Coastlines, Cliffs and a Ferry Crossing: Killarney to Galway Along the Wild Atlantic Way

KILLARNEY SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Coastlines, Cliffs and a Ferry Crossing: Killarney to Galway Along the Wild Atlantic Way

A full-day coastal sightseeing route from Killarney that crosses the River Shannon by Tarbert ferry, visits the Cliffs of Moher and stops for lunch in Doolin — useful for travelers plotting a scenic drive along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

Coastlines, Cliffs and a Ferry Crossing: Killarney to Galway Along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Killarney
Operator
Killarney Tour and Taxi Service
Category
Sightseeing Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Embark on a breathtaking journey along Ireland’s scenic coastal route from Killarney to Galway: cross the River Shannon on the Tarbert ferry, stand at the towering Cliffs of Moher (seen in several films), and linger over lunch in the picturesque village of Doolin before threading the Wild Atlantic Way and the Bureen toward Galway.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE ROUTE

Tarbert Ferry and the River Shannon

The drive takes the coastal route across the River Shannon via the Tarbert ferry — a key crossing on the way north from Killarney toward the Cliffs of Moher.

THE LANDSCAPE

Cliffs of Moher — cinematic sea cliffs

One of the route’s signature sights is the Cliffs of Moher, a dramatic coastal landmark where scenes from films such as Harry Potter & The Half-Blood Prince, The Princess Bride and The Guns of Navarone were shot.

THE VILLAGES

Doolin and the Wild Atlantic Way

The itinerary includes a lunch stop in the charming village of Doolin before continuing along the Wild Atlantic Way, passing through the Bureen on the approach to Galway.

What the day feels like

What the day feels like

This sightseeing route unfolds as a coastal road trip: a ferry crossing of Ireland’s longest river, a visit to the windswept Cliffs of Moher, a relaxed lunch in Doolin, then a continuation along the Wild Atlantic Way and through the Bureen en route to Galway.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this route suits best — and who should take extra care.

1
Scenic road-trippersIdeal for travelers who want a coastal drive with ferry crossing, dramatic cliffs and village stops; note that the itinerary can sometimes run slightly longer than expected.
2
Film and culture buffsA good match for visitors interested in cinematic locations — the Cliffs of Moher feature in several well-known films — with time to explore and photograph the site.
3
FamiliesFamilies can enjoy the mix of ferry ride, cliff viewpoints and a relaxed lunch stop in Doolin, but should plan for potential variations in trip length and gate-entry fees at attractions.
4
Flexible itineraries / bespoke groupsThe operator also offers bespoke tours from Galway for groups seeking tailored timing or route adjustments; contact the operator to discuss custom arrangements.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Bring weather-appropriate layers for coastal wind and rain, and budget for attraction entry fees — tickets to enter attractions are payable at the gates.

Tickets & Fees

Admission charges for attractions encountered along the route are payable at the gates; plan to carry payment for those entries.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

Are attraction tickets included in the tour price?

No; tickets to get into the attractions are payable at the gates.

Does the route cross the River Shannon by ferry?

Yes; the coastal route crosses the River Shannon via the Tarbert ferry.

Are the Cliffs of Moher on this itinerary?

Yes; the Cliffs of Moher are a principal stop on the route and are noted for appearances in films such as Harry Potter & The Half-Blood Prince, The Princess Bride and The Guns of Navarone.

Is there a lunch stop included?

Yes; the itinerary includes a lunch stop in the village of Doolin.

Can you start or customize the tour from Galway?

Yes; the operator offers bespoke tours from Galway — call the operator to find out more.

Will the trip always finish in the advertised time?

No; due to the nature of the trip it can sometimes be slightly longer than planned.