Cliffs of Moher Day Tour from Dublin: Including The Wild Atlantic Way

Planning a trip to Ireland and eager to see its most breathtaking landscapes? This full-day tour from Dublin offers a fantastic way to experience the rugged beauty of the west coast—without the hassle of driving yourself. With visits to iconic sights like the Cliffs of Moher, The Burren, and charming villages like Doolin, it’s a packed journey full of photo opportunities, scenic drives, and authentic Irish charm.

One of the things we love about this tour is how it combines natural wonders with cultural stops, giving you a well-rounded taste of Ireland’s wild coast. The guide’s local insights and the comfortable coach make the long day enjoyable. However, keep in mind that it’s a full 12-hour experience, so it’s best suited for those prepared for a fair bit of sightseeing and walking.

If you’re after a practical, value-packed day trip that balances scenery, history, and local flavor, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want to see Ireland’s highlights with ease and want a mix of guided commentary and free time at key stops.

Key Points

Stunning Landscapes: The tour includes visits to some of Ireland’s most photographed natural sights, like the Cliffs of Moher and The Burren.

Expert Guides: The guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling, enhancing the experience with interesting facts and local lore.

Good Value for Money: At $86.89, the tour offers a comprehensive itinerary with entrance fees included, making it a cost-effective way to see key attractions.

Comfortable Travel: The air-conditioned coach with WiFi and USB ports makes the long drives pleasant and convenient.

Authentic Experiences: Stops in traditional Irish villages and at historic sites like Bunratty Castle add cultural depth to the trip.

Time Management: While the tour covers a lot, some reviews mention feeling rushed at certain stops, especially Bunratty Castle and the Cliffs, so be prepared for a busy day.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The Early Drive and Mid-Morning Break

The adventure begins early, with a departure from central Dublin at 7:50 am. The coach, led by a lively Irish guide, whisks you through the midlands, with stories and songs setting a cheerful tone for the day. A quick 20-minute coffee stop in the midlands offers a chance to stretch legs and enjoy some local hospitality before heading west.

Kinvara Harbour and Dunguaire Castle

The first highlight is Kinvara, a picturesque fishing village with an old-world charm. Here, you can admire the colorful harbor and take photos of Dunguaire Castle, a 16th-century tower perched beside the sea. Reviewers often mention how this stop feels like stepping into a postcard, with its vibrant scenery and relaxed pace. This is a free 20-minute photo break, giving you a taste of Ireland’s coastal allure.

The Wild Atlantic Way Drive

Next, the journey along the Wild Atlantic Way begins. This route is famous for its jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic Ocean. We loved the way the guide highlighted local stories during the drive, making the landscape feel alive and meaningful. It’s a scenic, sometimes dramatic, coast that’s all about spectacular vistas—perfect for anyone who loves nature’s raw beauty.

The Burren – Ireland’s Lunar Landscape

Approaching the famed Burren, you’ll see what many describe as an alien landscape—massive limestone rocks stretching as far as the eye can see, meeting the sea. The landscape is so stark and unique it often feels like another planet. The tour includes a 20-minute stop at a viewpoint dubbed the “Mini Cliffs,” which offers incredible views of the coast and the rocky terrain. Reviewers mention how the landscape’s geological oddity makes for a memorable photo backdrop, and the flora here is surprisingly diverse, with orchids and exotic plants thriving in the rocky soil.

Liscannor and Lunch in Doolin

The tour then passes through Liscannor, a small, charming village with great views of the Aran Islands. A key highlight here is the lunch stop in Doolin, renowned for its lively pub scene and excellent seafood. Guests typically have about an hour to explore and grab a meal—many rave about the local seafood chowder or a pint of Guinness at Fitzgeralds Pub. However, some reviewers note that the lunch can feel rushed or expensive, as it’s not included in the ticket price.

The Cliffs of Moher

The star attraction of this trip is the Cliffs of Moher, towering 702 feet above the Atlantic. You’ll have around 1.5 hours to walk along the cliff edges, snap photos, and take in the sweeping views over Galway Bay and the Aran Islands. Many travelers mention the feeling of awe at the scale and power of these cliffs, especially on a clear day when the ocean stretches endlessly.

The visit includes entry to the Atlantic Edge Exhibition and Visitor Centre, housed in an innovative underground building with exhibits and displays that explain the geological and natural significance of the cliffs. Reviewers say this adds educational value and helps them appreciate the landscape even more. The entrance fee ($10) is included in the tour price, which is a great value considering the quality of the exhibition.

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park

On the return journey, the tour makes a short stop at Bunratty, famous for its medieval castle and folk park. Here, visitors can take photos of the castle, which has hosted medieval banquets, and perhaps enjoy a quick snack or pint at Durty Nelly’s, a historic pub right nearby. Reviews highlight how this stop offers a glimpse into Ireland’s medieval past and some fun photo opportunities. A 20-minute stop is brief but enough for a quick look and some souvenirs from the Woolen Mills store.

Return to Dublin

After a full day of sightseeing, the coach heads back to Dublin, arriving around 8 pm. Many reviews mention how the long day is balanced by the engaging commentary and the scenic comfort of the coach, making the return journey feel shorter. You’ll arrive with plenty of memories—and hopefully a camera full of stunning photos.

What to Expect and Tips for the Day

• Comfort and Convenience: The coach is air-conditioned, with WiFi and USB ports, meaning you can stay connected and charge devices during the long drives.
• Pace: The stops are generally about 20 minutes each, with longer breaks for lunch and at the Cliffs, so be prepared for a busy schedule.
• Walking: While the tour is suitable for most mobility levels, some walking is involved, especially at the Cliffs. The visitor center has elevators and viewing platforms, but if you want to hike trails, prepare for some footwork.
• Time at the Cliffs: With 1.5 hours here, you get ample opportunity to explore and take photos without feeling rushed. Reviewers rave about the expansive viewpoints and the chance to stand right at the edge of these dramatic cliffs.
• Food and Drink: Lunch is not included, giving you the freedom to choose based on your preferences. Many enjoy local seafood, but note that some reviews found the options at the lunch stop to be a bit expensive or quick.
• Guides: The guides are praised for their humor, knowledge, and storytelling abilities. One review mentioned guide Eden as very helpful and engaging.

Is this Tour Worth It?

In terms of value, the $86.89 price tag includes entrance fees (Cliffs Visitor Centre), WiFi, and the expertise of guides who enrich the experience with stories and facts. The inclusion of the Atlantic Edge Exhibition is a nice bonus that adds educational depth to the visit.

While it’s a long day, the mix of scenic drives, cultural stops, and natural wonders justifies the hours spent on the road. The comfort of the coach and the small group sizes (maximum 58 travelers) make this a manageable and enjoyable outing.

Some reviews suggest that the stops at Bunratty or the lunch break could be a little rushed or more expensive, but overall, most agree it’s a worthwhile experience for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Ireland’s west coast.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want to see Ireland’s spectacular landscapes without the stress of driving. It suits those who enjoy guided commentary, cultural stops, and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s perfect for first-timers, families, and anyone with a keen interest in nature and Irish scenery. Keep in mind, it’s a full, busy day, so if you prefer relaxed, unhurried tours, this might not be your best choice.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, from around 7:50 am departure to about 8 pm return.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, giving you the flexibility to choose your lunch spot in Doolin.

What are the main sights?
You’ll see Kinvara harbor, Dunguaire Castle, the Burren landscape, Doolin village, the Cliffs of Moher, and Bunratty Castle with Folk Park.

Is the tour suitable for all mobility levels?
Yes, it’s suitable for most, as the visitor center at the Cliffs has elevators and viewing platforms. Those wishing to hike trails should be prepared for some walking.

Are there restroom facilities on the coach?
No, the tour does not have restrooms onboard, but there are ample stops for restroom breaks.

Can I skip any stops?
The itinerary is fixed, but you can discuss late arrival or other concerns with the guide beforehand.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of natural beauty, cultural stops, and the expertise of guides who keep the day lively and informative.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, most reviews suggest it’s suitable for families, though very young children under 5 might find the long day tiring.

How are the guides?
Highly praised for their local knowledge, storytelling, humor, and helpfulness—many reviews mention guides like Eden and Dominic positively.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Cliffs of Moher day tour from Dublin offers a well-rounded glimpse of Ireland’s wild west coast. It’s a solid choice for those who want to combine breathtaking scenery with cultural insights, all in a manageable, guided format. The value is excellent considering the entrance fees and inclusions, and the guided commentary ensures you learn about Ireland’s landscapes, history, and legends along the way.

While it’s a long day, the comfortable coach, stunning views, and authentic stops make it a worthwhile adventure for most travelers eager to tick off Ireland’s iconic sights. Just be prepared for the pace, bring your camera, and enjoy the ride through one of Europe’s most captivating coastlines.