Rent a Car at Shannon Airport (SNN)

Shannon Airport (SNN) is Western Ireland's most important international airport and a perfect place to pick up your rental car upon arrival. With 14 car rental companies on site, you'll always find competitive prices and a wide selection of vehicles. From here, you're just 25 km from Limerick and 90 km from Galway.

Shannon Airport lies on the Shannon River and is the gateway to Ireland's wildest nature. The Cliffs of Moher are 75 km north via N18 and R478 – a drive of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes along the dramatic Atlantic coast. Bunratty Castle & Folk Park is only 15 km east of the airport.

Book your rental car in advance during the summer months – Shannon is one of Ireland's busiest airports and availability can be limited. Choose a car with GPS or download offline maps, as mobile coverage is weak along the Wild Atlantic Way. Fill up near the airport in Newmarket-on-Fergus to avoid higher prices in tourist areas.

Where are the rental cars at Shannon Airport? The rental desks are located in the arrival hall, and cars are picked up in a dedicated car park directly connected to the terminal. How long does it take to drive from Shannon to the Cliffs of Moher?

The drive is approximately 75 km and takes about 1 hour 20 minutes via N18 and R478 through Ennistymon. Can I return the rental car in another location in Ireland? Yes, most of the 14 rental companies at Shannon offer one-way rentals, but an additional fee typically applies for one-way rental.

We compare prices from all major providers at Shannon Airport so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.