Is it worth going to Aran Islands?

Yes, a day trip is okay, but really you need to stay for at least 2 nights to truly experience the wonder of Inis Mór. Nestled off the rugged western coast of Ireland lies a hidden gem that beckons travellers with its captivating charm and rich cultural heritage – the Aran Islands.



Visiting the Aran Islands (Inis Mór, Inis Meáin, and Inis Oírr) is widely considered highly worth it for travelers seeking an authentic, "untamed" Irish experience. In 2026, the islands remain a sanctuary of Gaelic culture where the Irish language is still the primary tongue. Inis Mór is the most popular, famous for the breathtaking Dún Aonghasa, a prehistoric stone fort perched on the edge of a 100-meter sheer cliff. For those seeking peace, Inis Meáin offers a more rugged, less commercialized landscape. A peer-to-peer "pro-tip" for 2026 is to stay overnight; while day trips are common, the islands transform into a magical, silent world after the last ferry leaves at 5:00 PM. Travelers often rent bicycles to navigate the limestone-paved roads and stone-walled fields. Whether you're looking for world-famous knitwear (Aran sweaters) or simply a "transformative" connection to nature and history, these islands offer a perspective of Ireland that is difficult to find anywhere else on the mainland.

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Famed for their wild landscapes, distinctive knitted jumpers and pretty cottages, the Irish-speaking Aran Islands never fail to wow. These three islands have maintained the culture and heritage of traditional Irish life, and fascinate the thousands of visitors who make the journey every year.

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If one were to do a walked loop of the entire island it would probably take an entire day (roughly 16km ) as the island is 8km long. Walking on the Aran Islands is one of the most popular activities. With miles and miles of small thin roads criss crossing each other most people just venture out and explore.

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The Aran Islands Depending on which island you visit, the ferry journey is approximately 40-minutes from Rossaveel, Connemara and 90-minutes from Galway City.

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A little backpack with a warm jumper and a waterproof jacket is always a good idea. Fingers crossed that you won't need it but better to be prepared. A change of socks and a t-shirt for emergencies will see you through! Comfortable footwear.

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We recommend bringing a camera, comfortable shoes, a good rain jacket, sun screen (it's Ireland but you never know!) and a little cash. Some businesses on the island do not accept card or have a minimum-spend policy in place.

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The island is too big to walk all in one day but if you are staying overnight or for a few days that would be a nice option.
  1. Mini Bus Tour.
  2. Pony & Trap.
  3. Bicycle.
  4. Aran Off Road Experience.
  5. Walking.


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Please note – it is not possible to bring your car over to the Aran islands, as the ferry services do not allow for this. Vehicles can be left at the ports and the airport before boarding.

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Please book this trip if you would like to visit Inis Mór (the largest of the Aran Islands) and see the Cliffs of Moher on a Day Trip. Experience traditional Irish culture on the Aran Islands before viewing the iconic Cliffs of Moher from sea-level on a Day Tour from Galway City Docks.

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In town, you can shop around, get a drink at The Bar, or take a bike around the island (they've got seals, puffins and tons of neat homes).

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Inis Mor, the largest and most popular island of the Aran Islands can be accessed by passenger ferry or by airplane. The passenger ferries depart from Galway City, Rossaveel and Doolin. The airplane to Inis Mor departs from Connemara Regional Airport. You cannot take your car on the ferry to the Island.

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