How to get to Inis Mór from Galway is straightforward: the usual route is by passenger ferry from Rossaveel, west of Galway City. The important part is to plan the mainland transfer, check-in and return journey as one complete trip rather than looking only at the sailing time.
Ferry from Rossaveel
Regular passenger sailings arrive at Cill Rónáin, the main village on Inis Mór. Day-trippers should check both outward and return times before leaving Galway and avoid planning a tight onward connection after the return sailing.
Galway City shuttle
A connecting coach can remove the need to drive to Rossaveel. Confirm the current pickup point and allow time to reach it before departure. Treat the coach and ferry as one itinerary.
Driving and parking
If you drive, our Rossaveel parking guide covers arrival time, luggage and peak-season planning.
Flying to Inis Mór
Small aircraft services also connect the Aran Islands with the mainland. Flying is quick in the air, but compare the complete door-to-door journey, including the transfer to the mainland airport and onward travel after landing.
Arriving in Cill Rónáin
Bike hire, island transport and most visitor services are concentrated near the harbour. If you have a fixed attraction in mind, organise your route soon after arrival rather than losing the first hour deciding what to do.
Continue with our things to do on Inis Mór and where to eat on Inis Mór guides.
Leave a margin for the return journey
Avoid planning a very tight onward connection immediately after your return sailing. Island transport can be affected by weather, and even a small delay can become stressful if you have a train, coach or dinner booking in Galway. Drivers should also check our Rossaveel parking guide.
Explore more on Inis Mór
Keep planning your island visit with Galway City Life guides to travel, food, pubs, accommodation, shopping, culture and things to do.
Map and directions
The map points to Rossaveel Harbour, the usual mainland departure point.
