Looking for an easy and hassle-free way to rent a car in Galway? We’ve got you covered! With a fantastic range of vehicles, we make it simple to find the perfect ride. Whether you’re planning to explore the city streets or hit the road for an adventure, we have just the car for you!
Find Cheap Car Hire in Galway City and Nearby Airports. Exploring Galway with a car rental is a fantastic idea! Not only does it make getting around town a breeze, but it also gives you the freedom to venture into the stunning countryside and discover hidden gems further afield. Galway is home to some genuinely breathtaking scenic drives. You can take the Inagh Valley route to Killary Harbour, enjoy the seaside charm of Clifden and its famous Sky Road, or follow the picturesque route through Oughterard.
If you’re flying into the area, you can pick up a rental car either in Galway City or at one of the nearby airports. Ireland West Airport (NOC) and Shannon Airport (SNN) are both about an hour’s drive from Galway. At Ireland West Airport, car hire kiosks are conveniently located inside the terminal to the left as you enter the arrivals hall. Meanwhile, Shannon Airport hosts kiosks for major rental companies in the arrivals hall. With so much to explore, having your own wheels will help you make the most of your trip!
Galway is a charming little city with a medieval feel, filled with one-way streets and narrow lanes. But don’t worry, driving here doesn’t have to be stressful! The roads are marked with different codes: M for motorway toll roads, N for national roads, and R for regional roads. Then there are the L roads, which are local and often more like tiny lanes. You’ll also find a few roundabouts, where the rule is to yield to cars already in the circle.
Traffic in Galway can get busy, so try to plan your drive for off-peak hours. If you’re using a GPS, remember it might not always pick up on those smaller L roads, so it’s a great idea to have a paper map handy to avoid accidentally ending up on a narrow lane behind a tractor. The city centre is very walkable, with a fantastic atmosphere, so it’s often easiest to park nearby and explore on foot.
When booking your rental, you can choose to collect your car in Galway City or at nearby airports such as Shannon or Ireland West (Knock). Picking up in the city centre is often the easiest option if you’re staying locally, as many providers offer competitive daily rates and shorter rental terms. Airport collections, on the other hand, can suit longer trips or visitors flying directly into the west of Ireland. Shannon and Knock both have car hire desks inside the arrivals hall, making it simple to get on the road straight after you land. Compare both options to see which offers the best price and convenience for your journey.
Ready to explore Galway your way? Compare car hire prices today and find the perfect vehicle for your trip. Whether you’re touring Connemara or visiting the Cliffs of Moher, our partners make renting easy and affordable. Start your search on CompareTravel.ie and hit the road with confidence.
City car hire can be cheaper for short trips, while airport pickups often suit longer rentals or visitors flying into Shannon or Knock.
You’ll need a valid driving licence, a credit card, and proof of ID such as a passport.
Yes, most rental companies allow you to drive anywhere within the Republic of Ireland. If you plan to travel to Northern Ireland, just mention it when booking so the insurer can include cross-border cover in your policy.
Yes, there are several car parks near Eyre Square and along the waterfront. Street parking is also available, but it’s usually pay-and-display. Always check local signs for time limits and charges, especially during busy summer weekends.
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