If you want a stress-free start to your Irish holiday, Ireland West Airport is a gem. It’s efficient, family friendly, and surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in Ireland. In just over one hour from stepping off your plane, you can be sipping a pint in Galway city or hiking your way through Connemara. So, skip the chaos and fly into tranquility, your West of Ireland adventure starts here.
Located near the border of County Galway, Ireland West Airport (formerly known as Knock Airport) is a compact and hassle-free airport that brings you to the heart of the stunning Irish west coast. Whether you’re on your way to visit the buzzing streets of Galway city, to explore the unique attractions in Connemara, to celebrate a hen or stag party in Westport, or jetting off to another part of Ireland entirely, Ireland West Airport is the best starting point for your visit.
above: Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point at Sky Road, Clifden, Connemara
Things to do near Ireland West Airport
Ireland West Airport is all about ease and convenience. It’s known for short queues, quick turnarounds, and being wonderfully compact, so you’ll be out of the terminal and on your way in no time. It’s also ideal for exploring some world-famous Irish attractions, including;
The Wild Atlantic Way - A famous scenic coastal driving route
The Wild Atlantic Way is perhaps Ireland's most scenic and breathtaking coastal route. The 2600km (1600 miles) of rugged landscapes and expansive blue waters off Ireland’s West Coast is an absolute wonder. The route features 157 designated Discovery Points, with dozens of those Discover Points located in County Galway. Tap here to see some of the sights you can’t miss along this route
Galway City - A cultural city known for its festivals
Galway City is a lively and vibrant destination on the West Coast of Ireland. A hub for both culture and craic, Galway is a must-visit city in Ireland. From incredible events and festivals to a vibrant food and drink scene, there is something for everyone. The Spanish Arch, Blackrock Diving Tower, and The Long Walk are just a handful of the iconic sights you need to see in the city. Galway city is a treasure trove of boundless adventure, just waiting for your discovery so tap here discover the top things to see, do, and explore in Galway City.
above: Clifden town centre
Clifden, the Capital of Connemara and Kylemore Abbey
If you have been researching the best places to visit in Ireland, you've likely come across Connemara, a breathtaking region known for its rugged landscapes and rich heritage. At the heart of it all is its capital, Clifden. This charming coastal town in County Galway is a must-visit destination, offering stunning scenery, top attractions, boutique shopping, incredible dining experiences, and some of the best accommodations in the region. Just north of Clifden town, the gorgeous Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Gardens offer days of fun. It is incredibly family-friendly and across its 1,000 acre estate there is so much to experience; the magnificent and romantic abbey, neo-gothic church, mausoleum, woodland walks, onsite gift shop and of course, the beautiful Victorian walled garden.
Westport, a colourful seaside town in Mayo and Croagh Patrick
Westport in County Mayo is a wonderfully picturesque town located on the shores of Clew Bay. With Ireland’s holy mountain, Croagh Patrick, standing proudly over the town, and its breathtaking coastal location, Westport is an easy must-visit on your trip to Ireland. The town is famous for its pub scene, with traditional music to be heard in abundance. Throw in a visit to some of its incredible restaurants and you’ll have a trip to remember. It’s no wonder that Westport is such a popular choice for hen and stag parties.
above: The Wormhole on Inis Mór, The Aran Islands
The Aran Islands - Ireland’s island oasis
Located off Ireland’s west coast, in Galway Bay, the Aran Islands is made up of an enchanting archipelago comprising Inishmore (Inis Mór), Inishmaan (Inis Meáin), and Inisheer (Inis Oírr). These are a must-visit destination for travellers to Ireland. Whether you’re drawn to the dramatic cliffs, ancient ruins, traditional Gaelic culture, or the beautiful, peaceful environment of the islands, each of the Aran Islands offers a unique experience while preserving a timeless atmosphere. Getting to the Aran Islands is an adventure in itself. Aran Island Ferries depart daily from Rossaveal in County Galway, taking you on a scenic journey across Galway Bay to your island of choice. They run a seasonal route from the Galway Docks to Inis Mór throughout the summer, with the return journey passing by the spectacular Cliffs of Moher. For ferry timetables and bookings visit, www.aranislandferries.com for up-to-date travel information.
The Burren & The Cliffs of Moher
No visit to Galway would be complete without experiencing a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher, where sheer rock faces plunge into the roaring Atlantic, offering one of the most awe-inspiring vistas in all of Ireland. Nearby, the Burren National Park covering 1,800 hectares in the southeastern corner of the Burren in County Clare, draws its name from the Irish boíreann, or rocky place. It’s internationally famous for its landscape and unique flora, and well worth a visit while in Ireland.
Getting to Galway from Ireland West Airport
Galway is one of the most popular destinations from Ireland West Airport and for good reason. It’s a vibrant city and county on Ireland’s west coast, known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional Irish bars and restaurants, and stunning natural landscapes. Just outside the city, you’ll find Lough Corrib, one of Ireland’s largest lakes, perfect for boating, fishing, and outdoor activities. The city is also a gateway to the Gaeltacht in Connemara, one of Ireland's Irish-speaking regions, where you can experience the native language and culture firsthand.
Here are the best ways to travel to Galway from Ireland West Airport:
For an easy guide on how best to get to your destination, avail of Ireland West Airport’s easy-to-use journey planner for a stress-free travel. See here.
By Car
Best for: Flexibility and travelling more scenic routes.
Car Hire: Available from Ireland West Airport. A number of internationally recognised car hire brands such as Budget, Avis, Europcar Rentals and Hertz, provide services from the airport. Certain airlines have agreements with these companies so special rates may be available. Check with your airline for more information. To prebook, contact your desired car hire company directly, tap here for contact details.
Drive time: Galway City - just over one hour
Route: Take the N17 South, and from there it’s a straight route down to Galway. Our advice? - Stop in Claremorris (Mayo) or Tuam (Galway) along the way for a coffee, bite to eat and to stretch your legs. Please note; driving in Ireland is on the left hand side, and speed limits vary.
above: photo courtesy of Fáilte Ireland
By Bus
Best for: Budget-conscious travellers and non drivers.
Transportation Provider: Bus Éireann runs connections from Ireland West Airport to Galway, Mayo and beyond. Ireland West Airport is served directly by Expressway Route 64 & Bus Éireann Route 440 which provide regular services throughout the day, seven days a week. For more information on both of these routes and to book your ticket(s) to your desired destination tap here.
Journey Time: Approximately two hours
Tickets: €13.60 or €17. Tickets can be purchased online or onboard.
Thanks to the national bus provider, Bus Éireann, it’s never been easier to travel by bus from Ireland West Airport. Regular connections are available connecting the airport to towns and villages in Donegal, Galway, Sligo and Mayo with additional connecting services servicing Leitrim, Roscommon and counties in the Midlands region. Our advice? - Check out Bus Éireann’s range of tourist passes which are designed to provide maximum value and flexibility. These passes permit unlimited travel on the company's scheduled coach services.
By Taxi
Best for: Hassle-free travel, and faster journeys.
Prices: To see Ireland West Airport’s taxi cab guideline prices tap here.
Taxi Providers: Ireland West Airport is serviced by a comprehensive fleet of Airport Cabs, including Big O Taxis, OK Cabs & Bus Hire, Vincent Cafferty, Seán McCann Cab & Bus Hire (Wheel Chair Facilities) and more. For a full list of taxi services please tap here.
Specific airport cabs are vetted and licensed by Ireland West Airport and are available directly outside the arrivals area. Pre-booking is advisable to ensure a swift transfer to your destination. Our advice? - If you’re travelling with a group or arriving on a late flight, getting a taxi to your destination or to a complementing bus, rail and car hire transportation is a great option.
Where can I fly from?
Ireland West Airport is extremely well connected to the UK, Europe and the wider world, especially for short breaks and visits to the West of Ireland.
With Ryanair and Aer Lingus you can enjoy flights from a number of popular UK cities, such as Bristol, London, Liverpool, Edinburgh, Birmingham and Manchester direct into the West of Ireland. Affordably priced and short travel times - really what more could you ask for on a great city break?!
The good news continues because Aer Lingus operates daily flights from London Heathrow to Ireland West Airport. Heathrow is London’s biggest, most well-connected, and closest airport to central London. On top of enjoying a seamless travel experience from the centre of London, passengers can also take full advantage of connecting flights via London Heathrow Airport from North America, Canada and other global destinations. For more information on all this please tap here. Our advice: Ryanair and Aer Lingus are the main airlines to Ireland West Airport, so be sure to check their seasonal schedules to avail of special rates.
Regular Flight Routes:
UK: London (Heathrow, Stansted, Luton), Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool, Bristol, East Midlands, and Edinburgh.
Europe: Groningen, Malaga, Majorca, Lanzarote, Tenerife, Milan, Alicante, Faro, Cologne, Barcelona, Milan.
To stay up-to-date on all news regarding Ireland West Airport follow them on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Tiktok. To begin booking your next Irish holiday with Ireland West Airport visit their website at irelandwestairport.com and happy flying!
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