1map logoGo to main page

Cork, County Cork to Galway, Galway County from $15: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cork, Ireland
to
Galway, Ireland

How to Get from Cork to Galway: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$15 by busBest price
159.3 kmDistance
2h 17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cork to Galway with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Citylink
Bus
Average Duration
3h  5m
Estimated price
$15-27
Recommended
Company
Citylink
Bus
Average Duration
3h  5m
Estimated price
$15-27
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 159.3 km
Duration: 2h 17m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Irish Rail
Train
Average Duration
4h  41m
Estimated price
$28-42
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  17m
Estimated price
$35-60

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $10 $10 $10 $10 $10 $10 $10
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cork to Galway

The journey between Cork and Galway showcases a delightful contrast, with Cork offering a vibrant urban atmosphere steeped in history, while Galway presents a lively coastal charm enriched by its arts and culture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Galway

Galway is home to vibrant neighborhoods, each offering a distinct character.

Latin Quarter
• Bustling with shops, cafes, and bars.
• Rich in history and colorful street art.
Salthill
• Stunning seaside promenade ideal for walks.
• Local seafood restaurants with ocean views.
Terryland
• Offers serene parks and green spaces.
• Affordable accommodations close to the city.

Best Times To Visit Galway's Attractions

Maximize your Galway experience by visiting attractions at strategic times.

Eyre Square
Visit early morning or late afternoon for a peaceful stroll.
Galway Cathedral
Weekdays are less crowded, allowing for quiet reflection.
Spanish Arch
Sunset visits capture stunning views and fewer tourists.

Galway Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Galway experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers, making it suitable for visits throughout the year. The best times to explore are spring and early fall, as more favorable weather enhances outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation in Galway

In Galway, don’t miss out on trying the fresh seafood chowder at The Quay Street Kitchen, renowned for its rich flavors and locally sourced ingredients. Unlike the vibrant food scene in Cork, Galway's culinary experience often emphasizes rustic charm and fresh catch from the nearby waters, creating a delightful contrast that reflects the region's coastal heritage.

Cork - Galway operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cork and Galway, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+353 91 564 164
Website
https://www.citylink.ie/

Bus from Coburg Street to Galway Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$15-25
Contact phone
+353 1 836 6111
Website
https://www.buseireann.ie/

Bus from Parnell Place to Galway Bus Station

Average Duration
4h 20m
Estimated price
$18-26
Contact phone
0818 836611
Website
https://www.expressway.ie/

Bus from Cork Bus Station Parnell Place to Galway Bus Station

Average Duration
4h 20m
Estimated price
$19-27
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+353 1 836 6222
Website
https://www.irishrail.ie/en-ie/

Train from Cork to Limerick Junction

Average Duration
57m
Estimated price
$10-15

Train from Limerick to Galway

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$12-18

Cork to Galway: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cork and Galway offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Cork to Galway, spanning a distance of 123 miles, for an unforgettable Irish adventure through lush landscapes and charming towns. 💸 Enjoy the flexibility of selecting from a range of prices, starting from €32 up to €55, for the journey from Cork to Galway by car, ensuring an affordable and convenient travel option. 🌄 Revel in the beauty of the Irish countryside as you make the approximately 2-hour and 17-minute drive from Cork to Galway, soaking in the essence of Ireland at every mile along the way.
Average price
€32 - €55
🚂 Travelers embarking on a train journey from Cork to Galway will experience a scenic route with transfers at Limerick Junction and Limerick, operated by Irish Rail. The total travel time for this trip, including transfers, is approximately 4 hours and 41 minutes. 🛤️ The route from Cork to Galway covers a distance of 340 km and involves 2 transfers. Passengers will board the first train towards Heuston, with a stop at Portlaoise, followed by a second transfer towards Galway departing from Portarlington. The entire journey offers a picturesque view of the Irish countryside. 💰 The prices for a train ticket between Cork and Galway typically range from €26 to €39. Travelers can expect a comfortable and convenient ride with Irish Rail, enjoying the ease of booking tickets and checking schedules online through the official website of Transport for Ireland.
Departure Point
Cork station
Arrival Point
Galway station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on your train from Cork to Galway include a catering service offering light snacks and beverages. Look out for the onboard trolley that typically has options such as sandwiches, pastries, and soft drinks. If you're traveling during peak hours, having cash handy can speed up your experience as some services may be cash-only.
• This route is serviced primarily by Irish Rail, which features different seating options. You can choose from Standard Class, which is comfortable and affordable, or First Class, where seats are more spacious and come with complimentary refreshments. Make sure to book in advance if you prefer First Class for a more leisurely travel experience.
• To travel from Galway train station, which is conveniently located close to the city center, you can take Bus Eireann routes 404 or 407 that will bring you directly into town. The journey takes about 10-15 minutes. Additionally, there is a taxi stand directly outside the station for a quick option if you prefer a more direct route.
🚌 The scenic bus journey from Cork to Galway takes approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes. 🌿 Enjoy the views of the Irish countryside as you make your way to your destination. 🚌 Citylink operates hourly bus services departing from Coburg Street in Cork and arriving at Galway Bus Station. 🎟️ Ticket prices range from €14 to €25, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel between these two vibrant cities.
Departure Point
Coburg Street station
Arrival Point
Galway Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive early at Coburg Street Bus Station in Cork to securely grab your tickets and ensure you have time to find your bus, especially if you're traveling during peak hours when the station can get busy.
• Consider checking the schedule for both Citylink (citylink.ie) and Bus Éireann (buseireann.ie) for bus options, as they both provide routes from Cork to Galway and occasionally have varying prices and departure times.
• Upon arriving at Galway Bus Station, take some time to familiarize yourself with the layout; key facilities like restrooms and ticket counters are straightforward, but always be aware that taxi services and local bus connections are available just outside the station entrance, making it easy to navigate to your next destination.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cork to Galway.

Or choose the category:
The cheapest way to travel from Cork to Galway is by bus. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes. Bus tickets can cost between €14 and €25 depending on the time and date of travel. Buses provide a convenient and affordable option for travelers looking to explore both cities.
The fastest way to travel from Cork to Galway is by driving. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 17 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of fuel and tolls for the trip ranges from €32 to €55. It is important to note that travel times may vary depending on the chosen route and traffic conditions.
The distance from Cork to Galway is approximately 99 miles. If you are driving, the road distance is about 122.8 miles. This is a relatively short distance and can typically be covered in a few hours. However, travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions and the mode of transportation chosen.
The most convenient and cost-effective way to travel from Cork to Galway without a car is by taking a bus. There are several bus companies that operate on this route, offering a frequent and reliable service. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes, with fares ranging from €14 to €25. It is recommended to book your tickets in advance to secure your seat and get the best available price.
The journey from Cork to Galway by bus takes approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes. The bus departs hourly from Coburg Street in Cork and arrives at Galway Bus Station. This travel time includes any transfers that may be required during the journey. It is recommended to check the bus schedule in advance and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and timely journey.
There are plenty of options for accommodation in Galway, with over 327 hotels to choose from. Prices start at €57 per night, making it possible to find something to suit a range of budgets. Some popular hotels in Galway include The Galmont Hotel & Spa, The Skeffington Arms Hotel, and The Western Hotel. It is advisable to book in advance especially during peak travel seasons to secure your preferred choice of accommodation.
Yes, you can drive from Cork to Galway. The driving distance is approximately 123 miles and it takes around 2 hours and 17 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. You can take the N20 and M18 highways to get from Cork to Galway.
Yes, there is a direct bus between Cork and Galway. The bus departs from Coburg Street and arrives at Galway Bus Station, with services operating hourly, seven days a week. The journey usually takes around 3 hours and 5 minutes.
To catch the bus from Cork to Galway you will need to go to the Coburg Street station. This is where the bus services operated by Citylink depart from. When you arrive at the station, look for the designated Citylink bus stop and make sure to check the schedule for the Cork to Galway route to ensure you don't miss your bus.
The Cork to Galway bus services operated by Citylink arrive at Galway Bus Station. The bus station is conveniently located in the city center, making it easy for travelers to reach their desired destinations in Galway. Galway Bus Station is well-equipped with facilities such as ticketing counters, waiting areas, and amenities for a comfortable arrival experience. From the bus station, travelers can easily access other transportation options or explore Galway on foot.
Trains from Cork to Galway arrive at Galway station. The train journey takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes. Galway station is a centrally located transportation hub, making it convenient for travelers to explore the city and its nearby attractions.
Yes, there is no direct train between Cork and Galway. However, you can take a train from Cork to Limerick Junction, then transfer to another train from Limerick to Galway. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 5 hours and 5 minutes. It's worth noting that train services may vary depending on the day and time of travel, so it's advisable to check the schedule in advance.
To catch the train from Cork to Galway you will need to go to the Cork train station. Irish Rail operates the train services between these two cities. The train station in Cork is where you can board the train heading to Galway. Be sure to check the train schedules and purchase your tickets in advance to secure your seat on the train.
The cost of a train ticket from Cork to Galway ranges from €25 to €36. It's recommended to book in advance to secure the best fares. The train journey takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, offering scenic views of the Irish countryside along the way. Various ticket types are available, including standard, economy, and first class options, allowing passengers to choose according to their preferences and budget.
The bus fare from Cork to Galway typically ranges from €14 to €25. The exact cost may vary depending on the specific bus company and any discounts that may apply. It is advisable to check with the bus operators for the most up-to-date pricing information.
The cost of driving from Cork to Galway can vary depending on factors such as fuel prices and toll fees. On average, it can cost between €32 and €55 for a one-way trip. This estimate includes the cost of gasoline, which is around €1.40 per liter. Additionally, there may be additional expenses such as tolls on the motorway, which should be taken into account when calculating the total cost of the journey.