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While planning my trip around Ireland, I came across a place I never knew existed—the Aran Islands!

During our weekend in Galway, we set aside a day to take the ferry to the islands, where we rented bikes and explored at our own pace.

Despite taking different tours and seeing so many incredible places in Ireland, this day was my absolute favorite.

Here’s everything you need to know about biking the Aran Islands so you can add it to your Ireland itinerary!

Your Guide to Biking Inis Mór

Inis Mór is the largest of the Aran Islands, a trio of rugged, windswept islands—Inis Mór, Inis Meáin, and Inis Oírr—located off Ireland’s west coast in Galway Bay.

Known for its dramatic coastal cliffs, ancient stone forts like Dún Aonghasa, and rich Gaelic heritage, Inis Mór is the most visited and the easiest to explore by bike.

Irish (Gaeilge) is still spoken here, and life moves at a slower pace, offering a peaceful escape from the bustle of the mainland.

From pedaling past rocky fields and stone walls to soaking in sweeping Atlantic views, biking Inis Mór is one of the best ways to experience the magic of the Aran Islands.

Looking for something specific? Use the table of contents below.

Getting to Inis Mór from Galway

The journey to the Aran Islands was part of the adventure itself. We started in Galway, hopping on a bus to the ferry terminal.

The ride was easy and straightforward, and once we got to the Aran Islands ferry, it was packed with other day trippers.

The ferry ride over to Inis Mór (the largest of the three Aran Islands) was about 40 minutes, with some incredible views of the Irish coastline along the way.

Book your tickets on the Ferry Website here, which also has timetables for arrival and departure. They are only €34.00 per adult, round trip.

If you’re prone to seasickness, keep in mind that the Atlantic can be a little rough.

We got lucky, and the waters weren’t too rough, so we actually took a light nap as we made our way over.

Renting a Bike on Inis Mór

As soon as we arrived, we headed straight to the end of the dock to rent a bike on Inis Mór.

This was super easy to find since most visitors rent bikes to explore the Aran Islands.

The process was quick and affordable, and within minutes, we were off, pedaling our way through the island’s quiet roads.

Tip: Bring Cash!! Some bike vendors only accepted cash, others took cards.

You can also book your bikes in advance with Aran Islands Bike Hire, which I recommend if you are visiting in the summer.

I loved how peaceful it was—no traffic, no rush, just the sound of our tires on the road, the occasional cow mooing in the distance!

Exploring Inis Mór by Bike

Biking around Inis Mór was, hands down, the best way to take in the Aran Islands.

The roads were well-paved but rugged, with plenty of uphill and downhill stretches.

Expect a workout on the inclines, but just take your time and enjoy the ride!

Everywhere we looked, there were cows and horses grazing, completely unfazed by us biking past.

We made plenty of stops to take in the views—crystal-clear water stretching endlessly and rolling green hills.

Lunch Stop at Joe Watty’s Bar & Restaurant

After a morning of biking, we stopped at Joe Watty’s Bar & Restaurant, a cozy spot known for its fresh seafood and laid-back island vibes.

I couldn’t resist ordering oysters, and they were some of the best I’ve ever had—fresh, briny, and perfect with a refreshing summer cocktail featuring Irish Gin.

If you’re visiting, Joe Watty’s is a must—not just for the food but for the chance to sit back, relax, and soak in the local atmosphere.

Another favorite foodie spot I visited during our trip was Aniar, the Best Michelin Star Restaurant in Ireland!

Back to the Ferry

With full bellies and happy hearts, we got back on our bikes and finished our loop around the island.

Along the way, we came across a local with a horse and carriage who stopped to chat with us.

He introduced us to his beautiful horse, Bill Clinton! I could have stayed all day admiring him, but we had to hurry back to the dock before our boat left without us.

By the time we boarded the ferry back to Galway, I was already thinking about how much I’d love to return and do it all over again.

If you have the time, I highly recommend staying overnight at one of the island’s inns so you can watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean and disappear into the peacefulness of the Aran Islands.

But for us, it was time to go—our Cliffs of Moher tour was in the morning, and we only had a few hours of sunlight left.

Read all about My Trip to the Cliffs of Moher: The Best Tour From Galway!

Tips for Biking Inis Mór

Here are some tips to follow:

• Rent a bike as soon as you arrive. The island is small, but you’ll want the full day to take it all in.
• Wear layers. The weather can change quickly, and it’s always windier by the coast.
• Bring cash. Some places on the island don’t take cards, so it’s good to have a little on hand.
• Take your time. There’s no rush—stop, enjoy the views, and soak in the island’s peaceful atmosphere.

Is Biking the Aran Islands Worth It?

Absolutely. Biking around the Aran Islands was one of the most memorable things I did in Ireland.

Between the quiet roads, ocean views, friendly locals, and incredible food, it was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

If you’re visiting Galway and looking for a day trip that feels like stepping into another world, this is it.

We also dined at Aniar, The Best Michelin Star Restaurant in Ireland!

Want more adventure? Take a Hike To Poulanass Waterfall in Ireland’s Wicklow Mountains National Park

Heading to Dublin. Visit the Guinness Storehouse in the Heart of Ireland!

Explore all of my Europe Travel Destinations!