Best time to visit Ireland
Ireland is a great nation to visit all year, but the best time to visit Ireland depends on your preferences and what you want to see and do while there. Let’s take a deeper look at the weather, festivals and events, people, and activities during each season to help you plan your vacation.
Destinations / Ireland
May 2023
Irish Weather
The weather in Ireland is pleasant, although it can be unexpected at any time of year. Summer is the warmest and has the nicest weather, but it is also the busiest and most expensive period to visit. If you don’t mind chilly weather, spring and autumn provide milder temps and fewer crowds, making them ideal times to visit.
What about Festivals & Events
Ireland offers a full calendar of festivals and events throughout the year, so plan your trip around one of these. The main festival in Ireland is St. Patrick’s Day (March 17), however there are numerous other events throughout the year, including the Galway International Arts Festival (July), the Cork Jazz Festival (October), and the Dublin Theatre Festival (September/October).
Spring Season – March to May
If you prefer outdoor activities, gardens, and seeing the countryside, spring is a fantastic season to visit Ireland. Spring temperatures are warm, ranging from 7-12°C (45-54°F) on average, and the days begin to lengthen as we approach summer. It’s also a period when the countryside comes to life, with flowers and trees blooming and lush, green landscapes.
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which takes place on March 17th in Dublin and other locations across Ireland, is one of the most popular spring festivities. The Dublin International Film Festival, the West Waterford Festival of Food, and the Cork International Choral Festival are among the other events.
If you enjoy outdoor sports, spring is an excellent season to go hiking, cycling, or exploring Ireland’s gorgeous roadways. You may go hiking in the Wicklow Mountains or enjoy a lovely drive through the Ring of Kerry.
Summer Season – June to August
Summer is Ireland’s peak season and the warmest and sunniest time of year, with average temperatures ranging from 12 to 19°C (54 to 66°F). The days are becoming longer, with some sections of the country seeing brightness until 10 p.m. If you enjoy festivals, beaches, and water activities, now is a terrific time to visit.
The Galway International Arts Festival, the Dublin Horse Show, and the Rose of Tralee Festival are also prominent summer events. Music festivals such as the Electric Picnic and the Longitude Festival are also available.
Summer is the ideal time to explore Ireland’s coastal towns and cities if you enjoy beaches and water activities. Swim, surf, sail, and kayak at some of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches, including Inch Beach, Lahinch Beach, and Banna Beach.
Fall Season- September – November
If you want to explore the countryside and view the autumn foliage, autumn is a terrific season to visit Ireland. Temperatures are from 8-14°C (46-57°F) on average, and crowds are lighter than during the summer.
The Cork Jazz Festival, the Dublin Theatre Festival, and the Dingle Food Festival are all popular autumn events. You can also attend the Galway Oyster Festival in September, which marks the beginning of the oyster season.
If you enjoy outdoor sports, the autumn season is ideal for hiking and cycling, especially in the highlands and national parks. You can walk the Croagh Patrick pilgrimage trail or visit Killarney National Park or Connemara National Park.
Winter Season – December – February
Winter is Ireland’s quietest season, with fewer tourists and lower prices. The weather can be cold and damp, with typical temperatures ranging from 4-8°C (39-46°F), but it’s a fantastic time to enjoy cosy pubs, traditional Irish music, and Christmas markets.
Popular winter events include the New Year’s Festival in Dublin, TradFest in January, and the St. Brigid’s Festival in Kildare. You can also go to the Galway Christmas Market, Waterford Winterval, and Cork Winter Festival.
Winter is probably one of the Best time to visit Ireland and it’s cities and towns since there are fewer crowds and holiday decorations and markets provide a festive touch to the streets. Indoor attractions in Ireland, such as museums, art galleries, and theatres, provide a warm and cultural relief from the chilly weather outdoors.
Winter is also a fantastic season to visit Ireland’s spa towns and treat yourself to some relaxing treatments, or to soak in one of the country’s natural hot springs. You can explore the hot springs in Bath, County Laois, or swim in Sligo’s seaweed baths.
It is up to you to decide when is the best time to visit Ireland based on your interests and preferences. Consider going during the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn for better weather and less crowds. Summer is the best time to visit festivals, beaches, and participate in water sports. Winter is also a fantastic season to visit if you want to find lesser pricing and cosy pubs.
Average daylight in a day of each month
January: 8 hours
February: 9 hours
March: 11 hours
April: 13 hours
May: 15 hours
June: 17 hours
July: 16 hours
August: 15 hours
September: 13 hours
October: 11 hours
November: 9 hours
December: 8 hours
You can also visit official website Ireland.com for more about tourism in Ireland
