Galway, often called the “City of the Tribes,” is a bustling, vibrant place that perfectly blends historic charm with modern energy. When I first arrived in Galway, one of the things I quickly learned is how easy and accessible the city’s public transport system is, making it ideal for visitors who want to explore the town and surrounding areas without the hassle of renting a car. Whether you’re navigating through the city center or venturing out to the scenic outskirts, Galway’s public transport offers a range of options to help you get around like a local. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best ways to travel within the city, providing tips and insights from my own experience.
1. City Buses: The Backbone of Galway’s Public Transport
Galway’s city bus network, operated by Bus Éireann, is the most popular and affordable way to get around. I found it incredibly convenient, especially for getting to some of the city’s most iconic attractions.
- Routes and Coverage: The bus system in Galway covers the entire city and even extends to the suburbs. Key routes include buses from the city center to Salthill, Renmore, Knocknacarra, and Oranmore, as well as direct services to the University Hospital and other popular destinations. During my stay, I frequently used the number 401 bus, which runs between Eyre Square and Salthill — a lovely seaside neighborhood just a short ride away from the city center.
- Frequency: Galway’s buses are quite frequent, with most buses running every 15-30 minutes depending on the route and time of day. However, buses can become less frequent later in the evening, so it’s a good idea to plan your trips accordingly. I learned this the hard way when I missed the last bus back to my accommodation one night and had to hail a taxi!
- Tickets and Fares: Tickets can be purchased onboard, but I highly recommend using a Leap Card, which offers discounted fares and a more seamless travel experience. The card can be topped up online or at convenience stores. Single adult fares generally range from €1.80 to €2.50, while students and seniors can enjoy reduced rates. I found the Leap Card particularly useful because it also works on other forms of public transport across Ireland, should you decide to venture beyond Galway.
- Tips for Using the Bus: One thing I noticed is that Galway buses don’t always announce stops, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the route beforehand or ask the driver for help if you’re unsure where to get off. I used Google Maps for live updates on bus times and routes, which worked brilliantly.
2. Walking: The Best Way to Explore the City Center
While the public transport in Galway is reliable, the city’s compact size makes it ideal for exploring on foot. I spent most of my time in the city center walking between attractions, cafes, and shops, soaking up the atmosphere.
- Pedestrian-Friendly: The heart of Galway, including Eyre Square, Shop Street, and the Latin Quarter, is incredibly pedestrian-friendly. These areas are packed with historical landmarks, colorful storefronts, and buskers adding a musical backdrop to the streets. One of my favorite walks was along the River Corrib, which took me from the Spanish Arch to the Galway Cathedral, passing by peaceful riverside paths and stunning views.
- Walkable Distances: Most major attractions, like the Galway City Museum, Spanish Arch, and the bustling food markets, are within a 15-20 minute walk from each other. Even walking to Salthill Promenade, one of Galway’s most scenic spots, only took me around 30 minutes from Eyre Square.
- Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes! The cobblestone streets can be charming but a bit tough on your feet if you’re walking for extended periods. I always kept a map handy for finding hidden gems down the narrow alleys — there’s something special about discovering a cozy coffee shop or an art gallery while wandering through Galway’s streets.
3. Cycling in Galway: A Fun and Eco-Friendly Option
Galway’s cycling scene has been growing, and I decided to give it a go for a couple of days during my trip. I found that renting a bike is not only a fun way to explore the city, but it also allows you to cover more ground than walking while enjoying the freedom of stopping wherever you like.
- Bike Rentals: There are several places where you can rent bikes in Galway, including Westside Cycles and An Mheitheal Rothar. Prices for daily rentals are generally around €15-€20, but if you’re planning on staying longer, weekly rental options are often available. I opted for a daily rental and spent one of my days cycling along the Salthill Promenade, enjoying stunning views of Galway Bay and the distant Aran Islands.
- Cycle Lanes and Safety: While Galway is gradually becoming more cycle-friendly, be aware that dedicated cycle lanes are still somewhat limited in parts of the city. However, routes like the one along Salthill are perfect for a leisurely ride. Always wear a helmet, and be cautious when cycling in busy areas, especially during rush hours. I found the roads in the city center a bit tight and busy, but outside of the central hub, cycling was a breeze.
- Pro Tip: If you’re up for an adventure, consider taking a cycling trip to Claddagh or even further out to Barna, a small village about 10 kilometers from Galway, where you can experience breathtaking coastal views.
4. Taxis: When You Need to Get Somewhere Quickly
Taxis in Galway are readily available and can be a good option if you need to travel late at night or are in a hurry. While I mostly relied on buses and walking, there were a couple of occasions when I needed a taxi, especially after a late dinner when the buses had stopped running.
- Hailing a Taxi: You can easily find taxis at designated ranks around the city, including near Eyre Square, Shop Street, and the Galway train station. Alternatively, you can call a taxi or use apps like Free Now, which I found quite handy during my trip. The app made it easy to book a taxi without needing to stand out on the street waving one down.
- Fares: Fares in Galway are metered, and a typical journey within the city center will cost you between €8-€12. Longer trips, like to Salthill or the outskirts of Galway, will be a bit more, but overall I found taxis to be reasonably priced, especially if you’re sharing the ride with friends.
- Pro Tip: If you’re planning to visit some of the more remote attractions, like Connemara or Kylemore Abbey, taxis can be an expensive option. I would recommend hiring a car for these kinds of day trips if public transport options are limited.
5. Trains: A Gateway to Exploring Beyond Galway
Galway’s train station, Ceannt Station, is centrally located near Eyre Square, making it a convenient hub if you’re looking to explore further afield. While trains aren’t as essential for getting around the city itself, they are a fantastic option if you plan on visiting other parts of Ireland.
- Destinations: One of the most popular train routes from Galway is to Dublin, with multiple services running daily. The journey takes around 2.5 hours, and I found it to be a comfortable and scenic trip. I also used the train to visit Athenry, a charming town just 30 minutes from Galway, known for its medieval architecture and history.
- Tickets and Fares: Tickets can be purchased at the station, but I recommend booking online in advance, especially for longer journeys, as this can save you money. Websites like Irish Rail offer a variety of fare options, and discounts are available for students and seniors. Prices for a one-way ticket to Dublin typically range from €15-€25, depending on how far in advance you book.
- Pro Tip: If you’re planning to travel by train frequently during your stay in Ireland, consider getting a Leap Visitor Card, which offers unlimited travel on public transport, including buses and trains.
6. Intercity Buses: Connecting Galway to the Rest of Ireland
In addition to the city buses, Galway is well-connected to other major cities and towns in Ireland via intercity buses. Companies like CityLink, GoBus, and Bus Éireann operate services to destinations like Dublin, Limerick, and Cork.
- Convenience: I took a CityLink bus from Dublin Airport to Galway, which was an easy and affordable option after my flight. The buses are comfortable, equipped with free Wi-Fi, and offer plenty of space for luggage. The journey from Dublin Airport to Galway took just over 2.5 hours, and tickets cost around €18-€20 one way.
- Booking Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online through the bus company’s website or at the bus station. Booking in advance often guarantees you a seat and sometimes even a lower fare. During my time in Galway, I used these intercity buses for day trips to Clifden and Loughrea, two stunning towns that are worth visiting if you have the time.
Navigating Galway’s public transport system is straightforward and convenient, whether you’re staying in the city center or exploring the surrounding areas. From reliable buses to scenic cycling routes, there are plenty of options to suit every travel style. As a first-time visitor, I found the Leap Card and local transport apps indispensable in making my way around town like a local.