Itinerary Suggestions: Cliffs Of Moher

-Hour Layover Highlights

Ideal for arrivals at Shannon Airport (SNN). Focus on the Cliffs of Moher and nearby Doolin.

A rental car is highly suggested for efficiency during this short timeframe. Consider booking your Cliffs of Moher experiences on GetYourGuide.

Suggested Flow

Morning: Arrive SNN, get rental car, drive to Cliffs (1 hr).
Late Morning/Early Afternoon: Explore Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience (2-3 hrs).
Evening: Dinner and traditional music in Doolin's pubs.

Weekend Getaways & Week-Long Journeys

Discover more of County Clare with focused plans for 2-3 days or a full week.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

Focus on the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren region.

Core Experiences

Day 1: Arrive SNN, Cliffs of Moher exploration, Doolin pubs.
Day 2: Burren exploration (Poulnabrone Dolmen, Aillwee Cave, Burren Smokehouse).
Day 3: Coastal walk, Lahinch surf, or Fanore Beach, then departure.
Rental car for independent travel.

Consider GetYourGuide for pre-booking popular local tours and activities.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience

Explore West Clare and extend your journey to Galway.

Week-Long Adventure

Days 1-3: Cliffs & Burren, based in Doolin/Lahinch, including boat trip.
Day 4: Full day trip to the Aran Islands (ferry from Doolin).
Day 5: Scenic drive to Galway City and explore.

Continuation of Week-Long Plan

Conclude your week with the wild beauty of Connemara and departure.

Final Days

Day 6: Day trip into stunning Connemara National Park & Kylemore Abbey.
Day 7: Explore remaining Galway sights, then drive to SNN or Dublin Airport.
The Wild Atlantic Way route northward is scenic.
A thorough experience of West Ireland.

Two-Week In-Depth Exploration

Combine a week in West Ireland with a second week exploring the South West and inland regions.

Extended Discovery

Week 1: Cliffs, Burren, Aran Islands, Galway & Connemara.
Days 8-9: Dingle Peninsula via Shannon Estuary ferry.
Days 10-11: Killarney & Ring of Kerry.
Day 12: Cork City. Day 13: Rock of Cashel & arrive Dublin. Day 14: Dublin exploration. Day 15: Depart Dublin.

Long-Term Stay Recommendations

For a immersion, a longer stay in a self-catering accommodation presents great value.

Cost Savings

A long-term rental often offers significant cost savings on accommodation and food.

Local Living

Use a chosen village (Lahinch, Doolin, Ennistymon) as a base for day trips and local life.

Choose Your Pace

Match your itinerary to your time, ensuring you experience the best of County Clare.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your journey to specific interests: history, food, adventure, or family travel.

Historical & Heritage Focus

Explore Ireland's past with visits to ancient sites and meticulously restored landmarks.

Historical Sites

Cliffs of Moher: Learn about their geological history.
The Burren: Visit ancient sites like Poulnabrone Dolmen and Caherconnel Stone Fort.
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park: A comprehensive look at medieval and 19th-century life.
Aran Islands: Trip to Inis Mór for Dún Aonghasa, a prehistoric hill fort.

Consider GetYourGuide for historical tours.

Food & Culinary Experiences

Savor the tastes of County Clare, from fresh seafood to traditional Irish fare.

Gastronomic Journey

Burren Food Trail: Explore local producers, including smokehouses and cheesemakers.
Seafood Dining: Indulge in fresh seafood in Doolin and Lahinch.
Traditional Pub Food: Authentic Irish pub fare in local establishments.
Ennis Farmers Market: Discover local produce and artisan foods.

Adventure & Outdoor Activities

For thrill-seekers and nature lovers, County Clare has a spectrum of outdoor adventures.

Active Exploration

Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk: Hike sections of the path for breathtaking views.
Surf Lessons: Take lessons at Lahinch Beach.
Boat Trip: Experience the Cliffs from below for a dramatic perspective.
Hiking in Burren National Park: Explore diverse trails.

Guided sea kayaking or coasteering adventures are available in sheltered bays.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Adventures and attractions for all ages ensure a memorable family trip.

Fun for All Ages

Cliffs of Moher: Focus on the accessible Visitor Centre and main paved paths.
Lahinch Seaworld and Leisure Centre: Aquarium and public swimming pool.
Aillwee Cave & Birds of Prey Centre: Entertaining cave formations and bird displays.
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park: Interactive elements, animals, and historical reenactments.

Art & Architecture Emphasis

Explore the design and creative expressions across County Clare.

Aesthetic Discoveries

Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre: Subterranean architecture and sensitive design.
Traditional Irish Cottages and Villages: Observe local vernacular architecture.
Local Art Galleries: Visit small galleries in Lahinch or Ennis.
Ennis: Explore the historic buildings and the ruins of Ennis Friary.

Spiritual & Wellness Journey

Seek tranquility and contemplation amidst Ireland's natural beauty and ancient sites.

Mindful Retreats

Clifftop Walks: Enjoy peaceful walks along the Cliff Walk for solitude.
Burren National Park: Explore the quiet, unique landscape for contemplation.
Ancient Monastic Sites: Visit serene ruins like Kilmacduagh Monastery for reflection.
Coastal Walks and Beaches: Relax on tranquil beaches or walk along the shoreline.

Customize Your Adventure

These routes are starting points. Blend them to create a trip that matches your passions.

Budget-Based Plans

Tailor your trip to your budget, from backpacking to luxury.

Backpacker's Guide

Maximize savings with affordable accommodation and free activities.

Thrifty Travel Tips

Accommodation: Stay in hostels in Doolin or Lahinch.
Meals: Self-cater from supermarkets, enjoy affordable pub lunches.
Transport: Rely on Bus Éireann Route 350; walk where possible.
Activities: Focus on free options like the Cliff Walk (outside main entry) and traditional music sessions.

Pack lunches for day trips to save on food costs.

Mid-Range Traveler's Itinerary

A balance of comfort and value for a well-rounded experience.

Comfortable Exploration

Accommodation: Stay in comfortable B&Bs or mid-range hotels.
Dining: Mix of pub meals and mid-range restaurants, using early bird menus.
Transport: Rent a car for flexibility or join guided bus tours.
Activities: Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience, boat trip, Aillwee Cave, Doolin Cave.

Luxury Experience & Value Tips

Indulge in premium services or find ways to stretch your budget.

Premium Travel

Accommodation: Boutique hotels or high-end B&Bs with superb amenities.
Dining: Best restaurants, fine dining experiences.
Transport: Private transfers or chauffeur-driven car.

Smart Value Choices

Visit in shoulder season (April-May, Sep-Oct) for better prices.
Pre-book Cliffs of Moher tickets online for a discount.
Choose accommodation that includes breakfast.

Festival & Event-Centric Visits

Plan your trip around specific events for an unique cultural immersion.

Cultural Calendar

Doolin Folk Festival (June) for music and atmosphere.
Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival (September) for a lively tradition.
These events offer a chance to experience local customs.
Expect a lively atmosphere during these times.

Off-Season Exploration Strategies

Discover the raw beauty of the Cliffs and fewer crowds during quieter months.

Winter & Shoulder Season Tips

Embrace unpredictable weather: pack appropriate gear (waterproofs, layers).
Focus on indoor activities: Visitor Centre, pubs with music, museums, cafes.
Enjoy solitude: Experience dramatic landscapes with fewer visitors.
Be flexible with plans: Weather causes temporary closures or delays.

Seasonal Highlights

Summer June-August

Longest daylight, best weather for boat trips and Aran Islands. Puffin viewing (late April-mid July). Peak surf season in Lahinch. Many festivals.

Winter December-February

Dramatic stormy seascapes. Significantly fewer crowds and lower prices. Cozy traditional music sessions. Unique photographic opportunities.

Align Your Trip with the Season

Each season paints an unique picture of the Cliffs and County Clare. Choose based on your preferences.

Itinerary Suggestions