Where to Stop When Driving from Dublin to Galway

Dublin and Galway are two of the most popular cities in Ireland for tourists to visit – and as you can guess, the drive between these two cities is a well-trodden route for visitors to Ireland. The drive itself is pretty unremarkable (it’s mostly motorway), but there are some lovely stops along the way – like Clonmacnoise (a ruined monastery founded in 544 AD) and Kinvara (a colorful seaside village).

The drive is 207 km long and will take just under 2.5 hours, without traffic and without stops. It follows the M4 and M6 for a lot of the way, and so it’s considered a fairly easy drive – although the traffic can be bad leaving Dublin and coming into Galway. So, be mindful of this and avoid peak traffic times.

We recommend allowing one full day to complete this drive or, even better, extend it and stay overnight in Athlone to break up the journey.

Dublin

Before you set off on the drive to Galway City, be sure to spend a few days (or at least a day) in Dublin. As Ireland’s capital and largest city, Dublin boasts a variety of attractions that cater to all interests.

If you’re into history, you’ve got to check out the medieval Dublin Castle or swing by the iconic Trinity College to see the world-famous Book of Kells. And if you’re an avid reader like me, you should definitely hit up the Dublin Writers Museum. And, of course, you can’t miss the Guinness Storehouse to sip on Ireland’s most famous beer! For a relaxing stroll, take a scenic walk along the River Liffey.

Overall, Dublin is a fun time – it’s got a super lively vibe, especially in the famed Temple Bar. Where you can dance (or just tap your foot) to traditional Irish tunes, enjoy some local beers, and eat delicious food.

Where to stay in Dublin:

• If your budget allows, a standout hotel in Dublin is The Westbury, a luxurious five-star hotel, just a stone’s throw from Grafton Street. It’s renowned for its opulent decor and exceptional service.

• The Dean Dublin is another cool hotel option in Dublin, it combines modern design with a lively atmosphere and boasts a trendy rooftop bar and stylish rooms.

• You could also check out one of the awesome Airbnbs in Dublin here.

Tullamore Dew Distillery

Founded in 1829, this whiskey distillery is renowned for its triple-distilled, triple-blend Irish whiskey. Originally established by Michael Molloy, it became famous under the management of Daniel E. Williams, whose initials, D.E.W., inspired the brand name. The distillery closed in the mid-20th century but was revived in 2014 with a state-of-the-art facility that honors traditional methods while embracing innovation.

Known for its smooth, approachable character, Tullamore Dew is celebrated worldwide, offering expressions like the Original, 12 Year Old Special Reserve, and the unique Phoenix.

Athlone

Known as the town in the heart of Ireland, Athlone is a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Start your time here at Athlone Castle, an imposing structure with interactive exhibits that narrate the town’s rich past.

Just a stone’s throw away, the Luan Gallery showcases contemporary art in its light-filled space overlooking the River Shannon. And finally, Athlone is home to Sean’s Bar, which claims to be the oldest pub in Ireland.

A tour suggestion for here is this private boat tour that takes you up to Clonmacnoise, but it typically only operates from April through to August.

Where to stay in Athlone:

Hodson Bay Hotel nestled on the picturesque shores of Lough Ree, offers a variety of amenities and activities – like a large indoor swimming pool. The location itself (just outside of Athlone) is ideal for parking and easy access to the road to Galway.

Clonmacnoise

Founded in 544 AD by St. Ciarán, these monastic ruins sit serenely by the River Shannon, surrounded by natural beauty. You can explore its well-preserved ruins, including round towers, high crosses, and ancient churches, each whispering tales of a bygone era. The site’s atmospheric graveyard, with intricately carved Celtic crosses, is one of my favorite parts here.

Kinvara

Next is the picturesque seaside village of Kinvara, located in County Galway, Ireland; it’s renowned for its vibrant community and traditional charm. Nestled on the edge of Galway Bay, it boasts stunning views and a rich history. Kinvara is known for its lively cultural scene, with music sessions and festivals like Cruinniú na mBád, celebrating traditional Irish boats.

The village is home to the iconic Dunguaire Castle, a 16th-century tower house that attracts tourists and hosts medieval banquets (read more below).

Dunguaire Castle

Built in 1520 by the O’Hynes clan, the castle served as a stronghold and symbol of Gaelic culture and heritage. It later became a hub for Irish literary revival, hosting luminaries like W.B. Yeats and George Bernard Shaw. Today, you can explore its restored interior, enjoy panoramic views from the battlements, and participate in medieval banquets that celebrate Irish history and folklore.

Galway

Galway, the vibrant city on the west coast of Ireland, is a mosaic of culture, history, and natural beauty. Known for its lively arts scene, historic sites, and the stunning landscapes of Connemara just a stone’s throw away, Galway is a must-visit destination.

I recommend you start your visit with a stroll through the Latin Quarter, where its cobblestone streets are lined with colorful shops, quaint cafés, and traditional pubs offering live Irish music. Don’t miss the iconic Galway Cathedral, with its stunning stained glass and impressive dome.

For a taste of Galway’s artistic spirit, visit the Galway Arts Centre or catch a show at the Town Hall Theatre. If you have time, you should also check out Lynch’s Castle and the Hall of the Red Earl, a fascinating archaeological site.

In the evening (or around sunset), head out to Salthill Promenade for a walk along the coast, and take in the lovely views of Galway Bay.

If you’re visiting in July, the Galway International Arts Festival is a must-see, showcasing performances and exhibitions from around the world.

And you can find some great Galway guided tours here –

Where to stay in Galway:

• Designed by renowned Irish milliner (hat maker) Philip Treacy, The G Hotel & Spa is the epitome of luxury and style. Located just a short walk from Galway city centre, this five-star Galway hotel is perfect if you want elegance and comfort.

• Centrally located in buzzing Eyre Square, The Hardiman is steeped in history and tradition. This iconic hotel has been a cornerstone of Galway hospitality since 1852.

Renting a Car in Ireland

When it comes to driving in Ireland, choose a vehicle that suits your travel needs. If you’re planning to explore rural areas or rugged landscapes, consider renting a compact or four-wheel-drive vehicle, which will handle narrow, winding roads more efficiently. Be sure to book your rental car well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure the best rates and availability.

The cost of renting a car in Ireland can be expensive. However, there are some ways you can save money. We tend to always book our rental car through Discover Cars. This is a search engine for rental cars and allows you to filter by price if you’re on a budget or by vehicle type if there’s a specific car you’re after.

• Generally speaking, you can expect to pay around €300 per week for a manual (stick shift) economy car; this will rise to around €350 during the peak months of June, July and August.
• Try to rent your vehicle from major cities such as Dublin, Cork, Galway, Belfast, and Limerick. That’s because car hire companies in smaller cities tend to have fewer and more expensive options.
• Book as small a car as you can manage!
• We highly recommend selecting fully comprehensive car insurance. The roads and car parking spaces in Ireland are narrow, so it will quell your fears of getting a bump or scratch. Check if your credit card insurance covers this (some do!)

Renting a Campervan in Ireland

Exploring Ireland by campervan is an adventure that offers an intimate glimpse into the island’s breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Renting a campervan allows you the freedom to explore at your own pace, uncovering hidden gems far from the usual tourist trails.

Renting a campervan in Ireland is relatively straightforward, with numerous rental companies offering a range of motorhomes tailored to different needs and budgets. So, no matter if you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, there’s a perfect campervan for you.

Options range from compact vans ideal for navigating narrow country roads to larger motorhomes with ample space. It’s crucial to consider factors like vehicle size, driving experience, and the level of comfort you desire before making your booking.

You will likely need to pick up your campervan in major cities like Dublin, Cork, or Belfast, or at the larger airports like Dublin Airport and Belfast Airport.

I will also add that campervan rentals tend to sell out quickly during the busy summer season (from June through to September).

🚙 Where to rent a campervan in Ireland

• West Coast Campervans – pick-up locations at Dublin Airport and Newry, Northern Ireland
• Motorhome Republic – a comparison and booking site for campervans
• Craic n Campers – pick-up locations in Roscommon and Greystones, Wicklow
• Bunk Campers – pick-up locations in Dublin and Belfast
• Indie Campers – pick up from Dublin
• Retro Camper Hire – pick up from Dublin
• South Coast Motorhome Hire – pick up from Bandon, Cork

Some or most companies can meet you at a different location for an extra fee, but make sure to ask them about this in advance.

Slainte!

I hope I have given you inspiration for where to stop along the drive from Dublin to Galway. These two cities are a must-visit for your time in Ireland, so why not turn the journey between them into an adventure?

Read more road trip guides written by me here –

Kilkenny to Dublin Road Trip

The Drive from Cork to Dublin

Where to Stop Between Dublin and Killarney

Dublin to the Giant’s Causeway Drive