From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk.
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 615 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk. worth booking?
From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk. is a 9-hour experience in Galway, Ireland, from $57 per person. It scores 82 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 615 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 82 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (615)
- Duration
- 9 hours
- From
- $57 per person
Our Connemara Day Tour from Galway offers a choice of 3 hour main stop: Option 1. - 3 hours in the Connemara National Park. Option 2. - 3 hours in the Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden.
What you get
About this experience
Our Connemara Day Tour from Galway offers a choice of 3 hour main stop: Option 1. - 3 hours in the Connemara National Park. Option 2. - 3 hours in the Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden.
What's included
Included
- Local guide
- Driver/guide
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Live commentary on board
Not included
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
- Entry to Kylemore Abbey - tickets can be purchased from the driver at discounted rates, cash only.
- Hotel Pickup
What you'll see and do
Galway
Tour vehicle departs Merchants Road, Galway, outside the Kinlay Hostel at 09:30. Please present 15 minutes prior to departure.
15 minutes here
Turning left into the Claddagh, St. Marys Church on your right, has been a Dominican Church for nearly 500 years. A romantic legacy of the former Claddagh fishing village is the Claddagh Ring, the traditional wedding ring of the villagers and ideal Galway gift or reminder of your visit to Galway.
Pass by without stopping
Salthill Promenade
Salthill is a vibrant area overlooking Galway Bay, the breathtaking backdrop and stunning scenery includes the famous 4km long Galway Promenade offering views of Galway Bay and the Clare Hills with several small beaches separated by rocky outcrops along its length. A local ritual is to ‘kick the wall’ at the promenades end to signify completion of your prom walk.
Pass by without stopping
Barna
Set between timeless moorlands and the blue Atlantic Ocean, the coast road meanders westward through the picturesque villages of Barna and Furbo to the cheerful Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) village of Spiddal (An Spideal).
Pass by without stopping
Spiddal
The village of Spiddal (An Spideal) on the shores of Galway Bay is a picturesque Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) village. It is home to many traditional thatched roof homes, scenic coastlines, beautiful beaches and has a charming traditional appeal. Spiddal is an area which still manages to value the culture and traditions of Gaeltacht heritage.
Pass by without stopping
Costelloe
Once home to Bruce Ismay, CEO of White Star Lines and Titanic survivor.
Pass by without stopping
The Connemara landscape along with the Wild Atlantic coastline has inspired many writers and musicians including French singer / songwriter, Michel Sandou’s popular hit ‘Les lacs du Connemara.’
10 minutes here
Pines Island Viewpoint
Derryclare Lough is a freshwater lake at the entrance to the Inagh valley. This is a popular viewpoint for visitors to Connemara and a great place for photo opportunities of Pine Island.
10 minutes here
Connemara
Connemara stretches from Galway Bay in the south to Killary Harbour in the north, taking in the rugged peaks of the Twelve Bens, the gentle waters of Lough Corrib and the wild beauty of the Inagh Valley. Connemara is home to some of Irelands’ finest beaches with wide stretches of pure white sand lapped by the Atlantic Ocean.
Pass by without stopping
Clifden
The unofficial residential and commercial capital of Connemara and the axis on which everything in the region turns. Founded in 1812, Clifden is positioned between the mountains and ocean and has historic links to Marconi, Alcock and Brown.
30 minutes here
Clifden Castle
This ruined manor house was built in early 19th century by John D'Arcy, founder of Clifden.
Pass by without stopping
Sky Road
The Sky Road is one of the Discovery Points on the Wild Atlantic Way. A 16km circular route that starts in Clifden and rises high above the Atlantic Ocean, offering spectacular panoramic views. On a clear day the view from here has to be seen to be believed.
15 minutes here
Connemara National Park & Visitor Centre
On todays tour you have a choice of main stop. Either 3 hours in the Connemara National Park or 3 hours at the Kylemore Abbey. Free, accessible and richly rewarding, the Connemara National Park is a gateway to a deeper level of intimacy with this unique landscape. The Diamond Hill trails are an idyllic hiking experience, one that climbs through wild uplands before rewarding you with jaw-dropping views across the region.
180 minutes here
Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
For those of you who don’t wish to explore the Connemara National Park, your alternative main stop option is one of Ireland’s most iconic sights, Kylemore Abbey. Discounted admission available. Few buildings in Ireland or the world have such a dramatic setting or history as Kylemore Abbey. Built in the 1860’s by Mitchell Henry as a wedding gift to his wife Margaret, the magnificent castle at Kylemore is a must-see in Connemara. Your driver / guide will be able to source entry tickets at a discounted rate – cash only.
180 minutes here · Admission not included
The Inagh valley is one of the most scenic valleys not just in Connemara but in the whole of Ireland. This romantic valley offers breathtaking views of peatlands, mountains, lakes and glorious countryside where sheep graze freely.
10 minutes here
The Connemara Giant
The tiny village of Recess (Sraith Salach – riverside meadow of willows) is situated on the edge of the beautiful fishing lake of Glendalough and is home to the Connemara Giant or Con MacNamara, a statue overlooking the village car park.
10 minutes here
Quiet Man Bridge
The Quiet Man is a 1952 American romantic comedy-drama film directed by John Ford. It Stars John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara. The film is notable for its lush photography of the Irish countryside and a long climatic semi-comic fist fight.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Galway
Tour departs: Merchants Road, Galway outside the Kinlay Hostel, H91 F2KT at 09:30. Tour vehicle will have 'Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours' branding. Please present 15 minutes prior to departure. Tour returns: Merchants Road, Galway at 18:30.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Tour departs: Merchants Road, Galway outside the Kinlay Hostel, H91 F2KT at 09:30. Tour vehicle will have 'Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours' branding. Please present 15 minutes prior to departure. Tour returns: Merchants Road, Galway at 18:30.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 9 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 615 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Food and drink
3 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Physical effort
3 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
615 verified traveler reviews for From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk.. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Uncompassionate, inflexible
We booked this tour last minute with enough time to get to the pickup spot. In fact, we were there early. Unfortunately for us to get there in time we had to leave the hotel before I got any instructions or confirmation email. My phone is wifi only, with no cell service while traveling. No worries, I thought, because the ticketing transaction included a link to a Google map pin for the pickup. The pin indicated the middle of the block. We walked up and down the block multiple times looking for their tour bus and only gave up 10 min after departure time. On our way back to the hotel we saw a tour check in on the corner and asked if they knew about our tour. This other tour company was Galway Sightseeing Tour Company, not Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours, but they confirmed that we missed our bus. They had a similar tour leaving in a few minutes and offered us a discounted rate which we took. Their tour was outstanding, and Mike, the driver, kept up a witty, interesting narrative as we went. I can heartily recommend their tour. When we got back I contacted Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours, hoping that they might understand our circumstances and offer some sort of refund. The answer was short and curt. Basically, sorry, no, tough luck. While I cannot comment on the quality of thier tour, I can say with certainty that I would not support a business with that level of customer service, especially as we had made a best effort attempt to find them with the limited information we had. They are even moreso hard to recommend when there are others like Galway Sightseeing Tour Company that went above and beyond when they didn't need to.
Response from the operator: All our tours depart: Merchants Road, Galway outside the Kinlay Hostel. On time and to schedule.
via Viator
Average Tour which Could have Been Better
This tour was average. The biggest disappointment was the non-native driver/guide. The guide/driver was rambling and difficult to understand. I also felt that he did not have the background to provide the tour. The Abby was good but not great compared to other castles and old houses that I visited. We did stop at a country village for a break. I wish we would have spent more time at the village. It was charming. The best part of this tour was the garden at the Abby and the TeaHouse in the garden. It was lovely and the food was top quality.
Response from the operator: Thank you.
via Tripadvisor
A trip into the wild
We enjoyed our tour with our driver and guide Michael who wasn’t just knowledgeable, but also entertaining. Great insights into the Irish and Connemara culture. Unfortunately, climbing Diamond Hill was hampered by rainy weather, but the National Park was lovely even in the wet and it was great to see Connemara ponies. We’ll have to come back for a guided trail hike and revisit Clifden
Response from the operator: Thank you.
via Viator
A must see!
A great tour. You won’t be disappointed. Kylemore Abbey is beautiful - as is Connemara.
Response from the operator: Thank you.
via Tripadvisor
Worth it
This was a lovely tour of Connemara from Galway. Mike, the bus driver/guide, was a fount of knowledge about the nature of the bogs and mountains in Connemara, as well as local history. Besides the destinations, we had a few other scenic stops, including Clifden. I liked the generous time (3 hours) at your choice of two destinations: Kylemore Abbey or Diamond Hill. My original intent was to hike the hill, but I caught a chest cold and injured my wrist and ended up choosing Kylemore as we headed to the destinations. Even there, I had to opportunity to hike 4-5 miles, though it was much more flat. Everything was scenic and gorgeous. Thanks, Wild Atlantic Way and Mike!
Response from the operator: Thank you.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 9 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 215
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours, who run 5 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 81.2 and 2 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours runsWhy this scores 82
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk.: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Galway.
How much does From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk. cost?
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Prices start at $57 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Galway usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk. take?
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Plan for about 9 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Galway is not rushed.
Is From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk. worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 82 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 615 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Galway, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk.?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk. suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk.?
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Around 215 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Galway can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Galway and add a light layer if any part of the 9-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk. start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Galway within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Galway?
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On Outty we rank every Galway experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Cliffs of Moher & the Burren Tour from Galway, Galway to Aran Islands Inisheer, Doolin, Cliffs of Moher Day Tour, Galway to Cliffs of Moher, Aillwee Cave & Dunguaire Castle Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Galway?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Galway?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk.?
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Included: Local guide; Driver/guide; In-vehicle air conditioning; and Live commentary on board. Not included: Food and drinks; Gratuities; Entry to Kylemore Abbey - tickets can be purchased from the driver at discounted rates, ca; and Hotel Pickup. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk.?
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Tour departs: Merchants Road, Galway outside the Kinlay Hostel, H91 F2KT at 09:30. Tour vehicle will have 'Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours' branding. Please present 15 minutes prior to departure. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk. offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk.?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk. wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk. if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Galway. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about From Galway: Guided tour of Connemara with 3 hour stop at Connemara National Pk.?
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Across 615 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, photo opportunities, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
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