- Must visit
Galway City Museum
City museum covering Galway's archaeology, maritime heritage and social history, with changing exhibitions near the Spanish Arch.
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cork to Galway
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Cork to Galway among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £23 For those with little time, consider booking a coach, which has an average total journey time of 4h 26m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £23, while a train costs an average of £29.
Distance: 158 km
Compare bus with
Most popular Coach | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£23 Average Price Cheapest | £29 Average Price | £33 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 26m Average total duration Fastest 3h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 10m Average total duration 5h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 41m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cork to Galway is a coach with an average price of £23.
This is compared to other travel options from Cork to Galway:
A coach is £6 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cork to Galway costing on average £29.
The fastest way to travel from Cork to Galway is by coach with an average journey time of 3h 56m.
Other travel options to Galway take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cork and Galway including taking a train and coach.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around £23 compared to roughly £33 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £10. The journey takes 3h 56m versus 2h 41m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by Infobus, Expressway (Bus Éireann), Citylink.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Compare prices and tickets Cork to Galway by train or coach
Compare train and coach prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
23 Sept
Thu
24 Sept
24 Sept
Fri
25 Sept
25 Sept
Sat
26 Sept
26 Sept
Why should you book Cork to Galway coaches with Omio?
Irish Citylink as well as Alibus, Infobus, Expressway (Bus Éireann), Citylink and more offer coaches services from Cork to Galway.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Irish Citylink tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Irish Citylink?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Irish Citylink, but also compare tickets for the likes of Alibus, Infobus, Expressway (Bus Éireann) or Citylink to find the best option for your trip from Cork to Galway.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Irish Citylink with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cork to Galway.
ReviewsReviews for the bus trip from Cork to Galway
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
Friendly bus driverCleanWell equippedDisadvantages
NoneThe Expressway bus offers a fast and safe connection between Cork and Galway. I found the journey very positive, as the bus driver gave me a friendly welcome and left on time. In addition, the seats on the bus were very comfortable and there were enough sockets so that you can charge your mobile phone or laptop at any time. I would recommend this very pleasant journey to anyone.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cork to Galway
IrelandIreland
Buses from Cork to Galway run on average 41 times per day, taking around 3h 56m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £21 if you book in advance.
There are 22 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 07:05, the last at 18:25. The fastest coach covers the 158 km distance in 2h 50m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 158 km |
Average bus duration 3h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price £21 |
Buses per day 41 |
Direct buses 22 |
Fastest bus 2h 50m |
First bus 7:05 |
Last bus 18:25 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 70 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Bus providers: Irish Citylink, Alibus, Infobus, Expressway (Bus Éireann), Citylink from Cork to GalwayYou can travel by bus between Cork to Galway with Irish Citylink, Alibus, Infobus, Expressway (Bus Éireann), Citylink for as low as £21. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Irish Citylink
About
Irish Citylink is an Irish bus company, a subsidiary of the Singaporean company ComfortDelGro, that has been providing intercity coach travel in Ireland since 2003. They offer high-frequency express services connecting major cities, towns, and airports across Ireland, including Dublin, Galway, Limerick, Cork, and Ennis. Their fleet of modern coaches is equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, reclining seats, free Wi-Fi, and onboard toilets. Popular routes include Dublin to Galway, Galway to Dublin, and Dublin to Cork. As of May 2025, Irish Citylink operates on nine routes, including non-stop express services between Galway and Dublin City and Dublin Airport.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Irish Citylink Duration
2h 50m
Cheapest Irish Citylink Price
£18
Luggage included
Each passenger is permitted to carry one 20kg suitcase, one 10kg suitcase, and one small soft bag suitable for onboard storage.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage may be accepted if space permits, with a surcharge of €5.00 per extra item.
Cancellation Policy
Refund requests may only be made by writing to the Customer Service Team, and Citylink will only consider refunding a ticket if the cancellation is due to the company being at fault, such as a late departure.
Refund
Citylink will only consider refunding a ticket if the reason for the cancellation is in some way caused by the company being at fault, for example a late departure of a vehicle.
Unaccompagned minor
For safety reasons, children under 14 years of age will not be carried unaccompanied on any of their Express services under any circumstances.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Free water bottles are available onboard.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Irish Citylink has several wheelchair-accessible coaches on the Galway to Dublin route, but it is recommended to reach out ahead of time to ensure necessary accommodations.
Bikes
Irish Citylink will carry bicycles for €5 per bicycle, as long as there is enough room in the undercarriage.
Pets
One guide dog is permitted onboard per passenger.
Entertaiment on board
Infobus
About
Infobus is an international IT company that operates as an online service for finding and purchasing bus, train, and plane tickets, rather than being a bus company itself. Established in 2002, Infobus acts as an intermediary between passengers and various transport carriers, particularly helping smaller bus companies offer online booking services. They utilize their own \BusSystem\" to manage routes and ticket sales globally. Infobus covers over 30 countries and 300 cities, offering a wide range of routes and daily departures. While amenities can vary by carrier, Infobus aims to provide affordable and convenient travel with features like online booking, 24/7 support, and prompt notifications."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Infobus frequency
20 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; may require prior reservation and an additional fee.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets may require a separate ticket.
Alibus
About
Alibus is a bus company, managed by A.N.M. S.p.a (Azienda Napoletana Mobilita), primarily known for providing efficient airport transfer services in Italy. It connects Naples Capodichino Airport with various points in Naples, including the Central Station (Piazza Garibaldi) and the Port of Naples (Molo Angioino/Beverello and Porta di Massa). Alibus also offers airport transfers to Catania International Airport. The service is recognized for its punctuality and affordability, with buses running frequently, typically every 15 to 30 minutes, and a journey time of approximately 35 minutes between Naples Airport and the Maritime Station.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
One piece of baggage and one piece of hand luggage are allowed.
Additional luggage
For medium-sized dogs, an additional ticket is required.
Luggage storage
Ample luggage storage is available on Alibus coaches.
Cancellation Policy
The cancellation policy depends on the type of ticket chosen.
Refund
Refunds depend on the cancellation timeframe and ticket conditions, with 100% refund for cancellations more than 48 hours before departure for baseline tickets.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Pram/stroller access and dedicated wheelchair accessibility are available.
Pets
Small pets are allowed in carriers, and dogs must be muzzled and leashed; guide dogs are allowed for free.
Expressway (Bus Éireann)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Expressway (Bus Éireann) Duration
4h 20m
Cheapest Expressway (Bus Éireann) Price
£25
Expressway (Bus Éireann) frequency
10 a day
Citylink
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Citylink Duration
2h 50m
Cheapest Citylink Price
£21
Citylink frequency
6 a day
Complete guide to Galway
Things to do in Galway
Discover the best of Galway — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Galway trip today.
- Recommended
126 Artist-Run Gallery and Studios
Contemporary art gallery presenting Irish and international exhibitions, artist talks and cultural events in the city centre.
- Recommended
Galway Arts Centre
Long-running city-centre gallery showing contemporary visual art in an intimate space with a varied annual programme.
- Must visit
Shop Street
Bustling pedestrian street in the Latin Quarter known for colourful shopfronts, buskers and a lively historic atmosphere.
- Must visit
Latin Quarter
Historic quarter of narrow lanes, pubs, shops and old buildings, ideal for wandering and soaking up Galway's character.
- Must visit
Salthill Promenade
Seaside promenade stretching from the city towards Blackrock, popular for walks, bay views and a classic Galway outing.
Seafood Chowder
A creamy chowder of Atlantic fish and shellfish, often served with brown bread. It reflects Galway’s strong fishing tradition and coastal produce.
- Gluten-free
Galway Bay Oysters
Fresh oysters from nearby Galway Bay, prized for their clean briny flavour and long local shellfish heritage.
- Gluten-free
West Coast Mussels
Mussels grown in the waters of Killary or Galway Bay, usually steamed with garlic, cream or white wine. A staple of the west coast seafood scene.
Aniar
Stylish fine dining room focused on seasonal Irish ingredients and carefully prepared tasting-style dishes.
Kirwan's Lane
Long-running city centre restaurant serving Irish and European dishes with a polished but relaxed dining room.
The Quay Street Kitchen
Bustling Latin Quarter venue known for local seafood, oysters and classic Irish cooking in an informal atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate by Irish standards. Rooms and dining cost more than many EU cities, but buses and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €70+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included only sometimes. In restaurants, 10% for good service is enough. Round up taxi fares. Cafés and pubs do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
FAQs: Cork to Galway coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cork to Galway by coach. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Galway, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Cork to Galway can start from as little as £21 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Cork to Galway is £23; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by coach from Cork to Galway is 2h 50m to travel the 158 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest coach from Cork to Galway leaves at 7:05. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Cork to Galway leaves at 18:25.
Yes, there are 22 direct coaches a day from Cork to Galway with Infobus, Expressway (Bus Éireann), Citylink. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
When taking a coach from Cork to Galway, you can count on Irish Citylink, Alibus, Infobus, Expressway (Bus Éireann), Citylink for the best way to get you to Galway. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Cork and Galway and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
A trip to Galway from Cork is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a coach from Cork to Galway is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cork and Galway including taking a train and coach.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Cork to Galway:
- Alibus
- Pram/stroller access and dedicated wheelchair accessibility are available.
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
- Irish Citylink
- Irish Citylink has several wheelchair-accessible coaches on the Galway to Dublin route, but it is recommended to reach out ahead of time to ensure necessary accommodations.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Cork to Galway for coach company Infobus, Irish Citylink.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Cork to Galway depends on the coach companies:
- Alibus
- The cancellation policy depends on the type of ticket chosen.
- Infobus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
- Irish Citylink
- Refund requests may only be made by writing to the Customer Service Team, and Citylink will only consider refunding a ticket if the cancellation is due to the company being at fault, such as a late departure.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company Irish Citylink, Infobus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Cork to Galway.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Cork to Galway:
- Alibus
- One piece of baggage and one piece of hand luggage are allowed.
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
- Irish Citylink
- Each passenger is permitted to carry one 20kg suitcase, one 10kg suitcase, and one small soft bag suitable for onboard storage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Cork to Galway:
- Alibus
- For medium-sized dogs, an additional ticket is required.
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
- Irish Citylink
- Additional luggage may be accepted if space permits, with a surcharge of €5.00 per extra item.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Cork to Galway. The following conditions apply:
- Alibus
- Small pets are allowed in carriers, and dogs must be muzzled and leashed
- guide dogs are allowed for free.
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets may require a separate ticket.
- Irish Citylink
- One guide dog is permitted onboard per passenger.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Cork to Galway with the following coach company: Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Cork to Galway with the following coach company: Infobus, Alibus, Irish Citylink.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Cork to Galway with the following coach company: Infobus, Alibus, Irish Citylink.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cork and Galway
Most Cork to Galway buses use the Cork, Bishopstown Road (University Hospital - opposite) to Galway, GMIT (Old Dublin Rd) station pair, with some services arriving at Galway, Bus Station. Use this guide to compare Cork and Galway bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cork
Arrival bus stations in Galway
Cork, Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Cork, Bus Station from Cork city centre
Bus226 · 3m · £4 · every ~2 min
Cork, Bishopstown Road (University Hospital - opposite)Bishopstown, Cork, Co. Cork, Ireland
City-centre transport
Getting to Cork, Bishopstown Road (University Hospital - opposite) from Cork city centre
Bus208 · 12m · £4 · every ~11 min
208 · 16m · £4 · every ~11 min
Cork, Bishopstown Road (University Hospital - opposite) bus station facilities and services
Cork, Bishopstown Road (University Hospital - opposite) has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cork, Bishopstown Road (University Hospital - opposite): The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Cork, Western Road (Castlewhite Apts)Castlewhite Apartments, Western Rd, Mardyke, Cork, Ireland
City-centre transport
Getting to Cork, Western Road (Castlewhite Apts) from Cork city centre
Cork, Western Road (Castlewhite Apts) is 1 km from Cork city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus208 · 8m · £4 · every ~11 min
Cork, Western Road (Castlewhite Apts) bus station facilities and services
Cork, Western Road (Castlewhite Apts) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cork, Western Road (Castlewhite Apts). ATMs are available at Cork, Western Road (Castlewhite Apts).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cork, Western Road (Castlewhite Apts).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cork, Western Road (Castlewhite Apts): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cork, Western Road (Castlewhite Apts): Bus stop is accessible via pavement with a ramp.
Galway, GMIT (Old Dublin Rd)
City-centre transport
Getting to Galway, GMIT (Old Dublin Rd) from Galway city centre
Bus404, 409 · 10m · £4 · every ~14 min
251 · 11m · £8
409, 404, 402 · 13m · £3 · every ~18 min
Galway, Bus StationGalway Bus Station, Galway, Co. Galway, Ireland
City-centre transport
Getting to Galway, Bus Station from Galway city centre
Bus425 · 42m · £5
425 · 45m · £5
Galway, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Galway, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Galway, Bus Station. ATMs are aTM available near the bus station entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Galway, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Galway, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Galway, Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible with ramps.
More options for your journey from Cork to Galway
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Galway and Cork
Most popular bus connections
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
