Your Guide to the Best Time of Year to Go to Dublin, Ireland

Last updated on January 17th, 2025 at 08:11 pm

Are you planning your Ireland trip? If it’s your first trip to the Emerald Isle, you’re likely including a few days exploring the best things to do in Dublin in your itinerary. But what is the best time to go to Dublin? While I believe any time of year is a wonderful time to visit Dublin and Ireland in general, there are some considerations to make regarding the season to plan your trip. 

Understanding each season’s weather and unique experiences is crucial to planning an unforgettable trip. In this post, I’ll share with you what to expect throughout the year so you can decide the best season for you to plan your trip to Ireland.

This post contains affiliate links, which means that, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a tiny bit of income if you decide to make a purchase or booking.

When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Dublin, Ireland

If you want the TLDR version of this post, then here you go! The best time of the year to visit Dublin is in the shoulder season months. Think April to (early) May and (late) September to October.

During this time of the year, you’ll have decent weather and the days are still long enough to check off all of the items on your bucket list.

An added bonus to visiting in the shoulder season is that peak tourist season has not hit yet so accommodation prices will be more reasonable!

If you’re visiting in the shoulder season I recommend trying to go in October or May.

My personal favorite month to visit Ireland is October! I’ve had the best weather in October, the fall colors are beautiful, and the crowds are manageable! I love a cozy pub and Sunday roast in the fall.

My second favorite time of the year in Dublin is May. I could be biased because I visited Ireland for the first time in May for my 28th birthday, and it was a great time! But objectively speaking May is great for longer days and a lively atmosphere before high season really sets in!

Peak Tourist Season in Dublin, Ireland

Speaking of peak tourist season, that runs from June to August. The weather is the best out of the year and days are nice and long, perfect for day trips out of the city. There are also plenty of festivals throughout the summer months which attract visitors.

With the warm weather and plenty of activities comes lots of tourists. If you don’t mind crowds this would be a fun time of year to visit! 

The city streets will be buzzing with activity, but these crowds also drive hotel prices up.

If you plan and book well in advance you could likely save some money on accommodation. I also recommended booking any skip the line tickets to the top tourist attractions so you don’t spend your time waiting in line!

Cheapest Time of Year to Visit Dublin, Ireland 

If you are budget conscious, but really want to visit Dublin then bundle up for a winter visit. Excluding the Christmas and New Year holidays, the winter months are the cheapest time of year to visit Dublin!

All of the tourists have gone home, but Dublin’s charm remains. Hotel prices are much lower than the summer months and you can enjoy a more relaxed experience at Dublin’s top tourist attractions!

Best Time of Year to Visit Dublin by Season and Month

Are you ready for the deep dive into the best time of year to visit Dublin? I’m going to break it down based on season and month. Here’s what you can expect for visiting Dublin throughout the year.

Dublin in Winter: December to February

I’ve visited Dublin twice in the winter. The first time was in January and it was downright freezing! I went in December for my second winter trip and while still cold, I found the festive atmosphere of Christmas in Dublin well worth it! 

The average temperatures in the winter months range from 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). You’ll likely experience the most rainy days of the year as well as quite a bit of wind! The nights can be seriously cold when the wind picks up so it’s the perfect time to check out Dublin’s pub scene.

That being said, don’t let the chilly temperatures stop you from visiting Dublin in the winter. As long as you follow this Ireland packing list, you can fully enjoy the charm of Dublin in the winter!

If there is an upside to braving the Irish winter weather, it’s that this time of year is considered the off-season for tourism, so you can expect fewer crowds at tourist attractions and enjoy lower prices on accommodation. This of course with the exception of the holidays as locals and tourists flock to Grafton Street for some holiday shopping!

Things to Do in December in Dublin

The winter season starts of festive with Christmas in Dublin. If you want to get a taste of Europe’s Christmas markets, the Dublin Castle hosts Christmas at the Castle, where you can shop for holiday gifts. There are stalls with local artists and vendors selling unique goods that would make a unique souvenir from Ireland. 

Things to Do in January in Dublin

The winter is also a great time to head inside for some museum visits. The National Gallery of Ireland showcases a wide collection of European art from notable artists like Monet and Picasso. Bonus: it’s free to enter the permanent exhibitions! 

While not free, the Little Museum of Dublin showcases a quirky side to Dublin’s history.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum is a great place to learn about the impact of Irish emigration in Ireland and abroad.

For music lovers, you can also enjoy Tradfest which has over 100 artists performing at over 18 venues. Some of the venues include St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Malahide Castle.

Things to Do in February in Dublin

It’s still chilly in February so take a class to make your own Claddagh ring! If you’re a film buff, then check out the Dublin International Film Festival with runs from the end of February to early March. There are world premiers and intimate screengs at some of the best theaters in Dublin. 

This is also a good time of the year to visit the Kilmainham Gaol Museum. Tickets sell out fast, especially in the busy tourist season, and visits are only allowed with a guided tour! However, you are likely to secure one in the off season and if you purchase it well before your visit.

Dublin in Spring: March to May

Spring is a beautiful time to visit Dublin, with warmer weather and longer daylight hours. The average temperature during the spring ranges from 6°C to 13°C (43°F to 55°F). You can still expect a few rainy days, but spring is a great time of year to get outdoors and explore some cliff walks like Howth or Bray!

The spring is considered the shoulder season for tourism so while the number of visitors increases from winter, crowds have yet to descend on the city. You will still be able to find affordable accommodation and avoid long lines at tourist destinations.

Except for March when people visit to celebrate St. Paddy’s Day!

Things to Do in Dublin in March

Perhaps the busiest month in Dublin’s spring season is March when people come ot the city to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th. Dublin hosts a massive, multi-day St. Patrick’s festival with live music, street performances, and other events highlighting Irish culture and traditions. This festival culminates in the St. Patrick’s Day parade!

Something about the spring makes this Dublin tea time aboard a vintage sightseeing bus seem extra special. I want to do this my next time in the city. 

Things to Do in Dublin in April

As the weather warms up in April, take a free walking tour. The free walking tours in Dublin cover the city’s main attractions, like Temple Bar and Trinity College. 

The National Botanic Gardens or Merrion Square are the perfect places to visit in the spring as the gardens come to life with blossoming flowers!

Things to Do in Dublin in May

May is one of the best months to visit Dublin! The weather is warming up and the days are longer so it’s the perfect time to get outdoors! Take a day trip to Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough. Or take a River Liffey Sightseeing Cruise. 

For literary enthusiasts, you can attend the International Literature Festival which hosts readings, screenings, guided walks and more for a week in mid-May!

Dublin in Summer: June to August

The summer months in Dublin offer the best chance of good weather, with occasional rain showers and average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).

In addition to the nice weather, the summer months also bring summer crowds. Tourist season is in full swing!

As this is the peak season, you’ll see higher prices on accommodations and larger crowds. This, combined with longer days, makes it a great time of year to escape the bustle of the city for outdoor activities. 

Things to Do in Dublin in June

On June 16th, celebrate the day immortalized in famed Irish author James Joyce’s novel Ulysses with the Bloomsday Festival. The Bloomsday Festival includes various events, from readings to visiting places mentioned in the novel and wearing straw boater hats that were in fashion during the novel’s time period. 

At the end of June get ready for Dublin Pride! There are weeklong events culminating in the Pride Parade on the last Saturday in June!

Things to Do in Dublin in July

One of the best things to do in Dublin in the summer to avoid the crowds is to take a cliff walk in Howth or Bray. Each offers stunning views of the rugged Irish coast, and the towns have delicious food. However, when I’m writing this post, the Bray to Greystones cliff walk is closed, so head north for the Howth cliff walk instead.

Also in July is the Longitude Festival in Marlay Park. This three day music festival invites some of the best musical artists! They haven’t announced the 2025 lineup yet, but in 2024 artists like Hozier, Lord Huron, and Doja Cat played!

Things to Do in Dublin in August

In August, escape the busyness of the city without leaving it by checking out Phoenix Park. In addition to the Dublin Zoo, Phoenix Park has miles of walking trails and sprawling lawns for a picnic on a sunny day.

Howth hosts a blues music festival called Howth Roots and Blues as well!

Dublin in Fall: September to November

I believe the best month to visit Dublin, and Ireland as a whole, is October. The Fall months bring mild temperatures ranging from 8°C to 14°C (46°F to 57°F). As always, it could rain! However, you still have enough hours of daylight to explore!

Fall is considered the shoulder season, so you’ll see fewer crowds than in the summer months, and hotel prices will begin to decrease.

Things to Do in Dublin in September

Held annually in September and October, the Dublin Theatre Festival showcases a diverse range of plays and performances at various venues throughout the city.

For over 30 years, Dublin has been hosting a Fringe festival in September which showcases bold new artists. There are events throughout the city to add to your itinerary!

Things to Do in Dublin in October

October is my favorite time of year in Ireland and it’s the perfect time to take a stroll through St. Stephens Green or Iveagh Gardens to check out the fall foliage!

You can also lean into the spooky season with a Dublin ghostbus tour where you can learn about Dublin’s dark side. Or attend one of the events of the Bram Stoker Festival in honor of the famous author of Dracula.

Things to Do in Dublin in November

Lean into this quiet time of the year in Dublin by visiting Dublin’s top tourist attractions like the Guinness Factory, the Jameson Distillery, and the Book of Kells. These popular attractions won’t be super crowded making them more enjoyable to visit.

What to Wear in Dublin

As mentioned in every section of this post, expect rainy weather in Dublin. Some seasons, like winter, will have more rainy days than others. But if you anticipate rainy weather, and get a sunny day, then you’ll be well prepared for anything!

Also provided throughout the post are ranges for temperatures in Dublin; make sure to check the weather forecast a week or so out from your trip so you make sure you have the appropriate clothing. 

Here are a few items to pack for Ireland no matter what time of the year you decide to visit:

• Rain Jacket: Pack a waterproof jacket stay dry during occasional rain showers. The level of warmth will depend on the time of the year you visit. A rain shell like this one would be great layered over a fleece or a down jacket in the Spring or Fall. Whereas something a bit heavier, like this rain trench would be best in the winter. 
• Warm Coat: A warm jacket, like a down puffer jacket, will keep you warm at night. A cozy sweater like this cable knit one is also lovely to wear to the pubs, even during the warmer months, as it still gets chilly at night. In the winter you’ll want a wool overcoat! 
• Jeans: You only need one pair of jeans.The type of jeans you pack are 100% a personal preference. I’m working on getting away from skinny jeans, but it’s hard! So I packed my skinnies. Any jeans you like that go well with the shoes you’re packing and the rest of your clothing. 
• Layers: In the winter pack a pare of thermal base layers that you can easily put under your jeans. I also love these fleece lined leggings! Pack a combination of t-shirts and long sleeve shirts that you can layer underneath a sweater or jacket.
• Waterproof Shoes: A sturdy pair of waterproof walking shoes. I love Blundstones or these Sorel Chelsea Boots for exploring Ireland. They’re great on the cobblestone streets of Dublin and can be dressed up or down. You may also want a lightweight white sneaker. I’ve been wearing these Keen sneakers recently and find them very comfortable (but they’re not waterproof).
• A Hat: The style you choose depends on the season! In the colder months, you’ll want a warm beanie to keep your head and ears toasty. But in the summer a baseball hat would be perfect for a bit of casual style to an outfit while protecting your face from the sun.
• Travel Umbrella: Every time you pack for Ireland, always include a small travel umbrella like this one!
• Multi-port Charger: Damn, every electronic these days has its own USB charger. To be able to charge everything at once, get a multi-port USB charger so you don’t need more than one plug, which are limited in hostel dorm rooms.
• Portable Power Bank: You know what sucks? Going out for the day with a full charge only to have to return to the hostel or find a cafe with a plug to recharge your items. Charge on the go with a power bank so you’ll never be without a camera or directions! I picked up this portable charger in the SFO airport before my most recent trip to Ireland and it powers my electronics quickly and its own charge lasts for at least three charges!
• Water Bottle: I love traveling with a reusable water bottle like a Hydro Flask to ensure that I stay hydrated while I’m out exploring. I’ve also used it to hold wine for a picnic so you know – it’s multi-functional! Hydro Flask also makes a lighter water bottle that is perfect for travel and will fit in any water bottle pocket.
• Day Bag: A small backpack or shoulder bag is perfect for days out exploring the Emerald Isle. I usually travel with either a smaller backpack or my Long Champ shoulder bag. Both fit everything I need for the day: snacks, camera, tripod, kindle, and are stylish!

Where to Stay in Dublin, Ireland

Make sure you check out the complete guide on where to stay in Dublin, which details the best neighborhoods and hotels to stay in Dublin. If it’s your first time in Dublin, I recommend picking a hotel near Grafton Street or St. Stephens Green. Staying in these areas will place you near all of the fun things to do in Dublin!

Here are my top 5 picks for the best places to stay in Dublin:

Best Budget-Friendly Hostel: Jacob’s Inn Hostel

This hostel has pod style dorms which makes sleeping super easy! There are also private rooms available and fun atmosphere! It’s close to Dublin Connolly train station as well as the bus stop to get to the Dublin airport.

Check rates and availability here.

Best Budget-Friendly Hotel: Sonder the Earl

This Sonder property, located across from Merrion Square in a stunning Georgian building, is also high on my list of places I want to stay in Dublin. The rooms are simply designed and cozy. Staying here looks like you’d get to experience what it’s like to live in Dublin, instead of visit.

Check rates and availability here.

Best Boutique Hotel: Wren Urban Nest

Located just up the road from the Molly Malone Statue and O’Neill’s pub is the Scandinavian inspired Wren Urban Nest. While the rooms are small, they look beautiful and the lobby is warm and inviting. I plan on staying here on an upcoming trip. It looks like a great place to rest and relax while still being right in the heart of everything to do in Dublin.

Check rates and availability here.

Best Luxury Hotel: The Westbury Hotel

If you want a truly luxurious experience with impeccable service, check out the Westbury Hotel located just a couple blocks off of Grafton Street. There is an onsite bar and restaurant, which I recommend getting a reservation at! Also, just look at the bathrooms! Some have stand-alone claw foot tubs. It’s absolutely stunning!

Check rates and availability here.

Best Overall Hotel: The Dean Dublin

Home to the popular rooftop bar, Sophie’s, and a pool, The Dean is an excellent place to stay to explore Portobello and Dublin. The rooms are modern, and one reviewer said it was the most comfortable bed he’d ever slept in. Beat the jet lag at the Dean!

Check rates and availability here.

No matter what time of year you visit Dublin, there is always something fun to do! The time of year you decide to go depends on your budget and, honestly, when you have available! Any season in Dublin can be fun if you pack correctly, anticipate the crowd levels, and budget correctly! Have so much fun exploring Dublin, Ireland!

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