- Recommended
Galway City Museum
City museum beside the Spanish Arch with exhibits on Galway’s archaeology, maritime history, and civic life. A strong first stop for understanding the city.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cork to Galway
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cork to Galway among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $29. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 55m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $29, and a train costs an average of $32.
Distance: 98 miles (158 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$32 Average price Cheapest | $40 Average price | $46 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 25m Average total duration Fastest 3h 55m 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 bus with an average price of $32 (€26).
This is compared to other travel options from Cork to Galway:
A bus is $8 (€6) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cork to Galway costing on average $40 (€32).
The fastest way to travel from Cork to Galway is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 55m.
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 bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cork 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 $32 (€26) compared to roughly $46 (€37) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $13 (€11). The journey takes 3h 55m 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.
Cork to Galway Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 07:25AM | Arrival Time 11:45AM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 11:05AM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 08:25AM | Arrival Time 12:45PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 09:25AM | Arrival Time 01:45PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 10:25AM | Arrival Time 02:45PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 11:25AM | Arrival Time 03:45PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 04:45PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 01:25PM | Arrival Time 05:45PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 02:25PM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 03:25PM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 07:05PM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 04:25PM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 05:25PM | Arrival Time 09:45PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 06:25PM | Arrival Time 10:45PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 10:05PM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 08:15PM | Arrival Time 11:05PM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $29 |
Compare prices and tickets Cork 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.
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Why should you book Cork to Galway buses with Omio?
Irish Citylink as well as Alibus, Infobus, Expressway (Bus Éireann), Citylink and more offer buses 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 56 times per day, taking around 3h 55m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $29 (€23) if you book in advance.
There are 23 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 07:05, the last at 18:25. The fastest bus covers the 98 miles (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 98 miles (158 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $29 (€23) |
Buses per day 56 |
Direct buses 23 |
Fastest bus 2h 50m |
First bus 7:05 AM |
Last bus 6:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 $29 (€23). 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 Duration
2h 50m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€20)
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 Duration
4h 20m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€28)
Expressway (Bus Éireann) frequency
10 a day
Citylink
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 50m
Cheapest Price
$29 (€23)
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.
The Galway Arts Centre
Contemporary visual arts venue presenting rotating exhibitions by Irish and international artists in the city centre. Popular with locals seeking current cultural programming.
126 Artist-Run Gallery
Independent artist-run gallery known for experimental contemporary exhibitions and emerging practices. A good lesser-known stop for Galway’s current art scene.
- Must visit
Latin Quarter
Galway’s most atmospheric central quarter, packed with medieval lanes, street life, music, and historic character. Essential for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Salthill Prom
Famous seaside promenade with sweeping views over Galway Bay. Ideal for a scenic walk, sunset photos, and a classic local experience.
- Recommended
Eyre Square
Central public square and transport hub, useful as both a meeting point and a place to experience the city’s everyday rhythm.
- Gluten-free
Galway Oysters
Famous Atlantic oysters served raw or dressed. They are a signature Galway specialty, celebrated for their fresh, briny taste and strong link to the bay.
Seafood Chowder
A creamy soup of local fish and shellfish, usually served with brown bread. It is a staple on the west coast and showcases Galway's strong seafood tradition.
- Gluten-free
Irish Stew
A traditional slow-cooked stew usually made with lamb, potatoes, onions, and carrots. It is classic comfort food found across Ireland, including Galway pubs.
Kai Restaurant
A highly regarded Galway restaurant known for seasonal Irish ingredients, thoughtful cooking, and a simple but stylish neighborhood feel.
The Quay Street Kitchen
A popular central restaurant serving modern Irish and European dishes with strong seafood options in a relaxed, lively setting.
Ard Bia At Nimmos
A well-known waterside restaurant near the Spanish Arch, praised for creative Irish cooking, local produce, and a warm rustic atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate by Irish standards. Pubs and casual dining are manageable, but hotels and summer weekends cost more.
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 at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3.50-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. In restaurants, 10% for good service is typical if not included. Round up taxis. Tipping in pubs and cafes is optional, not expected.
TFI Live
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.55
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Galway Coach Station, Galway -> Eyre Square, Galway
- Distance
- 0.2 km
- Travel time
- 3 min
- Leap Card fares are usually cheaper than cash fares on TFI city buses in Galway.
- Card payment is not generally available on board Bus Éireann city buses, so use cash or a Leap Card.
FAQs: Bus from Cork to Galway
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cork 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 Cork to Galway can start from as little as $29 (€23) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cork to Galway is $32 (€26) ; 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 Cork to Galway is 2h 50m to travel the 98 miles (158 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 Cork to Galway leaves at 7:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cork to Galway leaves at 6:25 PM.
Yes, there are 23 direct buses a day from Cork to Galway with Infobus, Expressway (Bus Éireann), Citylink. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus 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 bus companies who offer a service between Cork and Galway and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus 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 bus 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 bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus 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 bus from Cork to Galway for bus company Irish Citylink, Infobus.
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 Cork to Galway depends on the bus 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 bus with bus 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.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Cork to Galway.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus 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 bus 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 bus 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 bus from Cork to Galway with the following bus company: Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cork to Galway with the following bus company: Irish Citylink, Alibus, Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cork to Galway with the following bus company: Irish Citylink, Alibus, Infobus.
Since neither Cork 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 Cork 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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Cork to Galway
Cork
Galway
The major bus station for departures in Cork is Cork, Bishopstown Road (University Hospital - opposite). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cork, Bishopstown Road (University Hospital - opposite) for your trip from Cork to Galway.
Cork, Bishopstown Road (University Hospital - opposite)
Amenities at bus station
Accessibilityinformation
Accessibility
- The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible
Cork, Bus Station
information
Cork, Western Road (Castlewhite Apts)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Galway is Galway, GMIT (Old Dublin Rd). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Galway, GMIT (Old Dublin Rd) for your trip to Galway from Cork.
Galway, GMIT (Old Dublin Rd)
information
Galway, Bus Station
information
Most popular bus connections from Cork
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 to Galway
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