Galway is the cultural capital of Ireland — a city on the west coast, where the River Corrib meets Galway Bay, famous for its music, its festivals, and its bohemian spirit that has earned it the nickname “The City of Tribes.” It is a city of colour, with shopfronts painted in every shade, street musicians on every corner, and a Latin Quarter that is alive with pubs, cafes, and galleries. Galway is the gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way, the Cliffs of Moher, the Aran Islands, and the Connemara wilderness. Hiring a car here lets you explore the rugged west of Ireland, the prehistoric sites, the Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking regions), and the most dramatic coastline in Europe. For a wider itinerary, compare Ireland car hire guide, Cork car rental and all car hire locations before choosing the pickup point.
We compare Avis, Hertz, Europcar and local operators in Galway. Compact cars start around €20/day. The city is 210 kilometres west of Dublin.
Why Hire a Car in Galway
- The Latin Quarter: The heart of Galway, with cobbled streets, colourful shopfronts, and pubs where traditional Irish music sessions happen every night. Shop Street, Quay Street, and the Spanish Arch are the highlights.
- The Claddagh: The historic fishing village on the banks of the Corrib, famous for the Claddagh ring — a symbol of love, loyalty, and friendship that is worn around the world.
- The Festivals: Galway hosts the Galway International Arts Festival (July), the Galway Races (July/August), and the Oyster Festival (September). The city comes alive during festival season.
- The Cliffs of Moher: 1.5 hours south. One of the most famous natural attractions in Ireland, with 214-metre cliffs that rise vertically from the Atlantic. The visitor centre is built into the hillside.
- Connemara: 1 hour north. A wilderness of lakes, mountains, and bogland, with the Twelve Bens mountain range, Kylemore Abbey, and the Maam Valley. It is one of the most beautiful regions in Ireland.
- The Aran Islands: 1 hour by ferry from Rossaveal. Three islands (Inis Mór, Inis Meáin, and Inis Oírr) where Irish is still spoken, and where the ancient fort of Dún Aonghasa sits on a 100-metre cliff.
- The Burren: 1.5 hours south. A lunar landscape of limestone pavement, with rare flowers, ancient tombs, and the Aillwee Cave.
- The Wild Atlantic Way: Galway is on the Wild Atlantic Way, a 2,500-kilometre coastal route that runs from Donegal to Cork. The section around Galway is one of the most dramatic.
Driving in Galway and Ireland
Ireland drives on the left. The M6 motorway connects Galway to Dublin. The roads in the west are narrower and windier. The Wild Atlantic Way is scenic but slow. Speed limits are 120 km/h on motorways, 100 km/h on national roads and 50 km/h in towns.
Parking in Galway is in multi-storey car parks — expect €10–€15 per day. In the city centre, parking is limited. At the Cliffs of Moher, parking is at the visitor centre.
Booking Tips for Galway
- Book 3–4 weeks ahead for summer and festival season.
- If visiting the Aran Islands, book the ferry in advance.
- GPS is useful — the rural roads are poorly signposted.
- If combining with Dublin, the drive is 2.5 hours east.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Hire in Galway
Is Galway worth visiting? Yes — it is the most vibrant and cultural city in Ireland, with world-class music, stunning scenery, and easy access to the Wild Atlantic Way.
Do I need an SUV? No — a compact car is fine for Ireland. An SUV is recommended for Connemara’s rougher tracks.
Can I use my EU driving licence? Yes — EU licences are valid in Ireland.