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These Are the Best and Worst Times to Visit Ireland

Whether you want small crowds, sunshine, or affordable rates, here are the ideal times to go to Ireland.

Somehow even greener than the pictures promise, Ireland is a land of fairy tales and political revolutions, poetry and pubs, rainbows and, well, quite a bit of rain. Millions of tourists flock to the Emerald Isle each year, seeking its quaint villages, lush green landscapes, stunning coastline, historic castles, and more.

While there is no one "perfect" time to visit Ireland, different seasons offer different experiences, from the quiet and drizzly winter to the sunny (but crowded) summer. Here's a basic breakdown of what you can expect.

• High Season: June to August, plus the month of March
• Shoulder Seasons: April to May and September to November
• Low Season: December to February

The best time to visit Ireland is, ultimately, up to you — and the items on your to-do list.

Best Times to Visit Ireland for Smaller Crowds

Since Ireland's rainy climate can be a deterrent for some travelers, the country sees its largest influx of tourists in summer when the odds of a warm, sunny day are at their highest. If you value smaller crowds over perfect weather, you'll want to visit outside of this busy season.

Winter is the least crowded time of year in Ireland, and it offers a great chance to enjoy indoor attractions, from the historic Trinity College Library to the thousands of pubs scattered across the island. Spring and fall are also less busy than the summer months, but the crowd-averse should avoid March, when St. Patrick's Day draws hundreds of thousands of tourists.

Visitors may also want to keep an eye on the Gaelic sports schedule. Many Irish people who don't live in Dublin stream into the city for major tournaments, so game days can be crowded in the capital but peaceful in the emptied-out countryside.

Best Times to Visit Ireland for Good Weather

Ireland's weather is changeable, but it's not extreme. The temperature rarely falls below freezing in the winter or rises above 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer. It's not uncommon to see bright sun and cloudy skies in quick succession, regardless of the time of year.

And let's get this out of the way: It will rain, so be ready for it and pack your bags accordingly . Trip timing, though, can affect just how much rain (or sun) you are likely to see. Summer is sunniest, with daylight stretching late into the evening, especially in late June and July. Between November and February, meanwhile, Ireland is dark, cold, and wet — but it can also feel quieter and cozier. Keep in mind, though, that your trip is unlikely to be a total rain-out no matter when you visit. Short, isolated showers are more common here than full-day lashings.

If you want to hike through the countryside, play on one of Ireland's famous golf courses, or take in the country's natural beauty with a scenic road trip , aim to visit between April and September. That way, you can take advantage of longer daylight hours and more pleasant weather.

Best Times to Visit Ireland for Festivals and Events

Ireland celebrates a lot more than just St. Patrick's Day (a holiday that, before its more raucous iteration, was historically a religious celebration). On June 16, for example, Dublin's streets swell with James Joyce devotees observing Bloomsday — the anniversary of the date when the writer's groundbreaking novel, "Ulysses," takes place.

Each August, the County Kerry town of Killorglin organizes Ireland's oldest festival, the Puck Fair , where a wild goat is crowned "King Puck" for the duration of the event. September draws legions of oyster lovers to Galway for the Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival , while summer is busy with events across the countryside, like the SeaSessions music and surfing festival held each June in County Donegal.

But you don't have to wait for a festival to enjoy live music in Ireland. Tons of pubs across the country offer live tunes throughout the year, so you can sing along to classic Irish songs and enjoy the festive atmosphere whenever you visit.

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

Most Affordable Times to Visit Ireland

Ireland's drizzly and dark winter is the least expensive time to visit, as long as you avoid the weeks around Christmas and St. Patrick's Day. Some high-end hotels, like County Limerick's Adare Manor , offer enticing off-season rates in the winter months, but watch where you book — some smaller bed-and-breakfasts take the whole winter off, especially in summer tourist hot spots like the Dingle peninsula .

Airfare costs also tend to be at their lowest in the winter. Spring and fall, though, can also be affordable times to fly, especially if you catch one of the frequent shoulder-season sales from the Irish national airline, Aer Lingus .

The best overall tip for budget-conscious travelers is simply to avoid the summer. Flight and hotel costs are both at their highest in June, July, and August, so those busy months are the toughest time of year to snag a discount.

Worst Times to Visit Ireland

Summer's peak popularity corresponds with a rise in airfare and accommodation rates, making it a less-than-ideal time for visitors in search of good deals or small crowds. That said, though, summer does offer the best chance that even the smallest B&Bs and rural attractions will be open, so it's not without its perks.

St. Patrick's Day follows closely behind the high summer with regard to both crowds and costs. Unless you are determined to spend the holiday in Dublin's Temple Bar district, it's best to avoid traveling to or from the country around March 17.

While winter is the least busy time to visit Ireland, it's also when the weather is at its worst. For a nice compromise between weather and crowds, visit in the shoulder seasons of either spring or fall.

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When is the best time to visit Ireland?

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You may have to wrap up warm in the off-season but the lack of crowds and lower prices make Ireland the place to be © David Levingstone / Getty Images

Ireland's famously lush green landscape may be partly due to its unpredictable weather but don't let a chance of rain spoil your trip to this wonderful island nation .

No matter when you choose to visit, there'll be no shortage of fun things to do – hiking through stunning scenery, catching up with locals in a cozy pub, enjoying incredible food and joining in the celebrations at one of the many festivals that pack the Irish calendar.

Though the summer months enjoy the highest temperatures, Ireland's year-round temperate climate rarely freezes in winter or blisters in summer making it possible to enjoy outdoor activities at any time.

The end of October marks the year’s passage from long days into darker evenings and keeping in tune with the passing of this season is deeply rooted in the Irish DNA. This is the time of year when things slow down as ferries to the islands scale back their service and smaller restaurants and hotels close for the season. Off-season isn’t the worst time to visit Ireland, though, as there are still plenty of things to see and do during wintertime.

The best time to visit Ireland depends on the type of trip you want to have – here's everything you need to know to help make that decision. 

September and October are the best times for festivals and fall colors

Along with springtime, the months of September and October can be the best time to visit Ireland to avoid crowds and save money as prices come down from their summer peak. Expect long days with mild temperatures and plenty of dry spells to explore the explosion of color throughout the island's national parks and forests. Even the famous  Ring of Kerry , with its dramatic mountainous setting against a vivid ocean backdrop, can be navigated without a convoy of tour buses blocking the views.

Many of Ireland’s best festivals shift into gear at this time. Expect some tasty offerings at the Armagh Food and Cider Weekend or Galway’s International Oyster and Seafood Festival in September. County  Cork goes big in October with the  Kinsale Gourmet Festival and  Guinness Jazz Festival  and a spooky twist brings the month to a close with a spectacular parade at the Galway Aboo Halloween Festival . If you're in Dublin, the hometown of Dracula’s creator, catch the  Bram Stoker Festival.

November to February is the best time for budget travelers

For some, an evening in a cozy pub before turning in for the night in a thatched cottage as an Atlantic gale bellows outside is the ultimate romantic getaway. For others, it’s the lantern-lit, cobbled lanes of  Kilkenny ,  Limerick or  Galway that offer the perfect winter break – all the benefits of good transport links to scenic locations and a wide selection of restaurants and hotels offering off-peak rates to while away the long evenings.

However, with shorter days, the occasional storm and icy road conditions, any independent road trips should stick to main roads and motorways. Apart from the heavy-hitting tourist attractions like the  Cliffs of Moher ,  The Rock of Cashel ,  Bunratty Castle or urban museums, many of the interpretive centers close for the season, while transport services scale back and remote hospitality goes into winter hibernation.

The holiday season is celebrated throughout December in Ireland, so expect plenty of Christmas markets in places like Eyre Square in Galway or  The Milk Market in Limerick. Things are a little quieter in January as the whole country recovers from the endless festive activities but Tradfest gets everyone back in the party spirit towards the end of the month. A little bit of Hollywood magic descends on the capital to celebrate the Dublin Internation Film Festival at the end of February and the national rugby team roars into action with the (literal) kick-off of the Six Nations Tournament.

March is a pricier time to visit because it's all about St Patrick's Day

Let’s face it – St Patrick dominates the entire month of March in Ireland. It’s also when the tourism and transport industries come to life after their winter respite. While weather conditions are still unsettled, the thermometer edges up to 10°C (50°F) and days are much lighter.

The St Patrick’s Day Parade takes center stage in towns and cities across the country with floats, jigs, reels and pints of creamy Guiness as everyone celebrates sentimental shenanigans and silliness. And yes, expect price hikes in hotels for that week. Unsurprisingly, Dublin has the biggest parade that dominates the streets of the capital. However, country parades like the County Clare procession in Doolin offer a satirical take on the larger events and can be equally rewarding.

The global phenomenon of lighting sites up in green is predictably rampant in Ireland and can create an atmospheric glow against the limestone render of medieval buildings. Top tip for visitors: it's Paddy's Day, not Patty's Day. The only patty is the one in your burger.

April to June is the best time for golf, flowers and coastal drives

With temperatures an average high of 18°C (64°F) and prices that haven’t maxed out yet, this is the best time to take a road trip along Ireland’s magnificent  Wild Atlantic Way . It’s a 2600-km (1600 miles), signposted west coast route that connects west Cork in the south to Donegal in the north. It’s also the best time to visit Ireland for a round of ten of golf; play on links near charming villages, white sandy beaches, coves, castles teetering on cliff tops and vibrant towns like Westport or Sligo.

Blossoms burst into life throughout the country from April, so visit the garden county, Wicklow , to catch bluebell season at  Powerscourt or  Glendalough . County Clare’s  Burren in Bloom  festival in May is a great way to see rare species in a spectacular moonscape setting.

It can also be the best time to visit Dublin as June kicks off with the Flowers, Food and Family Festival shortly before the city hosts Bloomsday on June 16, a celebration of writer James Joyce’s blossoming of a different nature. The festivities are followed a couple of weeks later with a sea of rainbow flags with the country’s biggest LGBTIQ+ Pride Festival .

July and August are the best times for sunny days and crowds

First the bad news: all Irish schools and colleges are now closed for the summer, so you’re competing with the home market when it comes to accommodations, food, car hire and visitor attractions. That means higher prices and busy beaches (when the sun is out). Leaving bookings to the last minute at hotels and restaurants in popular locales is risky and not recommended. Galway is booked and busy in July when the Galway International Arts Festival brings visitors from far and wide, while the streets of Miltown Malbay are filled with music and dance during the Willie Clancy Summer School .

However, it's an excellent time to stay on an island like the Arans or Inishbofin, where bikes are the best form of transport. Alternatively, Ireland’s lesser-visited Midlands are filled with medieval fortresses, blue river trails and quaint villages – and they’re crowd-free. There’s no better way to explore the area than hiring a boat for a cruise along the Shannon, the longest river in Ireland, to visit off-radar places like the pretty town of Killaloe, the high crosses at  Clonmacnoise or  Sean’s Bar , the oldest pub in Ireland. Boat hire means setting your own independent itinerary and it offers excellent value for money given you sleep on board.

Galway barely has time to recover from its Arts Festival before Race Week hits the town in late July, stretching into early August – expect glamorous outfits and high spirits. Down south, the town of Tralee warmly welcomes visitors from around the globe for the annual Rose of Tralee Festival . The words "beauty pageant" just don't do it justice and the atmosphere is incredible throughout the area.

This article was first published Feb 10, 2021 and updated Mar 13, 2024.

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Best Time to Visit Ireland: Month by Month Breakdown

Ireland is well known for its cold and rainy weather, but don’t let that put you off visiting the Emerald Isle, because this is truly a beautiful country to explore.

Ireland though is one of the wettest places in Europe and it’s rare to go too long without at least a light shower.

It goes without saying to always pack a raincoat, even in the midst of summer, because you never know when the clouds will burst. 

Summer is when you have the best weather though of course, and June to August is always peak season in Ireland. This is when the hiking is best and the cities are at their liveliest.

Winter is long, cold and dreary, and you can expect unpleasant weather from September through to May, but there’s still plenty to do across the country.

The cities, such as Dublin or Cork are year-round destinations, while during the autumn the countryside is wonderfully resplendent in a myriad of shades and colors. 

There’s a lot to do across the country, so to help you decide when the best time to visit Ireland is, here’s our month by month guide. 

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Ireland (Travel Guide)

Table of Contents

January in Ireland

January isn’t traditionally seen as the best time to visit Ireland, but actually, it’s the perfect time to escape the tourists. 

Aside from the New Year celebrations, Ireland is usually quiet in January. Flights are cheap and accommodation can be a bargain, but best of all, you won’t be queuing for hours at a time to see the most popular tourist attractions. 

The weather is decidedly bad in January though, which is why things are so quiet. There’s rain and snow and the days are incredibly short.

It’s not a good time for outdoor activities but take the chance to explore cities without the crowds or to visit famous sites such as Blarney Castle or the Guinness Brewery, and to have the attractions to yourself.

February in Ireland

In February, things are still incredibly quiet across Ireland, and you can still enjoy the most popular tourist attractions without the crowds. 

Just like in January, the weather is still notoriously bad in February, and this is usually one of the rainiest months of the year, with snow falling too, and usually turning the streets to slush. 

The weather is undeniably miserable, so this is not the best time to visit Ireland if you’re looking to enjoy the Irish countryside or the coastline. 

Instead, stick to the cities. Visit Dublin and explore the museums and historic attractions or spend your vacation eating and drinking your way around the pubs and taverns in Cork or Galway, where you’ll find a lively cultural scene at any time of the year. 

March in Ireland

March is when the really bad weather begins to dissipate, and when the temperatures slowly start to rise as the days start to get longer. 

There’s still a lot of rain of course – this is Ireland, remember – but you can start to head out into the countryside or along the coast to enjoy the scenery. 

March is generally quiet, although this changes on St Patrick’s Day. This is Ireland’s famed national day, a celebration of all things Irish that brings in millions of visitors from across the world. 

The best place to be for the 17th March is Dublin, where you can watch the St Patrick’s Day parade before enjoying a Guinness or two in the bars. 

April in Ireland

In April the weather begins to get better still, but it can still be wet and cold. This is springtime and the countryside looks marvelously splendid when the sun shines and the flowers bloom. 

April is still quiet as the high season hasn’t yet really begun, but it can get busy if Easter falls this month. 

This is the best time to visit Ireland to start hiking, as the weather is nice and cool and popular trails in places such as Killarney National Park aren’t yet so busy.

Take the opportunity to visit the Cliffs of Moher or to road trip the Ring of Kerry before the summer crowds arrive in the following months.

May in Ireland

May is the best time to visit Ireland to beat the summer crowds. This is the start of the high season, but compared to June and July, May is comparatively quieter. 

The weather is great in May, although of course, you always need to be prepared for a rain shower. 

Head to popular spots along the Wild Atlantic Way, hike to waterfalls or explore the beaches and seaside towns, and make the most of the sun while it lasts. 

The countryside is beautiful in May and the weather is perfect for multi-day walks such as the Kerry Way, which will take you to some of Ireland’s best scenery and most charming rural villages. 

June in Ireland

It’s peak season in June and this is not the best time to visit Ireland if you’re looking for peace and quiet. 

Things are busy because the weather is usually quite glorious – or at least, it only rains once or twice in the month! 

Enjoy the Irish countryside and the great outdoors, and head to the beaches along the Wild Atlantic Way where the water might even be warm enough for a quick swim in the ocean. 

July in Ireland

July is even busier than June because many families will be visiting or exploring Ireland during the school holidays which tend to fall this time of the year across Europe. 

Again, this is not the best time to visit Ireland if you appreciate a quiet holiday, because Ireland’s most famous attractions will all be chaotic and busy. 

This is the time to head further afield. Rent a car and drive to lesser-known spots along the Atlantic Ocean, or tackle the longer multi-day hikes where you’ll find some solitude. 

You’ll also want to enjoy the beaches and take a boat over to the Skellig Islands, which are only open for a short period each year during the summer season when the water is calm. 

August in Ireland

August can be just as busy as July because it’s always school holidays too throughout the month.

The weather is still good but not quite as good as June and July, as things are getting slightly colder and there will be more rainy days, especially towards the end of August. 

The cooling weather makes this a great time for hiking, and you’ll definitely want to get out of the cities and away from the busy tourist attractions to explore the lesser-known and quieter parts of Ireland. 

September in Ireland

Things quieten down in September, although the start of the month can still be busy. 

Peak season is drawing to a close but the weather is still great – at least on Irish terms anyway. 

It can rain a lot of course but there’s still lots of sunny days too. It’s a good time for hiking as the temperatures are cooling down, while you might even be able to squeeze in the odd beach day if you’re lucky. 

Walk the Cliffs of Moher and take the last boat trips over to the Skellig Islands before the ocean becomes too turbulent. 

October in Ireland

October is autumn and it’s the best time to visit Ireland to enjoy the wonderful autumnal landscapes that are found across the country. 

A road trip into the countryside, and take a camera along to get the best shots of the golden, red and brown colors that you’ll find.

Take autumnal walks into the national parks or walk to crashing waterfalls and immerse yourself in the beauty of Ireland in October.

The best part is, there are few other tourists around in October because peak season is well and truly over. 

November in Ireland

In November the weather is well and truly miserable once again, and the autumnal bliss is beginning to fade and be replaced with the cold and rain of winter. 

November is a quiet time to be in Ireland so take the chance to visit the country’s usually busy attractions.

You can still enjoy the natural sights such as the Cliffs of Moher but plan carefully when traveling in the countryside.

Many smaller businesses begin to close down after the tourist season has ended. Stick to the cities though and everything stays open. 

Flight prices and accommodation costs will be much lower in November in comparison to other months, as this is well and truly a shoulder month in Ireland.

December in Ireland

December is a cold and dreary time of the year in Ireland, but it’s also a unique time to be in the country because the run-up to Christmas and New Year is always an exciting few weeks.

You can visit Christmas markets across the country, but head to Dublin or Cork for the biggest or to Galway for the quirkiest. 

You’ll be lucky to have a White Christmas in Ireland though because December is definitely a month of rain.

It’s a good chance to make the most of the warm, local taverns and to enjoy live music as you sit around a fireplace.

More on Ireland:

• 15 Cities in Ireland That Are Worth Visiting
• Driving the Ring of Kerry in Ireland: Step by Step Guide
• Visiting Skellig Michael: What You Should Know Before You Go
• 15 Spectacular Things to do in Galway
• 15 Crazy Cool Things to do in Dingle
• Ultimate 3 Day Weekend in Dublin Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Dublin
• 10 Best Day Trips from Dublin Worth Taking
• 15 Fun Things to Do in Limerick
• 15 Sweet Things to do in Cork
• 15 Fabulous Things to Do in Killarney
• 10 Best Things to do in Belfast
• 9 Castles in Ireland You Cannot Miss
• 33 Ireland Photos Guaranteed to Cause Wanderlust
• Best Road Trip Routes in Ireland
• Best Hikes in the Mourne Mountains of Northern Ireland
• Horseback Riding in Dingle, Ireland

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Best Time to Visit Ireland (from a local)

If you are looking to visit the Emerald Isle you are probably wondering “when is the best time to visit Ireland ?”. For me, there is no bad time to visit Ireland, but for other people, there are some things that will play a role in when they decide to book that trip. With this guide, I share everything you need to know to help you make your decision.

What is the best time of year to visit Ireland for sightseeing?

Best time to visit ireland.

For its latitude, Ireland has a mild climate compared to other countries of the same latitude. This is thanks to the Gulf Stream in the Atlantic Ocean making its weather warmer and milder than would be expected. Ireland’s climate is temperate with an abundance of rainfall and a lack of real temperature extremes. Weather can be a factor in when people decide to make that visit to Ireland.

Best Time to Go to Ireland – Things to consider

When it comes to deciding the best time of year to go to Ireland, there are a few things to consider.

Budget – If you working to a strict budget when planning a trip to Ireland, the time of year will be a huge factor. Summer is the most expensive time to visit Ireland, simply down to supply and demand, while winter will be the cheapest.

What are you going for – The purpose of your visit can be another factor. If it is simply to enjoy a city break, this can be done at any time of the year. However, if you want to enjoy hiking and the outdoors, then summer is when you will have a better chance of finer weather and more daylight hours.

Do you like crowds or not – If you want to avoid crowds at the most popular tourist attractions, then a summertime visit is to be avoided. Winter sees fewer visitors but there are other compromises to be made.

Weather – Deciding when is the best time to go to Ireland can simply come down to the weather. Winter can be cold and wet, while summer can be warm and dry. But, and it’s a big but, you can often see rain during summer. If it is a decision between cold temperatures or warmer ones, then your decision is already made for you.

When is the best time to visit Ireland – Month-by-month weather

As already mentioned, the best time of the year to go to Ireland can be based on a few factors but the majority of the time, people make the decision based on the weather. Here is a month-by-month guide to help you narrow it down.

January – This is typically the coldest month of the year. Average highs of 7°C are offset with average lows of 3°C. Days are short, and snow can make an appearance on higher ground, while rain is highly likely.

February – February is cold, wet, and often windy with the most probability of storms. Temperatures are not too dissimilar to January, although there may be a slight decrease in the amount of rain.

March – While rain is still highly likely, days are starting to become longer, although sunlight might be hidden behind rain clouds. Temperatures are starting to rise ever so slightly to highs of 10°C and lows of 4°C. It is not unheard of for there to be snow on the coldest days of March.

April – With the clocks having gone forward at the end of March, days are starting to stretch, temperatures are slightly warmer than last month with highs of 11°C and lows of 4°C. Rain is still common but to a lesser degree than the winter months. Spring has sprung.

May – Warmer, finer weather arrives with average daily temperatures now heading to highs of 15°C and lows of 7°C. Days are longer and sunnier but do not pack away the umbrella as you might still need it.

June – Warm, sunny weather continues to improve with highs of 17°C and lows of 10°C. Sunlight hours are the longest they will get, and the sun doesn’t set until nearly 10pm! Keep the raincoats handy though as rain is still a high possibility.

July – July is usually the driest month of the year in Ireland with highs of 19°C and lows of 12°C, but you cannot be guaranteed not to see rain if you visit Ireland during this month. Days are still long and enjoyable.

August – The warmest month of Ireland is usually August with high and low temperatures equal to July. Rain starts to increase this month and days are beginning to get shorter.

September – There is often more sun than rain in September with average high temperatures of 17°C and lows of 10°C. It can be one of the best months to visit Ireland with a good amount of daylight hours still around.

October – The cooler air starts to show an appearance in October with highs of 13°C and lows of 8°C. Autumn colours make an appearance and, while rain is almost guaranteed, it can be one of the best months to visit Ireland to avoid the crowds.

November – This month it turns colder and frosty with temperature highs of 10°C and lows of 5°C. With the clocks having turned back at the end of October, days are noticeably shorter heralding the start of winter.

December – December is often the wettest month in Ireland with high temperatures of 8°C and low temperatures of 5°C. That said it is not unheard of for temperatures to dip below freezing and snow can occur too. The days are the shortest of the year, with darkness creeping in just after 4pm.

The moral of the story when it comes to visiting Ireland and the weather is to go prepared with layers, a raincoat at the very least and also an umbrella. Just because the table below doesn’t mention rain in certain months does not mean there is none. Rain can occur during every month of the year in Ireland and it is best to be prepared.

When is the best time to go to Ireland – Public Holidays Guide

When deciding the best time of year to travel to Ireland, you may want to take into account public holidays. This can be for several reasons. Firstly, one of the biggest public holidays is St Patrick’s Day on March 17 th and accommodation and prices of flights can be very expensive. There are also lots of crowds in many of the cities, particularly in Dublin. Secondly, if you are visiting during a public holiday you may find shops, restaurants and tourist attractions closed for the day. Public transport may also operate on a reduced timetable. So, bear this in mind.

Here is a list of the public holidays in both the Republic and Northern Ireland. Where the holiday is shared by both parts of Ireland, no separate note is marked. Where it applies to only the Republic of Ireland, it is marked with Rep, and where it applies only to Northern Ireland it is marked with NI.

• January 1 st – New Year’s Day
• First Monday in February – Imbolc/St Brigid’s Day (unless February 1st is a Friday in which case the bank holiday falls on a Friday) (Rep)
• March 17 th – St Patrick’s Day
• Easter Monday (generally late March or early April)
• First Monday in May
• Last Monday in May (NI)
• First Monday in June (Rep)
• July 12 th – Battle of the Boyne (NI)
• First Monday in August (Rep)
• Last Monday in August (NI)
• Last Monday in October (Rep)
• December 25 th – Christmas Day
• December 26 th – St Stephens Day (Rep)/Boxing Day (NI)

Note: Good Friday is not a bank holiday in Ireland but is in Northern Ireland. However, in the Republic, schools and most businesses close that day.

Best time to travel in Ireland – Seasons Guide

Tourist seasons can play a big role in deciding the best time to travel to Ireland.

Peak or High season in Ireland is from June to September and the week surrounding St Patrick’s Day (March 17 th ). These are by far the busiest months with a huge influx of visitors. Aside from March, the summer welcomes warmer, usually drier weather with long days of more than 15 hours of daylight. This makes these months the ideal ones for cramming in lots of sightseeing into an Ireland itinerary. However, the result is these months are also the most expensive times of the year to visit Ireland.

The week around St Patrick’s Day is also very busy with visitors from across the globe descending on Dublin to enjoy or take part in the St Patrick’s Day Parade. This often coincides with the Six Nations Rugby Championship and Ireland may be playing a home game during the weekend which increases the number of visitors, with supporters of the opposing team arriving in Dublin.

The Shoulder season in Ireland is April to May and October and is often said to be the best time to visit Ireland for a few reasons. The weather is often mild, although be prepared for rain. Crowds are lighter than in the summertime and with a good number of daylight hours, these two things combined make sightseeing a more pleasurable activity. Fewer crowds also mean lower costs for flights and accommodation.

The Low season in Ireland is November to March, not counting St Patrick’s Day. These are the coldest and often wettest months of the year with reduced daylight hours resulting in much shorter days. While this results in fewer crowds, cheaper flights and accommodation, you may find some attractions closed or with reduced opening hours and potentially fewer accommodation choices on offer. That said, if you plan things right, don’t mind the cold and rain, and pack accordingly, this can turn out to be the best and cheapest time to visit Ireland, especially if you are on a budget.

What is the best time to visit Ireland weather-wise?

If the weather is your big deciding factor and good weather is a must, then you are limited to travelling to Ireland during the summer months.

As mentioned already, these are the months with the warmest temperatures and the least amount of rain, although you can still experience rain throughout the summer. The days are long with lots of hours of daylight, making the summer months the best time to visit Ireland weather-wise.

All attractions are open and there are generally lots of activities on offer for tourists visiting from June to August. Visitors can enjoy the outdoors and there are lots of festivals and events during these months. Just be aware that primary schools in Ireland finish up at the end of June, while those in secondary school who are not sitting exams finish for the summer at the start of June. Most schools return during the last week of August.

Summer is the best time to visit if you want to avoid the cold and the worst of the rain, you want to use as many daylight hours as you can for sightseeing and budget isn’t a factor for your trip to Ireland.

If sightseeing is your main reason for visiting Ireland, then typically the shoulder season and September are the best months to go. Crowds have thinned out, schools are either awaiting the summer holidays or have returned after them, and prices, as a result, are lower in terms of flights and accommodation.

The weather is warm and, while rain can arrive, if you go prepared you can still sightsee. Daylight hours are typically more than 12 hours giving plenty of time to squeeze in your sightseeing, but without the manic crowds of summer.

If you are interested in enjoying a festival while you are in Ireland, here is my post about the best festivals on the Emerald Isle which might help you plan exactly when to visit Ireland. Note that these will be busier times for the city or area where the festival is taking place, regardless of the time of year.

I hope this guide has helped you decide when is the best time for you to visit Ireland.

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Best time to visit

Ireland is a land full of extraordinary landscapes from the Ring of Kerry in Southern Ireland to the historic and electric hub that is Dublin, and because of this, the best time to explore them is when the weather is at its warmest and driest. This usually means that the months of summer (June, July, and August) are considered the best time to travel to Ireland. While you might enjoy nice weather, summer is also recognized as the peak season so you can expect crowds of travelers at popular destinations and increased accommodation/activity prices.

If you want to avoid the crowds, try traveling in 'shoulder' seasons such as spring (March, May, and April) or autumn (September, October, and November). Yes, the weather might not be as good (you should always be prepared for rainfall) but at least there won't be as many travelers exploring the same landscapes and cities as you are. 

Best for: St Patrick's Day Celebrations, hiking, cycling, and exploring natural landscapes. 

Spring in Ireland is one of the more magical seasons to visit as the rolling, green fields and scenic valleys come alive with the light showers and warm sunshine that spring brings. Every color is heightened during this season, so expect lots of emerald greens and vibrant reds, blues, and yellows as wildflowers bloom and wilderness areas soak up the rain. You'll even get  to spot lambs and baby cows as they frolic in the fields to make your journey through the Irish countryside that much more special. 

As summer is considered to be the peak season, spring sees a lesser number of travelers, meaning popular cities and natural landmarks remain quiet until the month of June. But, the weather is similar to that experienced in summer with slightly cooler temperatures and long daylight hours so it's still a perfect time to travel to Ireland if you plan on spending the majority of your time outdoors. 

Best for: enjoying traditional Irish meals, exploring World Heritage-listed sites, going to the beach, and general sightseeing. 

Summer is the peak season to travel to Ireland for one main reason: the weather during the months of June, July, and August is the best it will be all year. With around 16 - 18 hours of sunlight every day and temperatures that hover around 68°F, there is no better season for exploring all the natural beauty Ireland has to offer. If you're traveling to Ireland in summer, the only downside is that thousands of travelers worldwide are doing the same so you can expect crowds in popular cities and queues at famous landmarks. During this time, accommodation prices will increase, and activities will start to book out so make sure you plan in advance to avoid disappointment. 

Whether you feel like digging into a heaping bowl of hearty lamb stew, visiting unbelievable sites such as the Cliffs of Moher and  Wicklow Way , or trying to catch as much sun as you can by laying out on a beach in Brittas Bay, summer in Ireland has a little something for everyone. 

Best for: whale watching, Halloween celebrations, harvest festivals, and going on countryside walks. 

Similar to spring, fall is considered to be one of the best seasons to visit Ireland (after summer) because it's relatively crowd-free and enjoys reasonably pleasant and mild weather. There are also many festivities during this time with the celebration of Halloween, as well as various harvest, food and other entertainment festivals. Fall also brings the ability to change the countryside's color, with leaves turning red, orange, and brown, making for some pretty stunning walks through national parks, forests, and other wilderness areas. 

You will need to rug up though (think thermal clothing) as temperatures can lower to 41°F but generally sit at around 54°F. However, November is generally the wettest month out of the year so be sure to pack waterproof or resistant clothing and even a collapsible, travel-sized umbrella. 

Best for: Christmas markets, wandering through cities, stargazing, and watching the Northern Lights. 

While winter doesn't experience the best weather, it's still a really magical and breathtaking time to travel to the Emerald Isle. From the festive Christmas markets full of decorative trinkets in December and wandering through snowy landscapes throughout January and February to staring up at the star-filled sky and catching a glimpse of the colored curtains of light known as Aurora borealis, there's no shortage of incredible things to do and spectacular things to see. 

Even though the days are shorter, the longer nights mean magnificent sunrises and sunsets, as well as the best chance to see the Northern Lights if you're visiting the northern end of Ireland. Clear skies in winter also make for perfect stargazing conditions but make sure you rug up because temperatures can drop to 39°F. You'll also experience fewer crowds in winter and more reasonable accommodation and activity prices. 

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What's the best time to visit Ireland?

The best time to visit Ireland is between June to September for warm, drier weather and a full calendar of cultural festivals. Highs in the mid-to-upper 60s create ideal conditions for sightseeing in cities like Dublin, hiking the Dingle Peninsula and discovering its secluded beaches, exploring the countryside and medieval castles, and enjoying lush, green landscapes at scenic national parks and Irish botanical gardens.

Ireland is a land of fairytale castles and medieval architecture, ancient ruins and legends, indescribably green and rugged coastal landscapes, and vibrant cities that marry the past with the modern world seamlessly. If you’re planning to see it for yourself soon, what’s the best time to visit Ireland?

The right time to go to the Emerald Isle really depends on your goals for the trip. Are you looking for the best weather for sightseeing and hiking? The cheapest prices? The least busy period with smaller crowds? 

If you’ll be out exploring the countryside, touring majestic old castles, and enjoying outdoor activities, the best time to visit Ireland will be different for you than if you’re sniffing out the best deals on accommodations and flights or trying to avoid the peak season crowds. 

We’ll show you the best time to visit Ireland overall, along with the cheapest, least busy, and worst times to go so you can pinpoint the perfect travel dates for your trip.

You’ll see average hotel and flight prices, things to do, festivals and events to check out, and weather conditions for each month. Let’s take a look at the best periods for a visit! 

Overall Best Time to Visit Ireland

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The best time to visit Ireland is during the summer, from June to September.  These months offer Ireland’s warmest weather with less rain, tons of festivals, and perfect conditions for sightseeing and exploring the countryside. 

If you’re picturing Ireland as a dreary country with forever-cloudy skies and an endless drizzle, the balmy summer months will change your mind. It’s the best time to visit Ireland overall, whether you’re exploring Dublin or venturing out to famous castles in County Cork and Galway. 

Here’s a look at average daily highs and rainfall during the summer months across Ireland, the driest, warmest months of the year on the Emerald Isle:

• June: 61–64°F; 8–10 rainy days
• July: 63–67°F; 8–12 rainy days
• August: 63–66°F; 9–13 rainy days
• September: 60–63°F; 9–12 rainy days

With highs in the mid-to-upper 60s, conditions are just right for exploring historic sites, walking famous pedestrian streets to shop and experience life in traditional pubs, and enjoy the green and scenic scenery of Ireland’s rugged coasts and green hills and dales.

It’s our favorite time to visit Dublin and its many historic sites and buildings, like 18th-century Kilmainham Gaol prison-turned-museum, 13th-century Dublin Castle, and the beautiful Gothic 12th-century St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Stroll down Grafton Street on the south side of the city for restaurants and pubs, shops, and entertainment. 

With over 300 golf and links golf courses in Ireland, there’s always a course nearby if you’re up for a round of golf during the warmest months of the year. Waterville Golf Links and Royal County Down are some of the most prestigious and challenging. 

This is a great time to do some hiking in Ireland’s scenic parks and countryside, too. Check out Killarney National Park in County Kerry to hike to waterfalls and historic sites on pretty trails through mossy woodlands and hills.

Hike the 7-mile Gap of Dunloe trail to pass through a glacial valley between mountains as old pastureland, rugged cliffs, and wildflower meadows flank you on either side. 

The only thing you won’t find this time of year are cheap prices on hotels or flights. Since it’s the peak season, you’ll pay a little more to travel and stay in Ireland. Take a look at the Google Hotels and Skyscanner data below: 

• June: $191/night; flights from $332
• July: $163/night; flights from $462
• August: $161/night; flights from $333
• September: $166/night; flights from $307

July is the most expensive month for flights to Ireland, but September stands out as one of the cheapest months to fly to the island from the U.S. July, August, and September are much cheaper at hotels than June, so it’s possible to find great deals in summer with a little research. 

Since you’ll be here during festival season, there are tons of events and cultural celebrations happening between June and September. Here are some to consider around the country:

• Bloomsday Festival (Jun) in Dublin transforms the streets and people to another time, with attendees dressing in Edwardian fashion (straw boater hats aplenty) with performances and readings from the 1922 Ulysses novel by James Joyce
• Cork Midsummer Festival (Jun) features plays, art, and music events on multiple stages in Cork near the middle of June, the traditional midsummer 
• Dublin Pride (Jun) decks the city’s streets, bars, and music venues in rainbow colors in support of the LGBT+ community in and around Dublin with parades, performances, food fairs, and contests
• Longitude Festival (Jun/Jul) in Dublin is one of Ireland’s biggest music festivals of the year, bringing headliner acts to the city with 2 days of performances on multiple stages
• Galway Film Fleadh (Jul) in Galway city celebrates local Irish and international filmmakers, actors, and actresses with screenings and discussions at one of the biggest film events in the country
• Kilkenny Arts Festival (Aug) brings outdoor theater performances, artwork, dance, classical music, and traditional arts to Kilkenny with over a week of performances 
• Waterford Walls (Aug) in Waterford is the country’s biggest street art festival with a massive, open-air gallery featuring thought-provoking murals and artwork in outdoor settings
• Dublin Fringe Festival (Sept)  is an almost month-long art festival that’s focused on pushing the envelope with eclectic and provocative performances, dance, music, and artwork
• Galway International and Clarinbridge Oyster Festival (Sept) in tiny Clarinbridge Village and larger Galway nearby celebrate the oyster harvest with festivals offering fresh oysters and seafood, music, and performances 

With the best weather you can ask for across Ireland, the most festivals of the year, and some months (August and September) with affordable prices on accommodations and flights, the summertime is the best time to visit the country overall. 

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Cheapest Time to Visit Ireland

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The cheapest time to visit Ireland is between December and March. Low temperatures, heavy rains, and fewer Irish events and festivals make for a less exciting visit, but lead to drastic reductions in prices on accommodations across Ireland. 

The winter and early springtime in Ireland can be a bit gloomy with cloudy skies, rain that doesn’t seem to slack off for days at a time, and a less vibrant atmosphere in big cities like Dublin outside of the summer festival season. 

• December: 46–48°F; 12–16 rainy days
• January: 45–47°F; 12–16 rainy days 
• February: 46–48°F; 9–13 rainy days
• March: 49–51°F; 9–13 rainy days

December and January are two of the wettest months of the year in Ireland, so it’s essential to make indoor plans in case your outdoor activities don’t pan out. Even February and March are quite rainy with up to 13 rainy days each month. 

Add the chilly temperatures (highs that don’t get above 50°F until late March) to the mix, and you can see why this period is less popular to visit Ireland. But savvy travelers will find the best prices of the year between December through March for a more affordable trip.

Here’s a look at Google Hotels data for each month during the cheapest period to visit. While they’re not the cheapest months to fly to Ireland, you’ll save plenty on your hotel and still find airfare below annual peak prices:

• December: $127/night; flights from $335
• January: $118/night; flights from $328
• February: $122/night; flights from $322
• March: $133/night; flights from $348

January is one of the cheapest months to visit Ireland overall with the lowest average hotel prices and mid-range airfare costs. May is another cheap time to visit with the lowest airfare (round trip flights as low as $305, according to Skyscanner) and affordable hotel prices (averaging $159/night). 

So what you can do during the dreary winter in Ireland? Plenty! Make the most of the cooler temperatures and rainy conditions by finding things to do indoors and out. 

It’s great weather to cozy up with a pint and hearty stew or fish and chips in a traditional Irish pub, like O’Sullivan’s Bar in Crookhaven, the 18th-century Tynan’s Bridge House in Kilkenny near Kilkenny Castle, or the iconic Temple Bar Pub in Dublin (come during the late January Tradfest with traditional Irish music).

Use the cool weather to layer up and enjoy hiking in beautiful areas, like Diamond Hill in Connemara National Park , the scenic Spinc Trail in Gledalough near Dublin, or the 2.5-hour trek from Bernie’s Cafe to a lighthouse on County Cork’s Lighthouse Loop.

Avoid the chill by spending hours touring museums and historic sites in Irish cities, like the Guinness Storehouse and the Little Museum of Dublin (both in Dublin) or Cork City Gaol and Blackrock Castle (both in Cork).

If you’re going outside of major cities, check out the impressive Bunratty Castle with 15th-century roots. It’s surrounded by a huge recreated medieval village complete with shops, eateries, and a park in County Clare. 

While there’s not as much going on around Ireland between December and March, there are still some really notable events to look forward to, like massive St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, cultural festivals, and holiday events:

• Christmas Celebrations (Dec) include parades, winter festivals, cities decorated in holiday cheer and lights, Christmas markets, and food fairs/tasting events around Ireland, especially in cities like Dublin, Waterford, Galway, and Cork
• New Year’s Eve/Day (Dec 31–Jan 1) is celebrated around the country with packed pubs and bars counting down to the New Year, lavish parties, fireworks displays in larger towns and cities, and a traditional New Year’s Day swim in southern Ireland
• Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival (Jan) in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter is a big event with comedy, theater, music, and literary performances and readings during a multi-day festival
• Temple Bar Tradfest (late Jan) celebrates Ireland’s traditional music at famous venues in Dublin, like St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Pepper Canister Church
• Jameson Dublin Film Festival (Feb) spans 10 days of 120+ films being highlighted from Irish and international filmmakers
• Mother Tongues Festival (Feb) in Tallaght honors the Gaelic language and its historic use in Ireland with classes, workshops, storytelling, performances, and food fairs
• St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations (Mar 17) across the country — the biggest parades and events are in Dublin — bring merrymaking, drinking, music, reenactments of the saint’s life, and traditional food in seas of green clothing to Ireland

With the chance to book your trip to Ireland at a lower price point, winter and early spring can be a great time to visit Ireland. Just account for the cold weather and rain when you’re making your plans! 

Least Busy Time to Visit Ireland

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April and May are the least busy months to visit Ireland. Mild April sees the least visitors of the year in Ireland, while warmer May is quiet as Ireland gears up for the summertime festival season. 

If you find it hard to enjoy a vacation when the city or attractions you’re visiting are inundated with crowds, April and May will offer sweet relief from the busy peak season in Ireland. You’ll find the fewest visitors of the season during these shoulder season months.

It’s amazing that more people don’t visit Ireland this time of year, because it’s still part of the drier season and temperatures are pleasantly warm:

• April: 53–56°F; 8–10 rainy days
• May: 57–60°F; 9–10 rainy days

During this period, the rolling hills and dales of the countryside are alive with green color and wildflowers burst into bloom in the meadows and parks. Cities like Dublin and Kilkenny are gearing up for festival season and enjoying prime sightseeing weather, but still uncrowded. 

Visit some of Ireland’s most famous gardens as the spring wakes up dormant plants to colorful blooms and lush greenery along pretty pathways, like the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland in Dublin, Belfast Botanic Gardens, and Altamont Gardens in County Carlow. 

This is one of the best times to tour a working sheep farm, like Glenkeen Farm , for herding demos, Irish music and dance, hearty home-cooked meals, and famine tours through old homesteads. 

With smaller crowds at Ireland’s most popular attractions, this is our favorite time to visit Blarney Castle to lean backward from a high-up window and kiss the Blarney Stone. During the warmer peak season, lines and wait times can get crazy, but it’s much better during the springtime.

You’ll find the popular Dingle Way trail less-crowded and gorgeous in springtime on the Dingle Peninsula. The trail leads from Tralee (County Kerry) to charming Irish villages along the coast, sandy Maharees beaches, mountain foothills, archaeological sites, and farmland before looping back to the starting point. 

Remarkably, May (with its warm weather and drier conditions) is actually one of the cheapest months to visit Ireland with the lowest round trip airfare we could find and affordable prices on accommodations (sourced from Google Hotels):

• April: $211/night; flights from $324
• May: $159/night; flights from $305

If you’re hoping to check out some Irish festivals and events this time of year, you’re in luck! There are a few must-see celebrations happening in April and May around the country:

• Galway Food Festival (Apr) brings food trucks and local restaurants together with in-house and street tasting events, cocktail classes, open-air markets, and food trails through the town
• Celtic Beltaine Festival (late Apr–May) traditionally occurs on May 1, the halfway point between the spring equinox and summer solstice, marked with bonfires, dancing, and storytelling on the Hill of Tara in County Meath
• May Bank Holiday (early May) is the first Monday in May, when most businesses and all banks and public offices are closed and attractions, parks, weekend destinations, and cities may be packed 
• Dublin Dance Festival (mid-May) includes 12 days of dance performances by Irish and international dancers showcasing traditional and modern styles 

With the chance to experience Ireland’s mild springtime weather and events without the crowds of peak season and more affordable prices, visiting in April or May is sure to delight you. 

Worst Time to Visit Ireland

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The worst time to visit Ireland is the winter (December to February) for the cold, blustery weather and rain. July and August could be the worst time to visit if you’re on a tight budget or trying to avoid crowds. 

There are pros and cons for both periods — winter is amazingly cheap to visit and less busy, but very wet and cold. Summer offers the warmest and driest weather with lots of cultural festivals and fun events across Ireland, but is more expensive and crowded. 

• December: 46–48°F; 12–16 rainy days 
• January: 45–47°F; 12–16 rainy days

Deciding which season will be the worst for you means taking your travel goals and ambitions into consideration.

If you’ll be doing lots of sightseeing, hiking, and urban exploration, visiting Ireland in winter will be a challenge. Short daylight hours, cold temperatures, and frequent rains limit the hiking trips you can take and make sightseeing less comfortable. There are also fewer outdoor festivals and events in winter. 

If you’re trying to avoid the biggest crowds or the highest prices on hotels and flights, July and August are the worst months to visit Ireland. As the busiest and priciest months of the year, the best attractions, hotels, and destinations will be packed and booked up early with long lines at attractions and peak season pricing. 

Winter hotel and flight prices in Ireland vary between winter and late summer, as you can see below with Google Hotels and Skyscanner data:

• January: $118/night; flights from $328 

But there’s a solution if neither winter or late summer are quite right for your trip. Consider planning a visit between September and October instead. You’ll get smaller crowds than summer, though it’s busier than winter, along with lower prices and plenty of seasonal events. 

Fall is a fine time to travel to the small village of Clarinbridge near Galway as the local oyster season reaches its peak. Stop in charming antique stores, walk through well-manicured gardens, and explore traditional pubs in this small town. 

As one of the cheapest places to fly into Europe in fall, Dublin makes a great place to travel on a budget during the autumn shoulder season if you want to explore historic attractions and architecture with an array of trendy eateries and traditional pubs around.

Since we’ve already covered the most popular events in Ireland in winter (under Cheapest Time to Visit Ireland) and summer (under Overall Best Time to Visit Ireland), take a look at the goings-on during the “just right” fall shoulder season:

• October Bank Holiday (late Oct) is the last Monday in October, with local banks, businesses, and public offices closing to give locals a long weekend for the fall season
• Dublin Theatre Festival (Oct) features some of Ireland’s best-known playwrights and traveling theatre performers at this international-scale event at the oldest theatre festival in Europe

For some travelers, winter is the worst, and for others, it’s the crowded and costly late summer. But you can always go during the affordable and less busy spring season (April and May) or in-between fall shoulder season (September and October) to hit the sweet spot for your trip to Ireland. 

Things to Consider When Visiting Ireland

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Ireland offers unique experiences during each season, and choosing the right time to visit this storied island country is only part of planning a memorable and enjoyable trip. Here are a few other considerations to keep in mind. 

• Rainy days happen year-round. Summer is drier and warmer, but even the “dry season” in Ireland experiences some rainfall — up to 13 rainy days each month! You won’t be able to avoid rain entirely, but make room in your itinerary for some indoor activities and tours to avoid letting the weather throw you off-track. 
• Book in advance for peak season travel. Ireland is popular to visit during the warm summer months and the best hotels, upscale restaurants, and attractions that require tickets tend to book up well in advance. Don’t procrastinate once you know your travel dates and start booking your itinerary as soon as possible. 
• You might need to rent a car. If you’re just visiting Dublin or a larger city that’s well-connected with public transportation, a rental car won’t be necessary. But if you want to venture into Ireland’s charming villages, coastal towns, and castles in the countryside, you’ll need to rent a car (and drive on the left side of the road). A U.S. license is valid in Ireland for up to 12 months.
• Build a realistic itinerary. Google Maps’ My Map feature can help you plan an itinerary that won’t run you ragged in Ireland. Keep a list of your favorite cities and attractions handy, plot them on your map, and note which areas are closest together. It’ll help you identify a good route to take according to where you’re flying in (likely Dublin) and how long you’ll be in Ireland. 
• Know when and how to tip. Waitstaff, tour operators, and hotel staff should be tipped according to your total bill and the quality of your service (roughly 10% to 20%, or €1–€2 for hotel staff) in Ireland, but it’s not customary to tip for bar service at a pub or on hop on/hop off tours. You can always leave a tip if the service was great! 

Frequently Asked Questions

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Some of the most common questions other travelers have about visiting Ireland might answer questions you’ve been mulling over. Take a look at the most frequently asked questions below to learn more. 

What is the best month to go to Ireland?

August is the best month to go to Ireland with warm temperatures in the upper 60s, as few as 9 rainy days, and affordable prices on hotels (rooms average $161/night). Round trip flights to Ireland start around $333 in August and events like Kilkenny Arts Festival and Waterford Walls Street Art Festival make it a perfect Irish month in terms of weather, prices, and things to do.

What is the cheapest time of year to visit Ireland?

December to March marks the cheapest time of year to visit Ireland with the lowest nightly rates on hotels across the country, ranging from $118--$133/night on average. Flight prices aren’t at their lowest during the rainy, cold winter (May is the cheapest month to fly), but start at $322 round-trip from the U.S.

What month is the rainy season in Ireland?

The cooler months of October through March are the rainy season in Ireland, when monthly rainy days range from 9 to 16. November, December, and January are the wettest months of the year across Ireland with over 2 weeks of rain each month on average. Even the dry season experiences 8 to 13 rainy days, but sees less rainfall overall.

What month is the cheapest to travel in Ireland?

May is the cheapest to travel to Ireland with the lowest prices on round-trip airfare from the U.S. Flights can be found as low as $305 round trip to Ireland during May, while hotel rooms cost $159/night in Ireland on average this month. January is the cheapest month for hotels in Ireland with average nightly rates around $118/night.

How many days do you need in Ireland?

You need at least 5 days in Ireland if you’re keeping your visit to one major city or destination, like Dublin or Kilkenny. Add 2-3 days for each additional destination you want to add to your trip, looking at 7-14 days to move around the country to explore different cities, castles, parks, and natural destinations.

So, What’s the Best Time to Visit Ireland?

If you’re ready to be transported to another world or place in time, you’re on the right track with a trip to Ireland. The palpable history in Ireland makes it one of our favorite countries to visit in Northwestern Europe — but only if you come during one of the best periods to visit.

For prime weather that’s warm and drier, that’s summertime between June and September. For cheaper prices on hotels and flights, the best time to visit Ireland is between December and March. If you want to avoid crowds, come between April and May. 

You might find winter the worst time to visit if you want to spend time outdoors or sightseeing. July and August can be the worst if you’re on a tight budget or want a less-crowded experience, so September through October is another great time to visit without any of these issues. 

No matter when you travel to Ireland, you’re off to a great start after learning what you can expect during each travel season. Align your weather, pricing, and activity expectations with your potential travel dates to enjoy the most memorable Irish adventure! 

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Ireland

Read our travel guide to find out when to go to Ireland, including tips on weather you can expect per season. Ireland is a great travel destination all year round. However, you can make your Ireland holiday more enjoyable if you pick the right time to explore this stunning European country. So, when is the best time to visit Ireland?

Are you about to start planning your trip to Ireland ? Your probably the most burning question then might be when is the best time to visit Ireland from a traveler's point of view.

What is the top season for Ireland, when it rains the most or when your chances for sunny weather are high? We have got you covered.

Let's be honest here. Ireland is certainly not known as a destination where you'll be fine with just flip-flops and a light jacket.

No matter if you want to hike in the  Wicklow Mountains , learn about Ireland's ancient history at Bru na Boinne , or marvel at Slieve League , you need to come prepared.

It is a country where the weather changes quicker than you would have expected, where it rains often, dark clouds can start rolling over the mainland out of nowhere, and the wind picks up quickly.

On the other hand, it is also a country where the conditions can get super-hot, where the sun shines incredibly strong, and you can experience here almost perfect day on the beach (although the water is still a bit cooler than we would have appreciated).

That's why figuring out when is the best time to visit Ireland can seem like a mission impossible. And to be true, it often is.

Yet, there are four distinctive seasons that bring certain types of weather patterns that can give you a hint about when you should travel to Ireland.

But choosing the best time of the year for visiting Ireland is not only about the weather.

There are many more influences you must factor in, the same as your own personal preferences.

What month is the rainiest? When to travel if you want to avoid crowds? Can you get around Ireland without a car? And what if you want to travel around  Ireland on a budget ?

Is there a perfect time of the year for these types of travelers?

And then, the perfect time to travel to Ireland differs for every person depending on the planned activities.

For instance, we planned this as a road trip and wanted to avoid the peak season. Therefore, we had planned the trip for May and knew that we wanted to rent a car in Ireland .

As you can see, this topic is pretty comprehensive, and that is why we have put together this travel guide that aims to help you choose the best season to travel to Ireland.

Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee you that in the supposedly hottest time of the year, a cold front won't hit the country.

Therefore, always come prepared and pack adequately.

The Best Time to Visit Ireland Weather-Wise

Ireland has four distinctive seasons. In general, you can visit Ireland at any time of the year, with summer being the most popular season.

And even though the period from May to the end of September is definitely the most popular one, given the ever-changing conditions, we would like to show you that every season has its pros and cons.

Then, it is only up to your decision when will you decide to visit Ireland.

No matter the season, it is absolutely crucial to pack warm, waterproof, and windproof clothes, but we will guide you through this topic in the last section of this post.

So when is the best time to visit Ireland when it comes to the weather?

We feel that traveling to any country in the world that has four seasons in spring can turn either way, and visiting Ireland is no different.

Spring in Ireland is defined by the months of March, April, and May.

Here, it is very important to take into consideration that meaning of the word spring in March and May can be completely different.

In general, the closer you travel to winter, the conditions are rougher. The closer to summer you visit the country, your chances for more stable and warmer weather are higher.

March is the time of the year when the country wakes up after winter.

Funnily enough, temperatures in March are not that dramatically different from temperatures in April or May, you can expect average temperatures around 8-12°C.

Simply put, spring is a great time to explore all types of places, ranging from  Kilkenny Castle  and  Glendalough Monastic Site  to  Dublin  and  Glenveagh National Park .

In March and April, you will most likely see why the country got its nickname Emerald Isle, with April being one of the rainiest months of the year.

Because of the common rain, the grass here is almost unnaturally green, and it is probably at its best in April and May.

The temperatures are getting a bit higher in April and May, but you should still pack very responsibly for every occasion.

From March, days are also getting longer, which is perfect for traveling as you can see a lot during one day.

Personally, we traveled in May, we got up at 5 AM, to be on the road around 6 AM, and we often ended our day exhausted but happy around 8 PM.

Even though some days were long and tiring, we were able to see many incredible places we would miss otherwise.

The weather during spring is unpredictable and can change at any minute, especially on afternoons.

It is normal to wake up to a sunny day, and later on, the winds blowing from the Atlantic Ocean bring spells and clouds.

If this might be a disadvantage for some, on the other hand, there are also a few advantages, such as bearable temperatures, open attractions, and fewer tourists.

Although there are several top dates which we will talk about later, you should note, when planning on visiting Ireland in spring.

We have an experience from visiting Ireland in May, and can only recommend this month to anyone.

Yes, it rained for some time almost every day, but it was nothing that would make our trip any worse.

Ireland's gardens start to wake up in spring, so it's the perfect time to visit places such as  Powerscourt Estate ,  Kylemore Abbey , or  Birr Castle .

For visiting castles, even cloudy weather was perfect, and it almost never rained that hard for the rain to obscure our views.

Simply, Blarney Castle , Ross Castle , or Cahir Castle are stunning in any weather.

Also, there were periods of fine weather we enjoyed to the fullest, and although every year is different, we would have visited Ireland in May again with a light heart.

How's the summer like in Ireland travel-wise? You probably already sense that it is one of the most popular seasons to visit Ireland, and you are not far from the truth.

When it comes to the weather conditions, summer, which means the months of June, July, and August, is the almost perfect time for traveling around the country.

Due to great weather conditions, places such as the Ring of Kerry , Connemara National Park , or the Burren are best explored during this period.

Popular tourist villages and towns such as Kinsale , Dingle , or Clifden will be buzzing with life.

Not to mention large cities such as Galway or Cork that hold many events throughout the summer.

Still, the answer to whether you should focus your travel plans only for this period is not that straightforward.

Why? Because it is Ireland we are talking about, and the country is notoriously known for its ever-changing weather.

What can you expect then? For sure, June to August are the hottest months of the year, with temperatures ranging between 15 - 20°C.

It can be even hotter in the direct sun, but the almost non-stop wind makes sure you will feel comfortable most of the time.

When the wind stops blowing, it might get really hot, and if this happens during your visit, you should certainly enjoy the moment.

Take advantage of the great weather and start exploring some of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland, such as  Fanore Beach ,  Dog's Bay Beach ,  Ballinskelligs Beach .

Summer is also the least rainy time of the year, but showers (and even longer wet periods) are more than common, so your rain gear should not stay back at home by no means.

We feel that autumn is getting more and more popular among travelers for trips, and we would not certainly say that autumn in Ireland is the offseason.

Well, especially not September. September is, for many, a pleasant extension of the holiday season, and it often offers pleasant weather conditions.

Although, as we've already learned, pleasant weather is never guaranteed in Ireland.

The rule of thumb is that the closer you travel to summer, let's say till the end of September, the warmer weather and less frequent rainy periods you can expect.

The closer you travel to winter, now we talk especially about November, the colder and wetter conditions you should be prepared for.

The wind is getting fiercer, the precipitation is higher, and also, days are shortening.

To get the perception, in September, you can expect about 13 hours of daylight, which is perfect for traveling.

In October, we talk about 8.5 hours, and in November, you'll have to plan your Ireland itinerary accordingly, as the sun rises around 7:30 AM and sets around 5 PM.

Average temperatures range between 6°C and 13°C, which suggests you should not leave your trusty dawn jacket behind.

What should persuade you to visit Ireland in autumn?

Although every year is different and the weather can turn either way, statistically, September is quite a safe bet in terms of weather.

October and November are significantly cooler, but it is not anything a good gear could not stop.

For us, the decision maker would be colorful leaves, which means only one thing for all enthusiast photographers out there.

An endless number of perfect photo opportunities.

Winter, which is represented by the months of December, January, and February, is the least popular season when it comes to traveling in Ireland.

There are several reasons behind it, but it must be said that travelers that will be able to take advantage of all pros this season has to offer will have a blast here because of fewer crowds and lower prices.

Yes, Donegal , Galway , or Kerry are stunning even in winter.

Winter does not have the best reputation, and here you can read why.

Unpredictable weather (well, that's not surprising anymore). It can be quite rainy (there are usually more than 15 rainy days in a month), and the days are short.

If you decide to travel to Ireland in winter, you will have about 7 hours of daylight to see all you have planned for the day, which might be challenging.

On the other hand, days are not as cold as you would have probably expected - average lows are around 2°C in the most chilly month, which is something we are pretty used to here in central Europe.

However, when the cold wind brings rain from the Atlantic Ocean, the coast gets its share, and in that case, you can expect that feel-like temperature is much lower.

Still, winter days mean that you can catch wonderful sunrises and sunsets at reasonable hours and the festive season in December is captivating as well.

Overall, we would say winter might be a perfect time to visit Ireland for visitors preferring cities and indoor activities, same as for budget travelers who can go with the flow.

Travel Insurance

We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.

Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.

SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.

Travel smarter and safer!

The Cheapest Time to Visit Ireland

If you travel on a budget , or you simply do not want to spend more than is necessary, we have to share with you one secret.

Ireland is not the cheapest country in the world, so even basic accommodation or car rental is pretty expensive.

Luckily, there are always ways to cut down your expenses.

And one of the ways is choosing the right time of the year to travel to Ireland.

Fortunately, there are seasons of the year when prices of accommodation, rental cars, and flight tickets drop.

So it is only up to you whether you rather visit Ireland off-season and save a few bucks or go with the flow and be prepared to pay when the prices go through the roof due to high demand.

Obviously, the closer to the rainy and colder period you travel, the more prices drop. We would say that you can start saving money when traveling in October.

Without any doubt, the cheapest months to visit Ireland are November, December, January, February. March is very similar to what you can expect in October.

Of course, there are reasons why people working in tourism need to attract travelers with lower rates, and the reason is simple, the less attractive weather.

But it would be way too easy if there was not at least one exception.

Although December is the low season in Ireland for travelers, it is still a festive season, and prices are again higher during advent times and New Year's Eve, especially in the cities, where many people intentionally come to celebrate.

Price-wise, the worst time to visit Ireland is during the peak season, July and August.

On the other hand, it is sometimes worth it to pay a bit more to have a higher chance of perfect weather for traveling.

In our opinion, if you are price sensitive but still do not want to compromise that much, we would have targeted the months of May, June, and September to get the best price-weather-available activities-ratio.

To make matters worse, not only weather and seasons are what affect travelers looking for the perfect time to visit Ireland the most.

You also should not forget to check the calendar for national holidays.

Not only that opening hours can vary during special days, but as it is in other countries, locals usually take advantage of a few free days, prices rise, and accommodation capacity is limited.

This can especially negatively surprise budget travelers and people with a very ambitious itinerary.

This is why it is very helpful before you commit to the final travel date to see whether there is a national holiday or other significant dates during your planned vacation.

On the other hand, we know that many people love to learn about the traditions and celebrate with others, especially in a foreign country.

And for example, celebrating St. Patrick's Day in Ireland must be an incredible experience.

To be honest, we rather avoid very exposed days if possible.

Therefore, we were able to enjoy a road trip around Dingle Peninsula or Dunmore Head without crowds, which would for sure not be possible during May or June Bank Holiday.

And what are the dates you should keep in mind when creating your Ireland itinerary ?

It is New Year's Day on January 1st and St. Patrick's Day, which falls on March 17th, and then you should always check when Easter is as the date is movable.

Usually, this holiday is between the end of March and mid-April.

What we see equally important is the information that student holidays take place on Monday before Good Friday and end on Friday after Easter Monday (they last ten working days).

Therefore, it is a very busy time in Ireland, which also, for many, starts the best travel season as temperatures are getting higher and days longer.

Then, there are four Bank Holidays, each celebrated on the first Monday of the month, in May, June, August, and then October.

And then, there is the festive season, with the peak on December 25, which is Christmas Day, followed by St. Stephen's Day on December 26.

As Ireland has so much to offer, we feel it is very easy to avoid celebrations and not be affected by different closing times, the only thing you need to do is to plan your day properly and spend it, for example, in nature.

On the other hand, if you like to socialize or simply observe the mood and customs, feel free to spend a holiday day in the city, for example, in Dublin , Cork , or Limerick .

How to Avoid Crowds

Every traveler knows that enjoying epic views of nature without being surrounded by people is the feeling only a few things can beat.

For us, choosing the best time to visit Ireland was also about balancing the number of people we would have to share the top attractions with.

The rule of thumb is that if you want to travel in the summer, when you can have high hopes for more stable weather, you cannot expect to have top sights such as the Cliffs of Moher , Rock of Cashel , or Killarney National Park , just for yourself.

That would be a very wrong assumption that could ruin your holiday. We always say that the most important thing is to set your expectations right .

Yes, you will most likely have to share the road with international visitors and locals alike, and this is especially the cafe of summer months - June, July, and August.

If you prefer to avoid crowds and have a feeling that paying for super expensive accommodation could ruin your experience, it is much better to plan your trip for late September and October or for the spring months, mid-April and May.

If you love being on the road just by yourself and enjoy observing fog rolling over green hills, the feeling of loneliness will be delivered from November to March. Just bring warm clothes and extra layers.

Still, there are a few tips on how you can avoid crowds even in the busy season.

One of our trusted ones is to get up early. In the summer, days are long, and you can start your day by getting up around 5 AM or 6 AM, so you can hit the road before others even wake up.

We used this little trick during our last Ireland trip in May, and it was really worth it.

Simply put, most people prefer sleeping in, and we had some of the most beautiful places by the coast just to ourselves.

You just need to have on your itinerary places without opening hours.

Luckily,  Slea Head Drive ,  Mizen Head , or  Wild Nephin National Park  can be explored anytime.

One of the strongest memories was driving through the notoriously busy Gap of Dunloe without meeting a single soul.

Another great way to avoid crowds is to visit less traveled places such as  Sheep's Head Peninsula ,  Clifden Castle , or  Corcomroe Abbey .

Best Time for Road Tripping Ireland

Exploring Ireland by car proved to be the best way how to see a lot in a relatively short time.

If you have extra time, we highly recommend driving the  Wild Atlantic Way , one of the most incredible scenic drives in Ireland .

The good news is that despite the fact Ireland does not have the best reputation in terms of weather, winters are quite mild.

Therefore, there is almost all the time the opportunity to prepare yourself for an unforgettable road trip.

In our opinion, the best time for road tripping Ireland is between late April till the end of October.

As the biggest advantage, we see the long periods of daylight for sightseeing. It is also much safer to drive around the country when you can see what's around you.

Driving in Ireland is quite safe, but narrow roads and blind turns can make it challenging.

Road-tripping Ireland in winter might be an interesting idea, as places such as  Skellig Ring , Conor Pass , or Killary Harbour are open all year round.

Just make sure you drive slowly, as roads can get icy close to the ocean or after the rain.

Last but not least, you should always choose the time you want to visit Ireland according to your favorite activities.

If you like exploring cities and enjoying all its perks such as museums, galleries, shopping, or tasting cuisine, there's actually no bad season for visiting Ireland.

Dublin is worth exploring any time of the year, and the same goes for Limerick and other Ireland cities.

The same goes for the famous Ireland's castles that are scattered around the country.

In this case, you can travel to Ireland basically anytime you want.

We've already established that a road trip is also an option year-round, so you will have a chance to visit as many castles as you want.

If you prefer spending most of the time outside, either hiking, biking, or simply exploring the best attractions on foot, you should aim for the top season between May and September.

Ireland is not the most famous beach destination. However, there's a short window between July and August when you can enjoy water activities such as surfing, swimming, or kayaking.

We've already mentioned a few beaches above. Inch Beach  and  Minard Beach  are among our other favorite places.

Ireland is surrounded by many islands. One of the most famous ones is Skellig Michael.

If you want to take the boat trip there, it is good to know that because of the weather, these tours usually commence at the end of May and run until September.

Outside these months, it is almost impossible to visit this specific island.

Luckily,  Valentia Island  is connected to the island by a road bridge, and you can drive there any time of the year.

Ireland, of course, offers many more activities, such as birdwatching, caving, fishing, etc., so it is something you need to take into account when planning the best Ireland holiday.

As the Atlantic surrounds the island, Ireland is a great place for bird watching.

Be sure to visit  Old Head of Kinsale ,  Downpatrick Head , or  Malin Head  if you love bird-watching.

What to Pack

Packing for Ireland trip can be very tricky, and to be honest, if we were you, we would have forgotten everything we learned about the seasons in the country, and we would have been prepared for the worst.

Only if you pack and dress right can you fully appreciate Ireland's beauty, even if it rains and hails.

We road tripped Ireland in the first half of the month of May.

And even though we spent a considerable amount of time in the car, there were so many interesting stops on our itinerary that forced us to go out that we really had to be prepared as for any other outdoor trip basically.

We will soon write a full guide on what to pack for Ireland that will be more comprehensive.

As we feel this topic is closely connected with the best time to visit Ireland, we will at least scratch the surface here, so you know roughly what you should not leave behind.

The most important item we brought with us to Ireland was the rain jacket . Another essential piece of equipment was a waterproof dry bag .

As we took many shorter and longer trips and did not just sit in the car, it was necessary to keep our valuables safe and dry.

Not only extra clothing layers but also passports, credit cards, and a camera as we did not want to leave them in the car.

When going on a road trip, you should never leave your home without sunglasses .

Then, we are convinced that the key to the success of every trip is layers.

Do not forget a functional T-shirt with long sleeves , same as with short sleeves, when the weather gets warmer.

I wore leggings almost all the time, Martin his trusty hiking pants . As an extra layer, we do have rain pants that are easy to use when needed.

Also, make sure you pack a rain poncho . An umbrella is not a good idea because of the strong winds.

A down jacket when traveling in the off-season is a must.

We also found a useful bandana and hiking boots with sturdy soles for outdoor activities.

Martin also once took out his shorts , and if you are braver than us, bring along also swimwear if traveling in the summer.

For cities, you should pack regular jeans and comfortable clothes.

Travel Resources

Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.

Accommodation : When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld .

Tours : Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.

We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator .

Rental Cars : When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com , a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.

Flight Tickets : When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.

Travel Insurance : World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.

Best Time to Visit Ireland

By: Author LetsGoIreland

Posted on Last updated: February 1, 2023

Table of Contents

• 1 When is the best time to visit Ireland: Intro
• 2 What’s the weather like in Ireland?
• 3 Ireland Seasons
• 4 Ireland Tourist Seasons
• 5 When is the best time to visit Ireland?
• 6 What to expect in Ireland weatherwise
• 7 Best time to visit Ireland according to activity
• 8 Ireland weather by month: Overview
• 9 Ireland in January
• 10 Ireland in February 
• 11 Ireland in March
• 12 Ireland in April
• 13 Ireland in May
• 14 Ireland in June 
• 15 Ireland in July
• 16 Ireland in August
• 17 Ireland in September
• 18 Ireland in October 
• 19 Ireland in November
• 20 Ireland in December

When is the best time to visit Ireland: Intro

May is probably overall the best month to travel to Ireland with good possibilities of settled weather, plenty of daylight and limited numbers of tourists. 

April, May, September and October are the best times to visit Ireland for weather, sightseeing and to avoid the peak tourist season.

June, July and August are the best times to visit Ireland for road trips, camping and hiking or for other activities that require decent weather and lots of daylight.

January and February are the best times to visit Ireland on a budget and if you want to increase the likelihood of (maybe) seeing snow. No guarantees on this one!

June, July, August are the best times to visit Ireland for music festivals. April, May, September and October is a good time to visit for food festivals (although some also take place during the summer months as well) and March 17th (St. Patrick’s Day Festival) is the best time to experience all things green.

December has a festive atmosphere with plenty of events, Christmas markets and decorations to brighten up the days leading up to Christmas and New Year celebrations. 

When to travel to Ireland : A quick overview

The best time to go to Ireland largely depends on what you want to see and do on your trip. The impact of the weather on your city break with lots of indoor attractions will be different to a trip where you plan to be outdoors for most of your stay. 

Perhaps you have the flexibility to select a time of the year to travel to Ireland that is most suitable for your itinerary. Or there may be certain events that you want to attend such as a music festival or arts festival, which restrict your travel dates.

Your travel budget is of course another factor to keep in mind. Visiting Ireland during popular holiday periods can increase the overall cost of your vacation due to higher air travel fares and accommodation prices.

Keep an eye out for higher prices around the run up to Christmas or New Year or over a bank holiday (a public holiday that falls on a Monday for an extended weekend), and during peak tourist season (June to August). 

This guide will give you useful insights into the weather in Ireland, as well as great travel tips as to what is on when and even some travel ideas.

What’s the weather like in Ireland?

The climate of the island of Ireland is heavily influenced by the Atlantic Ocean. This has a moderating effect and means that Ireland and Northern Ireland (generally) escape the extreme high and low temperatures frequently felt on the continent of Europe and at the same latitudes in the United States, for example. 

Generally speaking, Irish summers are mild. The average temperature in Ireland during the summer months is approximately 18-20°C (64-68 °F) (This is the mean max temperature summer). 

Winters tend to be cool and windy. Areas near the coast experience milder winters, sometimes temperatures are even a few degrees warmer than those further inland due to the knock-on effects of the warm Gulf Stream current in the Atlantic Ocean. This ensures that the waters around Ireland’s most northerly point, Malin Head, remain ice-free in winter.

There is a very good chance of rain all year round in Ireland, so I would never recommend traveling to Ireland without a good rain jacket. Spring and summer tend to be on average drier than other months, but this differs from year to year. The months from April through to July have on average about 80 mm (about 3 inches) of precipitation per month. 

Precipitation varies quite a lot across the island. The west of the island receives more precipitation than the east, with the average rainfall over all of Ireland being roughly 1230 mm (48 inches) per year.

Snowfall in Ireland is not particularly common, especially on lower lying land. Usually, snowfall only lasts for a short while on the ground and is most likely to occur during the months of January and February. A white Christmas in Ireland in December is definitely not typical, but also not unheard of! 

If there is heavy snowfall, you can expect that there will be major disruptions to traffic. Yes, we have experienced Dublin Airport being closed due to snowfall in the past. An American passenger behind me in the ticket queue could not believe that the airport would close due to a few centimeters of snow.

As a country, we are much better equipped to deal with rain than snow!

Ireland  Seasons

While the seasons of the year in Ireland are distinct, each with their own share of flare, they are not as pronounced as in other regions of the world. Even the coldest months of winter (temperatures of about 2-7 °C or 35-44 °F) can be considered mild due to the Irish temperate maritime climate. 

Most years, there is no abrupt change in the weather or average temperature between the seasons in Ireland. Occasionally reversals do occur with a surprise few days of summer weather appearing out of the blue in early fall. 

The meteorological seasons are defined based on the annual temperature cycle (unlike the astronomical seasons which are based on the earth’s position in relation to the sun). According to the average Irish air temperatures, there are four clear seasons, each consisting of three months of the calendar. 

Like many other countries at similar latitudes, Ireland classifies spring starts in March through to May, summer as being from June through to August, fall or autumn as being from September to November and winter as being from December through to February.

When is spring in Ireland? 

Officially, spring starts in March in Ireland and continues through April until the end of May. However, depending on how the seasons fall in any given year, there may be a feeling of spring already in the air in February. The average temperature by now has already started to increase and is about 8-12 °C (46-53 °F). Although the weather is not quite good enough to wear your summer clothes yet, you don’t need to bring your thick winter woolies with you when you travel on your holiday tour either. 

May and June are the sunniests months. The east of the island, from Carrickfergus in Northern Ireland, through Dublin and particularly the south-east tend to receive the most sunshine. There is often less rain during this season (about 80 mm or 3 inches per month), with a tendency for showers rather than the stereotypical Irish rainy days. 

The stretch in the evenings is noticeable during this time and will continue until the summer solstice, which takes place in June.

When is summer in Ireland?

June, July and August herald the summer months in Ireland and are a great time to explore Ireland and see the sights at their best.

Typically, these months have decent weather with a marked increase in the average temperatures since spring. In this mild climate, you can expect temperatures of about 16-20 °C (60-68°F), up to 18 hours of daylight around the summer solstice and, generally speaking, a limited number of rainy days. Depending on what you are planning to do on your trip, this might be the optimum time to plan your vacation to Ireland. 

Long days, with dusky bright skies extending well into the late evening (until after 10.00 p.m. in June) characterize this lovely season of the year. By the end of August (and definitely in September) the evenings start to noticeably shorten as they draw towards autumn and winter. 

While tourists holiday in Ireland all year round, the summer months are peak tourist season. July being usually the most popular month with tourists, especially with tourists from the United States. 

Trip Ideas: Why not make the most of the daylight and travel to the popular Irish tourist sights and attractions (check out our must see attractions or secret sights in Dublin here) either very early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds?

Regardless of whether you want to visit the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, get a crowd-free photo at the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland or want to have (almost) empty beaches on the Dingle Peninsula on the Wild Atlantic Way , try to maximize the early mornings and late evenings. It will be worth it!

When is fall in Ireland?

Fall, or autumn as the season is better known in Ireland, can be a time of good, but also very mixed weather. The average temperatures cool to about 14-18 °C (57-64 °F) from the summer highs and even as early as late August or definitely early September the evenings start to feel chilly. Particularly in the seasons of fall, winter and spring it is advisable to dress in layers so that you can easily add or remove them as required.

Rainfall is also higher at this time of year with westerly winds bringing moderate to heavy showers in October and November. 

Crisp, cold September days with layers of fog blanketing the mountains are truly stunning. Images like these often feature in the most beautiful landscape calendars of Ireland. 

If you plan on doing a road trip during this time, the rustic autumn colors of the foliage and scenery of the national parks and nature reserves will no doubt leave a lasting impression. 

The charming towns and villages along Wild Atlantic Way and the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland with great options for food, drink and lively traditional Irish music will keep you entertained in the evenings!

When is winter in Ireland?

December, January and February are the winter months in Ireland. The days are short with only 7.5 hours of daylight on December 21st and the weather often tends to be windy, wet and cold with average temperatures ranging between about 4-6 °C (39-42 °F). 

Heavy snow is a very rare occurrence in Ireland, due to the temperate Irish climate with the odd year having a bit more than a “decent sprinkling” of snow. The further north you travel on the island, the greater the chances of snow, wintry showers and icy conditions. County Donegal and some of Northern Ireland experience harsher winters than the rest of the island.

While summer is a better time for outdoor activities, there is plenty to keep you occupied in winter in Ireland as well. It is a great time to explore Ireland for a culinary experience to sample lots of tasty food during the Christmas holiday season.

If you are looking for some trip ideas or inspiration for your Ireland travel experience during the winter months, then check out our list of top sights for a Dublin city break around New Year or visit Tourism Ireland for some more information on other regions. 

Ireland’s Ancient East is home to Newgrange in County Meath and it is one of the most special places in Ireland in Ireland in December. The lucky lottery winners picked from thousands of applicants are permitted to enter the burial chamber to witness the sunlight entering the burial passageway around the time of the winter solstice. Of course the sunlight is weather dependent, so this phenomenon is not visible every year.

Ireland Tourist Seasons

What is the peak tourist season in ireland  .

The high season in Ireland is during the summer months from about mid-June, July and August, as well as for shorter periods of time around Christmas, New Year and a few days around St. Patrick’s Day (March 17th) are considered to be the peak season in Ireland. 

The popularity of the summer months for Ireland travel holidays stems from the weather being (generally) better. Visitors can hope to encounter less rain than other times of the year, and experience longer daylight hours. Thus making it a better time of the year for road trips and outdoor activities, such as hiking in national parks. Many live music sessions, food festivals and other Irish street festival events are spread throughout the country during the summer months. 

In recent times, Ireland has been used as a filming location for Star Wars (get your Star Wars trip ideas here!), Harry Potter (check our guide to all things Harry Potter in Ireland ) and Northern Ireland was used extensively during the filming of Game of Thrones. Film tourism is booming and has opened up the beauty of the island of Ireland with many new tourists exploring this country.

Christmas and New Year are peak travel times in most countries and Ireland is no exception! If you plan on traveling during this time, be sure to book well in advance!

Don’t get caught out with the peak season days around St. Patrick’s Day in the Emerald Isle. There is a big influx of tourists from all over the world, with large numbers coming from the United States to see the parade in Dublin. 

Visiting Ireland during the peak season may result in limited options on travel deals. Prices on hotels, travel, car rentals and air travel are likely to be considerably higher than average during the low season in winter or shoulder season when there are fewer crowds.

Travel tips: Unless you are not flexible with your travel dates, why not check out the shoulder season instead? It is likely to save you money, you will encounter less crowds and there are still plenty of attractions, arts festival and music festival events taking place around the country.

Shoulder Season Ireland

Travel guides about Ireland state that the shoulder season or mid-season for tourism is April and May in late spring and September and October in early fall. Generally, these months are the best to travel to Ireland and Scotland too, if anyone wants to link both in one trip! 

During these months, Ireland (along with several other countries in Europe) enjoy benefits similar to those found during the main peak season with regards to weather. The main differences being that there are fewer tourists and the costs associated with travel, including flights to Ireland, are not as high as the summer. 

A bank holiday Monday takes place both in the month of May and in October. Generally, you will see an increase in the cost of travel and accommodation around such a public holiday. 

Ireland Off Season

Roughly mid-October to the end of March is considered to be off season or low season in Ireland. (The time around Christmas, New Year and St. Patrick’s Day (March 17th) are not considered low season though.) 

Temperatures are considered to be quite mild with the average falling between 2-11 °C (ca. 35-51 °F)  and while you may encounter a bit of rain, snow is likely to be limited. 

Travel tips for this time of year are to bring layers of clothing and decent waterproofs. Personally, I prefer wearing a hood or a hat than using an umbrella as it can be a little windy sometimes in Ireland! 

What are the advantages of visiting Ireland off season?

• Accommodation and airfares usually cost less and good bargains can be found in certain hotels
• There are fewer tourists and you will have to queue less at the top sights 
• Traffic in the popular tourist areas (such as the Ring of Kerry) will be considerably lighter 
• You can enjoy the many beautiful Irish landscapes and beaches in relative solitude 

However, in comparison to summer with longer daylight hours and (at least) the possibly better weather, there are a few downsides to traveling during this time of the year. 

Apart from the increased likelihood of inclement weather during your stay, the main drawback for me is the shorter days, which is sometimes reflected in the opening hours of attractions. Other attractions or guesthouse accommodation may be closed completely during the quieter season. 

Outdoor activities are still possible during the off-season period, but you must plan accordingly with the amount of daylight available and have the appropriate level of experience. Some of my best hikes in Ireland have been during the winter months. 

There are still plenty of other attractions, events and festivals to keep you more than occupied on your trip to the Emerald Isle during these winter months. 

When is the best time to visit Ireland?

The best time of year to visit Ireland and Northern Ireland is during the months of April, May and September. During these months the weather can be pleasant and settled with average temperatures of about 8-10 °C (46-50 °F), occasionally 15 °C (59 °F) in April and May, and about 14-18 °C (57-64 °F) in September. 

In contrast to the darker winter months, the greater number of daylight hours during the months of April, May and September allow you to pack more activities and sightseeing into each day. Although it might not be the cheapest time to travel to Ireland, you will benefit from avoiding the higher prices and limited availability of hotels associated with the peak summer season in June, July and August and also around Christmas and New Year.

There are many events during these months to make your trip extra special. Why not visit an arts festival ( Listowel Writers Week festival in May) or a food festival, such as the Waterford Harvest Festival in September? 

While the main music festival season is during the summer months, a number of music festivals are held during April, May and September including Fleadh Nua in Ennis, which takes place towards the end of May. Live music can be found in pubs throughout the year.

Realistically, you are probably visiting Ireland for some reason other than the weather. There is no guarantee as to when exactly the best weather in Ireland is, because it rains throughout the year. If you are lucky, you can experience glorious sunny days in November as part of your Ireland tour. However, you might experience a wash-out during even in the supposed “driest” months of April and sometimes June. 

Our best travel tips for an Ireland tour are to prepare for all eventualities regarding Irish weather, bring the right clothes and equipment to make sure that the weather doesn’t stop you from making the most of your trip. When all else fails, enjoy the multitude of great indoor sights and attractions that the Emerald Isle has to offer!

Bonus tips : Keep an eye out for public holidays, such as Easter that often falls in April, or the bank holiday in May, which falls on the first Monday of the month. Dublin, in particular, can be very busy during these times and you can expect higher prices for accommodation.

Alternatively, June can also be a lovely time to visit Ireland. Then you will also be able to take part in the Bloomsday Festival (June 16th) to celebrate the famous novel Ulysses by James Joyce. 

What to expect in Ireland weatherwise

When is the best time to visit ireland weatherwise.

It can be difficult to determine what is the best month for weather in Ireland, but April, May and September stand out as some of the best months to travel to Ireland. Regardless of the time of year, you can never be completely certain of the weather on the island of Ireland and rain is likely throughout the year.

However, these three months in late spring and early fall can have settled weather, pleasant temperatures (approx. April: 8 °C (46 °F), May: 11 °C (52 °F) and September: 13 °C (55 °F)) and a good number of daylight hours (at least greater than 13 hours) to help enable you to maximize your itinerary. 

As these months are not during the summer, you might still find some travel deals on flights, hotels and attractions. There are many events, festivals and local farmers markets that take place during this time that are well worth visiting.

Ireland Climate Change: 2019 Year Summary

The latest Irish climate data published by Met Éireann show that over the last 9 consecutive years (2011-2019) Ireland experienced higher temperatures than the usual long-term average records. This temperature increase trend follows the pattern of global warming seen in other areas of the world, which can have disastrous consequences for biodiversity and the planet.

While Ireland escaped much of the summer heat waves that affected Europe, temperatures were generally higher than normal. (The highest recorded temperature in 2019 was 28.4°C (83.14 °F) in Shannon on June 27th). 

In 2019, all of the average sunshine totals and the majority of average rainfall totals measured throughout the country were also greater than the long-term average records.

Does it rain a lot in Ireland?

Yes, Ireland does receive a lot of rainfall year round, but the amount and frequency varies across the country. The west coast of the island receives more rainfall and a higher number of wet days (days where greater than 1 mm (0.04 inch) of precipitation is recorded) per year than the east coast and inland areas. 

Dublin on the east coast is one of the driest places in the country and received about 890 mm (35 inches) of rainfall spread over roughly 134 wet days in 2019. In contrast, Newport, County Mayo in the west of the country receives about 1800 mm (71 inches) of rain per annum and experiences at least 1 mm of rainfall on 223 days over the course in 2019. Belfast in Northern Ireland generally receives approximately 900 mm (35 inches) of rain and 210 wet days per year. 

When asked about Ireland, many people mention rain, which is not surprising given Ireland’s geographical location in Europe and its maritime climate. Ireland’s climate is strongly influenced by the warm temperature of the Gulf Stream ocean current that extends northwards along the eastern coast of the United States and Canada before crossing the Atlantic and reaching Ireland. 

Don’t be fooled though, the term “warm” is relative. The average sea temperature off the coast of Ireland is about 6 °C (43 °F) in Feb, 18°C (64 °F) in July and roughly 9 °C (48 °F) in December.

Irish weather changes frequently that sometimes it is possible to experience all the seasons in one day. Winter, spring, summer or fall, you should expect to encounter rain at some stage during your vacation in Ireland. Rain is part of the Ireland travel experience!

The majority of the precipitation falls as rain rather than as snow or hail, due to the generally mild average temperatures. 

Does it snow in Ireland?

Yes, Ireland does get snow from time to time. The highest likelihood of snow is highest in January or February when the average temperature is between 2-8 °C (36-46 °F), but snow can occur during any cold weather period between November and April. 

The influence of the Gulf Stream in the Atlantic Ocean, tends to limit the very harsh snowfalls that are typical of the climate along the east coast of the United States.

Usually, Ireland experiences just a light sprinkling of snow in the low-lying areas, with heavier snowfall sometimes occurring in upland areas and further north. Within a day or two, snow lying on the ground generally disappears. 

One recent exception was Storm Emma in March of 2018 which brought heavy snowfalls across the country of 30 cm (12 inches) and up to about 60 cm (24 inches) in some areas of the Wicklow Mountains in County Wicklow. The chaos lasted several days and shut many businesses and schools nationwide.

Because it does not snow in Ireland all that often, kids and adults alike or often quite excited about the event. It releases the inner kid in most of us who are more familiar with rain!

Does it snow in Ireland at Christmas? It has snowed in Ireland at Christmas time over the years on several occasions, but it is not all that likely during the average year. For example, Dublin Airport weather station recorded snow on Christmas day in 1950, 1956, 1962, 1964, 1970, 1984, 1990, 1993, 1995, 1999, 2000, 2004 and 2010 since records began in 1941.

Christmas Day in December 2010 was an example of a winter wonderland in Ireland. There was a thick covering of snow over Ireland from Malin Head, (Ireland’s most northerly point) to Mizen Head (Ireland’s most southerly point), which is quite unusual. On this day, there were also record breaking cold temperatures. 

The coldest air temperature ever recorded for the month of December occurred on this day in Straide, County Mayo ( -17.5 °C  or 0.5 °F). 

More information about Irish weather can be found on the website or app product of the local weather service, Met Éireann . The weather service for Northern Ireland is covered by the Met Office of the United Kingdom. Another useful source of weather statistics and weather forecasts is the Norwegian weather service provider Yr .

What is the best month to visit Ireland?

May is probably the best month to visit Ireland, based on my experiences of both living and holidaying in Ireland. Peak season hasn’t started yet, but the days are long and temperatures are pleasant at about 11 °C (52 °F). Most tourist attractions are open and operate their full summer schedules, but the number of tourists, crowds and queues are still very manageable. 

Best time to visit Ireland according to activity

When is the best time to visit ireland for road trips.

The number of daylight hours is an important factor when planning a road trip by car or by motorcycle. This makes the summer months of June, July and August the best time to visit Ireland for road trips. In peak summer, there can be about 18 hours of brightness. Sunrise can be as early as 5.00 a.m. on the days in June and the long dusk means that the sky is still bright long after the sun sets after 10.00 p.m. 

Extra daylight makes sightseeing, especially driving on unfamiliar roads, considerably easier. The weather during the summer months is generally better than other times of the year. Additionally, a road trip at this time of the year means that you won’t encounter icy roads typically associated with the winter and early spring months. 

The months of June, July and August are the warmest with average temperatures 16-20 °C (60-68 °F). Why not see if you are brave enough to take a swim when the sea temperatures are at a maximum temperature of 16 °C (61 °F)?! There are great designated swimming and surfing beaches along the Wild Atlantic Way coastal drive (including Stradbally Strand on the Dingle Peninsula) or Benone Strand in Northern Ireland. 

Rain is generally kept to a minimum during the summer months, with showers more frequent that longer bouts of rain. Always plan for rain though, regardless of when you travel to Ireland.

Summer is a great time for a road trip tour of the Emerald Isle as many Irish music festivals and other events taking place all over the country enhance any road trip itinerary.

Perhaps you can join in the festivities of the James Joyce Bloomsday Festival (June 16th in Dublin) inspired by his famous book Ulysses or the Galway International Arts Festival in July with the focus on drama, comedy and music.

Foodies are well looked after with the Taste of Dublin Festival in June or A Taste of Donegal Food Festival in August. While these festivals are not insider travel tips, they will certainly be one of the highlights of your road trip!

Best time to go camping in Ireland

Also applicable for caravans, campervans, RVs, motorhomes and glamping

Camping trips in Ireland are best in the summer months of June, July and August when the average temperature at night does not fall below about 10°C (50 °F), but the mild nights in late spring and early fall are also suitable. 

During the months of July and August, it is necessary to book camping spots or pitches in advance per night at each camping park along your route. If you value a few days of quiet camping, then aim to holiday during April, May, September or October when the weather is more likely to be camping friendly during the pre- or post- camping season. 

Some camping and caravan park sites in Ireland are open year round (such as Camac Valley Tourist Caravan and Camping Park, Dublin), while others close for the winter months (Eagle Point Camping in Banty, County Cork). 

The Ireland Camping Council and Tourism Ireland websites should be your first point of contact for more detailed information. These sites can provide tips and advice about where to go camping, the Irish caravan and camping park locations, travel guide information, the latest camping related news and free local amenities.

Camping trips in Ireland offer wonderful views of the skies (with two International Dark Sky Reserves in the country: Mayo Dark Sky Reserve Park and Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve ), breathtaking mountains and beach-side camping options. 

The appeal of a wild camping adventure off the beaten track under the stars has its own special allure, but you should keep in mind that it is necessary to check with the landowner first. This may be difficult or not always possible. If asked by the owner to leave the wild camping place, please do so without any fuss and follow the “leave no trace” principles. 

In Ireland travel with a campervan or motorhome can be very enjoyable, once you get used to the narrow roads and driving on the left. Dotted around the Wild Atlantic Way, Causeway Coastline in Northern Ireland and other popular tourist locations across the island, there are occasional viewing spots or resting spots where you can stop with a campervan. These spots are not designed as overnight locations though, and some have restriction barriers for vehicles over 2,5 meters (8′2″ ft). 

Glamping has become more popular in Ireland recently as a novelty accommodation alternative to hotels or as a unique way to experience festival accommodation (for example Boutique Camping at Electric Picnic ). The variety of glamping offers available in Ireland are not just limited to bell tents and include luxury camping possibilities, such as a night in a safari tent, yurt, pod tipi, hut or cabin. 

As this is a more sheltered accommodation option, the Irish glamping season extends longer than the regular camping season, with many locations open for bookings from March to November.

When is the best time to visit Ireland for hiking ?

The good news is that it is possible to go hiking in Ireland all year round, but the hikes should always be adapted to the weather conditions and daylight available. The summer months of June, July and August are usually the best hiking season in Ireland due to the warmer temperatures (on average 16-20 °C or 60-68 °F) and extended daylight hours (up to 18 hours), which is necessary for longer hikes. 

Temperatures on Irish mountains can vary considerably from the base to the summit. Even on a glorious, warm day you will still likely need warm waterproof layers on the top of the mountain. Don’t forget to account for the wind chill factor as well!  

There are many excellent hiking routes in Ireland and some of my personal favourites in Kerry and Galway with excellent views of the Wild Atlantic Way. More details about these can be found in good travel guides. For more inspiration why you should explore the Wild Atlantic Way, check out our post here .

Croagh Patrick in County Mayo (764 m or 2,507 ft) is one of the most famous and the barefoot pilgrimage to the summit takes place each year in on the last Sunday in July.

If you plan on visiting Ireland and want to fit in a hike or two, it is important to be well prepared. 

Travel Tips: The weather in Irish mountains can change rapidly, sometimes with fog or thick mist blowing in seemingly out of nowhere so always make sure you check the weather forecast regularly. Another thing to note is that most Irish hikes are not marked. You follow trails, without signage so make sure that you have adequate skills.

When is the best time to visit Ireland for sightseeing?

The best time of the year to visit Ireland for sightseeing is slightly off-peak season in April, May, September and early October. Visiting Ireland during this time means there is a reasonable chance of good weather, the opening times of the attractions are similar to peak season and there is less demand for hotels. 

Plus, most people agree that sightseeing is likely to be more enjoyable without the crowds, noise, and hustle and bustle associated with the peak summer months. 

For an Ireland tour, April and May are recommended as good times for sightseeing because the weather is improving for the better after the winter months and the daylight hours are getting longer. The average temperature is between 8-10 °C (46-50 °F) with some days being as warm as 15 °C (59 °F). 

These months are among the driest (each receiving about 80 mm or 3 inches of rainfall per month on average). You might be lucky and encounter a few days of t-shirt weather, but it is best to pack some warmer layers for the Irish weather just in case.

Fall, or autumn in the Emerald Isle is beautiful, which makes September and early October great times for a sightseeing trip. Some of the best places to visit in Ireland, such as the Cliffs of Moher , Glendalough or the Giant’s Causeway and Tollemore Forest Park in Northern Ireland, look even more stunning in the autumnal landscape.

Average temperatures in September and October vary. September is generally warmer with temperatures of 10-17 °C (45-63 °F), while October is cooler 7-14 °C (45-57 °F) . Rainfall does start to increase again before winter, so waterproofs are a must. 

Travel Tips : As the travel guides say, sightseeing in Ireland is possible at any stage in the year. However, some of the smaller sights and  hotels may be closed or else have shorter opening times in the late fall, winter and early spring seasons.

If you are making a long haul flight from the United States or even further afield and want to visit a particular attraction, make sure you check the opening times of the more seasonal attractions in advance.

Keep an eye out for the 9 public holidays spread throughout the year. In addition to New Year’s Day (January 1), St. Patrick’s Day (March 17), Easter Monday, Christmas Day (December 25), St. Stephen’s Day (December 26), there are 4 additional public holidays called “bank holidays”. A bank holiday falls on the first Monday in May, June and August as well as the last Monday in October. 

Don’t be fooled into thinking these holidays just affect the banks. The opening hours of attractions and businesses may differ from the norm and public transport will operate with restricted schedules.

Best time to visit Ireland on a budget

The cheapest time to travel to Ireland is during the months of January and February. Airfares are one of the major costs associated with visiting Ireland and these tend to be lowest early in the year making it the cheapest time to fly to Ireland. 

Is Ireland expensive to visit? In a nutshell, yes, but cheap trips to Ireland are possible too if you plan ahead and are selective with your itinerary. 

Lonely Planet recommends that you should plan a daily budget of at least €80 (ca. US$90) for a budget style holiday with dorm hostel accommodation. For a mid-range holiday, increase that daily budget to up to about €150 (ca. US$170). Of course, there is no upper limit.

As the weather is likely to be mixed and wintery with average temperature around 4-6 °C (39-42 °F) and as the days in January and February are short, it is not surprising that fewer crowds as the majority of tourists avoid this time of year. They are missing out on something special though!

Traveling during these months might limit the amount of sightseeing you do outdoors (but you never know, Irish weather is full of surprises!). It is worth mentioning though, that walking along a windswept beach in Ireland during winter is exceptionally exhilarating!

What about seeing the northern lights? This is also possible to do in Ireland, once you get the right conditions. Check out our detailed Northern Lights in Ireland post here for more information.

Nevertheless, Ireland is famed for many great things to take your mind off inclement weather including the lively pub atmosphere and for the price of a pint, you can experience live traditional Irish music sessions. Or there are many other free art galleries and museums, spectacular churches and charming towns to keep you entertained without breaking the bank. 

Ireland weather by month: Overview

Let’s be clear. Ireland is perched on the edge of Europe and is strongly influenced by the changing weather blown in mostly from the Atlantic. While there is no official rainy season in Ireland, you should expect to encounter at least some rain at some stage during your stay, regardless of what month of year you travel. 

This little island has so much to offer with regards to culture, atmosphere, scenery, food, live music and lots more. Weather, however, is usually not towards the top of that list. In fact, the skies above Ireland are generally covered with clouds about half of the time. If you happen to encounter fabulous weather during your stay, count yourself lucky. If you don’t, relax, there will be so much to see and do that the weather will be the least of your concerns! 

Take a look at the summary of each month to get a breakdown of Ireland temperature by month and Ireland weather by month.

Ireland in January

Most years the weather in January is mixed, usually with a decent helping of wind and rain. Average temperatures of 3-8 °C (37-46 °F) and general Irish weather conditions tend to favour more indoor activities. The days are short, making it the perfect time to plan a city break tour to Dublin, Cork or Galway and explore museums, art galleries, cosy cafés and live music in the pubs. 

If wild weather doesn’t put you off, then there are fantastic sights along the Wild Atlantic Way on the west coast of Ireland and the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland, which you are likely to have entirely to yourself during this time. Check out the breathtaking beaches, rugged cliffs and national park destinations that will blow away the cobwebs and leave your reinvigorated for a new year?!

One of the main benefits of travel at this time of year is that in Ireland hotels are likely to have more vacancies and offers around this time, which means you might save on the cost of accommodation during your trip. 

Weather in Ireland in January

Be prepared for windy and sometimes stormy weather when visiting Ireland during the month of January. There might also be the odd snowfall or icy road conditions on some days. This makes road trips and outdoor activities, such as hiking, more unpredictable and extra caution should be taken.

The daily average temperature is between 2-8 °C (36-46 °F) and very cold weather doesn’t usually last more than a few days.

Occasionally, Ireland is influenced by colder weather blowing in from Europe during this time of the year, which gives rise to clear, frosty mornings and cold nights. If you do get a chance to visit during this winter wonderland time, be sure to get up early to experience the magic!

Weather in Dublin Ireland in January 

Dublin city is a great place to visit year round. Located on the east coast of Ireland in County Dublin, Ireland’s capital city generally escapes a lot of the wilder and wetter weather blown in from the west via the Atlantic ocean.

You can expect the average temperature to be between 2-8 °C (36-46 °F) on most days. Rainfall on average is also less than in other areas of the country at about 60 mm (2 inches). 

In Dublin city the most popular attractions, including the Book of Kells in Trinity College and Temple Bar, are not weather dependent, so you shouldn’t let the winter weather deter your travel to Ireland.

If you have some flexibility during your stay, check the weather forecast in advance to see if it makes sense to plan a day trip to explore some other sights located further outside the city of Dublin. Dublin certainly has a wealth of interesting sights to visit. Check out our Unusual Dublin and Dublin Secret Sights posts some inspiration!

Alternatively, check out one of Dublin’s great luxury hotels for a winter city break treat!

Ireland in February 

Most years the weather in February still feels very much like winter and there is some occasional snowfall. Don’t be fooled by the first spring flowers that often appear sprouting above ground level around February 1st, St. Bridget’s Day, (the traditional start of spring), it can be quite chilly so it is best to use layers when wrapping up to keep warm and dry.

The days are short with beautiful (early) sunsets visible from western Ireland. Regardless of the time of year, the rugged Irish scenery along the Wild Atlantic Way is always breathtaking. 

February is a good time to plan a city destination break to Galway, Dublin or Belfast. There is plenty to do and see indoors to keep you busy!

While it is not the best time to travel to Ireland, the one main advantage to visiting Ireland at this time of year is that February is still considered off-peak season. If you are willing to shop around and are flexible with your travel dates, you might save on tours. Around St. Valentine’s Day, you might get some special deals on the hotels Ireland has to offer.

Weather in Ireland in February

Average temperatures in Ireland in February generally stay above freezing point, with extended periods of cold occuring seldomly. Storms blow in from the wild Atlantic from time to time and generally last 24-36 hours. Be prepared for the likelihood of some rain during your stay.

During this month, you can expect high wind speeds in exposed areas, particularly along the coast of western Ireland. Take care for gusts of wind if you are visiting cliffs or shorelines along the Wild Atlantic Way. Wave watching during windy weather can be an awe inspiring sight, just don’t get too close!

Don’t let the poorer weather conditions put you off getting a car rental. Just keep in mind that sometimes the wet or icy road conditions, especially on rural roads, can make the driving experience a bit more challenging.

In Ireland, hotels can offer occasional good mid-week breaks at this time of year so check around to get the best value hotel deals for your travel in Ireland. This is especially the case outside the bigger tourist destination spots.

Weather in Dublin Ireland in February

If you are planning a trip to Ireland and want to spend time in Dublin in February, the weather conditions shouldn’t bother your plans too much, as there is so much to see indoors within the city itself. With an average temperature of about 5 °C (41 °F), you will not have to worry about very low temperatures once you wrap up with layers. 

For those of you who might fancy a swim in the famous “ Forty Foot ”, brace yourself for the cold with the average water temperature being 6 °C (43 °F).

On days where the weather forecast is good, longer day trips either by bus or private car rental, are likely to be well-worth the effort. Suggested day tours are to the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland or the Cliffs of Moher on the Wild Atlantic Way. 

Ireland in March

Early spring is a good time to plan a vacation in Ireland, so March is definitely worth considering. The slight drawback is that during March weather in Ireland can be unpredictable. Weather in early March still feels more wintery, while the feeling of spring slowly creeps in towards the latter half of the month when the days start to get longer and warmer. 

The tourist season starts to kick off again during this month and the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations around the saint’s day on March 17th generate a great buzz nationwide. Generally, you see people wrapped up with hats and scarves while they are waiting around outside for any length of time for the parades. 

Weather in Ireland in March

The weather in the month of March can be lovely and mild, but also can leave a lot to be desired. Throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland the tourist season is slowly getting started again and the average temperatures are by now starting to warm up slightly to about 7 °C (45 °F). The lowest average temperature around this time is about 3 °C. Make sure to still pack your hats and scarves, as the wind can be quite cold this time of year. 

Spring has arrived and with it the spring flowers in the parks, on roundabouts and along the Wild Atlantic Way. The days are noticeably getting longer with more hours of daylight (Note: The clocks “spring forward” one hour on the 3rd Sunday in March for Summer daylight savings time). This makes travel and sightseeing a lot easier and more enjoyable.

Bonus Tip : Make sure to bring some extra layers (including socks!) if you want to attend a St. Patrick’s Day parade. Standing around in the cold for an hour or two can be a chilling experience so check the weather forecast before you head out! 

Weather in Dublin Ireland in March

Dublin can experience reasonably mild average temperatures at this time of year, but the weather can be a bit mixed so be prepared for blustery, rainy or even some sunshine! You can never know in advance and need to be prepared for every kind of weather during this month! 

On March 17th, Dublin hosts the biggest parade in the country as part of the St. Patrick’s Day Festival celebrations and many people use this as a wonderful reason to visit the capital and travel around Ireland. Enjoy the few days of festivities and book your hotels in advance if you plan your trip to coincide with the celebrations. 

Ireland in April

Visiting Ireland in April is an ideal time to visit and explore the country. Spring is in the air, the days are longer and the temperatures are increasing. April showers may be frequent, but with the right gear it is one of the best times to be outside and enjoy nature and stunning landscapes, particularly along the Wind Atlantic Way coastal drive. 

The Easter break, which usually falls during this month, results in many family vacations being taken within Ireland. Increased demand, combined with better weather conditions means increased opening hours for certain attractions and additional services are scheduled (for example sailings to the Aran Islands and tours to see Fungie the famous Dingle dolphin in County Kerry) 

Family friendly rentals can get booked up quickly, so be sure to plan your accommodation in advance over the Easter period.

Weather in Ireland in April

Generally speaking, Irish weather tends to improve over the duration of the month of April. The month often starts out wild and windy, but is more settled by the time May arrives with the average temperature around about 8 °C (46 °F). 

Another benefit of visiting Ireland in April is that the April average for rainfall tends to be one of the lowest of all the months of the year. The waterproof clothes will still come in handy though and will also help to keep you warm against the wind chill!

As daylight hours extend to at least 8.00 p.m., there are also more opportunities during the days to travel and take part in outdoor activities in the seasonal spring weather.

Weather in Dublin Ireland in April

Dublin city is a charming place to be in April, as the spring flowers and cherry blossoms brighten up the cities many parks and cafés open up their outdoor seating for food and drink. The average temperature is about 8 °C (46 °F), with the average low temperature usually not dipping below about 4 °C (39 °F). Layering is still the key to the most appropriate clothing, but you can leave your heavy winter woolies probably at home.

While you should still expect some rainfall on some days, most of it is likely to be confined to showers during this month. Showers can appear out of nowhere so always have an umbrella handy!

Take some time if you can to travel around the city and explore what is on offer. It is one of my favorite times of the year to holiday, not only in Dublin, but also around the rest of Ireland and Northern Ireland. 

Ireland in May

May is probably one of the best months of the year in Ireland. You can expect plenty of daylight and have a reasonable chance of decent weather. In fact, May and June are on average the sunniest months. As the temperature in Ireland in May is a bit warmer, you won’t need to wear as many layers of clothing. 

Kids are still in school until around the end of June and the peak summer season does not start until mid-June so you are not likely to experience the large crowds at attractions that are more typical of the summer season.

Although visiting Ireland in May is not during the peak season, the costs of air travel and accommodation are somewhat similar to what you will find in high season.

Do you want to visit a unique festival in Ireland in May? Why not take part in the May the 4th Be With You Festival along the Wild Atlantic Way?! Particularly Star Wars fans will have a blast. Do you want to find out more about Ireland Star Wars locations? You can find all the information you need here .

Weather in Ireland in May

If you are planning to visit Ireland in May, then you are in with a chance of seeing Ireland at its best. The cool average temperatures ranging from about 7-15 °C (45-59 °F) are not likely to be too warm or too cold for most tastes. Generally speaking, you can experience settled weather and if you are lucky, some decent amounts of sunshine and perhaps even blue skies!

During the late spring season, precipitation levels are not particularly high and showers are more typical of this time of year than days of constant rainfall. Wind is less likely to be an issue than in the winter and early spring months. You can pack some lighter layers if you plan to travel to Ireland during this month. 

Many travel guides highlight the summer months of June, July and August for their weather in Ireland, but if weather is your only consideration, May can be an alternative and slightly cheaper option to visit Ireland.

Weather in Dublin Ireland in May

The weather in Dublin during the month of May can be very pleasant. The average temperature of 10 °C (50 °F) makes it perfect for exploring the city while escaping the hot summer or cold winter weather.

Visitors to the city can hope for not too much rain (usually) and generally a few days of settled weather during this month, as well as plenty of hours of daylight.

May is the time of year that I recommend people to visit Dublin and the rest of Ireland. You can enjoy Dublin’s parks with sunshine and avoid the crowds more typical of the high summer season.

Ireland in June 

The very long summer evenings with dusk extending to about 10.00 p.m. or even later are definitely one of the main highlights of visiting Ireland and Northern Ireland in June. It is an ideal time to plan a road trip by car, motorhome or motorcycle around the Emerald Isle.

Temperatures at this time of year are now warmer, reaching about 14 °C (57 °F) on average and there is less likelihood of rain and windy weather. 

From about mid-June, the high tourist summer season starts with crowds increasing over the next two months. 

Summer is a great time to travel to Ireland with Irish people organising festivals and events of all kinds throughout the country. Some of the most enjoyable music festivals are held in June, such as the Sea Sessions (the surf music festival takes place in Bundoran, County Donegal) and the alternative Body and Soul Music and Arts Festival in County Westmeath. 

Weather in Ireland in June

June heralds the start of the high summer season in Ireland along with the warmer average temperatures of 10-18 °C (50-64 °F). Rainfall in June is a reality in Ireland and unlikely to be completely avoided during your trip. Once you keep this in mind and are well prepared, rain is not going to hinder your Ireland travel plans too much.

The long hours of daylight in June is one the distinct advantages of visiting Ireland during this month. As most travel guides suggest, road trips and outdoor activity holidays are definitely better suited to this time of year for these reasons. 

Outdoor food and music festivals are also more frequent during the summer months and bring the cities of Dublin, Galway and Cork to life with plenty of leafy beer gardens to enjoy a relaxing drink well into the long evenings.

Weather in Dublin Ireland in June

June is an exciting month to visit Ireland and especially Dublin city, as the James Joyce Bloomsday festivities take over on June 16th. The pleasant monthly average temperature of about 14 °C (57 °F) in Dublin, ensures that it is not too chilly to take part in the outdoor Bloomsday festivities (many take place indoors as well!). 

As the high tourist season starts in June, there will be more visitors around the capital. On days where the weather is good, many people flock to the lovely parks scattered around the city to relax, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the warmer summer temperatures. 

There are more than enough indoor attractions (many of them free) to keep you entertained if the weather forecast for a day is rainy or windy. 

If you plan a day trip from Dublin to Glendalough, the Cliff of Moher and the Burren or to Northern Ireland, you are more likely to benefit more from the trip at this time of the year than during winter or spring when the daylight hours are shorter. 

Ireland in July

July in Ireland is a popular time to visit Ireland with long daylight hours and generally decent weather. Schools are closed for summer holidays, meaning that there are more domestic tourists, as well as overseas visitors during this peak season period. Keep this in mind when planning your budget, accommodation and what top attractions to visit.

It is a great time to check out a national park or two, with Connemara National Park being one of my personal favorites. There is a small visitor information center in Letterfrack where you can find highly enjoyable hiking trail options for the nearby Diamond Hill. 

While in the general vicinity, two other tips you should consider are to a night in the luxurious Ballynahinch Castle Hotel and check out the Galway International Arts Festival if you have the chance. 

Weather in Ireland in July

Generally speaking, typical Irish weather for the month of July is reasonably warm with average temperatures between 12-20 °C (54-68 °F) and a similar number of rainfall days to the neighboring months of June and August. The long daylight hours that extend well into the late evening are a great bonus at this time of the year. 

Road trips around Ireland and Northern Ireland are best suited to the long summer days, with July being a perfect time to plan such a trip. The weather forecast can still be quite changeable, so always take a look a few days in advance if you want to travel to a particular (outdoor) location on a particular day. 

It might be a bit unrealistic to expect bright, blue skies and sunshine every day, but with any luck, the weather will be reasonably dry and will allow you to fit in lots of sightseeing.

In July average temperatures at night usually don’t dip too low, so this is also one of the best times to go camping. Alternatively if you plan on staying in hotel or bed and breakfast accommodation, book your stays in advance, as there may not be vacancies in high season as short notice. 

Weather in Dublin Ireland in July

In July average temperatures are about 12-20 °C (54-68 °F) in Dublin city. You could expect to have rainfall on about 10 days, but this of course is just an average and each year can be different. As with every month in Ireland, bring layers and waterproof clothing to make sure that you are covered for all eventualities!

July is a popular time to visit Dublin, especially for visitors from the United States. The reasonably good weather, long summer days and wide variety of events and festivals make it a great time to visit Ireland’s capital city.

Hotels can be booked out well in advance, so book early to have the best selection. 

Ireland in August

August tends to be the month in which most tourists arrive for their Ireland holidays. Visiting Ireland in August is a very pleasant time, with many different festivals, events and plenty of lively pub evenings with traditional music. 

Towards the end of August, the nights start to feel a bit chillier and the long stretch in the evenings is noticeably shorter than the previous two months.

Peak tourist season results in increased traffic with many large and small group tour busses navigating the narrow, rural roads. The countryside roads often have view restrictions due to bends, hedges, farm machinery or occasionally farm animals. It is worth keeping this in mind when you are considering what type of vehicle to rent. Don’t forget that in Ireland you have to drive on the left. 

Weather in Ireland in August

August is high season in Ireland and the warmer temperatures combined with long days attract lots of visitors worldwide. The average temperatures are between about 12-20 °C (54-68 °F) and by now the water temperature is also starting to rise (14-16 °C or 57-61 °F). Perfect for a refreshing dip in the sea! 

The average rainfall increases a bit for the month of August in comparison to July, but this fluctuates each year. 

The summer is a great time to travel along the Wild Atlantic Way or the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland. The popular stops along the routes tend to get busy at peak times of the day, regardless of the weather. 

While the evenings do start to get noticeably shorter and cooler towards the end of August, there is still daylight well into the evening allowing you to maximise your Irish holiday. 

Weather in Dublin Ireland in August

In Dublin, the weather in August tends to be pleasant. Average temperatures this month are about 11-19 °C (52-66 °F), which makes it an ideal time for a city break. Perhaps take a walking tour or just enjoy exploring the city without feeling too hot or cold, or hopefully wet! 

On average, you can expect to encounter at least some rain on about 11 days during August, but this is just an estimate! You can never go wrong with layers and waterproofs when it comes to Irish weather, whatever time of the year.

Although Ireland is not particularly known for its sunshine, don’t forget to wear sunscreen when you are out and about on sunny days! For a pretty accurate weather forecast, you can check Yr .

Ireland in September

Visiting Ireland in September is an ideal vacation time. Fall has definitely started, but many of the benefits of the summer, such as warmer weather and longer evenings still linger to a degree. The evenings can be chilly, so make sure you bring some layers of clothing. There are fewer tourists, although it is still considered peak season. 

Fall, or autumn as it is known in Ireland, is a great time to explore the landscape and take part in outdoor activities. Hiking in Ireland in September is particularly enjoyable with subtle changes in color visible on the landscape. 

Key events to mark on your calendar for September the world renowned Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival in County Clare and the 10-Day Waterford Harvest Food Festival . 

Weather in Ireland in September

There is a noticeable change in the weather from August, but generally September can be a very agreeable month weatherwise. It is often not too hot or too cold, there are fewer tourists and the long daylight hours in the evening until about 8.00 p.m. means that you can get a lot out of the day.

The average temperature for September is about 13 °C (55 °F) and while the likelihood of rain (and wind) does increase slightly in comparison to the summer months, this time of the year can be a very enjoyable time for a trip to Ireland. Sea temperatures are also similar to August around max 16 °C (61 °F). 

The leaves begin to change color and towards the end of the month you might encounter crisp autumnal days. The evening light around this time can be very beautiful. So watching an Irish western sunset along the Wild Atlantic way can be a memorable experience with the right conditions.

Weather in Dublin Ireland in September

Dublin City is a lively tourist destination in September, as it is still a very popular time to visit and explore the city’s top sights including The Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College and Temple Bar (for itinerary ideas check out our 3-day itinerary for Dublin ).

The average temperature is about 13 °C (55 °F), so as well as your layers, it might be necessary to bring a jacket for the evenings if you plan on being outside a lot.

Some amount of rain is to be expected this month, so pack your umbrella and check out some of the many great indoor attractions on the wet days.

Longer day trips to parts of the Wild Atlantic Way or other further away destinations in Ireland and Northern Ireland are still possible this month. I would be less keen to do such trips later in the year due to the more limited daylight levels, generally poorer weather and the amount of time spent traveling. 

On the other hand… you can always strike it lucky with a tour on a fine, sunny day in October, November or even December!

Ireland in October 

October is a nice time to travel to Ireland and is a good alternative for anyone planning a budget trip or wanting to avoid crowds. The weather can be more mixed, and you should pack warmer layers and a waterproof jacket is an absolute must. In the best case, you will encounter settled weather with crisp autumnal days, in the worst case, at least you will have a waterproof jacket!

Visiting Ireland in October is considered to be the “shoulder season”, which may mean you get better deals on hotels and car rental during your trip. There are still dozens of festivals taking place across the country, including the Dingle Food Festival . 

Why not get in the mood for Halloween (an ancient Celtic festival of Samhain thought to originate in Ireland) and explore where Bram Stoker got his inspiration for Dracula in St. Michan’s Crypt among other weird things in Dublin? (Our post on unusual sites in Dublin covers it all!)

Weather in Ireland in October

Ireland around this time of year begins to experience a dip in the average temperatures with most days ranging between 7-14 °C (45-57 °F). Rainfall also increases around October, as do the number of days where you can expect rainfall. 

Planning an Ireland travel trip during October can be a good idea, if you don’t mind the shorter daylight hours and more mixed weather forecast. On the plus side, you will encounter less queues and may get better deals than earlier in the season.

Travel tips: There is a public holiday (bank holiday) on the last Monday of October, when banks and other services will close. Winter time also starts on the last Sunday of the month, which means you technically gain an hour. However, it gets dark in the evenings around 5.00 p.m.

Weather in Dublin Ireland in October

With a slight chill in the air this time of year, October is the perfect time to start discovering the many great museums, galleries and other superb indoor attractions that Dublin has to offer. 

With an average temperature of about 11° C, you should find sightseeing on such days quite manageable, once you wrap up a little. Some potential visitors to Ireland are discouraged by the thought of rainy, windy weather in October. However, it is worth noting that we do occasionally have really glorious sunny days, particularly towards the start of the month. 

Sometimes the weather in October could be better than June or July. It all comes down to luck and being well prepared with the right clothes for the season! 

Why not try an early morning walk on one of the crisp autumnal days and enjoy the colorful leaves along the Grand Canal or spend some time in one of the many parks? It can be a magical part of any holiday!

Ireland in November

Generally speaking, the weather in November tends to be a bit wintery. It is certainly colder than the previous months and rainfall also increases. However, glorious cold calm days in November are also a possibility. It is best to prepare for all eventualities with multiple layers and waterproof clothes.

The main tourist attractions remain open throughout the year, but some of the smaller attractions may have restricted opening hours or may even close for the winter. 

The thought of colder or wetter weather should not discourage visiting Ireland in November. There are multiple other great ways to spend your time indoors, such as great museums, shops, theaters, events and pubs that will make any Ireland family itinerary worthwhile.

Weather in Ireland in November

November in Ireland is chilly with average temperatures falling between about 4-10° C (39-50 °F). The days are reasonably short with long evenings, perfect to settle down beside a roaring fire perhaps with an Irish stew and a pint of Guinness to warm you up! 

In terms of tourism, November is a quiet month. The colder, wetter and generally windier weather deters many tourists from planning a holiday at this time. However, those who are willing to travel are likely to experience better hotel and airfare deals on their trip and can even experience some of the early Christmas season events towards the end of the month. 

Storm swells and crashing waves along the Wild Atlantic Way coastline can be absolutely mesmerizing at this time of year. 

Weather in Dublin Ireland in November

The weather in November may not entice you to do too much exploring outside with average temperatures between 5-10 °C (41-50 °F). The low temperature, general wintery weather and greater rainfall makes this month ideal for indoor attractions, cosy cafés and lively pubs. Luckily Dublin is known for having all of these things! 

Visiting Ireland in November for a few days can be great fun, especially later in the month when the Christmas festivities, markets, decorations and shopping really start. That is when the atmosphere in the city begins to take on a special seasonal buzz. 

For an extra special trip and a way to spend the long evenings, why not try a luxury stay in a castle hotel, such as the 5-star Luttrellstown Castle Resort or the 4-star Clontarf Castle hotel (not far from Dublin Airport)?

Longer day trips from Dublin city at this time of year would only be advisable if the weather forecast is expected to be really good . 

Ireland in December

December in Ireland is perfect for anyone who enjoys the Christmas ambiance without the snow (usually!). While the average temperature in December is 6 °C (43 °F), it only occasionally snows and when it does, it usually doesn’t stay on the ground for too long. 

Although Ireland in winter does not usually boast of the snowy winter wonderland of other European countries, that is not to say that the Christmas markets are any less festive and fun than anywhere else! 

The Cliffs of Moher in December, as well as many other of the magnificent destinations along the Wild Atlantic Way, can be particularly haunting and memorable in December.

Weather in Ireland in December

How cold is Ireland in December? Ireland is chilly, but not extremely cold in December with an average temperature of about 6 °C (43 °F). There can be some cold spells that might bring some snow, but more often than not Ireland does not experience a white Christmas. 

December is a month where you should expect plenty of cloud cover and the usual wintery rain and wind. The occasional winter storm will also blow through. If you strike it lucky with the weather you might see the northern lights! (Find out more about the northern lights in Ireland here.)

At this time of year, most people are so enchanted by Christmas, city light displays and festive markets that they are not too concerned with the weather forecast. If you encounter dry days, you can count yourself lucky. Otherwise just wrap up well and enjoy the atmosphere. 

Weather in Dublin Ireland in December

In December the weather in Dublin is quite typical for Ireland in winter. You should expect a few wet days and need to wrap up, as the average temperatures are about 3-8 °C (37-46 °F). Overcast days with plenty of cloud cover are the norm, but sunny days exceptions do also occur from time to time.

Even if it is cold, wet and windy outside, it is still worth donning your layers and waterproof clothes and visiting the Christmas lights and the Christmas markets that Dublin city has to offer this month. 

Christmas and New Year are popular times for tourists to travel to Ireland and also many expats living abroad try to make it home for the celebrations. This means that Dublin Airport and the nearby hotels can be very busy. If the weather forecast does take a turn for the worse, plan ahead and make sure that you are in plenty of time for your departure, as it can sometimes get a bit chaotic. 

Our Day Trips from Cork and Best Things to do in Cobh might give you some ideas for your planning your itinerary and films buffs, check out our Harry Potter and Star Wars filming location posts. 

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Best Time To Visit Ireland

• Jan Avg Daily: 7 ° C Avg Nightly: 3 ° C
• Feb Avg Daily: 7 ° C Avg Nightly: 3 ° C
• Mar Avg Daily: 10 ° C Avg Nightly: 4 ° C
• Apr Avg Daily: 11 ° C Avg Nightly: 5 ° C
• May Avg Daily: 15 ° C Avg Nightly: 7 ° C
• Jun Avg Daily: 17 ° C Avg Nightly: 10 ° C
• Jul Avg Daily: 19 ° C Avg Nightly: 12 ° C
• Aug Avg Daily: 19 ° C Avg Nightly: 12 ° C
• Sep Avg Daily: 17 ° C Avg Nightly: 10 ° C
• Oct Avg Daily: 13 ° C Avg Nightly: 8 ° C
• Nov Avg Daily: 10 ° C Avg Nightly: 5 ° C
• Dec Avg Daily: 8 ° C Avg Nightly: 5 ° C
• ~ mins read

Ireland is a country that is entrenched in the culture, history, and mysticism, and a history enthusiast’s paradise with its stone-based architecture and a melting pot of Irish, Gaelic, and Celtic cultures. The untarnished and unvarnished taste of Ireland can be felt everywhere from its landmarks to its uber-modern cityscapes. You can see history everywhere, from the monuments at Bru Na Boinne to the Slea Head in Kerry. Geographically, you will find that Ireland can be a very diverse, yet daunting country with its peninsulas of the southwest, the wilderness of Donegal, and the hills of the southeast.

Ireland also has a lot to offer culturally, you could watch a play in Dublin, visit Trinity College, or even attend a gig at a limerick saloon. Ireland has something for everyone since it is a country emerging as a popular destination, with its hotels and resorts consistently upping their game. As with most countries, it is critical to find out when the weather in Ireland is just right for your visit. Want to know when to  travel to Ireland ? Read on to find out!

Quick Facts

• Best Time to Visit : June – September
• Low Season : November – February
• All Seasons : June – September, November – February, March – May, September – October
• The best time to visit Ireland is between June and September when the temperatures are at their best, but accommodation rates will be at their highest. Rainfall also can be particularly low during this season, allowing the sun to shine through. The influx of tourists will be high in Dublin and Kerry.
• The low season is between November and February where the cold weather can be felt creeping in. The country is also at its wettest in these few months with the rainfall being incessant at times. There is also a good chance of fog appearing throughout the country. At times, due to the weather, some attractions or tourist destinations may be closed just for the day or even the season.
• The shoulder seasons of Ireland are from Easter to May and September to October. During the shoulder seasons, the weather is quite good and is known to exhibit a quality that people have dubbed “Indian summer” which means that while it may get hot it might not be unbearable.

Ireland could in theory be visited all year round, however as with most countries it will be better to pay attention to the weather lest your favourite attraction be closed or rendered incomplete on your wish list. June to September may the best time to visit Ireland due to its temperatures attracting quite a bit of sunlight and heat making it perfect for Irish adventures.

Seasonal Overview

1. june to september — summer / high season.

June to September provides ample sunshine, and lower levels of rainfall. June to September also proves to exhibit high accommodation rates which may be reflected in the prices for hotels and other accommodations rising. However, if one is prescient about it, you might still be able to snag a good deal on accommodations. June to September is when the crowds are in full swing, and this may prove to be slightly problematic with wait times at some attractions being longer than usual.

• Avg. Temperature :  57 – 61° F / 14 – 16° C (in Dublin)
• Rainfall : 60 – 70 mm
• Season : Summer
• Highlights : Dublin City may be the most happening place in Ireland, and the interesting thing about that may be the fact that it has been happening since the 9th century. The city seems to be a living memory of its time with its elaborate castles and forts.

In-depth month-wise guides: Ireland in June Ireland in July Ireland in August Ireland in September

2. October to February — Low Season

October to February is definitely considered the low season in Ireland. One can see that some tourist destinations may have reduced hours, while some may even be closed due to the pervasive cold weather that bogs most of the country. There is an eminent fog that adds to the mysticism of the Irish highlands. However it may be important to note, that while the weather can play a spoilsport on the rustic countryside, all city based attractions resume operations as normal. While it may be the low season, accommodations may be available for much more reasonable prices.

• Avg. Temperature : 41 – 46° F / 5 – 8° C (in Dublin)
• Rainfall : 80 mm
• Season : Winter
• Highlights : Galway City has always been known for its arty and bohemian style that seems to enrapture even the most heretic amongst us. It is deeply steeped in history but yet seems to vibrate with a contemporary vibe that attracts students and youth. Galway was once a medieval capital and this can be seen with remnants of town walls, Claddagh rings, and bridges that arch all across the cityscape.

In-depth month-wise guides: Ireland in October Ireland in November Ireland in December Ireland in January Ireland in February

3. March to May — Shoulder Season

Due to the geographical location of Ireland, the shoulder season can be divided into a timeframe of two periods, March to May or more appropriately Easter to May and Mid September to October. While both these shoulder seasons are relatively short in length compared to the other seasons, the shoulder periods boast a hybrid of good rain and sunshine. Temperatures may not be as high they were in the high season but definitely does not drop as low as the winter months. Accommodation rates are definitely lower making it more attractive to travellers who want to save more.

• Avg. Temperature : 45 – 52° F / 7 – 11° C (in Dublin)
• Rainfall : 50 – 70 mm
• Season : Spring
• Highlights : Connemara may be a collection of bogs, cliffs, and valleys but beauty and magnificence is inherent to it. Connemara is a short scenic coastal route from Galway City.

In-depth month-wise guides: Ireland in March Ireland in April Ireland in May

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Best time to visit ireland.

Ireland is located on island in northern part of the Atlantic Ocean with all implied features of weather. Western coasts of the island are warmed by air masses and waters of the North Atlantic current. But with warmth comes humidity so annual amount of precipitation in western Ireland reaches 1600 (63”) mm while in eastern and central areas there is up 1000 mm (39.7 “).

Seasons are smoothed by the mentioned current so winters are mild and summers are cool. But local weather is shifty and rather unpredictable. Two opposite states within couple of hours are common. Locals say “If you don’t like weather in Ireland just wait a bit and it will change”. Mean annual average temperature is 10 °C (50 °F) and it drops below freezing extremely rare.

Season and Low Season

• ​Low Season
• Climate and Seasonality

Season in Ireland

Actually there is no season when weather in Ireland is unbearable. Temperatures are above freezing most of time (even at night) and precipitation is evenly distributed over a year. Nevertheless most of travelers prefer to go to the country at summer when it is warm. To be more specific tourist season lasts from early June to late September.

Unique beauty of Irish nature and availability of cultural sights are on their peak at this time. In addition June is considered as sunniest month and July with August are warmest. Daytime temperature averages are in range of 18-20 °C (64-68 °F) and sudden showers are only augmenting severe charm of the island. Another reason to choose summer months for trip to Ireland is longest days in a year. Daily amount of daylight hours reach 18. As for swimming beaches of Ireland are for toughest of tourists. Coastal waters never warm up higher than 15 °C (59 °F). Final argument for visit Ireland at summer is festivals. Most of local and global festivities and celebrations are held at warmest time of a year.

Those who want to save some money and do not afraid of being caught by sudden rain may consider visiting the country at spring. Weather of first half of the season is summery but with more precipitation. It is also good time for those who do not fond of crowds.

Low Season in Ireland

Autumn and winter are considered as less suitable seasons to go to Ireland. Main reason is in parity of temperature averages and wayward precipitation. With range of 10-3 °C (50-37 °F) occasional rains are seem colder. In addition some of sights are closed at this time.

On the other hand lots of indoor activities (pub crawl of excursions to distilleries) are completely available. So decision of when to go to Ireland is completely on discretion of traveler and depends of preferred experience of available dates.

Climate and Seasonality by Month

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The Best Time To Visit Ireland: A Guide For Travellers

• March 19, 2020
• Category: Ireland

Ireland is a country worth visiting all year round so trying to narrow down the best time to visit Ireland will often depend on your itinerary and budget.

Regardless of whether you are interested in dramatic landscapes, traditional music , fantastic outdoor activities, vibrant cities or picturesque little villages, Ireland has something to offer you whenever you travel!

As a native of Ireland who has explored this fabulous country in all seasons, I can give you an insider’s view of when to go to Ireland.

Here it goes. The best time to visit Ireland!

In This Post:

Peak Season (June – August)

Shoulder season (april – may, september – october), off-season (november – march), best time to visit ireland for beaches, best time to travel to ireland for cities, best time to go to ireland for cheap prices, the overall best time to visit ireland, ireland by month, now you know when to visit ireland.

In Ireland, the peak season is during the summer months of June, July and August.

While Ireland is not particularly known for its good weather, during these months the weather generally tends to be settled and not too wet. 

The long summer days are also a great advantage at this time of year.

From about mid-June, the tourist season starts to get quite busy. Roughly 11 million tourists travel to Ireland each year, with the majority of them visiting between June and early September.

Ireland is a popular destination not only for overseas travellers, but domestic tourists as well. Keep this in mind when you are planning your accommodation and itinerary.

Prices for airfares and accommodation are usually highest during this season.

Even though it is a small island, there is plenty of room for everyone!

One general travel tip for these busier months is to visit popular tourist attractions, such as the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare or Glendalough in County Wicklow, as early or as late in the day as possible. This way, you avoid the majority of the crowds.

In my opinion, this is definitely the best time to go to Ireland and I recommend travelling to the Emerald Isle during either April, May, September to about mid-October.

The weather during these months is often pleasant, although not as warm as during the summer months.

There is also plenty of daylight at this time of year, which is a major plus for sightseeing and activities.

When to travel to Ireland during shoulder season depends largely on personal preference, but I would recommend May as being all-round the best month to travel to Ireland.

Many tourists travel to Ireland during the peak season and miss out on the benefits of the shoulder season.

Not only are the prices at this time of year usually lower than during the peak season, but there are also fewer tourists, shorter queues for the bigger attractions and less traffic on the narrow country roads.

During the shoulder season months, there are several big festivals that draw visitors to the cities and small towns around Ireland including Fleadh Nua , the traditional music and dance festival in Ennis at the end of May, and the Galway Races in September.

An off-season holiday in Ireland during the months of November through to about March certainly has financial benefits . There is a good likelihood of bargains on airfare and accommodation — if you’re on a budget, the offseason is the best time to visit Ireland for sure.

One thing to keep in mind is that the days are short with only 7.5 hours of daylight in December and the weather is often very mixed and wintery.

There are benefits of travelling during the winter months though: One highlight is seeing the Nort hern Lights in Ireland . This can be a memorable and beautiful spectacle.

When the weather is poor, there are many excellent indoor attractions on offer that will keep all kinds of tourists entertained.

In Dublin there are many things to do when it’s raining , including the Guinness Storehouse , EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum and the National Gallery of Ireland, just to mention a few.

The numerous museums, castles and distilleries spread around the rest of the country are also very worth visiting, each giving unique insights into Irish culture and heritage.

If you are trying to plan when to visit Ireland, it is worth mentioning that the days around Christmas, New Year and St. Patrick’s Day (March 17th) are not considered to be offseason.

Prices and demand for flights and hotels rise accordingly during these times.

The best time to go to Ireland for beaches is in the summer if you want to take part in any water activities.

In Ireland the water temperature reaches a maximum of about 18 °C (64 °F) during the summer months. Be prepared to feel cold in the water all year round!

Personally, I love to walk on Irish beaches during winter. The wild rugged landscape, crashing waves and usually empty beaches are stunningly beautiful.

Stradbally beach on the Dingle Peninsula or Inchydoney Beach in County Cork are perfect for a winter saunter!

If you are planning a city break, then the best time to visit Ireland is during the shoulder season of April, May, September and early October.

In spring, the parks in the cities burst into life. In autumn, these parks filled with colourful foliage are the perfect escape from a bustling city!

Fewer tourists, shorter queues, better prices and often good weather are the main advantages of visiting Irish cities during this time.

If you are trying to decide when to go to Ireland based on your budget, then off-season is definitely the best option. January and February are probably the best months to avail of cheap holidays in Ireland.

If you plan on spending most of your holiday sightseeing and visiting indoor attractions, then this time of year might be best for you. The lively music in the pubs will keep any boredom at bay!

The weather in January and February is generally wet and wintery and the days are still quite short, so outdoor activities in your itinerary should be kept to a minimum during this time.

May is the best time to visit Ireland.

This month experiences many of the advantages of summer months, such as warmer weather and the days are longer.

You are also likely to encounter slightly cheaper prices, better availability of accommodation and of course, fewer tourists. This makes visiting major attractions much more enjoyable.

For those of you interested in hiking , May is also the best time to travel to Ireland. There are many scenic walks and strenuous hikes around Glendalough in Wicklow National Park, which are well worth checking out at this time of year.

It is possible to visit Glendalough as a day trip from Dublin , making it the perfect short escape from the capital city.

One special area to visit during the month of May is the Burren in County Clare. This unusual limestone landscape is a UNESCO GEO Site and is well known for its biodiversity, especially its superb spring flowering species.

Ireland in January

You can expect wintery weather in Ireland in January. The temperatures are low, about 2-8 °C (36-46 °F) so make sure you wrap up warm with plenty of layers.

Plan city breaks and indoor attractions for your holiday in Ireland in January. 

Ireland in February

Ireland in February is quite similar to January weatherwise with plenty of rain and wind. Occasionally, there might be some snow during this month, but it is usually just a light sprinkling that does not stay on the ground for very long.

As it is off-season, there might be some good discounts in Ireland in February regarding hotels and car rentals.

Ireland in March

Temperatures tend to rise slightly in Ireland in March, but the weather can be very unpredictable. Generally, the weather improves a bit later in the month.

Around March 17th, the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations take place all over the country. People travel to Ireland in March from all over the world to attend these festivities.

Ireland in April

Spring is in the air in Ireland in April. The weather is still mixed but tends to consist of showers rather than constant rain. Temperatures are also continuing to increase with the average temperatures of about 4-12 °C (39-54 °F).

Ireland in April is a lovely time of year to explore nature with many spring flowers to be seen in the parks.

Ireland in May

May is probably the best time to visit the country. The temperatures are cool, but pleasant 7-15 °C (45-59 °F) and the number of daylight hours is still increasing.

Several festivals take place in Ireland in May such as the Burren Slow Food Festival , which focuses on sustainability.

Ireland in June

Long summer evenings and warm temperatures 10-18 °C (50-64 °F) characterise Ireland in June. It is the perfect month for outdoor activities and road trips, so try to plan your itinerary accordingly.

Don’t miss out on the highly entertaining James Joyce Bloomsday Celebrations in Dublin around June 16th! It is one of the main events in Ireland in June.

Ireland in July

The peak tourist season is well underway in Ireland in July. The weather is generally good with average temperatures of about 12-20 °C (54-68 °F) to be expected.

School children have holidays in Ireland in July, so be aware of more domestic tourists and book your accommodation in advance.

Ireland in August

The temperatures in Ireland in August are still considered warm, but the light in the evenings fades noticeably earlier by about mid-August.

Ireland in August is a popular time for road trips and there can be busy tourist traffic on some of the smaller country roads, such as the on the Ring of Kerry .

Ireland in September

Ireland in September heralds the real start of autumn. The days are a little cooler, but generally still very pleasant 10-17 °C (50-63 °F). The evenings can be chilly, so pack an extra layer or two if you plan on being outside.

Road trips in Ireland in September can be especially rewarding as the landscape starts to change to more autumn colours.

Ireland in October

Ireland in October can be hit or miss. Early October can still have nice weather, but generally, the temperatures drop 7-14 °C (45-57 °F) and the amount of rain increases across the country during this month.

Halloween is a popular celebration in Ireland in October. The origins of the festival date back to the Celtic festival of “Samhain”, which means the end of summer and the beginning of harvest season. Learn more about the weather in October in our post here .

Ireland in November

Ireland in November is cool 4-10° C (39-50 °F), often quite wet and the days are reasonably short.

You can sample the beginning of the Christmas atmosphere in Ireland in November. Towards the end of the month, Christmas markets and decorations can be seen throughout the country. Plus, there are some great festivals  this month. Learn more about the weather in November in our post here .

Ireland in December

The short days and cool weather (3-8 °C or 37-46 °F) in Ireland in December are perfect for exploring the pub and restaurant scene.

Rarely will you experience a white Christmas in Ireland in December, but it is not beyond the realms of possibility. Enjoy the many Christmas and New Year celebrations that take place in all of the main cities in Ireland around this time.  Learn more about the weather in December in our post here .

Ireland has unpredictable weather and the chances are that you may well encounter rain at some point during your holiday. Plan ahead and bring suitable waterproof clothes with you.

This will make your holiday a lot more enjoyable!

Depending on your itinerary, you can pick the best time to go to Ireland that will suit you. If you plan on being inside most of the time, then the weather is not going to impact your plans all that much.

However, if you plan a lot of outdoor activities, such as hiking and surfing, then you should be a bit more selective regarding the time of year that you travel.

Ireland provides tourists with a diverse variety of attractions, sights, festivals and activities all year round. One of the main challenges is trying to limit what can fit into your holiday! Either way, I am sure that you will have a fabulous time in Ireland!

Photos in this article are courtesy of Shutterstock.com , a website for sourcing royalty-free images and video clips. 

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About The Author

Emer is an Ireland enthusiast and thoroughly enjoys advising people about the country she grew up in. She has a PhD in ecology and particularly loves exploring the Irish landscape and its nature. Emer blogs at  Let’s Go Ireland .

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Ireland Weather By Month: A Guide To The Seasons And Climate Of Ireland

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: March 22, 2024

This guide breaks down the Ireland weather by month clearly , showing you the rainiest months and the sunniest months .

You’ll find an overview of the seasons of Ireland, when we get our longest days and what to expect from the weather in Ireland during each month (both the pros and the cons).

There’s also info on the average temperatures in Ireland for each month, too.

I’ve lived in Ireland for 35 years, so this is all first hand information that’s backed up by data from Met Éireann – The Irish Meteorological Service.

Table of Contents

Some quick information about the weather in Ireland

Click to enlarge image

Before diving into our Ireland weather by month guide, take some time to read the points below, as they’ll get you up-to-speed quickly.

1. The seasons

Winter in Ireland starts on December 1st and ends on February 28th. Spring in Ireland starts on March 1st and ends on May 31st. Summer in Ireland starts on June 1st and ends on August 31st. Autumn in Ireland starts on September 1st and ends on November 31st.

2. The climate

The climate of Ireland is temperate. We experience mild summers and reasonably mild winters . In recent years, Ireland has experienced some significant climate events. For example, 2023 was the warmest year Ireland has experienced in 124 years.

3. It’s unpredictable

Any Ireland weather by month guide that tells you it’ll be dry and sunny one month and cold and wet the next is misleading you. The weather in Ireland is notoriously unpredictable .

4. Prepare for four seasons in one day

You’ll often hear people say that the weather in Ireland is so changeable that we get four seasons in a day and it is, at times, true. When you’re planning your Ireland itinerary , plan for every kind of weather.

5. The best and worst weather

The best weather in Ireland by month tends to be June, July and August, while the worst tends to be January and February, but stormy weather can hit at any time, as it has in the past.

Ireland temperature by month: A speedy overview

Below, you’ll find some Ireland temperature by month tables that offer an overview of the average temperature in Ireland across several different locations for each month of the year.

A quick glance below will give you a sense of what to expect from the different seasons in Ireland. We’ll break down each month in the following section as that’ll help you decide the best time to travel to Ireland based on your likes/dislikes.

Winter in Ireland

Spring in ireland, summer in ireland, autumn in ireland, ireland weather by month: temperatures, rainfall and handy info.

Photos via Shutterstock

The next section of our Ireland weather by month guide takes a look at each of the months of the year and gives you info on temperature, rainfall and more. It’ll come in handy if you’re planning a trip to Ireland and the weather is a deciding factor.

Remember, the climate of Ireland means that we  usually  get mild winters and summers, but what one person calls ‘mild’ another might regard as ‘chilly’.

Ireland in January is peak winter and the days tends to be cool, wet and windy with an average temperature of 7°C/44°F. One of the biggest drawback of January is the daylight hours.

The sun rises (at the start of the month) at around 08:29 and sets at around 16:38 each day. Ireland can also get quite a bit of rain in January.

In 2021, for example, some parts of Ireland (parts of Cork) recorded 15 days of rain while others (parts of Mayo) recorded 29.

Ireland in February sees the days lengthen slightly, with the sun rising (at the start of the month) at 07:40 and setting at 17:37.

Temperature wise, Ireland gets average highs of 8°C/46°F and average lows of 2°C /36°F in February – so not much different than January.

In terms of rainfall, February is still a mixed bag. In 2021, for example, rain fell between 17 ( Malin Head ) and 25 (Roche’s Point) days.

It’s from March that our Ireland weather by month guide starts to see some real improvements, as spring has (finally!) arrived.

Ireland in March tends to experience average highs of 10°C+/50°F and average lows of around 4°C/39°F (again, keep in mind that this can change drastically).

In 2021, rain fell between 11 (parts of Wexford) and 25 (Belmullet in Mayo) days of the month.

Ireland in April is when the warmer weather starts to seep in, and the island experiences average high temperatures of 13°C/55°F and average lows of 4°C/39°F.

Keep in mind that, as it gets closer to May, temperatures rise. April also brings long, lovely days with it, with the sun rising from 06:23 and setting at 20:00 from mid-April.

Rain wise, in 2021, the number of days where rain fell ranged from 8 days (at Johnstown Castle) to 17 days (in Belmullet).

Ireland in May is a mighty time to explore, with the sun rising at 05:17 and setting at 21:26 (mid-May).

It also tends to be nice and mild, with mean temperatures ranging between 9°C/48°F and 15°C/59°F over the last three years.

In 2021, the number of days where rain fell ranged from 16 (Phoenix Park in Dublin) to 24 days (on Valentia Island on the Wild Atlantic Way ).

It’s from June that our Ireland weather by month guide starts to heat up, as June 1st marks the arrival of the summer season!

Now, summers in Ireland can be a mixed bag; last year, for example, we had a heatwave with numerous 30°C+ days.

In Ireland in June , the average high temperature can rise to a balmy 18°C/64°F, while the average lows tend to hover around 11°C/52°F.

The days are long (the sun rises at 05:03 and sets at 21:42) and, in 2021, rain fell between 6 days (at the Phoenix Park in Dublin) to 17 days in several parts of the country.

Ireland in July experiences average high temperature of 19°C/66°F and lows that tend to hover around 12°C/54°F.

At the start of the month, the sun rises at 05:01 and sets at 21:56, giving you plenty of time to explore.

July tends to be a good month weather wise, although we can get a bit of rain. In 2021, for example, the number of days where rain fell ranged from 9 days ( Phoenix Park in Dublin) to 17 days (several parts of the country).

Ireland in August is also one of the more popular times to explore. In years past, we’ve had storms in August and we’ve had heatwaves.

The average high temperatures in Ireland during this month are 18°C/64°F, while the average lows tend to hover around 11°C/52°F.

The days are also nice and long, with the sun rising at 05:41 and setting at 21:20. Schools tend to start again towards the end of the month.

Ireland in September is what’s known as the ‘Shoulder Season’ – i.e. the period of time between the peak-season and the off-season.

The average high temperatures during this month tend to hover around 13°C/55°F and average lows tend to sit at 9°C/48°F.

The days are still nice and long with the sun rising at 06:41 and it setting at 20:14 at the beginning of the month.

As far as rainfall goes, the number of days where rain fell ranged from 8 days to 23 days in 2021.

The weather in Ireland in October tends to be OK (in 2021 it was mild and wet while in 2020 is was cool, wet and windy).

We get average high temperatures can rise to a mild 13°C/55°F, while average lows tend to hover around 6°C/42°F.

This is the first time in our Ireland weather by month guide that you’ll see the days really start to shorten, with the sun rising at 07:33 and setting at 19:09.

Ireland in November marks the beginning of the off-season in Ireland, and we tend to experience average temperatures between 11°C/52°F and 6°C/43°F across the island.

The days are also dramatically shorter than previous months, with the sun rising at 07:29 and setting at 17:00.

Rainfall wise, we saw between 9 and 28 days in 2021 and between 18 and 26 days in 2020.

The weather in Ireland in December can be terrible, but the upside is there’s plenty of Christmas markets in Ireland to saunter around.

The average temperature tends to hover at 8°C, with average highs of 10°C/50°F and average lows of 3°C/37°F.

Daylight hours in December are reduced, also, with the sun rising at 08:22 and setting at 16:19.

FAQs about the best weather in Ireland by month

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What is the best temperature in Ireland by month?’ to ‘Which month has the least rain?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What is the best month for weather in Ireland?

The best weather in Ireland by month is hard to pinpoint, as every year is different. However, in my opinion, the summer months and September are good choices.

What are the seasons in Ireland?

Winter runs from December 1st to February 28th. Spring runs from March 1st to May 31st. Summer runs from June 1st to August 31st. Autumn runs from September 1st to November 31st.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Friday 28th of October 2022

Use of Fahrenheit in your description of weather would be helpful for American travelers. Thank you for your attention

Keith O'Hara

Wednesday 29th of March 2023

Thanks Doug! That's been added now!

The Best Time to Visit Ireland

SD › Ireland Best Time to Visit Updated: May 19, 2022 By Santorini Dave

• Where to Stay in Dublin

When is the Best Time to Visit Ireland?

The best time to visit Ireland is May tand June or September through early October, for pleasant weather with pleasant temperatures around 17°C. Ireland is green year-round, with the possibility of heavy rain in any month. However, quick weather changes are common, and a heavy rainstorm can be followed by sunny skies 30 minutes later.

Malahide Castle in County Dublin, Ireland. The best times to visit Ireland are spring and fall.

• Best Time to Visit Ireland for Good Weather : Summer brings the warmest weather and the least amount of rainfall to Ireland. The season’s temperatures are considered warm for the Irish, ranging from 15°C to 19°C, but for many, especially those that live in more southern locales, it will feel quite mild or even cool. This is a great time to enjoying outdoor sights and lively festivals as well as all the attractions and activities that will be open, such as boat tours and wildlife-watching excursions, with more sun than rain, and 15 hours of daylight.
• Best Time for Sightseeing : The best times for sightseeing in Ireland are in May, June, September, and October; when temperatures typically range from 13°C to 17°C, and tourism season isn’t at its peak. While July and August can bring delightful weather, the surrounding months often mean more tranquility, uninterrupted views, and fewer crowds and queues. While rain is a possibility anytime here, these shoulder seasons generally bring relatively comfortable sweater weather – just take along an umbrella or a hooded rain jacket in case of occasional showers.
• Best Time for Golfing : A golf holiday is usually best enjoyed between May and mid-October. April can be a mixed bag with wet conditions (although some sunny days aren’t uncommon) and uncrowded greens. June may be the very best time to get out on the course as it’s possible to play as early as 5 a.m. and as late as 10:30 a.m., thanks to the country’s wonderfully long days. June is also the month when courses are usually in peak condition, with fairways and greens in great shape. Fair warning, however: traveling with rain gear is a must for all golfers as rain can appear on any given day of the year.
• Best Time to Visit for Festivals : Summer brings a wealth of festivals to Ireland, with several dozen hosted on any given weekend during the season. These celebrations feature everything from music, food, and surfing to fairs and horse racing – there’s something for just about everyone. The next best time is around St. Patrick’s Day in mid-March, with Dublin hosting the world’s biggest St. Patrick’s Day festival. Plan to arrive early, before 9 a.m., for an uninterrupted view of the parade – the event draws some 450,000 to Dublin’s city center every year.
• Best Time for a Castle Stay : The best time of year to visit Ireland for a reasonably-priced castle stay is during the low, winter season, outside of the holiday period. Castle hotels like Abbeyglen Castle in Clifden, Connemara typically offer special packages at bargain rates this time of year that include an extensive breakfast for under $200 a night.
• Best Time to Visit for Shopping : Summer and just before and after the winter holiday season are the best time for bargains in Ireland. Some summer sales begin in June, but they really pick up in July and August. The pre-Christmas sales are a good opportunity to score bargains on cosmetics and perfumes as they’re often packaged as gift sets, providing a better value than when individually sold. For serious bargain hunters, the period just after Christmas brings lots of sales, with some items discounted as much as 50 percent.

Ireland Travel Seasons

• High Season (Mid-June through August; the week surrounding St. Patrick’s Day, March 17) : Summer is high season with warm (not hot) temperatures and long days that offer more time for sightseeing. With a relatively small population, Ireland tends to get more visitors than it has residents, with most arriving during this time of year. Expect crowds, especially at the most popular attractions, along with higher airfare and accommodation rates. The week around St. Patrick’s Day is nearly as busy as summer with celebrations throughout the country, resulting in higher costs and longer lines for attractions.
• Shoulder Season (April through mid-June; September through mid-October) : Shoulder season is the sweet spot, bringing a good chance for decent weather and lighter crowds. While rain is a possibility throughout the year, there is usually plenty of sunshine for enjoying outdoor sights and activities. Airfare and accommodation prices take a dip and the crowds have begun to thin, yet most attractions will still be open.
• Low Season (Mid-October through March, except around St. Patrick’s week) : Outside of St. Patrick’s Day, and perhaps the Christmas holidays, low season is the cheapest time to visit and the time when open attractions are rarely chaotic. While some accommodations may be closed during the chillier months of the year, others offer lower, off-season rates. The weather is frequently dark and dreary, but there’s almost always a cozy pub nearby for listening to traditional tunes and sipping a drink next to the warmth of a fire.

Ireland Weather by Month

The local climate can differ from place to place throughout Ireland, though generally not significantly. Southern Ireland tends to enjoy the warmest temperatures, and although the north coast is cooler than the south, the coolest weather is in the inland areas, away from the warm ocean waters. Coastal areas get more wind, and the mountains experience the wettest weather. Driest weather tends to occur east of mountainous areas like Ireland’s east coast.

• Ireland Weather in January : January is typically one of the coldest months of the year, with average high temperatures around 7°C and lows of 3°C. Days are short, seeing fewer than eight daylight hours on the 1st, but increasing to nearly nine hours by the end of the month. While snow is possible, if it occurs it usually doesn’t last long. Rain is likely, averaging 70mm over 24 days. Pack clothing for cool, wet weather, like an insulated rain jacket, sweaters, gloves, and a warm hat. Going out a night requires a good winter coat. Dress in layers for those times the sun does make an appearance, but a foldable windproof umbrella is also highly recommended. (Average Max Temperature: 7°C. Average Precipitation: 70mm.)
• Ireland Weather in February : February brings more cold, wet, and windy weather. While days are still relatively short, by the end of February you can expect 10 hours and 43 minutes of daylight. Temperatures remain about the same with highs of 7°C and lows of 3°C, with a slight decrease in precipitation, averaging 60mm following over 22 days this month. Recommended dress in Ireland will be the same as well; warm clothing and layering, along with that travel umbrella. (Average Max Temperature: 7°C. Average Precipitation: 60mm.)
• Ireland Weather in March : Rain increases again slightly this month with 70mm over 24 days, but temperatures are warming now with average highs of 10°C and lows at 4°C. Day length is increasing rapidly, and by March 31, there will be more daylight than darkness, with nearly 13 hours of sun – though it may be hidden behind clouds. Warm winter clothing and a windproof umbrella is still a must. (Average Max Temperature: 10°C. Average Precipitation: 70mm.)
• Ireland Weather in April : Everything starts warming up with the onset of spring; greens are greener now, and the sun comes out more often too. By April 30, there is nearly 15 hours of daylight, with sunrise just before 6 a.m. and sunset not until almost 9 p.m. Average highs are at 11°C and lows at 5°C, and there’s less precipitation now too, averaging 50 mm over 22 days this month. While temperatures have increased, it’s still rather chilly; warm clothes are still necessary along with an umbrella for the occasional shower. (Average Max Temperature: 11°C. Average Precipitation: 50mm.)
• Ireland in May : May is one of the best times to be in Ireland, with lengthening days and an average high temperature of an almost balmy 15°C. At month’s end, the sun rises just after 5 a.m. and doesn’t set until after 9:30 p.m. The average low is 7°C, so bring some warm clothing for after dark; a mix for layering (jacket and sweaters along with a few t-shirts for warmer days) is a good idea. With 50mm of precipitation over 20 days, expect some wet weather, though an umbrella is unlikely to be needed very often. (Average Max Temperature: 15°C. Average Precipitation: 50mm.)
• Ireland Weather in June : The wonderful long days of summer arrive this month, and with it, warmer temperatures too. The average high is now 17°C and the sun won’t set until about 10 p.m. by June 30. Rain still makes an appearance in June, with slightly more on average than last month with 70mm over 21 days. The weather varies between warmer and cooler days, so pack a mix of clothing, an umbrella, and a warm jacket for evenings. (Average Max Temperature: 17°C. Average Precipitation: 50mm.)
• Ireland Weather in July : One of the warmest months of the year, along with August, July high temperatures average 19°C while lows are at 12°C, so a sweatshirt or light jacket for late nights will still be a must. Sunglasses are more important now; bright, sunny days are commonly mixed in with grey ones, with the month seeing 50mm of precipitation over 23 days. As summer brings a mixed bag, plan to pack casual summer wear and to throw in a couple of sweaters along with that jacket. (Average Max Temperature: 19°C. Average Precipitation: 50mm.)
• Ireland Weather in August : While rain increases this month to 80mm falling over 23 days, temperatures will still be warm, averaging 19°C with lows at 12°C. Days are getting shorter now, with sunrise at 6:33 a.m. and sunset at 8:16 p.m. Packing for August is the same as July, with a mix of clothing that includes a travel umbrella. (Average Max Temperature: 19°C. Average Precipitation: 80mm.)
• Ireland Weather in September : Temperatures dip a bit in September, with the average high now 17°C, but it’s typically one of the best months to visit the Emerald Isle. There’s often more sun than rain this month – the average precipitation of 60mm falls over 21 days, which is 20mm less than the August average. Packing a variety of clothing, including a sweater or jacket and an umbrella, along with more lightweight items for nicer days is ideal. (Average Max Temperature: 17°C. Average Precipitation: 60mm.)

• Ireland Weather in October : There’s a notable chill in the air with autumn in full swing. The average high drops by four degrees to 13°C while the low is down to 8°C. Although precipitation is on the upswing to 80mm over 24 days, October usually brings quite a few sunny days too and can be a rather pleasant time for visiting Ireland without the crowds. There is likely to be vibrant fall foliage in places like Wicklow and Killarney national parks, along with crisp fresh air. Days are getting quite a bit shorter, with sunset just before 5 p.m. and sunrise at 7:14 a.m. (Average Max Temperature: 13°C. Average Precipitation: 80mm.)
• Ireland Weather in November : Wintry conditions gradually arrive this month with the average high temperature decreasing to 10°C and the low at 5°C. Precipitation is slightly lower in November, however, with 60mm over 24 days. Day length is rapidly decreasing, with November 30th seeing a little less than eight hours of daylight. Approaching winter, heavier, warm winter gear, including an insulated rain jacket, will be needed more often than short-sleeve shirts. (Average Max Temperature: 10°C. Average Precipitation: 60mm.)
• Ireland Weather in December : December is the heart of the low season and one of the chilliest months of the year with the average high at 8°C and the low at 5°C. Temperatures can dip below freezing and while snow is not unheard of, it is fairly rare other than on the mountaintops. Battling tourist crowds is unlikely, and this is a good time for experiencing indoor sights like castles and museums, as well as traditional live tunes in the pubs. Sunrises average at 8:41 a.m. and sunset at 4:14 p.m. Pack winter clothing and prepare for rain, with 80mm over 23 days in December. (Average Max Temperature: 8°C. Average Precipitation: 72mm.)

Ireland Events and Festivals

Ireland in january.

• New Year’s Day – As it is in most countries, January 1 is a national holiday in Ireland. This day tends to be very quiet, with many recovering from the previous evening’s festivities. Most shops and pubs will be closed, and those that do open tend to open later and close earlier than usual. While public transportation operates, schedules are typically limited. New Year’s Day parades are held in some cities, towns, and villages, including Dublin, which hosts a large parade that includes musicians, marching bands and other groups.
• Temple Bar Tradfest – Ireland’s largest traditional music festival is held over five days in late January each year, showcasing Irish and international folk and traditional artists.
• AstroFest – The world’s largest astronomy festival takes place annually over the last weekend in January in Galway. It features talks, exhibits and screenings as well as a place to mingle among those who share a passion for space, the earth sciences, and astrophysics.

Ireland in February

• Saint Brigid’s Day – Saint Brigid of Kildare is considered the most important female saint in Ireland, and her feast day is February 1st, which also marks the onset of spring (though it’s unlikely to feel spring-like for another couple of months). The town of Kildare hosts a week-long series of events that begin on the first day of February, while Irish restaurants serve meals to celebrate, including Saint Brigid’s bread – closer to an oatcake than a typical bread.
• Valentine’s Day – Valentine’s Day, February 14, is celebrated in Ireland as it is in many other countries, with love and romance. There are countless restaurants throughout the country that offer special dinners for the day, along with castle hotels that provide romance packages.
• Chinese New Year – Dublin hosts an annual Chinese New Year Festival that takes place over the first half of February. Expect year-themed family entertainment, arts and crafts, workshops, food, musical performances, and martial arts displays.

Ireland in March

• Saint Patrick’s Day – There no better place to be for St. Patrick’s Day than Ireland, but prepare for big crowds, busy pubs and interruptions in public transport. The St. Patrick’s Festival takes place over 5 days and includes parades around the country. There is no bigger and more spectacular procession than Dublin’s.
• Dingle International Film Festival – Ranked as one of the world’s best film festivals for location, atmosphere, and content, this annual festival, held over four days in March offers unique screening experiences with stars, workshops, and seminars, including free family-friendly screenings.
• Cork Sound Fair – A music festival that gives artists a platform to showcase experimental sound through live performances and installations in late March.

Ireland in April

• Easter – When Easter Sunday occurs in April, there are various celebrations held to commemorate the 1916 Easter Rising, especially in Dublin. Both Good Friday and Easter Monday are public holidays, bringing some closures. While shops in villages and smaller towns often close, an increasing number of businesses are choosing to remain open in urban centers.
• Clifden Traditional Music Festival – Held in mid-April in the beautiful Connemara town of Clifden, this festival features traditional music, song, and dance with performances from around the country and beyond, along with a street festival and workshops.
• Galway Food Festival – The annual Galway Food Festival takes place in mid-April each year, falling over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend. It includes open-air markets, food demos, talks, workshops, and more than 100 food outlets, producers and restaurants.

Ireland in May

• May Day – The first Monday in May is May Day, a public holiday in Ireland with banks, post offices and many other businesses closed, however, pubs and stores generally stay open. Fairs are held in some villages, and there may be Labor Day parades, celebrations, and demonstrations in large cities like Dublin.
• Burren in Bloom – Taking place over three days in mid-May, the Burren in Bloom Festival features talks, demos, walks and open gardens through the unique Burren area, known for its rare plants, with Mediterranean and Arctic types both growing here.
• Fleadh Nua Music Festival – This annual music festival takes over the pubs and streets of the town of Ennis for 8 days in May. There are over 120 separate events; music, song and dancing workshops, concerts, street entertainment, and more.
• Wexford Food & Wine Festival – This festival held over the last weekend of May features a sumptuous feast of local foods and wine, including fresh seafood, Wexford strawberries, and tasty craft beers. Live music and other entertainment is hosted as well.

Ireland in June

• June Bank Holiday – The first Monday in June is the June Bank Holiday. Most businesses and schools are closed, though stores and pubs generally remain open. People take time to enjoy the late spring weather by attending local sporting and cultural events or family picnics and barbecues, sailing, or camping.
• Westport Folk and Bluegrass Festival – This massive event features three days of music, including lots of jam sessions, masterclasses, workshops, a showcase that features local instrument makers, and special events for kids.
• Bloomsday – Bloomsday in Dublin honors James Joyce, named after the central character in Ulysses, Leopold Bloom. People celebrate by donning period fashions, eating food mentioned in the book and visiting locations where the novel takes place. There is a variety of events that ranges from readings, lectures, and workshops to walking tours, music, theater and pub crawls.
• Cork Midsummer Festival – The annual Cork Midsummer Festival takes place around the summer solstice on the Banks of the Lee. Irish and international dance, music, theater, visual, and circus artists perform in parks, streets, and outdoor spaces.
• Sea Sessions Surf and Music Festival – This mega surf and music festival draws surfers and musicians from around the world to the fun seaside town of Bundoran in County Donegal.

Ireland in July

• Galway International Arts Festival – The Galway International Arts Festival is held during the second half of July. It features something for everyone; street performances, music, theatre, dance, visual arts, comedy, and literature.
• Ennis Street Arts Festival – Held for a week in early July for the past 13 years, the Ennis Street Festival brings a variety of entertaining arts and cultural events, including a parade, workshops, music, stories, and song.
• Galway Races Summer Festival – The world-renowned Galway Races Summer Festival brings people from across the country and the world for a grand week of horse racing, live music, and entertainment.
• Feile Brian Boru Festival – This annual festival in the historic twin towns of Killaloe and Ballina celebrates the legendary Brian Boru: hero, warrior, and king. Expect lots of poetry and music, dance, traditional carnival games, guided historical tours, craft workshops, street theater, farmers’ market, spectacular fireworks displays over the River Shannon, and more.

Ireland in August

• August Bank Holiday – The August Bank Holiday falls on the first Monday in August, with schools and most businesses closed. Lots of sporting and cultural events are held over the weekend, including local fairs, horse racing, art exhibitions, and arts festivals.
• Puck Fair – This family-friendly street festival is one of Ireland’s longest-running events, held for 3 days each year in Killorglin, County Kerry. It features a wild mountain goat that’s crowned king of the town by the Queen of the Puck, traditionally a local schoolgirl. There is a coronation parade, open-air concerts, mini-workshops on a variety of crafts, and much more.
• Enniscorthy Rockin’ Food Festival – Held over the August holiday bank weekend, this popular food festival features an impressive Artisan Food market that hosts more than 80 of the top local and artisan vendors along with an outstanding international lineup of rock artists that play free outdoor gigs. It’s a jam-packed weekend of events, classes, food and drink workshops, and activities for the kids.
• Kenmare Fair – Kenmare is one of the few remaining towns to celebrate Fair Day, an annual event on the 15th of August for at least two centuries. On this day, farmers and breeders bring their horses, cattle, sheep, donkeys, ducks, and chickens to the town square to trade or sell them in the streets. Today it also includes a wide range of stalls that sell everything from fortune-telling to antiques.
• Cape Clear International Storytelling Festival – Held on Cape Clear Island, Ireland’s southernmost inhabited island, this festival focuses on the famous Irish skill of storytelling.

Ireland in September

• Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival – One of the country’s most famous festivals, this matchmaking festival in County Clare is the only remaining one of its kind in Ireland. It takes place over the entire month of September. Held for more than 160 years, it’s one of the country’s oldest traditional festivals, bringing as many as 60,000 people from across the globe to enjoy the “craic” and the opportunity to find their true match.
• Dublin Fringe Festival – This annual curated arts festival is spread over 16 days and is open to Irish and international participants with a focus on new and emerging artists; music, dance, live art, visual art, theater, and music.
• Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival – An annual four-day event held on the last weekend of September in Galway’s city center is the longest running Oyster Festival in the world. Enjoy a wide variety of events, from oyster shucking championships to tasting events, seafood trials, competitions, an oyster feast off, live music, cooking demos, family activities and more.

Ireland in October

• Dingle Food Festival – Dingle’s most famous and popular festival attracts visitors from around the world to enjoy a variety of eats in one of the country’s most picturesque settings. It takes place on the first weekend of October every year with attendees savoring some of the best food and drink the region has to offer at more than 70 venues. There are workshops, cooking demos, street entertainment, live music, wine and whiskey masterclasses, a craft beer and cider trail, and children’s events.
• Guinness Cork Jazz Festival – Ireland’s biggest and longest-running jazz festival takes place in Cork for three days in mid-October. It draws hundreds of musicians and thousands of music fans to the city with events held at over 90 different venues, including the streets of Cork, concert halls, pubs, theaters and clubs. Many of the events are free.
• October Bank Holiday – The last Monday in October is a bank holiday, with post offices, banks and many other businesses closed. In addition to Halloween-themed events, the Dublin Marathon takes place this weekend, running through the city streets.
• Halloween – As Halloween’s birthplace, the day is celebrated in a big way throughout the country with kids trick-or-treating and many parties hosted in the pubs and elsewhere. Dublin hosts an annual Halloween parade that celebrates Celtic heritage with music and dance.

Ireland in November

• Subtitle Film Festival – This Kilkenny festival is held over a week in late November and is the only one of its kind featuring popular subtitled European films. Expect a lineup of stars and filmmakers on Sunday night during the festival’s Angela Awards.
• Galway Science and Technology Festival – Held for two weeks in mid-November, this festival in Galway features an excellent lineup of demonstrations, workshops, and talks along with interactive exhibits, education events, and fun activities.

Ireland in December

• Galway Christmas Market – This annual market takes place in Galway’s Eyre Square from late November through December 22. It offers a fun, festive environment that includes a Ferris wheel, carnival rides, performers, live music, holiday carols, and a wealth of stalls selling a variety of items.
• Wexford Winterland Festival – This festival takes place at various locations in Wexford with a long list of activities, events, and workshops for the holidays.
• Winter Solstice – There are many winter solstice celebrations in Ireland, but the biggest of all is in Newgrange, the Neolithic tomb in County Meath which dates back around 5,000 years. Only a select few get to experience the winter solstice here through the lottery draw, although these days the event is streamed online for viewing as well.
• Christmas Day and St. Stephen’s Day – Christmas Day is a public holiday with post offices, banks and nearly all businesses closed, though a few pubs and stores may be open with limited hours. It’s a quiet time with Irish families often attending church services followed by formal Christmas dinners. Some hotels with restaurants may offer Christmas meals for guests. The following day, December 26, is St. Stephen’s Day which is also a public holiday.
• New Year’s Eve – There are New Year’s celebrations throughout Ireland on December 31. Dublin’s New Year Festival based around the Custom House, includes a Countdown Concert from 8 p.m. and the Liffey Lights Midnight Moment which includes music performed to a thrilling choreography of lights and laser beams. The tiny village of Portmagee on the County Kerry Coast celebrates the event with a quirky, carnival-like parade , ushering out the “Old Year,” and welcoming in the New Year with the procession winding through the streets led by a piper. A local man dressed up as the Old Year becomes increasingly decrepit, and at the stroke of midnight, he withers away and disappears. A local dressed as the New Year makes his appearance, greeting the crowd while camaraderie and pints of Guinness flow at the Bridge Bar long into the night.

About Santorini Dave

Ireland in Winter: What You Need to Know Before You Visit (2024)

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Considering a trip to Ireland in the winter? Here’s what you need to know, from a local! 

Ireland is known for being a lush, green island full of meandering sheep, cliffs that drop into the ocean, and rolling hills that go on for miles. It’s also home to charming, brightly colored towns and cozy pubs. When most people picture Ireland, they conjure up an image of the country in its vibrant, summer glory. 

But what if you want to visit during the winter? 

I lived in Ireland for several years, in both County Wicklow and Cork City. During that time, I experienced three Irish winters. The winters surprised me because they’re colder than I had expected, but there are also some distinct advantages to a wintery visit. 

So, keep reading; I’ll tell you the good, bad, and the ugly of visiting Ireland in the winter in this post. 

Table of Contents What is Ireland Like in the Winter? Tips for Visiting in Winter What to Pack for Ireland in Winter Where to Stay FAQs Conclusion

What is Ireland like in the winter?

Wintertime in Ireland is mostly damp and cold, with only a precious few days of sunlight. The tourist season ends around late September, so most of the people you’ll see are locals who live and work in the country. The sidewalks can feel a little bleak, with fewer street performers and locals out to lighten the mood. 

It’s a different story when you step inside of a pub or restaurant, though. It’s hard to tell from the outside, but you can find lively parties and events throughout Ireland. This is absolutely the case in Cork , where spots like the Crane Lane or Bodega tend to look quiet from the street but inside are packed with partygoers. 

I don’t want to sugarcoat it, though: winter in Ireland can be famously miserable. The days are short, the weather feels surprisingly cold despite the mild temperatures, and indoor areas aren’t always heated to North American standards. 

Winter weather in Ireland

As I mentioned, the winter days in Ireland tend to be very short with limited sunlight. The weather tends to be chilly and rainy, with an average of 24 rainy days in January. 

The biggest complaint that I had when living in Ireland, and that I heard from others, is the lack of winter sunshine. In December, Ireland averages only 1.4 hours of sunshine per day, compared with 6.2 hours of average daily sunshine in June . For this reason, I used a SAD lamp for supplementary light therapy when living in Ireland during the winter months. 

Around the winter solstice – the shortest day of the year – Ireland averages only about 10 hours of daylight . The sun rises around 7:30 am and sets around 5:30 pm, making for a pretty short day. 

Average temperatures

Temperatures in Ireland tend to be mild throughout the year, rarely dropping below freezing or surpassing 70°F (21°C).The average winter temperatures tend to be in the 30s and 40s °F (3 to 8 °C) with rain most days of the month. 

Compare this with the average high temps of 66°F (19°C) in July and August, Ireland’s hottest months. As you can see, the weather is generally mild – though a little chilly – for most of the year. 

Average snowfall

Most of Ireland’s precipitation comes in the form of rain, so you probably won’t see much – if any – snow during your visit to Ireland. The low-lying and coastal areas in Ireland typically only see a few days with flurries each year, and it’s unlikely to stick to the ground or accumulate. 

The exception is the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland, the area I first landed when I moved to Ireland. Although it’s meager when compared to Colorado, the Wicklow Mountains do experience some accumulation of snow during the winter months.  

I wouldn’t consider it enough to need snow gear, but you will definitely want water resistant boots that cover your ankle if hiking in Wicklow. 

December in Ireland

December is one of the darkest months in Ireland, with many of the shortest days of the year. There is a bright spot, though: if you visit in December, you get to experience Christmas in Ireland. 

December average temperatures range from lows around 41°F (5°C) to highs around 46°F (8°C). On average, there are 1.4 hours of sunshine per day. 

As I’ve said in other sections, this weather feels colder than those temperatures might suggest because of the damp conditions and persistent rain. There are about 23 days with at least some rain during December, totaling about 80 mm or just over 3 inches of total rainfall. 

Christmas in Ireland

The pubs, for their part, are as busy as ever in December. This is especially true around Christmastime, when everyone is planning holiday parties and getting together. Most of the nice restaurants in town will be fully booked, so you’ll want to make a reservation if you plan to go out for dinner. 

Throughout Irish towns and cities, you can expect to see adorned Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and holiday merriment. Just don’t get your hopes up for a white Christmas; the weather is typically pretty rainy and snow is rare in late December.

January in Ireland

December is the bonafide middle of winter in Ireland, with persistently short days, rainy weather, and very little sunshine. Among locals, it’s a popular time to travel to warmer parts of Europe like Spain or Portugal for a little break from the drudgery. Truthfully, it’s not an ideal time to visit, if you can help it. 

In January, average lows are around 37°F (3°C), with average highs around 45°F (7°C). On average, there are only about two hours of sunlight per day in January, and the days average about 8 hours and 15 minutes. 

You may experience air frost in Ireland, especially in the areas tucked away from the coast. This is a phenomenon where the temperature of the air at least a meter from the ground drops below freezing and the mist becomes very thick and cold. Typically, the ground will frost first, then the air above it if the temperatures stay low enough. 

In addition to frost and sporadic snowfall, you’ll also experience a whole lot of rain during January. An average of 77% of days in January in Ireland have at least some rain, for a total of 2.8 inches (70 mm) of precipitation.

February in Ireland

Like December and January, February in Ireland is still marked by cold, wet weather and short, dark days. The average temperatures in February are very similar to January, with lows around 37°F (3°C), with average highs around 45°F (7°C). 

Similar to the other winter months, the days are quite short and sunshine is rare. When you do get to enjoy a few hours of sun, stop whatever you’re doing and go stand in it. That’s what I do, anyway. ☀️

Ireland averages 22 days of rainfall each February, 2.6 hours of daily sunshine, and only about 10 hours of total sunlight . Be sure to bring your raincoat and a positive, sunny attitude if you visit Ireland in February. 

Tips for Visiting Ireland in Winter

After having visited and lived in Ireland during the winter season, here are my top tips for success. In case you’re wondering, I also take vitamin D, try to eat a healthy diet, and drink lots of water to help keep my spirits up during the winter. I find that movement, getting outside (even if it’s gross out), and enjoying the little moments of sunshine really make a difference. 

Bring a warm, waterproof coat

The most important thing you can bring to Ireland when visiting in the winter is a warm, waterproof coat. I was warm enough in a Patagonia down sweater with a heavy duty rain jacket outer layer, along with wool socks and long underwear. But I’m from Colorado and don’t mind dressing like an onion with lots of layers. 

If you wanted to choose a single coat to do the job, I’d opt for a waterproof winter jacket . Not only will the waterproofing help with the rain, it’ll offer some protection from the freezing winds you’ll probably experience if you venture towards the coast.  

Plan for foggy days 

Visibility is often low on winter days, which can make driving and exploring a bit more challenging. In the event of heavy fog while you’re out hiking, try to stay put unless you’re following a very clearly marked path (i.e. wooden planks or handrails, not just a dirt path). 

Try not to let the fog get you down. If your plans change because of the weather, just duck into a local pub and strike up a conversation with the barkeep. Basically everyone in Ireland loves to chat about the weather, so you’ll have something to bond over. 

Go for a wintery Irish hike

You might be surprised to see hiking on this list, but I have been hiking in the winter in Ireland and had a great time. The key is to choose the right hike; you’ll want a trail that is well marked, ideally with wooden planks so that it’s easy to follow even in foggy conditions. 

My absolute favorite hike in Ireland – regardless of the time of year – is the Spinc Trail around Glendalough. You can visit Glendalough on a day trip from Dublin , or post up in a cozy B&B in Wicklow and spend your days exploring the Wicklow Mountains .  

Spend some time in the pubs

There’s a reason the pubs are usually packed on a cold, winter day: they’re usually lively and warm. I recommend visiting an Irish pub no matter when you visit, but it’s especially nice in the winter. 

You can sip a warm drink like hot toddy (whiskey, sugar, lemon, clove, and hot water), an Irish coffee (whiskey, coffee, and cream), or a hot port (port wine, hot water, sugar). 

If possible, visit a pub during a “trad” session for live traditional Irish music. 

Try an Irish sauna by the sea

Just hear me out on this one: try sauna bathing by the sea in the winter when you’re in Ireland. It’s honestly one of my favorite things to do in the winter, and it’s an unforgettable experience. 

When I first moved in 2020, I remember Googling to try to figure out if there were hot springs in Ireland (spoiler: there aren’t). I used to lament Ireland for not having more hot tubs or saunas around because there’s no way to really warm up during the cold, damp winters. Then, I figured it out: there are saunas, and the most special ones are set up by the ocean. 

You can spend an hour alternating between steaming in the hot sauna then running out and taking a dip in the frigid sea. It’s fun, exhilarating, and memorable – all for about €20 an hour. Plus, there are usually locals in the sauna who will chat with you and tell you their favorite spots in the area. 

What to Pack for Ireland in Winter

My general advice when planning for a trip to Ireland is to pack for chillier weather than you might be expecting. The same holds true during the winter; don’t let the tropical plants fool you! 

Although the temperatures don’t often drop below freezing, the high levels of humidity and chilly weather mean that you’ll definitely want to dress warmly . I also can’t stress enough how much it rains; bring waterproof shoes, pants, coats, whatever you can muster. This is especially true if you’re planning to spend a lot of time outside. 

Suggested packing items for visiting Ireland in the winter:

✅ Warm, waterproof winter coat ✅ Water resistant shoes or boots ✅ Warm sweater, either wool or synthetic (not cotton) ✅ Long underwear for outdoor activities  ✅ Wool socks  ✅ Waterproof backpack or rain cover  ✅ Long pants ✅ Gloves, hat, scarf

I covered this topic in more detail in my Irish packing list post . 

Where to Stay in Ireland in the Winter

When visiting during the winter, you can still enjoy most of the same sites and attractions you’d find in the summer. Because winter is the off season in Ireland, hotel prices are often significantly reduced from October through April. 

The winter is a great time to rent a car because prices are also significantly lower during the off season. It’s not uncommon to find multi-week car rentals for a few hundred euros, compared to the thousands you’d spend for a monthly car rental in June. 

With a car, you can more easily reach unique, remote stays like this castle near Galway . 

Here are my top picks for a winter stay in Ireland at some of the top tourist destinations throughout the country. 

📍 Top pick for Galway: The best B&B in Galway is The Stop , a trendy and art-filled B&B that’s only a short walk from the hustle and bustle of the Latin Quarter.  📍 Top pick for Wicklow: One of the top places to stay in Wicklow is the Forest View Woodland Lodge . Here, you can enjoy top-notch hospitality, homemade scones in the morning, and access to walking and hiking trails in the Wicklow Mountains.   📍 Top pick for Cork : The cozy and vibrantly colored Gabriel House Guesthouse offers warm hospitality, a delicious breakfast each morning, and is only a short walk from the train station. I stayed here in 2021 with my family and absolutely loved it.  📍 Top pick for Dublin: The stylish and conveniently located Gardiner Lodge is a great choice in Dublin . It’s only a 17 minute walk from Bar 1661, my favorite bar in Dublin for grabbing a warm Irish coffee (just make a reservation before you go). 

FAQs: Ireland in Winter

Still have questions about visiting Ireland in winter? Here are the answers to a few common queries from travelers. 

Is Ireland worth visiting in the winter?

As a general rule, I’d say that Ireland is not worth visiting in the winter . The weather feels very cold, indoor heating can be sparse, and the days are very short. The best time to visit Ireland is from April to September, when the days are longer and the temperatures are warmer. 

How cold is winter in Ireland?

The winter temperatures in Ireland rarely drop below 32°F (0°C). However, the weather feels a whole lot chillier than those numbers suggest. Between the damp conditions, persistent rain, and frigid coastal winds, it can be hard to get and stay warm during the Irish winter. 

Although the cold isn’t usually severe enough to be dangerous, its persistence can be hard for visitors and locals to manage. 

What is the best time to go to Ireland?

The best time to visit Ireland is during the peak season from May to September. During this time, you’ll experience the best weather, longest days, and most sunlight. Within that window, I’d recommend that you travel in May, which is just before the tourist season prices kick in but the weather has already started to warm up. 

Does it snow in Ireland in the winter?

Ireland occasionally sees a few days of snow, but it rarely accumulates. 

The snowiest part of Ireland is the Wicklow Mountains , which are located about an hour south of Dublin. Unlike other areas in the country, it’s common for small depths of snow to accumulate in Wicklow – enough to crunch under your feet, but nowhere near enough to ski. 

Can I see the northern lights in Ireland?

On very rare occasions, locals have seen the northern lights in Ireland! However, you absolutely should not plan a northern lights trip to Ireland – go instead to Alaska, Iceland, or a country above the Arctic Circle. Finland , Sweden , and Norway are all great places to see the northern lights. 

Conclusion: Ireland in Winter

After moving to Ireland , I was surprised by how chilly the winters were, especially because the temperatures rarely drop below freezing. Even more shocking, however, was how chilly it is indoors, as the houses and buildings are rarely insulated and heated like I was used to growing up in the US. 

Despite the drudgery outside, winter can still be a good time to visit Ireland for the right type of traveler. It’s a much more affordable time to visit, with hotel rooms available for a fraction of the price you’d pay in June. If you have the willpower, you can still explore outside and hike or go for a walk on the beach (or even a hot sauna!) on a cold, rainy day. 

All things being equal, I wouldn’t recommend that you visit Ireland in the winter if you have other choices. But, sometimes I visit places during the off season because I found a cheap flight or there’s a wedding or it’s just where I most want to go at that moment – so I get it. You can still have a great trip to Ireland in the winter (just don’t expect to enjoy the weather 😉).

What to read next

Ireland Off-Season

Most destinations have a prime season for travel that coincides with excellent weather. Throughout this “peak season”, the crowds tend to be heavy and the prices high. Ireland’s peak season is the summer months: mid-June through mid-September. When the weather is typically less than balmy, destinations, experience a “shoulder season” and a “low season.” Shoulder season in Ireland is April, May, early June, and early October. Shoulder season has the distinct advantage of retaining many summer travel perks: longer days, good weather, and extended shopping hours. Low season is November through March – the winter-weather months in Ireland.

Rates and crowds lessen proportionally as you travel farther from the warmer months. Airfares are often hundreds of dollars below peak season rates, and hotels offer bargain discounts. But for many, one of the best advantages of traveling in the so-called “off-season” is that it’s much easier to enjoy and absorb Ireland’s renowned culture and avoid getting lost in crowds of tourists. Off-season visitors often find that their hosts, hoteliers, and shopkeepers engage easily in conversation and provide individual attention, increasing the odds of a fascinating and flawless vacation.

Off-peak Ireland is one of the best travel bargains worldwide… short daylight hours and cool weather provide a new, moody perspective on the country. Celtic architecture and cool seascapes fill mornings of exploration, and crisp afternoons call for cozy Irish sweaters and refuge in a warm pub, where visitors mix with the locals.

One of the great attractions of Ireland is that many of its amazing sites are wide-open: the cliffs and shores, castles, cathedrals, and great stone circles are accessible throughout the year. The countryside, too, holds its famous green, even in the winter when visitors can trace the landscape of long stone walls against a leafless sky and emerald-colored hillsides.

To ensure your comfort while you wander through Ireland, bring heavy sweaters and outdoor clothing, and hats. Warm, comfortable (and preferably waterproof) shoes are a must, and pack turtlenecks and windbreakers for good measure. The good news is that because Ireland is situated on the eastern Atlantic side of the Gulf Stream, temperatures are typically more moderate than in continental Europe. Ireland’s average winter temperature is a relatively mild 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

Ireland can be equally enjoyed through a fully escorted or independent tour, and often at additional savings over already low rates. A good travel agent/advisor familiar with Ireland is the best resource for planning your off-season itinerary to ensure that you experience the best aspects of traveling during this time. Travel advisors can connect you to highly regarded tour operators who are financially sound and have a reliable history of taking care of the agent’s clients.

So pack a sweater and have the Emerald Isle to yourself!

Richard Earls has spent the last 34 years in the travel industry as an agency owner, a technologist, a publisher, and a writer. The publishing credits to Richard’s resume are many, including Weissmann Travel Reports, STAR Service, Intelliguide, BTP24, Voyager Travel Guides, Travel Research Online and VoyagerSocial.ai. He is currently self-unemployed.

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Historic and literary centre where the fun flows and locals banter

“When I die, Dublin will be written in my heart”. So, apparently, said James Joyce, literary genius and son of Ireland’s fair city, but in fact it turns out that so many people feel this way about the charming historical capital. Easily accessible from all over Europe, Dublin attracts couples, families and groups of friends looking for a cool weekender or fun getaway. Scratch below the surface though and you’ll find more than just Guinness and craic.

Beware the heaving summer months when the city is at it’s most popular, and although there is a lot to be said for visiting during the joyous St Patrick’s Day festival, it’s hardly the time to avoid the crowds! To get the most for your hard-earned euros, Low Season Traveller suggests a November, January or February sojourn. Surprisingly, the weather at this time compares favourably to other parts of northern Europe, with daytime highs of around 8°C and although you might well get rain, Dublin’s location in the driest part of the island mean fewer showers and even if the heavens do open, you can be sure that a cosy pub with a log fire won’t be very far away.

History Lessons Were Never This Fun

Forget classroom based learning, you can get your grades just wandering around the city, discovering stunning 18th century architecture, award-winning museums and the spirit of rebellion, defiance and hope still palpable today in the local Dubliners. First stop is the General Post Office, beautiful Greek-revival edifice, and home to Ireland’s possibly most important moment. It was here during the 1916 Easter Rising that the Irish held their ground as the British stormed the stronghold leaving bullet holes still visible today. At EPIC, the Irish Emigration Museum, retrace the journeys made across the world as many risked it all to escape the 19th century Great Famine and find a better life. Climb aboard the Jeanie Johnston, a replica of the only famine ship not to suffer a single onboard death during the seven years it sailed to and from Canada. The 50 minute tour of this replica tall ship gives an idea of what life was like for those brave travellers. Cross the pretty cast iron Ha’penny Bridge, whose pedestrian tolls once paid for its construction, and visit the imposing Dublin Castle to the south, seat of British power for 700 years until Irish independence. Finish at magnificent St Patrick’s Cathedral with its intricately designed mosaics.

Wide Open Spaces

In vast Phoenix Park, twice the size of New York’s Central Park, you can lose yourself among the green lawns, woodlands, and flower gardens with surprises round each corner. Stroll the banks of the Liffey in the elegant National War Memorial Park, a smaller but no less beautiful area, dedicated to the fallen of the Great War. Or explore Merrion Square with its lounging Oscar Wilde statue, people-watch at St Stephen’s Green in the very heart of the city, or enjoy the popular National Botanic Garden. Further afield, climb Killiney Hill, take the stunning cliff walk at Howth or attempt the Bray to Greystones trail in Wicklow.

Official Partner

Let the island of Ireland capture your heart with its breathtaking landscapes, dramatic coastlines, picturesque villages, vibrant cities and a globally renowned friendly welcome. We are home to world class visitor attractions, fantastic culture and music, an internationally lauded food and drink scene and a vibrant year-round events programme. Click below to start planning your next low season break.

Low Season Months

Featured hotels, top experiences.

The Long Room, Trinity College Old Library

There’s something special about standing in the famed 300 year old library Long Room in quieter periods when the stunning 65 metre long chamber is magically still. Check out the historic Book of Kells, the college’s fine collection of marble busts, and a rare copy of 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic.

The Guinness Storehouse

Spend hours learning all about the famed stout on this excellent self-guided brewery tour with seven floors of Guinness related exhibitions and enjoy a well-earned pint in the rooftop Gravity Bar. Expanded in 2020, it’s a glass sided cylindrical venue offering superb 360 degree views over Dublin’s cityscape.

Bike Hire in Phoenix Park

Cover more ground on two wheels than on two feet. At a vast 1750 acres, Phoenix is Europe’s biggest enclosed parkland. Cycle hire is located at the entrance and you can make a day of it, stopping off at cafes, picnic areas, market stalls and historic buildings. You may well come across the 500 semi-wild resident fallow deer.

Insider Tips

• Bram Stoker, novelist of Gothic horror fame was born right here and in his name the city holds an annual festival, neatly coinciding with the Púca festival, celebrating Ireland’s claim to have invented Halloween, via the folklore of Samhain.
• At the end of January, dance like crazy with over 200 free events at the Temple Bar Traditional Irish Music Festival, or TradFest, a great opportunity to see brilliant musicians without having to travel to the far reaches of the island.
• Temple Bar Book Market is on each Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 6pm at Temple Bar Square. Choose from second hand or new tomes with some rare items stashed among them. There is also a vinyl section for record collectors.

Good To Know

• Do like the locals and get yourself a Leap Card. With flexible options you can save cash on the Luas trams, DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit), buses even airport transfers, avoiding racking up huge taxi costs. Buy online before you travel.
• Sweny’s Pharmacy, depicted in Joyce’s stream of consciousness epic, Ulysses, remains a time capsule of literary history. An un-missable stop for bookworms, swing by at 1pm weekdays and join dedicated locals for their Joycean reading circle.
• Visit Bull Island for coastal walks, bird-watching, and wildlife. For some reason this treasure is missed by tourists who tend to stay in the city centre or venture out to Howth, but Bull Island is a beautiful option, adored by Dublin’s locals.

Food & Drink

Bewleys, Grafton Steet

This 180 year old craft bakery kitchen café always offers delicious treats within a mahogany and stained glass interior. Packed in summertime, the low season allows quicker seating and service.

Darkey Kelly’s, Fishamble Street

Once an 18th century brothel and home to a Irish female serial killer, whose victims lay beneath the floorboards, this institution is now better known for its great ambience, drink, food and nightly live music.

The Porterhouse on Temple Bar

One of Ireland’s first craft beer pubs and quite historic for the revolution that it led. Try a sample tray to experience a range from their impressive beer menu. Also serves up food paired with beer suggestions.

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Celebrate Juneteenth at these Maine events

The holiday is Wednesday, but events start this weekend and run through the end of the month.

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Westbrook Middle School students Bella Zollarcoffer, Priscila Nzolameso and Sarikong Oak held tables educating and informing the community on Black hair history at Westbrook’s Juneteenth celebration last year. Cullen McIntyre/Staff Photographer

Juneteenth, which became both a federal and state holiday in 2021 , celebrates the anniversary of federal troops’ arrival in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, to ensure all enslaved people had been freed. This year, the holiday falls on Wednesday, but celebrations are happening over the next two weeks.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. –  Indigo Arts Alliance presents The Welcome Table, an intergenerational symposium celebrating global cultural and culinary histories. Activities include art, movement and meditation workshops led by activists and cultural workers. 60 Cove St., Portland.  indigoartsalliance.me

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. –  Victoria Mansion is hosting a community day with free admission and a recitation of the Emancipation Proclamation by local actors. 109 Danforth St. Portland.  victoriamansion.org

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. –  Space and the Tate House Museum are putting on a Juneteenth community day with free admission and tours of Ashley Page’s “Imagining Freedom” exhibit at the museum. The historical art piece puts viewers into the shoes of an enslaved woman named Bet. 1267 Westbrook St., Portland.  space538.org Advertisement

1-6:30 p.m. –  The first event of “The City that Carries Us: Pain, Streets, and Heartbeats” will take place at the Public Theatre in Lewiston. The celebration will have a parade and a block party with performances, as well as scheduled activities and rituals throughout the day. It is hosted by the organization Maine Inside Out. 31 Maple St., Lewiston, maineinsideout.org

2-3 p.m. –  Through “Poems of Reckoning and Resilience,” the Portland Museum of Art and Maine Writers and Publishers Alliance seek to honor the legacy of Black Americans. Featured poet Nathan McClain will join local poets in the Great Hall at the museum to celebrate Black liberation and creativity. The museum is also offering free admission Saturday through Monday, in celebration of both Juneteenth and Pride Month. 7 Congress Square, Portland.  mainewriters.org

11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. –  The fifth annual Juneteenth Celebration on House Island in Casco Bay will focus on Black joy, as well as nature, health and economic opportunity. Guests can stay for one or two days, and partake in activities like camping, hiking, yoga and games, all led by BIPOC leaders. Fortland, House Island, Portland.  eventbrite.com

4:30-7 p.m. –  The Community Organizing Alliance is putting on an event with speakers, live performances, poetry readings, a voter registration drive and catering by Bab’s Table. There will also be opportunities to get involved in the racial justice movement. The Atrium at Bates Mill, 36 Chestnut St., Lewiston.  eventbrite.com

1-3 p.m. –  Riverbank Park in Westbrook will host a community event with art, poetry, music and guest speakers. There will also be a barbecue picnic, a student fashion show, hair braiding, pick-up soccer and more activities sponsored by the city. 667 Main St., Westbrook.  On Facebook.

7-8 p.m. –  The Portland Yoga Project is putting on a class called “Liberated Breath: A Juneteenth Yoga Experience” that seeks to reflect on the holiday through yoga. The class is free for BIPOC community members and is sponsored by the Portland Public Library. 7 Bedford St., Portland, allevents.in

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