Galway is a fantastic base for exploring Ireland’s dramatic landscapes and historic sites on full-day tours. The city’s central location along the Wild Atlantic Way makes it easy to reach some of Ireland’s most iconic sights, like the Cliffs of Moher and the eerie limestone landscapes of The Burren. We particularly love tours that mix stunning scenery with engaging guides, like the one that combines a visit to Dunguaire Castle with a walk along the cliffs, or the private excursions that let you customize your day. Whether you’re after a relaxed scenic drive, an active sheepdog demonstration, or a private journey tailored to your interests, Galway offers options that suit many kinds of travelers.
One of our top picks is the From Galway: Cliffs of Moher and The Burren Full Day Tour, which scores 4.8 out of 5 from hundreds of reviews. It offers a well-paced mix of sightseeing, scenic routes, and local lunch stops, making it a great choice for first-timers. For those wanting a more exclusive experience, the Full Day Private Tour to Ireland lets you explore the landscape at your own pace with a private guide. And if you’re interested in exploring Connemara’s castles and landscapes, the Castles of Connemara tour offers a charming, small-group experience.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each of the best full-day tours in Galway, highlighting what makes them special and who they’re best suited for.
1. From Galway: Cliffs of Moher and The Burren Full Day Tour
Rated 4.8/5 from 360 reviews, this guided tour takes you along the Wild Atlantic Way to see Ireland’s most famous coastal landmark, the Cliffs of Moher. It also explores The Burren, a surreal limestone landscape with unique flora. The tour starts from Galway’s Lally Tours pick-up point and features stops at Dunguaire Castle, which makes for a perfect photo, and Aillwee Cave, with its underground caverns and frozen waterfalls. Lunch is enjoyed in the charming Irish village of Doolin, known for its lively pubs and traditional music.
What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive itinerary—covering the cliffs, caves, and scenic coastal views—all in one day. The reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge, calling Shane “incredible” and Seamus “very knowledgeable,” which enhances the experience. The tour’s value comes from a well-organized schedule that balances sightseeing and free time. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balanced, informative day that hits all the highlights of Galway’s nearby attractions.
Bottom line: If you want a classic, well-reviewed full-day trip that covers Ireland’s iconic coastlines and rugged landscapes, this tour is hard to beat.
2. Full Day Private Tour to Ireland
This private tour scores a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 30 reviews, offering a personalized experience tailored entirely to your interests. For around $770, your group of up to six people can explore Galway’s stunning scenery at your own pace, with a flexible itinerary that can include visits to Dunguire Castle, Poulnabrone Dolmen, and the lively fishing village of Kinvara. The highlight is the ability to customize your day—whether you want to focus on castles, natural landscapes, or local food.
What makes this tour unique is the personal touch—your guide will share stories and local tips, making it a truly immersive Irish experience. The included visits, like the Dunguire Castle built in 1520, and the Poulnabrone Dolmen, dating back to 4200 BC, ensure that history and scenery are woven seamlessly. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, which turns a sightseeing trip into a memorable journey.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want control over their day and enjoy a private, intimate experience with local insights.
3. Private Burren and Cliffs of Moher Full Day Tour
This private, 8-9 hour tour scores a perfect 5.0 from 21 reviews. It takes you beyond the usual tourist spots, with a flexible, personalized itinerary. It starts with a visit to Dunguaire Castle, then explores Hazel Mountain Chocolates for a sweet break, and includes stops at Poulnabrone Dolmen and Caherconnell Stone Fort, where sheepdog demonstrations are a highlight.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on lesser-known attractions alongside the famous Cliffs of Moher. Your guide is expert at adjusting the day to your interests, whether that’s more time at the cliffs or exploring the ancient tombs. The reviews emphasize how the guide’s personal touches and knowledge made each stop special.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those wanting a flexible, in-depth private tour that combines iconic sights with quiet spots and local stories.
4. Connemara, Kylemore Abbey, and Doolough Valley Full Day Private Tour
Rated 5.0/5 from 18 reviews, this private tour offers a full day exploring Connemara’s wild beauty. Your guide can customize routes to include Kylemore Abbey, Killary Fjord, and the scenic Doolough Valley, all with hotel pickup. The tour travels through Inagh Valley, offering views of the Twelve Ben Mountains and Maumturk Mountains, and stops at iconic locations like Kylemore Castle Estate.
Reviewers love the flexibility and depth of this trip, with many praising the guide’s extensive local knowledge and ability to personalize the day. The trip is well-suited for travelers who want to see a mix of mountains, lakes, and historic sites while avoiding large-group bus crowds.
Bottom line: If you value a tailored experience of Connemara’s stunning landscapes and historic sites, this private tour delivers an unforgettable day.
5. The Burren and Cliffs of Moher Full Day Private Tour
This private tour scores 5.0 from 13 reviews and is perfect for those who want a customized, relaxed day with a local driver-guide. You can choose to visit Killarney, Kilkerrin, or other hidden spots along the coast, with stops at Flaggy Shore and Poulnabrone Dolmen. The guide’s local tips and the ability to tailor the itinerary make this an ideal choice for independent-minded travelers.
It’s especially good for small groups (up to 3 people) seeking a more intimate experience. The reviews highlight how the guide’s knowledge elevated the day, with many appreciating the ability to explore independently at key stops.
Bottom line: For a flexible, private experience with personalized attention, this tour offers a great balance of sights and local insights.
6. Castles of Connemara tour departing Galway city. Guided. Full day
This 9-hour guided tour scores 4.5 out of 5 from 26 reviews. It explores Aughnanure Castle, Kylemore Abbey, and Ballynahinch Castle, giving you a good mix of Irish castle history and scenic beauty. The guide offers engaging stories, making these historic sites come alive.
What makes this trip appealing is its focus on castle architecture and stories, plus the chance to drive along the Sky Road if weather permits. Travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guide and the relaxed pace that allows for plenty of exploration.
Bottom line: Ideal for history lovers and those wanting to see Ireland’s medieval castles in a compact, well-organized day.
7. Wild Brown Trout fishing. Lough Corrib. French speaking Ghillie/Guide. Full day.
This specialized experience scores 5.0 out of 5 from 2 reviews. It’s perfect for anglers wanting to fish Ireland’s last remaining wild brown trout fisheries. The day includes a guide with 25 years of experience, and the scenery is stunning—mountains, islands, and quiet lakes all around.
The tour is limited to groups of up to two, making it intimate and exclusive. Reviewers mention Kevin’s expertise and the memorable day despite the chilly weather, making it suitable for serious fishing enthusiasts or those seeking a peaceful outdoor adventure.
Bottom line: A niche choice for anglers who want to fish in a spectacular setting with an expert guide.
8. Connemara & Inishturk Island wildlife watching cruise. Private guided Full-day
Rated 5.0 out of 5 from just one review, this private cruise offers a unique way to see seals, dolphins, puffins, and guillemots along the rugged Connemara coast. Starting from Cleggan, the trip explores deserted islands like Inishturk, with stops for exploring beaches and sea cliffs.
What makes this tour special is its exclusivity—perfect for wildlife lovers who want to avoid crowded boat trips. The chance to see marine life in their natural habitat, along with lunch at a typical Irish pub, rounds out the experience.
Bottom line: A superb choice for nature enthusiasts seeking a private, wildlife-focused cruise.
$1,828.29 per group (up to 10)
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Galway
Picking the best tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If classic scenery and well-organized logistics appeal to you, the From Galway: Cliffs of Moher and The Burren offers great value and reviews. For a personal touch, the Full Day Private Tour to Ireland or the Connemara private trip provide customization and flexibility.
History and castle fans will enjoy the guided Castles of Connemara, while outdoor lovers or anglers might opt for the specialized fishing or wildlife cruise. Consider your fitness level, interest in history, and whether a private tour appeals to you.
Booking early is especially wise in high season, and always check the weather forecast — Ireland’s landscapes look different in rain or shine.
The Sum Up
Galway offers a wide range of full-day tours that cater to nearly every interest, from iconic cliffs and ancient tombs to luxury private excursions and adventure fishing. If you’re after a classic experience, the Cliffs of Moher and The Burren stands out for its balance of scenery and comfort. For a more personalized exploration, private options like the Full Day Private Tour to Ireland or Connemara Tour allow you to tailor your day.
No matter which you choose, these tours open a window into Ireland’s stunning natural beauty and rich history. To get the most out of your trip, consider your interests and book early — Ireland’s scenery waits for no one.