Private car transfer from Dingle to Galway

Door-to-door
in 3 h 20 min
From €100
per seat
Comfortable
car
One way
One way
Cancel for free 24 hours before departure
Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024
Excellent

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Dingle.

  • Door-to-door service
  • Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 3 h 20 min.

  • Optional sight-seeing
  • Clean, comfortable car
  • Professional driver
  • Bottled water
  • Child seats
  • Prepared for handicapped
  • Smoke-free
  • Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Galway.

  • Door-to-door service
  • Help with your luggage
In total
256 km3 h 20 min

Car Trip From Dingle to Galway

From mystical folklore tales to craggy landscapes and ancient ruins to traditional Irish villages, the journey from Dingle to Galway is like stepping foot into a time machine. The thrill of passing through villages concealed in a time capsule and the assurance of being in one of the most welcoming countries worldwide allow you to experience an adventurous yet carefree car trip.

Every second along the 3.5-hour journey looks like a picture book of Ireland's best bits. The Cliffs of Moher in the south, the hilly woods in the heartlands, and the busy streets of Galway in the north await your venture up the Wild Atlantic Ways Coastline.

If you're ready to explore one of Europe's best road trips, read our ultimate guide for getting from Dingle to Galway below!

About Galway

Galway is the Republic of Ireland's fourth-largest city, home to 84,000 locals. It sits on the River Corrib in the extreme west of the nation. Despite its compact size, you'll notice it's oozing with history and unique ways of life after driving from Dingle to Galway.

Beginning of Galway

The area's been inhabited since the 1120s, but the town of Galway wasn't officially developed until over a century later. Following the English invasion of Ireland in the 13th century, the Normans built a fort, and the city began to evolve.

The Ups and Downs of Galway

Galway's position along the coast allowed it to grow financially. However, it suffered numerous setbacks, including two fires, plagues, battles during the Williamite War, and switching rulers of the land.

After years of uncertainty, the town could grow sustainably in the 1900s. The population grew to over 20,000, the Roman Catholic Cathedral was erected, and President Kennedy visited in 1963.

Modern Galway

In the 21st century, Galway is a beloved tourist destination. It's the third most visited space on the island, and in 2020, it was named the European Capital of Culture. Traditional Irish pubs, cobbled streets, and friendly locals all call Galway home today!

From Dingle to Galway: Travel Tips

The drive from Dingle to Galway isn't like most journeys. Although it's painfully beautiful, there are a few hurdles to overcome. So, our local drivers want to share travel tips to ensure a stress-free trip!

Prepare for Rain

People know the Republic of Ireland as a windy and rainy destination. And the west of Ireland is the wettest region on the island. Even if it's sunshine and rainbows in the morning, pack an umbrella and waterproof jacket, as the weather can change instantly.

Choose the Right Mode of Transportation

The west of Ireland isn't blessed with a ferry port, a bullet train, a world-renowned airport, or a sprawling motorway. So, prioritizing your needs and preferences is vital. Some essential factors to consider are:

  • Luggage
  • Cost
  • Time in Galway
  • Comfort/convenience
  • Family or group travel
  • Access to stops en route

Go Sightseeing

The west of Ireland is the most remote part of the island. Public transport is scarce, which makes visiting attractions between the two cities difficult. Take a private car with Daytrip and you can easily explore isolated sights, such as Crag Cave and Athery Castle, during the ride.

How to Get From Dingle to Galway

Crossing 160 miles of rugged terrain on narrow country lanes isn't a walk in the park. To help create a smooth trip, we explain how to get from Dingle to Galway below.

Bus From Dingle to Galway

The majority of visitors traveling from Dingle to Galway opt for the bus. It's a cheap transportation method, but unfortunately, no direct routes are available.

To use the bus, you can buy a ticket online or onboard Ireland's national bus provider, Bus Eireann. There's no station. Instead, it leaves from a bus stop and will take you to Tralee. From here, you must go via Limerick before changing one last time for a direct one to Galway. The trip will cost around €30 and take between 6.5 and 7.5 hours.

Tours From Dingle to Galway

If you're short on time, tours from Dingle to Galway can be convenient. Most excursions last between 8 and 9 hours and stop at several points of interest, including the Conor Pass, the Cliffs of Moher, and Listowel. It's also pre-arranged. So you don't have to do any planning. Since Dingle and Galway are tourist hotspots, plenty of companies operate on this route. The price per person varies but is often between €90 and €150.

Daytrip From Dingle to Galway

Imagine if a vehicle of your choice could collect you from your hotel in a Dingle. After handling your bags and whisking you away, you recline your seat and adjust the thermostat to a cozy setting as the rain splashes against your window. Just as the sun breaks through the clouds, you step out to explore postcard-worthy natural wonders and breathe in the fresh coastal air.

You can turn this dream into a reality by booking a door-to-door service from Dingle to Galway. For 4 hours and 20 minutes, you have full access to a private car and a local expert to learn more about the region you're exploring, with plenty of opportunities to stop for sightseeing!

What to Do When You Get to Galway

Despite covering just 20 square miles of land, there are many things to do when you get to Galway. Put the activities below on your to-do list so you don't miss the regional highlights.

Get Lost in the City Center

Every trip to Galway must begin by getting lost in the charming streets of Galway's city center. Turn off Google Maps and simply roam through unknown territories to uncover hidden stores and eateries. Look for traditional seafood dishes and some of the world's best oysters.

In the colorful Latin Quarter, traditional pubs, street performers, and local artisans selling handmade crafts all line the walkways. Also, look out for the Spanish Arch, Eyre Square, and Galway Cathedral!

Listen to Traditional Irish Music

If you visit Galway on the weekend, you can listen to the streets come alive. Street performers mostly play traditional Irish folk music. Or, if you're lucky, you can witness a short Irish dance session!

But if you want to take shelter from the rain and blend in with the locals, head to a pub and watch a live band. Order a pint of your favorite beer or stout at one of the endless bars in Galway. Some favorites for Celtic music and clinking glasses are Tigh Neachtain, Taaffes Bar, and Crane Bar.

Visit Salthill

Salthill is a lovely seaside town just a mile south of downtown Galway. When the sun is out, you can take a 30-minute stroll here while admiring the Atlantic coast and a ferry crossing out at sea.

Although it’s just a stone's throw from the high streets, you're transported to sandy beaches and a stretching promenade. The Ferris wheel, old-fashioned arcades, and ice cream stands give off a carnival atmosphere all year round!

When Is the Best Time to Visit Galway?

The City of Tribes is a beautiful area bursting with charm and filled with energy. Whenever you visit, you will have the experience of a lifetime. However, one season sets itself apart from the rest. Spring is the best time to travel from Dingle to Galway.

Since the area doesn't possess the space needed to welcome thousands of daily visitors, the paths can often feel crowded in the summer. From March to May, the streets are free-flowing, like the pints of Guinness consumed in bars.

You can enjoy the average daily high temperature of 61Β° Fahrenheit if you travel later in the season. If you come early, attend the famous St. Patrick's festival on March 17th.

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Dingle to Galway

What is the distance between Dingle and Galway?
The road distance from Dingle to Galway is 160 miles. The journey should take between 3 and 3.5 hours, driving at a safe speed. The lack of main roads is the key reason this journey is longer than expected.
Why is Dingle famous?
Dingle is famous for its lively pub culture. Local and foreign tourists come here to indulge in one of the highest concentrations of pubs per person in Ireland. However, most visitors leave with a vivid image of its charming town and stunning nature encircling the area.
How long should I spend in Galway?
Although Galway is loaded with fun and exciting attractions, its compact size allows you to explore its streets and tick off the main sights in just two days. If you plan to take a day trip to another nearby city, you should add an extra night to your travel itinerary.
What's the most convenient way to travel from Dingle to Galway?
A private car with Daytrip is the most convenient way to travel from Dingle to Galway. After you select your desired vehicle, departure time, and sightseeing stops, your local driver will manage your luggage and weave through the narrow country lanes for you.
Is there anywhere to stop on the road from Dingle to Galway?
Yes, the drive from Dingle to Galway is part of Ireland's most iconic tourist trail, the Wild Atlantic Way. On your journey, you can stop at Limerick, the state's third-most populous city, or the Cliffs of Moher, the most visited attraction in the Republic of Ireland.
Are there trains from Dingle to Galway?
No, there are no trains from Dingle to Galway. The closest train station is in Tralee, over 30 miles east. From here, you can catch a connecting train via Limerick Train Station before arriving at Galway Train Station.

Visit these sights on the way

Crag Cave

Crag Cave

Many of striking formations in this show cave are named after locations or characters from the world of J.R.R. Tolkien.Β The Middle of the EarthΒ 

Trinitarian Abbey of Adare

Trinitarian Abbey of Adare

This Neo-Gothic church incorporates the medieval elements of Ireland’s only Trinitarian stronghold.Β One for ThreeΒ 

Limerick

Limerick

With historic charms it just can’t hide; best known as a poem most raunchy; but with castles, churches, and coffee; this city must be tried. Β There was a City ShannonsideΒ 

Bunratty Castle

Bunratty Castle

From medieval feasts to a pre-industrial village, this historic castle and grounds proudly preserves several centuries of Irish history.Β A Feast for the AgesΒ 

Ennis

Ennis

This friendly town flourished for centuries thanks to restrictive religious laws that encumbered other cities.Β The Ennis MightierΒ 

Athenry Castle

Athenry Castle

This austere medieval keep offers an informative glimpse at life in the Middle Ages.Β Stark InsightsΒ 

Why people love Daytrip

Tripadvisor logo
5,100+ reviews
  • 484 travelers took this route with us
Oct 2, 2025

Great transfer option.

β€œI used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Robyn C
Sep 20, 2025

It was a fantastic trip.

β€œWe were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Daydream20046758137
Sep 15, 2025

Best transport company anywhere

β€œWe absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Mary L
Aug 20, 2025

Excellent experience in traveling

β€œWe traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N
Apr 22, 2025

Reasonably Priced and Safe Transportation

β€œGonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler COCO
Apr 2, 2025

Daytrip never disappoints

β€œWe were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Julie M
Feb 28, 2025

Great driver in Egypt

β€œUsed the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Maps315861
Feb 20, 2025

Comfortable and Safe Rides in Mexico

β€œUsed Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Golourdesduarte
Feb 10, 2025

Great way to travel and see some sights on the way

β€œWe did not know what to expect with this trip and booked from Australia. We were initially looking for an easy way to travel from Granada to Malaga. We decided not to waste the opportunity to see something additional on our way. Miguel certainly exceeded our expectations. His English was excellent (unfortunately we speak very little Spanish), and he was very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the regions as we passed through and also discussing some of the local ways. Miguel took us to Antequera as planned and ensured we were able to easily get our tickets to the attractions without any sense of rushing us. We were picked up and dropped off punctually and really enjoyed our trip. Hopefully we will return to Spain and we can use this service again sometime.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Michelle R
Jan 25, 2025

Excellent service

β€œWe used the service twice while in Thailand. Extremely prompt and efficient customer service. Best rate being offered in Chiang Mai for the travels. Polite, punctual, professional and English speaking drivers. Clean, comfortable vehicles. Being a regular visitor to Thailand, this was hands down the best service. Most pleased with the company. I hope it sustains the excellence of service that was rendered to us.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Omar

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

  • Big luggage
  • 29x21x11 inches
  • 74x53x28 cm
  • Small luggage
  • 22x14x9 inches
  • 56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.
Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.
Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select β€œReturn” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.
For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.
Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select β€œOne Way” or β€œReturn” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!
Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.
Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.

Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.

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