- 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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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Waterford to Galway
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Waterford to Galway among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $33. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 53m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $33, and a bus costs an average of $48.
Distance: 106 miles (172 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$53 Average price | $36 Average price Cheapest | $49 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 23m Average total duration Fastest 3h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 8m Average total duration 6h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Waterford to Galway is a train with an average price of $36 (€30).
This is compared to other travel options from Waterford to Galway:
A train is $17 (€14) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Waterford to Galway costing on average $53 (€43).
The fastest way to travel from Waterford to Galway is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 53m.
Other travel options to Galway take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 38m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Waterford and Galway including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Waterford to Galway among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -1h -35m sooner (3h 53m by bus vs 3h 18m by car) and save roughly $-3.82 (€-3.13) compared to fuel and tolls ($53 (€43) vs $49 (€40)). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by Infobus.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Waterford to Galway Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Dublin Coach | Departure Time 06:25AM | Arrival Time 12:45PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator Dublin Coach | Departure Time 08:25AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 09:05AM | Arrival Time 03:45PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator Dublin Coach | Departure Time 10:25AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 11:05AM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator Dublin Coach | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator Piltown Coaches | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 01:05PM | Arrival Time 07:05PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator Dublin Coach | Departure Time 02:25PM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 09:45PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator Dublin Coach | Departure Time 04:25PM | Arrival Time 10:05PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator Expressway (Bus Éireann) | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 11:05PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator Dublin Coach | Departure Time 10:25PM | Arrival Time 11:05AM | Duration 12h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $48 |
Compare prices and tickets Waterford 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 Waterford to Galway buses with Omio?
Alibus as well as Infobus, Dublin Coach, Piltown Coaches, Expressway (Bus Éireann) and more offer buses services from Waterford to Galway.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Alibus tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Alibus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Alibus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Infobus, Dublin Coach, Piltown Coaches or Expressway (Bus Éireann) to find the best option for your trip from Waterford 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 Alibus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Waterford to Galway.
Why book with Omio over Busbud or Checkmybus?
- Official reseller: Alibus tickets can only be bought on Omio or Alibus's website as Omio is the only official third party seller for Alibus tickets. Busbud or Checkmybus do not sell Alibus tickets as they are not official sellers.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Waterford to Galway.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Waterford to Galway
IrelandIreland
Buses from Waterford to Galway run on average 119 times per day, taking around 3h 53m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $48 (€39) but you can travel from only $33 (€27) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 07:05, the last at 17:10. The fastest bus covers the 106 miles (172 km) distance in 4h 20m.
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 $33 (€27)
Distance 106 miles (172 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $48 (€39) |
Buses per day 119 |
Fastest bus 4h 20m |
First bus 7:05 AM |
Last bus 5:10 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $33 (€27)
Bus providers: Alibus, Infobus, Dublin Coach, Piltown Coaches, Expressway (Bus Éireann) from Waterford to GalwayYou can travel by bus between Waterford to Galway with Alibus, Infobus, Dublin Coach, Piltown Coaches, Expressway (Bus Éireann) for as low as $33 (€27). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
39 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
Seat reservation
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.
Dublin Coach
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 40m
Cheapest Price
$48 (€39)
Dublin Coach frequency
6 a day
Piltown Coaches
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 20m
Piltown Coaches frequency
1 a day
Expressway (Bus Éireann)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 0m
Cheapest Price
$56 (€46)
Expressway (Bus Éireann) frequency
4 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 Waterford to Galway
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Waterford 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 Waterford to Galway can start from as little as $48 (€39) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Waterford to Galway is $53 (€43) ; 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 Waterford to Galway is 4h 20m to travel the 106 miles (172 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 Waterford to Galway leaves at 7:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Waterford to Galway leaves at 5:10 PM.
There are 119 buses a day from Waterford to Galway which require at least one change with Alibus, Infobus, Dublin Coach, Piltown Coaches, Expressway (Bus Éireann). Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Waterford to Galway, you can count on Alibus, Infobus, Dublin Coach, Piltown Coaches, Expressway (Bus Éireann) for the best way to get you to Galway. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Waterford and Galway and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Galway from Waterford is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Waterford to Galway is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Waterford and Galway including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Waterford to Galway:
- Alibus
- Pram/stroller access and dedicated wheelchair accessibility are available.
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Waterford to Galway for bus company 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 Waterford 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company 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 Waterford to Galway.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Waterford 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).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Waterford to Galway:
- Alibus
- For medium-sized dogs, an additional ticket is required.
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Waterford 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.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Waterford to Galway with the following bus company: Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Waterford to Galway with the following bus company: Alibus, Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Waterford to Galway with the following bus company: Alibus, Infobus.
Since neither Waterford 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 Waterford 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 Waterford to Galway
Waterford
Galway
The major bus station for departures in Waterford is Waterford, Cork Road (Whitfield Clinic). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Waterford, Cork Road (Whitfield Clinic) for your trip from Waterford to Galway.
Waterford, Cork Road (Whitfield Clinic)
information
Waterford, Bus Station
information
Waterford, Parnell Street (College)
information
The major bus station for arrivals 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 to Galway from Waterford.
Galway, Bus Station
information
Galway, GMIT (Old Dublin Rd)
information
Most popular bus connections from Waterford
More options for your journey from Waterford to Galway
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Galway and Waterford
Most popular bus connections to Galway
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