Is it better to take a bus or a train from Dublin to Galway?

Or you can choose to travel with one of the several bus companies that cover that route, including CityLink, GoBus, and Aircoach. But the quickest and most comfortable way to travel between Dublin and Galway is to ride the train with Irish Rail from Dublin Heuston Station to Galway railway station.



For most travelers in 2026, the bus is the superior choice for the Dublin-to-Galway route because it is faster, more frequent, and often cheaper. Direct bus services like Citylink and GoBus depart from Dublin City Center (Crampton Quay) or Dublin Airport every 30 minutes and take approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes via the M6 motorway. Tickets usually range from €15 to €25. In contrast, the Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann) train departs from Dublin Heuston Station roughly every 2 to 3 hours and takes about 2 hours and 36 minutes. While the train offers more legroom, a bathroom, and a smoother ride, you must first travel from the city center to Heuston Station (via the Luas tram), which adds time and cost to your journey. If you are coming directly from Dublin Airport, the bus is the clear winner as it provides a direct link without needing to transfer in Dublin city center.

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The railway route connecting the beautiful capital of the country, Dublin, with the wonderful city of Galway is one of the most picturesque in Ireland, so taking a train to travel between these amazing destinations is a sound choice.

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You can choose to fly into any of the four airports at Dublin, Shannon, Knock or Cork and within an hour or two reach Galway, your final study destination. To get from the airport directly to Galway, you can take a bus, a train or a taxi. You can also choose to hire a car, which is remarkably affordable.

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How much are the train tickets from Dublin to Galway? Well, on average, taking a Dublin to Galway train costs about 35 USD (one-way), but the price might increase if you need a last-minute ticket or on a hunt for a first-class ticket. The earlier you book your train tickets, the better offer you will get.

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Buses are not only more extensive than Ireland's trains, but often much cheaper (e.g., $30 Dublin–Galway, $20 Dublin–Cork… though when you've got a choice between them, consider that trains are generally faster, make fewer stops, and are not subject to traffic delays).

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  1. Our recommendation. The best way to travel from Dublin to Galway is by taking a bus because it's the best combination of price and speed. 08:30AM2h24. Dublin. 10:54AMGalway. 0 transfers.
  2. Cheapest. 08:30AM2h24. Dublin. 10:54AMGalway. 0 transfers.
  3. Fastest. 08:30AM2h24. Dublin. 10:54AMGalway. 0 transfers.


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Galway has a direct intercity rail link to Dublin with up to 10 services departing daily. There are indirect rail services from Galway to all other major train hubs in Ireland. For Westport and Ballina you must get a connecting train in Athlone. For trains to Limerick you must change at Athenry.

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Trains run every three hours between Dublin and Galway. The earliest departure is at 17:30 in the afternoon, and the last departure from Dublin is at 19:35 which arrives into Galway at 22:04.

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This coastal town is a charming mixture of historical landmarks and a modern atmosphere. Wandering down cobblestone streets with background music coming from every corner, it's easy to lose your heart to Galway. While many people only spend a day here, I do recommend a full two days in Galway.

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Galway might be Ireland's most charming city: compact, walkable and filled to the brim with independent shops and restaurants that walk the fine line between cool and kitsch.

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The best way to get around Galway is by foot. There are lots of tiny streets and pedestrian-only areas, so it's easy to get anywhere within the central business district on your own two feet. Another convenient, inexpensive option is the city's bike-share program.

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Yes, there is a direct bus departing from Crampton Quay and arriving at Galway Coach Stn. Services depart hourly, and operate every day. The journey takes approximately 2h 31m.

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  1. Breakfast or Lunch at The Lighthouse Cafe.
  2. Free Things to Do in Galway: Visit Charlie Byrne's Bookshop.
  3. One Day in Galway: Wander Around the Latin Quarter.
  4. Afternoon Tea At Cupan Tae.
  5. Eyre Square And #WhatLiftsYou Mural.
  6. Lunch At TGO Falafel Bar.
  7. What to Do in Galway: Walk on the River Corrib.


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Galway is well worth a visit, because its the most beautiful city in Ireland. Being the third largest city in the country, it has a medieval city centre with cobbled streets, lots of street music and a lively atmosphere. Its also the festival capital of Ireland.

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Customers are advised that alcohol is not permitted on any Iarnród Éireann service until further notice. Non-alcoholic drinks, including '0%'or '0.0%' products, are permitted on-baord.

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Iarnr?d ?ireann recommends purchasing tickets in advance to ease ticket queues at peak times.

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Dublin Bus fares and tickets There is also a city centre fare. Paying with cash: An exact fare system is operated by Dublin Bus and only coins (not notes) are accepted. No change is given. Prepaid tickets: You can also pay your fare with a prepaid ticket.

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