Things to do on Inis Mór: How to Spend One Day on the Largest Aran Island
Ireland Travel Planning uses affiliate links, including Amazon Associates. If you buy through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I use a mix of my own photos and paid stock images across the site. (Disclosure Policy)
If you’re planning your first trip to Ireland, chances are you’ve seen photos of Inis Mór, stone walls stretching to the sea, tiny cottages, cliffs that look straight out of a movie.
It’s the largest of the Aran Islands, just a short ferry from Galway, Doolin or Connemara, and one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into old Ireland.
Most people visit on a day trip, and that’s absolutely worth doing. The ferry ride itself feels like an adventure, and you can see the island’s highlights, Dún Aonghasa, Kilmurvey Beach, the Wormhole, all in a few hours.
But if you can stretch your trip by even one night, do it. Once the last ferry leaves, the island falls quiet in a way you can’t put into words. You start to see why people live here, not just visit.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to plan your visit, how to get there, what to see, and what changes when you stay overnight. It’s everything I wish someone had told me before I first set foot on the island.
Before you visit Ireland, here are some quick recommendations…
📞 AVOID HIGH ROAMING CHARGES: Airalo eSIMs work seamlessly across Ireland with quick, affordable data plans. Use code IRELAND10 for 10% off your plan (ROI Deals & ROI & NI Plans)
🚗 DON’T OVERPAY FOR CAR RENTALS: DiscoverCars compares prices from top providers so you can secure the best deal without the hidden extras.
🚕 NEED AN EASY AIRPORT TRANSFER? Welcome Pickups is my go-to for reliable rides from the airport straight to your accommodation, book in advance for peace of mind.
🚨 DON’T SKIP INSURANCE!! I can't stress this enough, but travel insurance is an absolute must! Thankfully, VisitorsCoverage is great for comparing affordable, trusted insurance plans to find one that actually suits your needs.
💼 STORE YOUR BAGS SECURELY: Radical Storage has secure locations for your bags all over Ireland. Use code irelandtravelplanning for 5% off.
🍀 DISCOVER UNIQUE THINGS TO DO: Like designing your own Claddagh Ring in Dublin or exploring the city with a local on a street food walking tour.
I typically find the best experiences by using the likes of GetYourGuide or Viator.
HOW TO GET TO INIS Mór
There are a few different ways to reach Inis Mór, each with its own charm. Which one you choose really depends on where you’re exploring before or after your visit.
If you’re travelling from Connemara…
The most straightforward option from this side of the coast is the Rossaveel ferry operated by Aran Island Ferries.
It runs all year round, with daily sailings. Rossaveel is about an hour’s drive west of Galway City, those without a car can opt for the shuttle bus from Eyre Square (Galway City) that connects with every sailing.
Crossings usually take about 40 minutes. If you’re planning to spend time in Connemara, this is by far the most convenient route.
If you’re travelling from Galway City…
During the warmer months (until late September), Aran Island Ferries also operate directly from the Galway City Docks.
It’s ideal if you’re staying in the city and want a hassle-free day trip. The journey takes a bit longer, roughly 90 minutes each way, but on the return leg, you’ll cruise along the base of the Cliffs of Moher, which honestly is one of my favourite things about the journey.
These sailings are popular, so it’s worth booking ahead, especially if you’re visiting on a weekend or during school holidays.
BOOK YOUR TRIP FROM GALWAY CITY TO INIS MÓR HERE
If you’re travelling from Doolin…
If you’re exploring the Cliffs of Moher or the Burren, Doolin Ferry Company is your best option. The crossing from Doolin takes about 35 minutes on modern boats with indoor and outdoor seating, and it runs from March to November.
Personally, I love this route, you get that classic west-coast view as you sail out, and it ties in perfectly with a Cliffs of Moher visit.
Doolin Ferry also offer a Cliffs of Moher Cruise add-on, which I genuinely recommend. Seeing the cliffs from below gives you a whole new perspective, and it’s something most visitors miss.
BOOK YOUR TRIP FROM DOOLIN TO INIS MÓR HERE
If you’re LOOKING FOR SOMETHING QUICK BUT DIFFERENT THEN…
Consider flying to Inis Mór, the journey via plane takes just 10 minutes and leaves from Connemara Airport.
The fare for an Adult return is €55, I am yet to experience it for myself but I hear is it quite the adventure. More information on the flight can be found here.
When is the best time of year to visit Inis Mór?
Inis Mór can get rather busy in July and August as these are typically the hottest months of the year. It is also common for families to visit at this time as the Children are on their school holidays.
It is typical to have a high level of sunshine or dry days in June or September. Therefore, I'd advise visiting throughout these months as the crowds are far less.
How do I get around Inis Mór?
The most common way to make your way around the island is by renting a bike. Bike rental is typically €15–€20 for standard bikes and cards are widely accepted now. Electric bikes are available and worth it on windy days. Locks aren’t usually included, but the island feels very safe.
It is also possible to explore the island on foot. However, it may not be possible to see all of Inis Mór attractions in just one day if you do decide to walk.
Another common way to get around the island is by renting a pony and a trap.
Related Post: Ireland Tips for First Time Visitors
Is one day on Inis Mór enough time?
If you are looking to explore the Island relaxed way of life and learn from the local culture then I'd advise spending more than one day on Inis Mór.
However, if you are stuck for time and still want to sample things to do on the island then a day trip is the perfect amount of time. One day on Inis Mór will give you plenty of time to cycle around to the island's top attractions.
If you plan to spend the night in Inis Mór here are some accommodation options for you:
Aran Island Glamping
Aran Islands Hotel
What to bring to Inis Mór?
I'd advise packing a small day bag for your trip to Inis Mór. If you intend on staying for the night check out my Ireland Packing List for a more detailed guide on things to bring. I have highlighted down below some important items you should consider bringing on your day trip.
- Waterproof Jacket
- A Day Bag (<- My favourite)
- Travel First Aid Kit
- Water Bottle (The Tap Water is Drinkable)
- Camera (<- Also my favourite)
Need with your Ireland trip? Let me be your guide…
🙋♀️ Travel Consultation
Book a 40 minute Ireland Travel Planning call with Laura your local guide to discuss some insider tips for your Ireland vacation!
🇮🇪 Free Resources
Explore my free resources packed with insider tips and expert knowledge to help you plan your trip to Ireland!
😘 Say Thank You
Finding my content helpful? A small tip would mean the world to me. It helps me to continue making these free guides 💛
Or, Join my FREE Ireland Travel Planning Facebook Group to ask questions about your upcoming trip! I pop in once a week to answer as manny as possible 🇮🇪
Need HELP with your Ireland trip? Let me be your guide…
🙋♀️ Travel Consultation: Book a 40 minute Ireland Travel Planning call with Laura your local guide to discuss some insider tips for your Ireland vacation!
🇮🇪 Free Resources: Explore my free resources packed with insider tips and expert knowledge to help you plan your trip to Ireland!
😘 Say Thank You: Finding my content helpful? A small tip would mean the world to me. It helps me to continue making these free guides 💛
ℹ️ Join my FREE Ireland Travel Planning Facebook Group to ask questions about your upcoming trip! I pop in once a week to answer as many as possible 🇮🇪
Top Things to Do on Inis Mór
Now that we have covered the most frequently asked questions about Inis Mór it is time to jump into the top things to do in Inis Mór. The Island is rather small in size, yet that doesn't mean there is little to do. In fact, some of the most beautiful spots in Ireland lie on the shore of Inishmore.
I have explored Inis Mór by bike in the past. For the next section of this post, I will write an Inis Mor Day Trip Itinerary. Highlighting the top things to do and the order in which you should do them.
1. Rent Your Bike
When you get off the ferry, you will see a range of different bike companies promoting their day rate. Most companies charge the same price for a standard mountain bike.
On my most recent trip to the island, I went with Aran Bike Hire.
I couldn't recommend this company more, they were really professional and the bikes were in good working condition.
The bikes do not come with a lock but the island is incredibly safe.
Most day-trippers will leave their bike unattended in order to explore the beautiful sites.
2. The Seal Colony
Most bike rentals on the island are located at the pier. Once you have your bike I recommend heading towards the Seal Colony.
It is mostly a downhill cycle and it will take around 15 minutes to complete.
This is an area on the island where a Seal Colony tend to relax on the rocks or swim nearby.
When I was last on the island I only saw the seals bobbing in the water. A local told me that the seals are more likely to sit on the rocks in the evening time.
Either way, the area is a beautiful place to stop and watch the waves crash against the rocks.
3. Kilmurvey Beach
Once you have finished watching the waves crash against the rocks at the Seal Colony continue to cycle a little further down the road to Kilmurvey Beach.
The beach is located on the north coast of the island and is home to crystal clear waters and beautiful white sand.
The beach is also a common spot for those hoping to do a little birdwatching.
If you brought a packed lunch, I suggest finding a spot to sit for a little bite to eat and a rest.
While it is possible to swim at Kilmurvey Beach, I recommend skipping this as there are still many beautiful places to explore on the island.
4. Dún Aonghasa
Not far from Kilmurvey Beach lies one of the most famous attractions on Inis Mor, Dún Aonghasa.
Bikes are not allowed along the walkway towards Dún Aonghasa. For those cycling, you can leave your bike here.
The walk takes about 15/20 minutes to complete. It is uphill, but not majorly strenuous.
Entrance into the site will cost €5.00 per Adult, however, in my opinion, it is completely worth it.
Dún Aonghasa is more than 3,000 years old and stands on an 87-metre cliff edge.
From the top of the cliff, you can see a 180 view of the entire island. It is a truly remarkable sight.
5. The Wormhole
One of the most popular things to do on Inis Mor is visit Poll na bPeist, or otherwise known as the wormhole.
The wormhole is a rectangular shaped natural pool that lies at the end of one of Ireland's many Cliffs, Dún Aonghasa. This little hidden gem was used as a diving spot for the Red Bull Cliff Diving Championships.
The easiest way of reaching the wormhole is by cycling to this point. Once the road ends, it is time to start walking.
Follow the red markings on the rocks for about 25 minutes. It's important to watch your step as the ground can be uneven in places.
Make sure you allow for enough time to make it back to the boat.
Things to do on Inis Mor Map
Suggested Timetable for Inis Mór
10.00am Get the Boat
11.00am Rent Bikes
11.15 pm Seal Colony (Spend 20 mins)
11.45pm Kilmurvey Beach & Quick Lunch Stop (Spend 30 mins)
12.30pm Dún Aonghasa (Spend 1 hour and half)
2.15pm The Wormhole (Spend 1 hour and 45 minutes including walk)
4.00pm Cycle Back to Pier
Please note the walk to the worm hole takes longer than expected. Make sure you are back on your bike at 4.00pm as it is a 25-minute cycle back to the boat.
Inis Mor Travel Guide on Youtube
I am currently running an Ireland Travel Series over on my Youtube Channel. If you are looking for a visual guide on how to spend one day on Inis Mor then this is the perfect video for you. We visit all of the places mentioned in the itinerary above. In the same order. I'd love it if you could give the video a like, comment and subscribe.
Have a Ireland Travel Question?
Then join my FREE Facebook Community, I pop in once a week to answer as many queries as possible. Please do not email or DM. It is easier for me to manage everything in the one place 😊
👋 JOIN MY FREE IRELAND FACEBOOK COMMUNITY
🇮🇪🇮🇪🇮🇪
FREE IRELAND FACEBOOK COMMUNITY
✔️ LOCAL ADVICE
✔️ FREE ACCESS TO GOOGLE MAPS PINS
✔️ GROUP DISCUSSION
