Top Reasons to Add the Cliffs of Moher to Your Ireland Travel Itinerary
- Annie O'Donnell
- Oct 7
- 4 min read
When it comes to Ireland’s most visited natural attraction, the Cliffs of Moher never disappoint. Rising over 200 metres above the crashing Atlantic and stretching for 14 kilometres along the County Clare coastline, these cliffs are one of the most visited natural attractions in the country... and for good reason. Whether you’re driving the Wild Atlantic Way or planning a short trip from other parts of Ireland, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.
🌊 Breathtaking Natural Beauty
The cliffs rise dramatically over 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, stretching for about 8 miles. On clear days, you can see as far as the Aran Islands and the mountains of Connemara. The views are some of the most awe-inspiring in all of Ireland.
📸 Ireland's Icon
Take your "I'm in Ireland" moment and just be present in nature.
🐦 Wildlife and Birdwatching
Ireland’s major seabird colonies include puffins, razorbills, guillemots, and kittiwakes. Get ready, birdwatchers!
🚶 Walking Trails
The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk rewards walkers with breathtaking scenery.
🏰 O’Brien’s Tower
Built in 1835 by Cornelius O'Brien (descendant of Brian Boru, first High King of Ireland), O'Brien's tower offers stunning views and an interesting history.
🌤️ Unicorn Atmosphere
Bright summer skies, glorious autumnal breezes, dramatic wintry weather, misty spring mornings... the cliffs have a mystical, ever-changing energy that makes each visit different.
⛵ Nearby Must-Dos
The Cliffs are close to the Burren, Doolin, the Aran Islands, and the Wild Atlantic Way route.
What to Do at the Cliffs of Moher
Take in the Views: The main attraction is, of course, the cliffs themselves. On a clear day, you can see the Aran Islands, the Burren, and even as far as Kerry.
Visit O’Brien’s Tower: Built in 1835 as a viewing point for tourists, the tower offers panoramic vistas and is perfect for photos.
Explore the Visitor Centre: Built into the hillside, the award-winning centre features interactive exhibits on the geology, wildlife, and history of the cliffs.
Spot the Wildlife: Birdwatchers will love it here — the cliffs are home to puffins, razorbills, and guillemots.
The Best Viewpoints
O’Brien’s Tower: The classic view, giving you sweeping perspectives in both directions.
North Platform: Offers a dramatic angle of the cliffs and is usually less crowded.
South Platform (Hags Head): A quieter spot with equally stunning views and great opportunities for photos.
Tips for Visiting
Timing Matters: Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak tour bus crowds. Sunset is magical here.
Dress for the Weather: The Atlantic winds can be fierce — bring layers and a rainproof jacket... oh, and proper shoes for hiking!
Book Tickets in Advance: The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience has timed entry, which can save you from queuing.
Allow 2–3 Hours: That gives you enough time to enjoy the views, explore the visitor centre, and take a short walk along the cliff paths.
Admission: Book in advance for a streamlined entry!
Open daily, year-round. See the website for opening times.
Plan up to two hours for the best experience
Great for kids of all ages!
Assistance/guide dogs permitted!
Free WiFi on-site.
Accessibility:
Wheelchair-accessible and wheelchair-accessible toilets.
For those with mobility challenges, the Cliffs have on offer a service called the Lifts of Moher, providing visitors a guided tour from viewing platforms. (Subject to Availability)
There are eight designated disabled parking spaces in the main car park, and five in the coach parking section next to the Visitor Centre.
Wheelchairs are available for use from inside the Visitor Centre at the front desk, as well as the car park office.
Hearing aid amplifiers are available throughout... please ask for more info at the front desk.
Food Options
Ground Floor: Puffin’s Nest Café
First Floor: Cliffs View Café
Picnic benches and outdoor seating are all around, and picnic blankets are available on loan from the information desk. You can even pre-order your picnic box! (just email the café manager: valerie@brambles.ie)
FAQs
Is there a water refill station?
Yes!
Is there a phone charging station?
Yes!
Is luggage storage available?
Yes!
Is there a First Aid room?
Yes!
Shops outside the Visitor Centre
You'll find small shops full of charming Irish souvenirs, perfect if you don't have time to shop off-site!
Safety at the Cliffs
While the views are incredible, the cliffs are sheer and can be dangerous. Always stay on designated paths. In other words, don't go to the edge in the quest for the "perfect" selfie... there are plenty of safe photo ops along the way! The winds can be quite strong, another reason to avoid venturing close to the edge. We want everyone who visits to do so safely.
Nearby Attractions
The Burren: Just inland, this unique limestone landscape is filled with wildflowers, caves, and ancient ruins.
Doolin: A charming village known as the traditional music capital of Ireland — perfect for a pint and a lively session.
Aran Islands: Take a ferry from Doolin to explore these rugged, Gaelic-speaking islands.
Lahinch: A seaside town popular with surfers and golfers, only a 15-minute drive away.
Where to Stay Near the Cliffs of Moher
Rumour Has It
You may have been told that the cliffs were closed, but fear not, they are very much open and an absolute must-do as part of your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary!
What many are referring to when it comes to visiting the Cliffs of Moher in 2025 are temporary partial trail closures, which by no means should affect your plans to come experience absolutely breathtaking site for yourself. For a proper guided tour, check out Cliffs of Moher Walking Tours!
Please see the safety notice that was posted in the summer of 2025 regarding the sections that are not open along the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk.
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