Hiring a Coach for Cliffs of Moher & The Burren Day Trips – A Complete Guide
Introduction
The Cliffs of Moher and the Burren are two of Ireland’s most iconic natural attractions. With over a million visitors each year, they draw tourists from around the world who want to experience the dramatic sea‑cliffs, limestone karst landscape and ancient archaeological sites. For groups larger than a handful of people, hiring a coach is the safest, most economical, and most comfortable way to explore both sites in a single day. This guide walks you through everything you need to know – from route planning and cost factors to choosing the right coach company and making the most of your day trip.
Why Choose a Coach for a Day Trip?
| Advantage | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost‑effective for groups | A 50‑seat coach spreads fuel, driver and insurance costs across all passengers, often cheaper per head than multiple cars or a minibus. |
| Comfort & amenities | Modern coaches offer air‑conditioning, Wi‑Fi, USB charging, and spacious luggage compartments – essential for a full‑day outing. |
| Safety & compliance | Licensed Irish drivers are subject to strict EU driving‑hour rules, ensuring rested drivers and safe journeys on winding coastal roads. |
| Flexibility | Coaches can stop at multiple points (e.g., Dunguaire Castle, Poulnabrone Dolmen) without the need for separate tickets or transfers. |
| Environmental impact | Fewer vehicles on the road mean lower CO₂ emissions per passenger, aligning with sustainable tourism goals. |
Understanding the Route
Distances & Timing
| Leg | Approx. Distance | Typical Travel Time* |
|---|---|---|
| Galway → Burren (Kilfenora area) | 45 km | 45 min |
| Burren → Cliffs of Moher (Doolin side) | 30 km | 35 min |
| Cliffs of Moher → Galway | 77 km | 1 h 30 min |
*Times assume normal traffic and a comfortable cruising speed of 80 km/h on rural roads. Add extra time for photo stops, guided commentary and short detours to attractions such as Dunguaire Castle or the Aillwee Caves.
Typical Day‑Trip Itinerary
- 08:30 – Depart Galway – Coach picks up passengers at a central meeting point (e.g., Eyre Square).
- 09:15 – Stop at Dunguaire Castle (Kinvara) – Brief guided walk and photo opportunity.
- 10:00 – Explore the Burren – Short stops at Poulnabrone Dolmen, Kilfenora village and the Burren National Park visitor centre.
- 12:00 – Lunch in Doolin – Optional pub lunch (e.g., Gus O’Connor’s) while the coach waits.
- 13:00 – Arrive at Cliffs of Moher – Two‑hour free‑exploration window (walk the cliff‑top path, visit the visitor centre, optional boat cruise).
- 15:30 – Depart Cliffs – Return journey with possible scenic detour via the Atlantic Way.
- 17:30 – Arrive back in Galway – End of day.
How Coach Hire Pricing Works
Coach hire costs are influenced by several variables. Below is a breakdown of the main factors, drawn from industry sources such as Beechfield Coaches and Coach Price Compare.
1. Coach Size & Seating Capacity
| Vehicle Type | Seats | Typical Daily Rate (incl. driver) |
|---|---|---|
| 16‑seat minibus | 16 | €350 – €500 |
| 33‑seat mid‑size coach | 33 | €500 – €700 |
| 50‑seat full‑size coach | 50 | €650 – €900 |
| Luxury 55‑seat coach (reclining seats, on‑board toilet) | 55 | €800 – €1,100 |
Larger coaches reduce the per‑person cost when you have 30‑plus travellers.
2. Distance & Fuel
- Base kilometre rate: €1.10 – €1.50 per km (covers fuel, wear & tear).
- Total distance for the round‑trip: ~150 km → €165 – €225 additional fuel charge.
3. Duration & Driver Hours
- Standard day hire (up to 8 hours): Included in the base rate.
- Over‑night hire (if you need a driver to stay) adds €80‑€120 per night.
- Second driver (required for trips > 5 hours of driving) adds ~€70 per day.
4. Extras & Amenities
| Extra | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|
| Wi‑Fi & onboard entertainment system | €30 – €50 |
| Portable toilet (if not built‑in) | €40 – €60 |
| Full board lunch (catering) | €12 – €18 per passenger |
| Guided commentary (local historian) | €150 – €250 flat fee |
5. Seasonal Adjustments
- High season (May‑September): +10 % to 15 % due to higher demand.
- Off‑season (October‑April): May see modest discounts, especially for weekday bookings.
Example Quote (mid‑season, 45 passengers)
- 50‑seat coach: €800
- Kilometre fuel charge (150 km @ €1.30): €195
- Driver & second driver: €150
- Wi‑Fi & commentary: €200
- Total: €1,345 → €30 per passenger (including all taxes).
Choosing the Right Coach Provider
When selecting a coach hire company for a Cliffs of Moher & Burren day trip, keep the following checklist in mind:
- Licensing & Insurance – Verify that the operator holds a valid Irish National Transport Authority (NTA) licence and comprehensive public liability insurance.
- Fleet Modernity – Newer coaches (built after 2018) meet Euro 6 emission standards and provide better fuel efficiency.
- Driver Experience – Look for drivers with at least 5 years of long‑distance experience and a clean driving record.
- Customer Reviews – Check TripAdvisor, Google and the Irish Coaches Association (ICA) recommendations for reliability and punctuality.
- Transparent Pricing – The provider should give a detailed breakdown (vehicle, mileage, driver, extras) and a clear cancellation policy.
- Flexibility for Stops – Some companies charge extra for multiple pick‑ups or drop‑offs; ensure this is included in the quote if you plan to visit several Burren sites.
Recommended Companies (as of 2025)
| Company | Fleet Highlights | Typical Day‑Trip Rate (50‑seat) |
|---|---|---|
| Beechfield Coaches (Dublin) | Euro 6 coaches, Wi‑Fi, on‑board toilets | €750 – €900 |
| Fitzy Coaches (Galway) | New low‑floor coaches, optional guide | €800 – €1,000 |
| Travel Ireland Coaches (Limerick) | Luxury coaches with panoramic windows | €850 – €1,150 |
| Eirebus (Nationwide) | Wide range of sizes, competitive rates | €700 – €950 |
*Rates are indicative; always request a personalised quote.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Day Trip
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Book early (at least 4 weeks in advance) | High‑season demand can lock out the best coaches and increase prices. |
| Confirm the exact pick‑up location and parking | Many Galway city centres have limited coach bays; pre‑arrange a suitable spot. |
| Ask for a dedicated guide or audio commentary | Enhances the visitor experience, especially in the Burren where geological facts are fascinating. |
| Prepare for weather | The Atlantic coast can be windy and rainy; ensure the coach has adequate heating and that passengers bring waterproof clothing. |
| Communicate dietary needs | If you arrange a lunch on board or at a pub, inform the caterer ahead of time. |
| Check accessibility | Modern coaches are wheelchair‑friendly; confirm any special requirements with the operator. |
| Plan fuel stops | Although the route is short, a fuel top‑up before the Cliffs ensures no unexpected delays. |
| Carry a printed itinerary | Useful for the driver and passengers, especially in areas with limited mobile signal. |
Environmental Impact – The Green Advantage
A single 50‑seat coach carrying 45 passengers emits roughly 30 % less CO₂ per passenger than the same group travelling in separate cars. Many Irish coach companies now offset their carbon footprint through reforestation projects or invest in bio‑fuel blends. When hiring, ask the provider about their sustainability initiatives – a small extra cost can contribute to greener tourism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How many people are needed to make a coach cost‑effective?
A: For a 50‑seat coach, the break‑even point is around 20‑25 passengers. Below that, a 16‑seat minibus may be more economical.
Q2: Can we customise the route?
A: Yes. Most operators will accommodate additional stops (e.g., a quick visit to the Aillwee Caves) for a modest extra mileage charge.
Q3: What happens if the weather forces a cancellation?
A: Reputable companies offer a flexible cancellation policy – usually a full refund up to 48 hours before departure, or a reschedule option.
Q4: Are drivers licensed to operate in Northern Ireland if we want to extend the trip?
A: Irish‑registered coaches can cross the border, but you must confirm the driver holds a valid EU licence and that the vehicle complies with UK road regulations.
Q5: Is a licence required for private groups?
A: No. Private group hires do not need a special public service licence, but the operator must still meet all NTA safety standards.
Conclusion
Hiring a coach for a Cliffs of Moher and Burren day trip combines convenience, safety, and value for groups of any size. By understanding the key cost drivers – vehicle size, distance, duration, and optional extras – you can obtain a transparent quote and avoid hidden fees. Choose a reputable provider with modern, well‑maintained coaches, and plan your itinerary to maximise the spectacular scenery, historic sites and local hospitality that make this part of Ireland world‑renowned. With the right preparation, your group will enjoy a seamless, memorable adventure along one of Ireland’s most breathtaking coastal corridors.