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Galway, Galway County to Cork, County Cork from $15: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Galway, Ireland
to
Cork, Ireland

How to Get from Galway to Cork: 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
120 milesDistance
2h 17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Galway to Cork 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 Éireann, Expressway
Bus
Average Duration
2h  50m
Estimated price
$15-27
Recommended
route map
Distance: 120 miles
Duration: 2h 17m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Irish Rail
Train
Average Duration
4h  16m
Estimated price
$27-41
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  17m
Estimated price
$35-60

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $10 $10 $10 $10 $10 $10 $10
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Traveling From Galway to Cork

Traveling from Galway to Cork presents you with a rich contrast between Galway's vibrant arts scene and Cork's charming culinary delights.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cork

Cork boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Shandon
• Home to the iconic Shandon Bells tower.
• Features vibrant craft shops and local markets.
Cork City Centre
• Bustling with shops, cafes, and cultural spots.
• The main area for nightlife and entertainment.
Blackrock
• Scenic riverside walks with stunning views.
• Famous for the historical Blackrock Castle.

Best Times To Visit Cork's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Cork by visiting popular attractions at optimal times.

English Market
Visit early morning or late afternoon for a quieter shopping experience.
Cork City Gaol
Weekdays are ideal to explore this historic site without large groups.
Blarney Castle
Arrive early or late in the day to enjoy peaceful grounds and views.

Cork Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cork experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild, rainy winters and cool summers; the best times to visit are late spring and early autumn when the weather is generally pleasant. Being prepared for rain and varying temperatures can greatly enhance your travel experience, ensuring you enjoy everything the city has to offer.

Dining in Cork: A Taste of Local Delights

Try the seafood chowder at The Fish Wife, where fresh local ingredients and a cozy atmosphere create a delightful contrast to Galway’s lively pub fare. You’ll find that Cork’s emphasis on artisanal produce and seafood offers a unique flavor experience that showcases the region’s culinary heritage.

Galway - Cork operators

Explore transport companies operating between Galway and Cork, 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 ATU Galway City to Coburg Street

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$15-25
Contact phone
+353 1 836 6111
Website
https://www.buseireann.ie/

Bus from Galway Bus Station to Parnell Place

Average Duration
4h 20m
Estimated price
$18-25
Contact phone
0818 836611
Website
https://www.expressway.ie/

Bus from Galway Bus Station to Cork Bus Station Parnell Place

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 Galway to Limerick

Average Duration
1h 57m
Estimated price
$12-18

Train from Limerick Junction to Cork

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$10-15

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

Traveling between Galway and Cork 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 Galway to Cork covering 123 miles through picturesque landscapes and charming towns. 💰 Indulge in the freedom of a self-drive adventure, with prices ranging from €32 to €55 to journey from Galway to Cork by car. 🌳 Immerse yourself in the Irish countryside as you make the 2-hour and 17-minute drive, savoring the journey as much as the destination itself.
Average price
€32 - €55
🛤️ The total travel time from Galway to Cork by train is approximately 4 hours and 16 minutes, providing a comfortable and relaxing way to explore the Irish countryside en route to your destination. 💰 Tickets for the train between Galway and Cork typically range from €25 to €38, offering an affordable and efficient transportation option for travelers looking to experience both cities during their Irish adventure.
Departure Point
Galway station
Arrival Point
Cork station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard catering services on the Irish Rail trains offer a range of refreshments, including hot and cold beverages, snacks, and sandwiches. The service varies by train and time of day—some trains might offer a full café service while others have a trolley service. Make sure to bring some cash or a credit card, as not all trains accept cashless payments.
• For your journey from Galway to Cork, Irish Rail provides different seating options: Standard Class (Economy) and First Class. Standard Class seats are comfortable and affordable, while First Class offers larger seats, more legroom, and quieter passenger areas. First Class also includes complimentary refreshments on some services, so check the specific train schedule when booking.
• Multiple operators service the route between Galway and Cork, primarily Irish Rail. You can check out their services on their website: irishrail.ie Additionally, you can look up schedules and book tickets on Trainline's site: thetrainline.com Make sure to review local transport options at Cork station upon arrival.
🚌 The journey from Galway to Cork by bus is convenient and efficient. Citylink operates direct services departing hourly from ATU Galway City to Coburg Street, taking approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes. 🚌 With ticket prices ranging from €14 to €25, taking the bus from Galway to Cork is not only affordable but also a comfortable way to travel between these two vibrant Irish cities. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey as you explore the beauty of the Emerald Isle.
Departure Point
ATU Galway City station
Arrival Point
Coburg Street station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your ticket in advance through the Citylink website (citylink.ie) to secure the best fares, as prices can range from €13 to €24 depending on availability.
• During your roughly 2-hour and 50-minute journey, enjoy the scenic views along the N20 route; the bus provides panoramic windows perfect for taking photos of the beautiful Irish countryside.
• Upon arrival at Coburg Street station in Cork, look for the clearly marked information desk if you need assistance or directions; it's also the main hub for local buses, so check the transport schedules to plan your next move efficiently (corkcity.ie).

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Galway to Cork.

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The distance between Galway and Cork is approximately 99 miles, or 122.8 miles if you choose to drive. By train, it takes around 5 hours and 9 minutes to reach Cork from Galway. If you prefer to drive, it takes about 2 hours and 17 minutes to reach Galway from Cork. Alternatively, the bus journey from Galway to Cork typically takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Galway to Cork is by bus, with tickets costing between €14 and €24. This option takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes. However, if you are looking for a quicker option, driving would be the best choice. Although it is more expensive, with estimated costs ranging from €32 to €54, it only takes approximately 2 hours and 17 minutes to reach Cork from Galway by car.
When traveling from Galway to Cork, the prices of a train ticket range from €24 to €36. The prices of a bus ticket for the same journey vary from €14 to €24. It is recommended to check the websites or contact the train and bus companies for the most up-to-date pricing information. Additionally, prices may vary depending on the time of travel and any promotional offers that may be available.
To get from Galway to Cork without using public transportation, you can drive by car. The driving distance is approximately 123 miles and it takes about 2 hours and 17 minutes to reach Cork from Galway by car. The prices to rent a car and drive from Galway to Cork range from €32 to €54. Driving offers flexibility and convenience as it allows you to explore the scenic route and stop at any attractions along the way.
The most convenient way to travel from Galway to Cork without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes and tickets range from €14 to €24. Buses operate regularly between the two cities and provide a comfortable and affordable option for travelers. It is recommended to check the bus schedule in advance and book your tickets in order to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Yes, there is a direct link between Galway and Cork by bus. Citylink operates a bus service that departs from ATU Galway City and arrives at Coburg Street in Cork. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, with buses departing hourly. However, there is no direct train service between the two cities. Passengers would need to take a train from Galway to Limerick and then transfer to another train to reach Cork, which takes approximately 5 hours and 9 minutes.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Cork with over 165 hotels to choose from. Prices for these hotels start at €62 per night. Whether you are looking for budget-friendly options or more luxurious accommodations, there are various options to suit different preferences and budgets. It is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability and to find the best deals.