- Recommended
Galway City Museum
City museum beside the Spanish Arch covering Galway’s archaeology, maritime history and civic heritage in a compact modern building.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Athlone to Galway
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$20
Average price
$20
Fastest journey
1 h 30 m
Average duration
1 h 30 m
Buses per day
8
Distance
75 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Athlone to Galway is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Athlone to Galway will cost around $20 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $20.
Fast buses
Of the 8 buses that leave Athlone for Galway on Sat, Jun 20, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct buses cover the 75 km distance in an average of 1 h 30 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 30 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest buses will take 1 h 30 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
8:55 AM1h30Arcadia10:25 AMGalway$201One-way0 transfers- 10:55 AM1h30Arcadia12:25 PMGalway$201One-way0 transfers
- 1:55 PM1h30Arcadia3:25 PMGalway$201One-way0 transfers
- 3:55 PM1h30Arcadia5:25 PMGalway$201One-way0 transfers
- 5:55 PM1h30Arcadia7:25 PMGalway$201One-way0 transfers
- 8:55 AM1h30Arcadia10:25 AMGalway$201One-way0 transfers
- 10:55 AM1h30Arcadia12:25 PMGalway$201One-way0 transfers
- 1:55 PM1h30Arcadia3:25 PMGalway$201One-way0 transfers
- 3:55 PM1h30Arcadia5:25 PMGalway$201One-way0 transfers
- 5:55 PM1h30Arcadia7:25 PMGalway$201One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Athlone to Galway
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Athlone to Galway among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 2m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $12, and a bus costs an average of $20.
Distance: 46 miles (75 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$20 Average price | $12 Average price Cheapest | $22 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 38m Average total duration 1h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 32m Average total duration Fastest 1h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 2m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Athlone to Galway is a train with an average price of $12 (€10).
This is compared to other travel options from Athlone to Galway:
A train is $7 (€6) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Athlone to Galway costing on average $20 (€16).
The fastest way to travel from Athlone to Galway is by train with an average journey time of 1h 2m.
Other travel options to Galway take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 8m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Athlone and Galway including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Athlone to Galway among Omio's users.
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 $20 (€16) compared to roughly $22 (€18) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $2 (€2). The journey takes 1h 8m versus 1h 2m 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 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.
Athlone to Galway Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 10:25AM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 10:55AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 01:55PM | Arrival Time 03:25PM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 03:55PM | Arrival Time 05:25PM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 05:55PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 07:55PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 09:55PM | Arrival Time 11:25PM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 11:55PM | Arrival Time 01:25AM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Live departures
Athlone to Galway bus times
The table below shows live departures for Athlone to Galway buses for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:55 AM Arcadia | 1h30 | 12:25 PM Galway | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:55 PM Arcadia | 1h30 | 3:25 PM Galway | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:55 PM Arcadia | 1h30 | 5:25 PM Galway | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:55 PM Arcadia | 1h30 | 7:25 PM Galway | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:55 PM Arcadia | 1h30 | 9:25 PM Galway | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:55 PM Arcadia | 1h30 | 11:25 PM Galway | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:55 PM Arcadia | 1h30 | 1:25 AM Galway | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
| 8:55 AM Arcadia | 1h30 | 10:25 AM Galway | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Athlone to Galway by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
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Jun 21
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Jun 26
Jun 26
Why should you book Athlone to Galway buses with Omio?
AirCoach as well as Citylink offer buses services from Athlone to Galway.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Athlone to Galway.
Why book with Omio vs AirCoach?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for AirCoach, but also compare tickets for the likes of Citylink to find the best option for your trip from Athlone 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 AirCoach with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Athlone to Galway.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Busbud or Checkmybus?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Athlone to Galway.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Athlone to Galway
IrelandIreland
Buses from Athlone to Galway run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 8m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $20 (€16) but you can travel from only $12 (€10) by train.
There are 7 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 08:55, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 46 miles (75 km) distance in 1h 30m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $12 (€10)
Distance 46 miles (75 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price $20 (€16) |
Buses per day 7 |
Direct buses 7 |
Fastest bus 1h 30m |
First bus 8:55 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 5 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $12 (€10)
Bus providers: AirCoach, Citylink from Athlone to GalwayYou can travel by bus between Athlone to Galway with AirCoach, Citylink for as low as $12 (€10). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
AirCoach
About
Aircoach is a prominent Irish private bus and coach operator, a subsidiary of FirstGroup, specializing in high-frequency airport express services. The company connects Dublin Airport with Dublin City Centre and its suburbs, as well as offering non-stop express routes to Cork, Belfast, and Derry/Londonderry. Aircoach also manages car park and staff shuttles for Dublin Airport and provides private hire contracts. Known for its modern fleet, Aircoach aims to provide comfortable travel with amenities like Wi-Fi and power outlets on many services. They operate 24 hours a day on key routes, with departures as frequent as every 15 minutes during peak times.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 4m
Cheapest Price
$16 (€13)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag up to 20 kg.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible restrooms.
Citylink
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 30m
Cheapest Price
$20 (€16)
Citylink frequency
7 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
Galway Arts Centre Gallery
Respected contemporary gallery space hosting changing exhibitions, often highlighting new Irish artists and interdisciplinary work.
The Kenny Gallery
Long-running Galway gallery known for Irish contemporary art, regular exhibitions and a strong reputation among local art lovers.
- Must visit
Latin Quarter
Galway’s most atmospheric central area, packed with medieval lanes, colorful shopfronts and lively street energy.
- Must visit
Eyre Square
Main city square and transport hub, useful as a starting point and a popular gathering place in central Galway.
- Must visit
Salthill Promenade
Classic seaside walking route with bay views, fresh Atlantic air and the famous Blackrock diving tower area.
- Gluten-free
Galway Oysters
Briny Atlantic oysters traditionally served raw with lemon. They are a signature local specialty linked to Galway Bay and the city’s long shellfish tradition.
- Gluten-free
Connemara Lamb
Locally reared lamb from nearby Connemara, prized for its rich flavor shaped by wild coastal grazing. It is a classic west of Ireland meat dish.
Seafood Chowder
A creamy soup of mixed fish and shellfish, usually served with brown bread. It is a staple in Galway’s pubs and seafood restaurants.
Kai Restaurant
A well-known Galway favorite focused on seasonal Irish ingredients, excellent produce, and a relaxed but refined dining room.
Ard Bia At Nimmos
A beloved waterside restaurant near the Spanish Arch, known for creative Irish cooking, local seafood, and a warm, rustic atmosphere.
The Quay Street Kitchen
A popular central restaurant serving Irish and European dishes, including local seafood, in a cozy and dependable city center setting.
Euro
Galway is pricey by Irish standards, especially for hotels and dining in peak season, but casual food and pubs are manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for takeaway or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- EUR 3.50-4.50 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service charge is uncommon. Tip 10-12% in restaurants for good service, round up taxis, and small change is fine in cafes; tipping is not expected in pubs unless table service is provided.
TFI Live
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.70
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Galway Coach Station, Galway -> Eyre Square, Galway
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 4 min
- TFI Live is the official app for real-time bus information and journey planning in Galway. Use it to check Bus Éireann city services before travel.
- Card payment is generally available on Bus Éireann services, but carrying a backup payment method is sensible. Have the correct fare ready if paying the driver.
FAQs: Bus from Athlone to Galway
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Athlone to Galway by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Galway, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Athlone to Galway can start from as little as $20 (€16) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Athlone to Galway is $20 (€16) ; 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 bus from Athlone to Galway is 1h 30m to travel the 46 miles (75 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Athlone to Galway leaves at 8:55 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Athlone to Galway leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 7 direct buses a day from Athlone to Galway with Citylink. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Athlone to Galway, you can count on AirCoach, Citylink for the best way to get you to Galway. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Athlone and Galway and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Galway from Athlone is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Athlone and Galway including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Athlone to Galway:
- AirCoach
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible restrooms.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Athlone to Galway for bus company AirCoach.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Galway are:
- Eyre Square, a central public park known for its historical monuments and vibrant atmosphere
- Galway Cathedral, an impressive stone cathedral featuring stunning architecture and stained glass windows
- Spanish Arch, a 16th-century stone archway and remnant of the city's medieval walls
- Galway City Museum, a cultural institution offering exhibits on local history and heritage
- Salthill Promenade, a scenic coastal walkway offering views of Galway Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
The best things to do in Galway include:
- Walk along the Salthill Promenade, offering scenic views of Galway Bay and a refreshing sea breeze
- Discover the Latin Quarter, a vibrant area filled with colorful shops, pubs, and street performers
- Explore the Claddagh, a historic fishing village known for its traditional Irish charm and iconic Claddagh ring
- Enjoy a traditional Irish music session in one of Galway's lively pubs
- Take a boat tour to the Aran Islands, offering stunning landscapes and a glimpse into traditional Irish life.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Athlone to Galway depends on the bus companies:
- AirCoach
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Athlone to Galway.
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.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Athlone to Galway.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Athlone to Galway:
- AirCoach
- One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Athlone to Galway:
- AirCoach
- 10€ per additional bag up to 20 kg.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Athlone to Galway.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Athlone to Galway with the following bus company: AirCoach
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Athlone to Galway with the following bus company: AirCoach.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Athlone to Galway with the following bus company: AirCoach.
Since neither Athlone nor Galway are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of Ireland and Ireland. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Athlone to Galway among Omio's users.
Ireland uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find using cards more convenient and widely accepted for payments, though carrying some cash can be helpful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Galway, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and during festivals. Taxi scams can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed taxis or pre-book rides. Additionally, travelers should be cautious of unofficial street vendors and avoid sharing personal information with strangers. Staying vigilant in busy nightlife spots helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
More options for your journey from Athlone to Galway
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Galway and Athlone
Most popular bus connections to Galway
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