- Must visit
Crawford Art Gallery
Major public gallery in central Cork with Irish and European art, sculpture casts, and regular temporary exhibitions.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Galway to Cork
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Galway to Cork among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 57m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $28, 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 | $41 Average price | $45 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 27m Average total duration Fastest 3h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 15m Average total duration 4h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 48m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Galway to Cork is a bus with an average price of $32 (€26).
This is compared to other travel options from Galway to Cork:
A bus is $9 (€7) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Galway to Cork costing on average $41 (€33).
The fastest way to travel from Galway to Cork is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 57m.
Other travel options to Cork take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 45m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Galway and Cork including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Galway to Cork 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 $45 (€37) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $13 (€11). The journey takes 3h 57m versus 2h 48m 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.
Galway to Cork Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 07:05AM | Arrival Time 11:25AM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 08:05AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 11:30AM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 09:05AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 10:05AM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 11:05AM | Arrival Time 03:25PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 12:05PM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 01:05PM | Arrival Time 05:25PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 02:05PM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 04:05PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 06:05PM | Arrival Time 10:25PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Citylink | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 10:20PM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $28 |
Compare prices and tickets Galway to Cork by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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 Galway to Cork buses with Omio?
Irish Citylink as well as Alibus, Infobus, Expressway (Bus Éireann), Citylink and more offer buses services from Galway to Cork.
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 Galway to Cork.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Galway to Cork.
ReviewsReviews for the bus trip from Galway to Cork
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
nice staffcleanSafely drivenDisadvantages
noneI travelled from Galway, Bus Station to Cork, Bus Station on the Expressway Bus. I found it to be a very pleasant journey as I was greeted very warmly by the bus driver and the bus was very well maintained inside. It was also a quiet journey where you could relax and the bus driver didn't drive faster or slower than the speed limit, so we were on time and it was a safe journey. I would happily travel like this again.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Galway to Cork
IrelandIreland
Buses from Galway to Cork run on average 99 times per day, taking around 3h 57m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $28 (€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 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $28 (€23) |
Buses per day 99 |
Direct buses 23 |
Fastest bus 2h 50m |
First bus 7:05 AM |
Last bus 6:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 42 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 Galway to CorkYou can travel by bus between Galway to Cork with Irish Citylink, Alibus, Infobus, Expressway (Bus Éireann), Citylink for as low as $28 (€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
23 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
$28 (€23)
Citylink frequency
6 a day
Complete guide to Cork
Things to do in Cork
Discover the best of Cork — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cork trip today.
- Must visit
Cork City Gaol Museum
Atmospheric former prison museum with recreated cells and exhibits on 19th-century penal life in Cork.
- Recommended
Cork Public Museum
Local history museum in Fitzgerald Park covering Cork's archaeology, civic history, and cultural heritage.
- Must visit
St Patrick's Street
Cork's main shopping street and civic spine, ideal for first-time visitors exploring the city centre.
- Must visit
Shandon
Historic hillside district famous for steep streets, colourful houses, and classic views over Cork.
- Recommended
Oliver Plunkett Street
Lively central street known for colourful shopfronts, pedestrian-friendly atmosphere, and social-media-friendly city scenes.
- Gluten-free
Drisheen
A traditional Cork blood sausage, gently spiced and usually served with tripe. It is one of the city’s most distinctive old-fashioned specialities.
- Gluten-free
Tripe And Drisheen
A classic Cork pairing of slow-cooked tripe with drisheen, strongly associated with the city’s culinary identity and older local eating traditions.
- Gluten-free
Bacon And Cabbage
A traditional Irish meal of boiled or braised bacon with cabbage and often potatoes. It is a familiar comfort dish in Cork homes and pubs.
The English Market
Cork’s historic covered market, ideal for sampling local produce, seafood, drisheen, and traditional foods from long-established traders.
Jacques
A long-running restaurant with a strong reputation for French-influenced cooking and excellent Cork seafood in an intimate setting.
Elbow Lane Brew And Smoke House
A well-known casual spot for smoked meats, steaks, craft beer, and a buzzy atmosphere near the Opera House.
Euro
Costs are moderate by Irish standards. Pubs and casual dining are reasonable, while hotels and fine dining can be pricey in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60-100+ per person at upscale venues.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, 10% is common for good service if not already added. Round up taxis. Small change is fine in cafes; tipping in pubs is uncommon.
TFI Live
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.90
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Cork Bus Station, Cork -> Patrick Street, Cork
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Leap Card fares are usually cheaper than cash fares on Bus Éireann city services in Cork.
- Card payment on board is not consistently available on all buses, so use a Leap Card or carry cash when possible.
FAQs: Bus from Galway to Cork
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Galway to Cork 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 Cork, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Galway to Cork can start from as little as $28 (€23) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Galway to Cork 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 Galway to Cork 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 Galway to Cork leaves at 7:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Galway to Cork leaves at 6:25 PM.
Yes, there are 23 direct buses a day from Galway to Cork with Infobus, Expressway (Bus Éireann), Citylink. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Galway to Cork, you can count on Irish Citylink, Alibus, Infobus, Expressway (Bus Éireann), Citylink for the best way to get you to Cork. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Galway and Cork and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cork from Galway 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 Galway to Cork is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Galway and Cork including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Galway to Cork:
- 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 Galway to Cork for bus company Irish Citylink, Infobus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cork are:
- Blarney Castle, a historic castle known for the Blarney Stone which is said to grant the gift of eloquence
- St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, a Gothic Revival cathedral with impressive architecture and intricate stained glass windows
- English Market, a covered market offering a variety of local produce and artisanal foods
- Cork City Gaol, a former prison now serving as a museum with exhibits on 19th-century prison life
- Fitzgerald Park, a public park featuring landscaped gardens, sculptures, and a museum dedicated to Cork's history.
The best things to do in Cork include:
- Take a scenic walk along the River Lee, enjoying the picturesque views and vibrant atmosphere
- Explore the vibrant street art scene in Cork, discovering colorful murals and creative expressions throughout the city
- Attend a traditional Irish music session at a local pub, experiencing the lively culture and music of Cork
- Visit the Crawford Art Gallery, showcasing an impressive collection of Irish and European art
- Enjoy a boat tour of Cork Harbour, taking in the stunning coastal scenery and learning about the area's maritime history.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Galway to Cork 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 Galway to Cork.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Galway to Cork:
- 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 Galway to Cork:
- 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 Galway to Cork. 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 Galway to Cork with the following bus company: Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Galway to Cork with the following bus company: Irish Citylink, Alibus, Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Galway to Cork with the following bus company: Irish Citylink, Alibus, Infobus.
Since neither Galway nor Cork 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 Galway to Cork 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 Cork, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Avoid unlicensed taxi services and always use official transportation options. Be wary of distraction scams where someone may try to divert your attention to steal belongings. It's also advisable to keep an eye on personal items and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night.
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 Galway to Cork
Galway
Cork
The major bus station for departures in Galway is Galway, Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Galway, Bus Station for your trip from Galway to Cork.
Galway, Bus Station
information
Galway, GMIT (Old Dublin Rd)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Cork is Cork, Curraheen Road (Marymount Hospice). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cork, Curraheen Road (Marymount Hospice) for your trip to Cork from Galway.
Cork, Curraheen Road (Marymount Hospice)
information
Cork, Bus Station
information
Cork, Sheares Street (Mercy Hospital)
information
Most popular bus connections from Galway
More options for your journey from Galway to Cork
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cork and Galway
Most popular bus connections to Cork
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