Visit Cliffs Of Moher From Dublin: The Best Guide
Visit the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin to see one of Ireland’s most spectacular natural attractions. They are located on the west coast of the country in County Clare. These majestic sea cliffs run for about 14 kilometers along the Atlantic Ocean and rise to a height of up to 214 meters (702 feet) at their highest point. They rise dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean and offer a memorable experience. The Cliffs of Moher are a photographer’s paradise, offering breathtaking landscapes.
This page may contain affiliate links, which means if you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I will never recommend products and services I don’t trust or haven’t used. For more information, please read my disclosure.
I love helping you plan your dream trips. If you need any of these services, please consider booking them through my affiliate links. It won’t cost you anything extra but will help me keep the website running.
🏠 Find the perfect place to stay with Booking.com or Hotels.com
✈️ Get the cheapest flights with Skyscanner
🚣 Book your favorite activities with Viator or Get Your Guide
📱Stay connected with an eSIM from Airalo
Thank you very much for your support!
What to know about the Cliffs of Moher
Formation
The cliffs have been formed over millions of years, primarily from sedimentary rocks, mainly sandstone and shale, with the oldest rocks at the bottom.
The shape and form of the cliffs are the result of hundreds of years of erosion by the Atlantic Ocean, weathering, and the natural process of land uplift. This continuous process contributes to their ever-changing appearance.
Bird sanctuary
The Cliffs of Moher are one of the largest bird sanctuaries in Ireland, home to over 20 different bird species. The cliffs are home to one of the major colonies of cliff-nesting seabirds in Ireland, including Atlantic puffins, razorbills, and guillemots, making it an excellent spot for bird watching.
The views
The cliffs offer stunning views of the wild Atlantic Ocean, the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, and the distant Twelve Pins mountains. On a clear day, the visibility extends far, providing a breathtaking panoramic view. The cliffs are renowned for their stunning sunsets and sunrises, where the play of light and shadow over the ocean and the landscape creates a mesmerizing spectacle.
O’Brien’s Tower
Near the highest point of the cliffs stands O’Brien’s Tower, a round stone tower built in 1835 by Sir Cornelius O’Brien as an observation tower for the tourists of the time.
The trails
The walks are safe, marked trails along the cliffs, offering different perspectives and views. Always stay on the marked trails and away from the cliff edges, as the cliffs can be dangerous, especially in windy conditions. I felt like the wind was blowing me down the cliffs into the sea.
The Visitor Center
There is a visitor center built into the hillside to minimize visual impact. You can find a gift shop and a cafe in there while enjoying the panoramic views.
Are you enjoying this article so far? If you’d like to show your appreciation, feel free to book your accommodation, tickets, tours, and more through my affiliate links. You can find them at the top of the page or in my Travel Resources section. It won’t cost you anything extra but will greatly help me keep the website running. Thank you for your support!
Best time to visit the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin
The cliffs can be visited year-round, but the best weather is typically from April to September. Sunset views can be particularly spectacular. The weather at the cliffs can change quickly, so it’s advisable to come prepared with rain gear and windproof clothing.
How to get to Cliffs of Moher from Dublin
Train from Dublin to Cliffs of Moher
Take a train from Dublin Heuston Station to Limerick. This train ride takes about 2.5 hours and offers picturesque views of the Irish countryside. From Limerick, you get a bus to the Cliffs of Moher. The bus goes also to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park on the way to the Cliffs of Moher. It is a drive along the stunning coastline of Galway Bay and through the Burren, a unique rocky landscape known for its wildflowers and ancient archaeological sites.
Dublin to Cliffs of Moher by car
The distance from Dublin to Cliffs of Moher is about 270 kilometers and takes approximately three hours, offering a straightforward and scenic drive.
The most direct route involves taking major highways M4 and M6, passing through the Midlands Region before reaching County Galway. On your journey, you may catch glimpses of the Wicklow Mountains leaving Dublin, and the route offers views of rolling green hills along the way. You can also explore charming towns and sites like Athlone and Athenry, which are set just off the highway and offer Celtic ruins and riverside castles. A detour to Galway City, about 30 minutes from the highway, is recommended for its rich pub and music culture. Additional notable stops include the small village of Kinvarra with its Dunguaire Castle, the Burren, and Doolin, known for its music scene.
Bus from Dublin to Cliffs of Moher
Traveling from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher by bus is a convenient option if you prefer not to drive. Take a bus from Dublin to Galway City, and then connect to a bus that goes to the Cliffs of Moher. This route offers a scenic journey through Ireland’s beautiful landscapes.
Buses from Dublin to Galway City are frequent and comfortable. Companies like GoBus and Citylink operate services with an average journey time of about 2 hours and a half. Prices vary but generally range from €14 to €24.
From Galway, you can catch a bus operated by Bus Éireann, which takes you directly to the Cliffs of Moher. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 3 minutes, with tickets costing between €11 and €16.
Day Tours from Dublin to Cliffs of Moher
Day tours from Dublin are also available if you prefer a guided experience. Several companies offer guided day tours from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher. These tours often include other attractions along the way, such as the Burren or Galway City, and can provide a more comprehensive experience. Day tours usually last about 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning to Dublin in the evening. Tours typically include the entrance fee to the Cliffs of Moher, along with onboard Wi-Fi. Guides are friendly and knowledgeable and you may even learn a few Irish words.
Many other day trips can be made from Dublin to the country’s landmarks and attractions. Visit Newgrange and the Boyne Valley for the ancient passage tombs. Go to the picturesque fishing village of Howth for its scenic cliff walks and fresh seafood. You can also visit Corcomroe Abbey, an impressive 13th-century Cistercian monastery. Malahide Castle and Gardens are the perfect choise for a family-friendly excursion. Bunratty Castle with the folk park will show you the 19th-century Irish life.
Was this article helpful? If you’d like to say “thanks”, please consider using my affiliate links to book your accommodation, tickets, tours, and more. It won’t cost you anything extra but it helps me keep the website running. Thank you so much!
In conclusion, anyone traveling to Ireland should visit the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin for its stunning natural beauty, rich wildlife, and a glimpse of Ireland’s green and picturesque countryside.
