelers, with most activities being accessible, though children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

What the Tour Offers in Context

This 2-day journey hits many of Ireland’s iconic sights, combining comfort with practicality. The inclusion of overnight accommodations and full Irish breakfast adds value, and the small group size enhances the experience. However, some reviews note that travel times are long, and the schedule can feel rushed, especially at the Cliffs of Moher with only an hour to enjoy the views.

The guided commentary and professional drivers provide both informative and safe transport, but the limited free time at some stops might not satisfy travelers eager for more exploration.

Final Thoughts on the 2-Day Cliffs of Moher, Connemara and Galway Bay Rail Tour

This carefully curated tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Ireland’s stunning west coast for those who value organized travel and guided insights. The scenery at Cliffs of Moher, Kylemore Abbey, and Killary Harbour proves particularly memorable, with many reviews praising the expert guides and beautiful vistas.

The overnight stay in Galway affords guests extra leisure time to enjoy the city’s buzzing atmosphere and local culture. While some travelers mention long travel times and desire for more flexible schedules, the overall value, scenic highlights, and professional guides make this tour worth considering for a comprehensive Irish experience.

This tour particularly suits those who prefer a small-group setting, appreciate guided commentary, and want a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation over two days. It’s a practical way to see Ireland’s must-visit sights without the hassle of planning every detail independently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. Guests should specify their Dublin hotel during booking for potential assistance with logistics.

What’s the price of the tour?
The cost is $577.99 per person, which covers all rail and coach travel, overnight hotel in Galway, and full Irish breakfast.

How long is the train travel on each day?
The tour features hosted train journeys with reserved seats, but exact times are not specified. The overall schedule includes seamless rail segments between key stops.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children under 16 cannot book independently and must be accompanied by an adult.

What are the main highlights of Day 1?
Day 1 includes a visit to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park and the Cliffs of Moher, with scenic drives through The Burren.

What can I expect on Day 2?
Day 2 covers Killary Harbour, Spiddal craft village, and Kylemore Abbey and Gardens with plenty of scenic views of Connemara’s landscape.

How many travelers are on each tour?
The tour operates with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the scenery worth the long travel times?
Many reviews confirm that the views at Cliffs of Moher, Kylemore Abbey, and Killary Harbour are breathtaking and worth the journey.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable clothing, especially for outdoor stops and potentially changing weather, is recommended. The tour emphasizes scenic photography, so a camera is suggested.

Can I customize the stops or schedule?
Operational reasons may lead to itinerary changes, and specific stops might vary, such as Ailwee Caves instead of Bunratty on certain days.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for those who appreciate guided sightseeing, scenic landscapes, and value for money. The small group size and expert guides stand out as key positives, though travelers looking for more free time may find it limiting.

This 2-day rail tour from Dublin provides a well-rounded sampler of Ireland’s west coast, combining comfort, scenic beauty, and expert commentary for an experience that many will find both enjoyable and memorable.