Where are the Cliffs of Moher? (A 2024 Guide to how best see Ireland’s Famous Cliffs)

Section 1: The Cliffs of Moher Location

In the first section of this post, we are going to take a look at the Cliffs of Moher location. Will will dive into what county they are in, where they are located on the map, and things to do in the surrounding area.

Where are the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland?

If you are here for the short answer, then here it is. The Cliffs of Moher are located in County Clare, not far from the incredible landscapes of the Burren. Specifically, the cliffs can be found on the western coast of Ireland overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

But if you are anything like me, then I’m sure you want a bit more detail. The Cliffs of Moher actually stretch for about 14 kilometers, which means it would take over 4 hours to walk from one end of the cliffs to the other.

Hopefully, that gives you a little bit of perspective on just how big these cliffs really are!

Things to do near the Cliffs

The Cliffs of Moher are surrounded by some of Ireland’s most wonderful attractions, including the breathtaking Burren National Park. You can spend hours exploring the unique flora and fauna of this limestone landscape. The Burren also has a popular driving route for those who don’t want to hike.

The nearest town to the Cliffs of Moher is Doolin, a small village famous for its traditional Irish music. You can enjoy a pint of Guinness and listen to some live music after your visit to the cliffs.

Another popular activity near the Cliffs of Moher is surfing! Just 30 minutes away, you will find Lahinch, where there are several surf schools offering lessons for all levels. This is a great way to experience the wild Atlantic Way in a slightly different way.

And finally, a short boat ride away lies the Aran Island’s, a popular day trip location for those staying in Doolin. You can even get a Cliffs of Moher Combo ticket and sail beneath the mighty landscapes.

Fun Fact: The word ‘Mothar’, which has been converted to the english friendly word ‘moher’ means ‘the ruin of a fort‘ in the Irish language, which is in reference tot he lookout tower at Hag’s Head

Section 2: How to Get to the Cliffs of Moher Location

Now let’s take a closer look at how best to get to the Cliffs of Moher. Honestly, there is no straight answer as it all comes down to where you decide to base yourself. Those planning a trip to Ireland’s famous cliffs often choose to stay in Doolin or Galway. And then sometimes Dublin, if they are stuck for time. I have given some examples below of how to get there from all three locations.

How to get to the Cliffs of Moher from Galway:

Galway is actually not too far from the Cliffs of Moher compared to Dublin. There are three main ways to get there from the city.

Local Bus: The most budget-friendly way to see the Cliffs of Moher from Galway is by taking the local bus. This will take about 2 hours to reach the cliffs, stopping at an additional 18 stops beforehand. The journey costs €20 for a return but does not include entrance to the visitor center.

Shuttle Bus: Alternatively, you can take the ‘Express Bus’, which will take you straight to the cliffs in under an hour and a half and costs €45 for a return journey and entry into the visitor center. It often operates two times a day and allows tourists to spend a total of two hours at the cliffs.

Organized Tour: I personally think the best way to see the Cliffs from Galway is by organised tour. You will get the best bang for your buck, as they usually include entrance to the visitor center as well as stops at other worthwhile attractions. Tours start at €45 per person.

By Car: If you have access to a car then driving is a fantastic way to see the cliffs. It allows you to spend as much time as you like at the might attraction and explore the surround area’s at your own pace. The drive takes one hour and a half in total.

How to get to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin

Getting to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin is not nearly as easy as in Galway. You see, Dublin is over 3 hours away from the cliffs and does not have direct transportation options.

However, if you are short on time while visiting Ireland, a day trip from Dublin is still a great option. I have listed below the two best ways to get there.

By Car: The easiest and most convenient way to visit the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin is by car. As I mentioned, the journey will take just over 3 hours, but it will give you the freedom to make stops along the way and spend as much time at the cliffs as you wish.

Organised Tour: The other option, which is ideal for those without a car or would rather not drive in Ireland, is by organised tour. These tours usually depart early in the morning and include transportation to and from Dublin as well as entrance to the visitor centre and other attractions. Prices start at around €78 depending on the type of tour and inclusions.

However, it is a LONG day, so factor that into your decision-making.

How to get to the Cliffs of Moher from Doolin

And finally, Doolin is one of my favourite towns in Ireland and should be high on everyone’s bucket list. Known for it’s traditional Irish music, friendly locals, and stunning views

Doolin is also the closest town to the Cliffs of Moher, making it the perfect base for exploring the area.

By Car: The most convenient and popular way of getting to the cliffs from Doolin is by car. It’s just a short 10-minute drive to the visitor centre.

By Bus: Sadly, there used to be a shuttle bus that ran from Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher, but this has been discontinued.

By Walking: My favourite way to get from Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher is along the Cliff Walk. This will take a little over 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete and offer outstanding views along the way. Also, did I mention it is one of the only ways to see the cliffs for FREE.

Section 3: Where to stay when visiting the Cliffs of Moher

As I mentioned above, there are three main places people stay when visiting the Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Doolin, and Dublin. I have highlighted below some suitable places to stay for all budgets.

If you are looking for somewhere busy and fun to stay then Galway is a great option, there is loads of resturants (check my tipping in Ireland guide), pubs and attractions to choose from.

Where to Stay in Galway

Where to stay in Galway: The Galmont Hotel & Spa is a great choice for people who want to live in style. This fancy hotel is right on the water of Lough Atalia and has beautiful views of the water and stylish rooms. You can relax at the spa or enjoy a gourmet meal at the hotel’s restaurant for a unique dining experience.

The Park House Hotel is perfect for tourists on a budget because it is in the middle of everything and has great service. The busy city center of Galway is just a stone’s throw away, making it easy to get to shops, bars, and cultural sites. Many people choose this hotel because of its friendly staff and comfy rooms.

The Snoozles Tourist Hostel  is a great choice for travelers on a budget because it is both comfortable and cheap. Even though it’s cheaper, guests can expect clean rooms, helpful staff, and an easy-to-reach location. It’s a great place to stay if you want to enjoy Galway’s lively city life without spending a lot of money.

Where to Stay in Doolin

The Oar restaurant and Rooms is a cozy and affordable place for visitors to stay. It’s known for having a friendly, warm atmosphere and comfy rooms. It also has a great restaurant, which makes it a great spot for foodies who want to try some local dishes.

The Lanelodge Doolin  is a moderately priced place to stay. It’s known for having helpful staff, a homey feel, and bright, comfy rooms. Its position makes it easy to start visiting both the cliffs and the town nearby.

The Doolin Inn is a great choice for people who want a more comfortable stay. People love the Inn because it has high-end comforts, stunning views, and great service. There’s no better place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area than this one.

Where to Stay in Dublin

When it comes to accommodations in Dublin, you’re spoiled for choice. The Dean Dublin is a chic boutique hotel located in the heart of the city. It offers stylish rooms, a fabulous rooftop restaurant, and is within walking distance of Dublin’s famous attractions.

For those seeking luxury, The Shelbourne Autograph Collection provides an elegant experience. Known for its stunning architecture and refined interiors, The Shelbourne is a historic hotel offering top-tier comfort and service.

For budget-conscious travelers, the Generator Hostel is a popular choice. It’s a vibrant, affordable option with a great atmosphere, located close to the city center.

Section 4: Where are the Cliffs of Moher? FAQ

So, before I end this post, I wanted to answer some frequently asked questions about the Cliffs of Moher. To help make you visit as care free as possible!

Why is the Cliff of Moher so famous?

The Cliffs of Moher are famous largely due to their breathtaking natural beauty and impressive landscapes.

They offer stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and are home to a rich variety of birdlife.

Additionally, they have been featured in numerous films and TV shows, such as Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince, making them a must-visit destination for many travelers.

Are Cliffs of Moher worth it?

Yes, in my opinion, a trip to the Cliffs of Moher are 110% worth the visit. The are one of Ireland’s most iconic attractions with over 1.5 million visitors each year. Which is pretty impressive visitor numbers for such a small county.

How tall are the Cliffs of Moher?

They are about 702 feet (214 meters) high at their tallest point. The fact that they are so tall and have such beautiful views makes them an important attraction for tourists.What time does the Cliffs of Moher open?

How much are the Cliffs of Moher?

The entry fee to the Cliffs of Moher varies depending on whether you’re an adult, student, senior, or a child.

However, as of current pricing, an adult ticket generally costs around €12, while children under 12 enter for free.

Can you walk Cliffs of Moher without paying?

Yes, tecically it is FREE to visit the Cliffs of Moher, however, you are required to pay for the visitor experience. If you would like to see the cliffs without paying at all you will need to walk from the nearby town of Doolin.

How much time do you need at Cliffs of Moher?

Most people spend around 2 hours at the Cliffs of Moher. However, if you want to walk the entire trail you will need a minum of 4 hours to spare.

How long is Cliffs of Moher walk?

That depends on how much of the walk you would like to do, from Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher it will take you just under 2 hours. If you decide to walk all the way to Hag’s Head then I reccomend giving yourself atleast 4 hours.

Are the Cliffs of Moher the highest cliffs in Ireland?

Nope. A Cliffs of Moher fact that surprises most people is that the Cliffs of Moher are not the tallest. The hightest Cliffs in Ireland is Croaghaun on Achill Island in County Mayo. these beauties soar to an impressive 2,257 feet (688 meters) high.

What is the best time of day to visit the Cliffs of Moher?

The best time of day to visit Cliffs of Moher depends on personal preference and what you would like to see. If you want to avoid crowds, visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon is recommended.

If you would like to capture stunning photos, golden hour (just before sunset or sunrise) is ideal.

However, keep in mind that the weather can often be unpredictable and it may be difficult to plan your visit based on the time of day. So whenever suits you best, just make sure to check the weather forecast beforehand!

What Cliffs are better than the Cliffs of Moher?

It’s hard to say if any cliffs are better than the Cliffs of Moher because it all comes down to personal prefernece at the end of the day. However, Ireland is home to more Cliffs than I can count so if you are looking for some more off the beaten path cliffs in Ireland then I recommend checking out my dedicated post on this.

What do you wear to the Cliffs of Moher?

Ireland’s weather can be extremely unpredictable, so I’d recommend bringing a rain jacket and some sort of waterproof shoes. You never know what kind of weather you may get in Ireland, you could see rain, sun and snow all in the one day. To avoid getting caught out by Ireland’s unpredictability I recommend having a good packing list for your trip.