MileHacker Logo
Day Trips from Cliffs of Moher

Day Trips from Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs Of Moher County Clare, Ireland Travel Guide

Nearby Destinations Overview

Within easy reach, various towns and natural wonders beckon. Each location has its own distinct charm, from traditional villages to historic cities and unique landscapes.

Transportation to these spots varies, with car travel generally offering the most flexibility. Buses connect some major towns, and ferries serve the islands seasonally.

Popular Nearby Experiences

  • Aran Islands: Immerse in traditional culture and ancient forts via ferry.
  • The Burren: Discover an unique karst landscape and rare flora.
  • Doolin: Enjoy traditional music sessions in this coastal village.
  • Lahinch: Take part in surfing or beach activities on a wide sandy stretch.

Natural Escapes

Beyond the Cliffs, County Clare holds more natural beauty, from geological parks to stunning coastal peninsulas.

Burren National Park

This glacio-karst region of exposed limestone pavement has a strikingly diverse flora, where Arctic, Alpine, and Mediterranean plants grow side-by-side.

Explore the Burren

  • Numerous walking trails of various difficulty.
  • Ancient archaeological sites dot the landscape.
  • Guided walks from Corofin.

Loop Head Peninsula

South of the Cliffs, this less-visited peninsula showcases dramatic coastal scenery with impressive cliffs and sea arches.

Discover Loop Head

  • Iconic Loop Head Lighthouse with tours and panoramic views.
  • Excellent for coastal walks and wildlife observation.
  • Striking Bridges of Ross sea arch.

Underground Wonders & Raptor Encounters

Aillwee Cave & Birds of Prey Centre

  • Guided tours of impressive stalactites and underground waterfall.
  • Birds of Prey Centre with daily flying demonstrations.
  • Educational and entertaining for all ages.
  • Located in the Burren.

Doolin Cave

  • Home to the "Great Stalactite".
  • One of the longest free-hanging stalactites in the Northern Hemisphere.
  • Guided tours underground.
  • A natural wonder to witness.

Day Trip Planning at a Glance

  • Aran Islands TripFull day (6-10 hrs)
  • The Burren ExplorationHalf to Full day
  • Doolin Village VisitHalf day/Evening
  • Lahinch Beach & SurfHalf day/Full day
  • Galway City ExplorationFull day (8+ hrs)
  • Limerick City HistoryFull day (6-8 hrs)
  • Bunratty Castle VisitHalf day/Full day
  • Ennis & KilfenoraHalf day/Full day

Plan Ahead for Optimal Experiences

For day trips, checking seasonal operating hours and booking ferries in advance is wise, especially during peak times.

Cultural Excursions

Beyond the natural wonders, rich Irish culture awaits discovery in nearby towns and heritage sites.

Aran Islands

Experience traditional Irish culture, the Irish language, and ancient forts like Dún Aonghasa. Accessible by ferry from Doolin.

Bunratty Castle & Folk Park

Explore a restored 15th-century castle and an authentic 19th-century living village, depicting rural Irish life.

Ennis & Kilfenora

Discover Ennis's historic friary and traditional music. Kilfenora is known for its impressive High Crosses.

Aran Islands Deep Dive

The Aran Islands offer a deep exploration of traditional Irish culture, with a strong focus on the Irish language (Gaeilge).

Island Exploration

  • Experience the emphasis on the Irish language.
  • Visit ancient forts like Dún Aonghasa on Inis Mór.
  • Rent bicycles or take a pony and trap tour.

Bunratty Castle & Folk Park Details

This meticulously restored 15th-century castle highlights medieval Irish life. The adjacent Folk Park portrays authentic 19th-century rural Irish life.

Bunratty Experiences

  • Reconstructed buildings and farm animals at the Folk Park.
  • Costumed characters depicting daily life.
  • Medieval banquets are available in the evenings.

More Cultural Experiences

Ennis TownHistoric friary and traditional music.
Kilfenora VillageRenowned for its impressive High Crosses.
Traditional Music SessionsQuintessential Doolin pub experience.
Clare MuseumDiscover local history in Ennis.
GalleriesExplore local art in various towns.
Local Craft ShopsFind unique Irish handmade goods.

Engage with Local Culture

  • Support local artisans and performers.
  • Join a traditional music session for an authentic evening.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Visit smaller towns for a genuine Irish experience.
  • Inquire about local historical societies or events.

Multi-Day Extensions

These options present logical next steps and routes for journeys longer than a single day.

Wild Atlantic Way South

After the Cliffs, consider journeying south along the Wild Atlantic Way into County Kerry.

Southern Exploration

  • Take the Shannon Estuary ferry to County Kerry.
  • Explore the Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula.
  • Visit the picturesque Lakes of Killarney.

Wild Atlantic Way North

Head north from the Cliffs towards Galway City, Connemara, and further into Mayo, Sligo, and Donegal.

Northern Discovery

  • Visit Galway City, with culture and music.
  • Experience the wild beauty of Connemara.
  • Consider County Mayo, Sligo, and Donegal for extended routes.

Dublin City Extension

If flying into Dublin, consider 1-3 days to explore Ireland's capital city for a contrast to the rural west.

Capital City Sights

  • Visit historic sites and diverse museums.
  • Engage with Dublin's lively cultural scene.
  • Convenient for departure from Dublin Airport.

Longer Regional Travel Connections

For comprehensive exploration, various transport connections facilitate inter-county travel across Ireland.

Transport Options

  • Car Rental: Most flexible for comprehensive exploration.
  • Bus Éireann: National bus service connects major towns.
  • Irish Rail: Connects major cities comfortably.

Suggested Multi-Day Routes

Plan your extended journey with these popular regional routes.

South West Ireland Loop 7-10 days

Start in Dublin or Shannon, visit Cliffs of Moher, then head south to Kerry and Cork, returning to your departure airport.

Wild Atlantic Way North 7-10 days

From Cliffs of Moher, proceed north to Galway City, Connemara, and into County Mayo, highlighting rugged coastlines.

West Coast Focus 5-7 days

Arrive at Shannon Airport, explore Cliffs of Moher/Burren, Aran Islands, then move north to Galway City and Connemara.

Maximize Your Irish Exploration

Consider a rental car for flexible exploration of rural Ireland and the Wild Atlantic Way.