Best Time to Visit Ireland

Thanks to the influence of the Gulf Stream, Ireland has moderate weather conditions all year round. So the best time of year to travel to Ireland would entirely depend on the experiences you want to indulge in and your preferences for varying weather conditions.

If you are looking for summer excursions, the best month to visit Ireland would be either March, April or May. And if you are a winter person, September, October or November will make for the best time to explore the island nation.

Both of these periods avoid harsher temperatures as well as the peak of tourist seasons where the overly crowded spots might hinder your experiences. Moreover, you also avoid the steep price hikes making it the cheapest time to travel to Ireland while also being able to enjoy the trip to the fullest.

Peak Season in Ireland

The peak season in Ireland lasts from June through August. The country experiences the warmest and driest weather during these months making it a popular time for tourist visits. The obvious downside of this season is the increased prices due to the tourist influx.

This is the peak season as most school sessions end for a summer vacation and the days are longer. The long days make it the perfect time for exploring the natural beauty of the island and indulging in some treks along the Wicklow Way or a day out at a beach in Brittas Bay.

If you happen to visit Ireland during these months, it would be the perfect time to enjoy some traditional Irish meals with a pint of Bulmers Cider or a chilled glass of Guinness.

Shoulder Season in Ireland

The shoulder season in Ireland is from early May and the whole of September. With the average temperatures ranging between 13°C to 15°C, the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

Since the temperature is cooler as compared to the peak season, it is a great time to indulge in outdoor activities like island hopping, golfing and cycling.

A great advantage of the shoulder season is that the number of tourists is considerably lower than the peak season, which also makes the prices for activities and accommodation a little more budget-friendly.

Moreover, September to October is the best time to visit Dublin, with the crowds thinning out as the schools get back in session. You can also enjoy the Dublin Theatre Festival and experience the magnificence of the arts.

Low Season in Ireland

The low season in Ireland ranges from early November through March. The weather during these months tends to be dominated by occasional rains and extreme cold, making it difficult to experience many outdoor activities.

Road trips during this time are also not advisable due to unpredictable rains, making road travel a dangerous endeavour due to the icy and slippery roads.

If you are looking for the cheapest time to travel to Ireland on a budget while enjoying the museums and many attractions in the city with fewer crowds, the low season is the best option.

The mild climate of the island opens various possibilities for visitors to experience throughout the year. Here are some suggestions on places you can visit and activities you can indulge in depending on the month you are visiting:

January in Ireland

• January is a great option for those wanting to visit Ireland on a budget. Not only are the flight costs affordable, but they also allow you to benefit from fantastic deals on accommodation.

• Although most popular attractions will have meeker crowds, more popular places like the Cliffs of Moher and the Giants Causeway might still have a minor rush. Some seasonal attractions may also be closed during the month of January, making indoor attractions a great choice for visitors.

• Since the days are often shorter during this month, it is best to have a well-planned itinerary for your trip to be able to make the most of your time.

Average Temperature: 3°C to 8°C

Best Places to Visit:

• Galway is a lively city with cosy pubs and restaurants serving delicious food.

• The Rock of Cashel is a majestic fortress and the seat of power of the Irish Royalty.

• Jameson Whiskey Distillery offers tours and tastings where you can blend your own whiskey.

Things to Experience:

• The TradFest in Dublin offers a glimpse of Irish music and culture.

• The winters in Ireland make snowboarding in the Wicklow Mountains a great experience.

• Since outdoor activities can be limited, you can try living in one of the Castle Hotels in Ireland.

February in Ireland

• Similar to January, fewer tourists visit Ireland in February. With the advantage of affordable accommodation prices and travel ticket expenses, there are a lot of things you can do in Ireland that are budget-friendly and enjoyable.

• On drier days, you can enjoy some scenic hikes, especially in the evening when the winter skies are bound to leave you in awe. On rainy days, you can enjoy your choice of Irish liquor in one of the old-school pubs with a fireplace, like the McLynn’s Bar in Sligo.

Average Temperature: 2°C to 8°C

Best Places to Visit:

• The National Botanic Gardens in Dublin.

• The Kilmainham Gaol Museum.

• The Reginald’s Tower.

Things to Experience:

• The Dublin International Film Festival.

• Brigid Festival

• Catch a Six Nations rugby match.

Ireland in March

In March, the prices of flight tickets can witness a significant hike around the celebrations for St. Patrick’s Day. Although this month experiences unpredictable weather, the festive spirit in the air is bound to keep the excitement running through the crowds.

Apart from the festivities of St. Patrick’s Day, you can enjoy a shopping spree in the English market and indulge in some local produce. You can snack on some delicious Irish cheeses and end the day with warm Irish Coffee in a cosy pub.

Average Temperature: 4°C to 10°C

Best Places to Visit:

• St. Patrick’s Day celebrations throughout Ireland

• Viking Triangle.

• Waterford Crystal Factory.

Things to Experience:

• St. Patrick’s Day parade.

• Kilkenny Tradfest.

• Tour of the Guinness Storehouse.

Ireland in April

With the month of April, the island country welcomes a lively spring. The weather starts to warm up and most seasonal attractions start opening up for visitors.

A major advantage of visiting in April is that you will experience fewer tourist crowds and lower flight ticket prices since it is right around Easter. This makes it the perfect month to explore the lush landscapes of the island.

Average Temperature: 4°C to 13°C

Best Places to Visit:

• The Phoenix Park, which is one of the largest city parks in Europe.

• The Fota Wildlife Park.

• The Killarney National Park.

Things to Experience:

• The Easter Celebrations in local towns.

• The Waterford Festival of Food.

• Galway Theatre Festival.

Ireland in May

May is one of the best months to visit Ireland as the spring is in full bloom but the timing is still shy of the peak tourist season right before the month of June. Travel during this month has its own set of pros and cons.

You can expect famous tourist spots to be less crowded than the peak season but the accommodation and flight prices may already be at their peak. However, during this month, you can visit lesser-known spots like the Loop Head Peninsula and the Coumshingaun Lough for a serene experience.

Average Temperature: 9°C to 15°C

Best Places to Visit:

• Slieve League.

• Ring of Kerry.

• Hook Peninsula.

Things to Experience:

• The Dublin Dance Festival.

• The Beltane Fire Festival.

• Dublin Dance Festival.

Ireland in June

With June, Ireland welcomes the peak tourist season. This is the time when most of the music festivals are in full swing. However, if you prefer quieter experiences, there are a wide array of options available for you.

You can enjoy a beach day at some of the quieter beaches in Ireland, like the Coumeenoole Strand or Trá Bán in Kerry.

• The only downside of the peak season that you will experience is the higher rates for flight tickets and accommodation bookings.

Average Temperature: 11°C to 18°C

Best Places to Visit:

• Dún Briste Sea Stack.

• Scrabo Tower.

• Doolin.

Things to Experience:

• Cat Laughs Comedy Festival.

• Dalkey Book Festival.

• Sea Sessions.

Ireland in July

• Ireland is alive with a summer buzz in July. With longer daylight hours and warmer weather, it is the perfect time for lazy beach days and lively music festivals.

• It is also a great time to visit dreamy castles for the perfect sunset pictures, followed by some fine dining in Dublin.

Average Temperature: 12°C to 19°C

Best Places to Visit:

• Doon Fort.

• Dunmore Cave.

• The Inis Mór Wormhole.

Things to Experience:

• West Cork Lit Festival.

• Galway Arts Festival.

Ireland in August

In August, the peak tourist season comes to an end in Ireland. With the weather being warmer than it is all year round, this is the perfect time for a planned road trip. You can go festival hopping around the country or explore hidden tracks and trails when on the road.

If you are more of a city person, you can enjoy the nightlife in Dubin and participate in the Irish dances at the old pubs.

Average Temperature: 11°C to 18°C

Best Places to Visit:

• Spike Island.

• Largy Waterfall.

• The Croaghaun Cliffs.

Things to Experience:

• Puck Fair.

• Galway Oyster Festival.

• Rose of Tralee.

Ireland in September

In Ireland, September brings along the lively hues of autumn and more pleasant weather. Marking the beginning of the shoulder season, this month witnesses a significant drop in the tourist crowds.

It is the perfect time to take guided tours of the majestic castles and delve into the history of the island. Later, you can enjoy some warm Irish hospitality with a side of their special liquors at a cosy pub downtown.

Average Temperature: 9°C to 13°C

Best Places to Visit:

• Leap Castle.

• The Dark Sky Reserve.

• The Howth Cliff.

Things to Experience:

• Culture Night.

• Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival.

• Electric Picnic.

Ireland in October

October is the Halloween season in Ireland. With slightly cold weather, it is the perfect time for scenic drives along the Ring of Kerry or on the Causeway Coastal Road.

The view from McDermott’s Castle is sure to astound, with the evening winter skies lighting up the horizon. You can also make a trip to the Inishturk and Saltee Islands for a cosy staycation. However, with the holidays like Halloween and Christmas coming up soon, the accommodation prices may rise around this time.

Average Temperature: 6°C to 13°C

Best Places to Visit:

• Benbulben.

• Glenveagh National Park.

• Slieve League Cliffs.

Things to Experience:

• Bram Stoker Festival.

• Seal Watching.

• Derry Halloween.

Ireland in November

November is also one of the best months to visit Ireland. With the Christmas festivities following up soon the air is buzzing with excitement and the bars and pubs are cosier than ever. The accommodation prices are lower than in December and there are fewer tourists exploring the country.

You can enjoy the Christmas markets that open up around mid-November and enjoy the Christmas specials like the traditional Irish Christmas dinner and some sweet Sherry Trifle.

Average Temperature: 6°C to 11°C

Best Places to Visit:

• Long Room in Trinity College.

• Whiskey Tastings.

• The Christmas Markets.

Things to Experience:

• Cork Film Festival.

• Dublin Book Festival.

• Dingle Lit.

Ireland in December

With the weather being unpredictable in December, it is best to indulge in indoor activities that will keep you cosy. Visiting places like Chester Beatty and the Christ Church Cathedral are a great option.

With Christmas around the corner, it is also a great time to visit and enjoy various Christmas markets and indulge in some Christmas treats native to Ireland.

Average Temperature: 3°C to 10°C

Best Places to Visit:

• Galway Christmas Market.

• Wicklow Christmas Market.

• Dublin Castle Christmas Market.

Things to Experience:

• Yulefest Kilkenny.

• Glow Cork.

• Winterval Waterford.

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Ireland offers a diverse array of fascinating experiences throughout the year. Be it the peak tourist season or cold winters, the Irish hospitality and culture are bound to leave you wanting more.

The next time you crave the warmth of the cosy Irish pubs, keep this article handy so you don't miss out on some unique experiences!

What are some things I must avoid when visiting Ireland?

• Avoid stereotyping locals, and respect the diversity of the culture and individuals.

• Do not disrespect historic sites, monuments and religious buildings.

• Do not refer to Ireland as a part of the United Kingdom. It is an independent country of its own.

• Do not forget to dress for the weather and be prepared for outdoor activities.

What are some things I should do when visiting Ireland?

• Explore the countryside; it has a lot of unique experiences to offer.

• Embrace the Irish hospitality and culture.

• Indulge in the history and heritage of the country.

• Attend festivals and events to enhance the lively atmosphere of Irish festivals.

• Tour whiskey distilleries; it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.