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Dublin to Cliffs of Moher

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Cliffs of Moher overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in County Clare, Ireland.
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The Cliffs of Moher rise over 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, stretching dramatically along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. A Cliffs of Moher tour from Dublin is the most convenient way to visit this stunning natural wonder in one full day, with comfortable coach transfers, expert guides, and time to explore both the cliffs and charming coastal villages nearby.

Overview

  • Duration: Full-day tours, typically 12 to 13 hours including transfers
  • Cost range: €65–€125 depending on inclusions and group size
  • Best season: Spring to early autumn for clear views and puffin season (May to June)
  • Meeting/drop-off point: Central Dublin pick-up, near Molly Malone Statue
  • Key attractions covered: Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre, O’Brien’s Tower, Burren National Park, Doolin village, Galway City, Aillwee Cave, a boat cruise beneath the cliffs

What to expect on a Dublin to Cliffs of Moher day-trip?

Passengers enjoying views of Salzburg from an AC coach, Austria.
Aerial view of The Burren's coastal landscape with a winding road and ocean.
tourists observing O'Brien's Tower at the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland, under a blue sky.
Tourists enjoying the view at Cliffs of Moher, Ireland.
Colorful buildings and international flags on the main high street in Galway City.
Bus for Irish Day Tours parked near Cliffs of Moher with ocean view.
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Departure & transfers

Start early from Dublin city centre, usually around 6:45am to 7:15am. Board a modern, air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and commentary by a live guide. Expect a scenic 3-hour drive across the Irish countryside, with rolling hills, stone walls, and small village views along the way.

Journey highlights

Your guide shares stories about Ireland’s landscapes, folklore, and west coast history as you travel along the Wild Atlantic Way. Many itineraries include a brief photo stop in the Burren or a coffee break before arriving at the cliffs.

Arrival & entry

Tickets to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre are included, so you can skip the regular entry queue. Upon arrival, guides provide orientation and advice on the best viewing trails, or you can explore independently. Some tours also include a short guided walk or local storytelling session near O’Brien’s Tower.

On-site experience

Spend 2-3 hours at the cliffs walking along the marked paths, visiting the interactive Visitor Centre exhibits, and climbing O’Brien’s Tower for sweeping ocean views. Don’t miss An Branán Mór Sea Stack, a dramatic rock pillar rising from the Atlantic.

Optional add-ons

Choose from tour variants that offer upgrades like a small-group tour of 15 guests, round-trip private minibus transfers from Dublin, free time in Galway City for a short walking tour (self or guided) or lunch in Doolin. These extras add variety for travelers who want a fuller taste of Ireland’s west coast.

Return journey

After exploring, relax on the coach for the scenic drive back to Dublin. Expect to arrive around 8:30pm to 9pm, depending on traffic and route. Some tours make one final comfort stop en route for refreshments before returning to the city.

Things to know before booking your Cliffs of Moher day tour

  • Book early in peak season: Tours sell out fast, so book 2–4 weeks ahead in summer to guarantee seats.
  • Normal entry tickets vs. guided tours: While standalone entry tickets work for self-drivers, day tours include pre-booked entry, transport, and expert commentary, saving you hours of planning.
  • Duration and timings: Expect 12 to 13 hours round-trip, including roughly 3 hours at the cliffs and 2 or 3 stops along the way.
  • Transport options: All tours include round-trip AC coach transfers from Molly Malone statue, often with live commentary onboard and scenic rest stops.
  • Pick-up points: Most tours depart from central Dublin landmarks like O’Connell Street or Temple Bar, with optional hotel pick-up on select small-group tours.
  • Add-on options: Choose tours that include extras like a small-group upgrade, private minibus transfers, free time in Galway City, or lunch in Doolin for a fuller west coast experience.
  • Why guided tours are better: Public transport takes longer and requires multiple changes. Guided tours ensure direct transfers, timed entry, and knowledgeable local hosts who share insights you’d otherwise miss.
  • Cancellation policy: The day tour tickets can be cancelled 24 hours prior to the start of the trip.

Your Cliffs of Moher tours from Dublin explained

Ticket typeDurationInclusionsTransportGroup sizeBest suited forUpgrades available
Cliffs of Moher & Aillwee Cave

12 hr 30 mins

Entry to Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre, 1-hour boat cruise beneath the cliffs, 45-min guided tour of Aillwee Cave, summit access, live commentary, professional guide

Round-trip AC coach with Wi-Fi

Standard coach

Travelers wanting a full west coast experience, nature and cave lovers

-

Cliffs of Moher & Galway Tour

12-13 hrs

Entry to Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre, Burren visit, Doolin stop, free time or guided walking tour in Galway, live commentary, professional guide

Round-trip AC coach with Wi-Fi

Standard coach

Travelers seeking a mix of nature, culture, and city experience

Free time to explore Galway either at your own pace or on a guided tour; lunch stop in Doolin (self-pay); small-group upgrade (max 15); private minibus transfer from Dublin

Moher Cliffs, Doolin & Galway

13 hrs

Entry to Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre, Burren visit, lunch in Doolin (self-pay), free time in Galway, live commentary, professional guide

Round-trip AC coach with Wi-Fi

Standard coach

Travelers who want a relaxed guided tour of Ireland’s west coast highlights

-

Highlights of the Cliffs of Moher

Tourists viewing the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, Ireland.
O'Brien's Tower overlooking the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland, with visitors nearby.
tourist interacting at an information desk
Cliffs of Moher sea stack with a seagull flying above the ocean in Ireland.
People standing on opposite sides of a gap in the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland, overlooking the ocean.
Fulmar flying over the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland.
Rugged stone cliffs and turquoise waters of Aran Island, Ireland.
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Cliffside walks & trails

Follow the coastal paths for breathtaking Atlantic views. The cliffs stretch over 8 km, with seabirds circling below and waves crashing on the rocks in rhythmic motion.

O’Brien’s Tower

Built in 1835 as a viewing point, this stone tower marks the cliffs’ highest point. From the top, see the Aran Islands and Galway Bay shimmering in the distance.

Visitor Centre

A turf-roofed building tucked into the hillside with interactive geology exhibits, wildlife displays, and a cozy café, ideal for warming up before or after your walk.

An Branán Mór Sea Stack

This 67-metre-tall rock column rises dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean, offering a striking subject for photography and providing a summer home for nesting seabirds along its steep, rugged sides.

Atlantic Ocean Vistas

Stand at the cliff edges and take in the vast Atlantic Ocean, where the endless blue horizon meets emerald-green cliffs, with views that constantly change depending on sunlight, mist, and tide.

Puffin Watching (Seasonal)

Between May and June, watch puffins nesting on rocky ledges below the main viewing platform. Bring binoculars to enjoy close-up sightings of these colorful seabirds in their natural habitat.

Aran Islands

A short ferry ride from the Cliffs brings you to rugged Aran Islands, where traditional stone walls, sandy beaches, and walking trails showcase authentic Irish culture and scenic coastal landscapes.

Explore more along the way

Enhance your day trip with stops at charming villages, unique landscapes, and historic caves, all included in select guided tours from Dublin.

Doolin Village landscape with colorful houses and green fields in County Clare, Ireland.

Doolin

A coastal village with brightly painted cottages, narrow cobblestone streets, and lively pubs where traditional Irish music spills into the evening air.

  • Sights covered: Cobblestone streets, colorful cottages, local shops, live music spots
  • Time required: 30 to 60 minutes
  • Included in select guided tours from Dublin
Limestone landscape of the Burren, Dublin tour.

Burren

A rocky plateau with limestone pavements, scattered wildflowers, unusual plants, and wide-open rolling hills to explore.

  • Sights covered: Limestone pavements, wildflowers, rolling hills
  • Time required: 45 to 60 minutes
  • Included in select guided tours from Dublin
Aerial view of Galway city, Ireland, featuring coastal buildings and boats along the waterfront.

Galway City

Bustling west coast city with narrow streets, historic sites, street markets, cafés, and lively local culture.

  • Sights covered: Eyre Square, Shop Street, Spanish Arch, local markets
  • Time required: 1 to 2 hours
  • Included in select guided tours from Dublin
Aillwee Cave tunnel with illuminated rock walls in County Clare, Ireland.

Aillwee Cave

Underground limestone cave with chambers, waterfalls, stalactites, stalagmites, and ancient bear remains to explore.

  • Sights covered: Stalactites, stalagmites, ancient remains
  • Time required: 45 minutes
  • Included in select guided tours from Dublin

What your day looks like from Dublin to Cliffs of Moher

Molly Malone statue with cart and baskets in Dublin, Ireland.
  • Depart Dublin early from the Molly Malone Statue in an air-conditioned coach, passing through scenic countryside towns.
  • Depending on your tour, visit Aillwee Cave for a 45-minute guided exploration of limestone chambers, waterfalls, and ancient remains.
  • Tours heading straight to the cliffs allow you to reach the Cliffs of Moher before midday, ready to explore paths and viewpoints.
Cliffs of Moher overlooking the Atlantic Ocean with wildflowers in the foreground.
  • Spend 60 to 90 minutes at the Cliffs of Moher, taking in panoramic views, the Visitor Centre, and walking trails.
  • Many tours include a stop in Doolin for a short stroll or lunch at local cafés, offering traditional Irish food.
  • Take time to capture photos or enjoy the scenery before heading to the next destination.
Colorful houses along the waterfront in Galway City, Ireland.
  • On the Aillwee Cave tour, enjoy a 1-hour boat cruise beneath the cliffs for unique sea-level perspectives.
  • On Galway-inclusive tours, explore the Burren for 45-60 minutes, observing limestone landscapes and unusual flora.
  • Continue to Galway City for 75 minutes of free or guided walking time, visiting Eyre Square, Shop Street, Spanish Arch, and markets.
Traveler enjoying scenic view from AC coach, Hallstatt.
  • Begin the return journey to Dublin with a short rest stop along the way.
  • Expect arrival around 8:30 to 9:30pm depending on traffic and stops.
  • Overall, this day trip lasts 12 to 13 hours, offering a full day of scenic drives, sightseeing, and stops at top attractions. Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and snacks for a memorable west coast adventure.
Relax, we’ve got your Cliffs day covered

Let your guide manage logistics while you enjoy panoramic views, expert commentary, and a perfectly timed itinerary.

Book now!

Plan your visit to Cliffs of Moher from Dublin

Cliffs of Moher, Ireland, with ocean view and green landscape.
  • Duration: 12 to 13 hours long full-day trip
  • Typical start times: Most day trips depart Dublin between 6:45am and 7:15am, letting you maximize your time while sightseeing.
  • Best slot to avoid crowds: Early morning departures provide quieter paths and better visibility for photos.
  • Seasonality caveat: Puffin season runs from May to June, when these seabirds return to nest on cliff ledges. Tours run daily, but weather may affect visibility and timing.
  • Address: Lislorkan North, Liscannor, Co. Clare, Ireland. Find it on maps.
  • By Coach/Bus: Round-trip transfers from Dublin included in all guided tours. Air-conditioned coaches with Wi-Fi provide a comfortable journey.
  • By Car: Approximately three hours each way; self-drive is not ideal for a day trip. Parking is available at the Visitor Centre for a fee.
  • Boating option: One of the tours include a one-hour boat cruise along the cliffs from Doolin pier for a different perspective.
Tourists viewing the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, Ireland.
  • Visitor centre: Clean restrooms, a café serving light meals and drinks, and a gift shop with local crafts and souvenirs.
  • Viewing platforms: Main platforms are accessible; outer paths are uneven and partially steep, limiting wheelchair access.
  • Guide dogs: Registered assistance dogs are allowed for visitors with visual impairments.
  • Onboard amenities: Some tours provide expert commentary and free time to have a quick meal during transfers.
Service dog on a leash standing on a paved path in a park.
  • Safety: Stay behind marked barriers, especially where cliffs are unfenced. Follow all paths to protect yourself and the environment.
  • Pets: Not allowed except for certified guide dogs.
  • Luggage: Large bags and suitcases are generally prohibited on tours.
  • Conduct: Alcohol, drugs, or intoxication are strictly prohibited during the experience.
Visitors sitting near the edge of the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland, overlooking the ocean.
  • Essentials: Wear comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and water.
  • Tickets: Keep your mobile ticket handy.
  • Extras: Camera or binoculars recommended for puffin or cliff views. Snacks or lunch can be packed, though many tours stop at Doolin or local cafés.

Visitor tips

  • Binoculars ready: Bring binoculars for spotting puffins, seabirds, and distant Aran Islands, especially during nesting season in May and June.
  • Layered clothing: Weather changes quickly; pack windproof layers, a rain jacket, and a warm layer for sun, mist, or gusts.
  • Timing the boat: If your tour includes a boat ride, schedule it midday when light and tides offer the clearest cliff views.
  • Camera backup: Bring extra batteries or a power bank; long days of photography and video can drain devices quickly.
  • Quiet corners: Explore the far ends of the cliff paths to find quieter spots away from peak tourist clusters.
  • Check weather: Review forecasts the night before; mist or rain can obscure cliff views, boat trips, and photography opportunities.
  • Accessible Paths: Use the main Visitor Centre paths for safer, easier walking; avoid uneven cliff edges if mobility is limited.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dublin to Cliffs of Moher

Can I combine Cliffs of Moher with other attractions in one day?

Yes, some tours include stops at Doolin, Burren, Galway, or Aillwee Cave, giving a fuller west coast experience in one day.

Are boat rides always included in Cliffs tours?

Not all tours include a boat ride. Check your itinerary carefully, as it may require an add-on for the full experience.

How crowded are the Cliffs during peak season?

July and August are busiest. Tours may avoid large crowds by timing early departures or providing alternative viewing areas for photography.

Can children handle the full-day tour?

Recommended for ages 8 and above. Children need supervision, snacks, and occasional breaks due to long travel and walking distances.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?

Absolutely. Small-group and full-day tours welcome solo guests, offering a safe, structured itinerary with easy transport and social opportunities.

Can I take my own car instead of the tour bus?

Self-driving is possible but not ideal for a single-day trip due to 3-hour each-way drives and parking limitations near the cliffs.

How much walking is required on the cliffs?

Walking along cliff paths can range 3–5 km depending on stops. Main platforms are accessible, but outer trails are uneven and steep.

Are restrooms available during the tour?

Yes, toilets are available at the Visitor Centre and some village stops like Doolin, but plan ahead as facilities are limited along paths.

Can I bring pets on the tour?

No, pets are not allowed except certified guide dogs. Service animals are welcome with proper documentation for the journey.