Compare cheap car hire in Galway with city pickup options, driving tips and routes for exploring Connemara, Clare and the Wild Atlantic Way.
Galway is one of Ireland’s most popular short-break destinations, combining a lively city centre with fast access to some of the country’s best driving routes. While the city itself is walkable, hiring a car in Galway makes far more sense if you plan to visit Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, or smaller Atlantic villages where public transport is limited.
Most visitors collecting a rental car in Galway are either arriving by train or bus from Dublin, or collecting after landing at Shannon, Dublin or Knock airports.
Flights from Ireland
Galway does not currently have a commercial airport for scheduled passenger flights, so travellers normally arrive via other Irish airports before continuing by road or rail.
- Shannon Airport – around 1 hour from Galway
- Ireland West Airport Knock – around 1 hour 15 minutes
- Dublin Airport – around 2.5 hours
Shannon is often the most convenient arrival point for international visitors heading west.
Where to hire a car in Galway
Galway has several city-based car hire branches rather than one single collection hub. Most rental providers operate either near the train station, Eyre Square, or on roads leading out of the city.
- Hertz – Galway city branch close to central transport links
- Avis – City location convenient for rail arrivals
- Europcar – Popular option for city centre pickup
- Enterprise – Available in Galway with advance booking recommended
- Budget – Often available through shared branch locations
Availability can tighten considerably during summer, festival weekends, and bank holidays, so booking ahead is recommended.
Collecting your rental car in Galway
Unlike airport rentals, city pickups in Galway are usually quieter but may have more limited opening hours. Many branches close earlier in the evening or reduce weekend hours.
After collecting your vehicle, it’s worth leaving the city promptly if you’re heading west, as central Galway traffic can become slow, particularly around Eyre Square, Headford Road and the Quincentennial Bridge.
Many drivers choose to collect in the morning, leave luggage at accommodation first, then begin regional driving once outside the city centre.
Best cars to rent in Galway
Roads west of Galway vary significantly, from modern national routes to narrow rural roads through Connemara and coastal villages.
- Economy cars – Best for couples, city parking and narrow roads
- Compact cars – A practical all-round choice for most visitors
- Family cars – Better for luggage-heavy trips or longer touring holidays
- SUVs – Useful for comfort on longer rural drives, though not essential
- Automatic vehicles – Available but should be booked early
Smaller vehicles are often the easiest choice once you leave Galway and begin driving through western counties where roads can narrow quickly.
Driving from Galway
Galway is a strong base for exploring western Ireland, with major routes radiating in several directions.
- Connemara National Park – around 1.5 hours
- Clifden – around 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cliffs of Moher – around 1 hour 45 minutes
- Westport – around 1 hour 30 minutes
The N59 westbound is one of the most popular tourist routes, linking Galway with Connemara’s lakes, mountains and Atlantic coastline.
Parking, fuel and driving tips
Galway city centre parking can be expensive and limited, particularly during weekends and summer events.
- Paid parking is common in the city centre
- Fuel stations are widely available on routes leaving Galway
- Rural roads can be narrow with passing points
- Weather can change quickly along the Atlantic coast
If staying inside Galway city, many visitors delay car collection until the day they plan to leave town and begin regional driving.
Official information
FAQs – Car hire Galway
Can you hire a car in Galway city?
Yes, several major providers operate city branches in Galway.
Does Galway have an airport for flights?
No, Galway currently does not have scheduled commercial passenger flights.
What is the nearest airport to Galway?
Shannon Airport is often the most convenient option for many travellers.
Is a car necessary in Galway?
Not for the city centre, but it is highly useful for exploring surrounding regions.
Can I drive to Connemara from Galway easily?
Yes, Galway is the main gateway to Connemara via the N59.
Are automatic cars available?
Yes, but supply is more limited and early booking is advisable.
Is parking difficult in Galway?
City centre parking can be limited and paid.
Are roads around Galway easy to drive?
Main roads are straightforward, while rural western roads can be narrower.
Can I collect a rental car near Eyre Square?
Yes, several providers operate relatively close to central Galway.
What documents do I need to hire a car?
A valid driving licence, ID or passport, and payment card are usually required.
