Best Time to Visit Ireland: Month by Month Guide [2026]
When to visit Ireland for the best weather, festivals, and value
Photo by Donovan Kelly on Pexels
Where
Best time to visit Ireland is May through September, when days are longest, temperatures are mildest (14-20C / 57-68F), and rainfall is at its annual lowest. June and July offer the best combination of weather and daylight, with sunset as late as 10pm and up to 18 hours of usable light.
Ireland's weather is famously changeable regardless of season. Rain is possible any day of the year, and you can experience four seasons in a single afternoon. The west coast (Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, Dingle) receives significantly more rainfall than the east (Dublin, Wicklow). Packing layers and a waterproof jacket is essential no matter when you visit.
Seasonal Overview
| Season | Months | Temperature | Rainfall | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | Mar-May | 7-14C (45-57F) | Moderate | Fewer crowds, blooming gardens, lambing season |
| Summer | Jun-Aug | 14-20C (57-68F) | Lowest | Best weather, festivals, longest days |
| Autumn | Sep-Nov | 7-14C (45-57F) | Increasing | Fall colors, literary festivals, harvest |
| Winter | Dec-Feb | 3-8C (37-46F) | Highest | Christmas markets, cozy pubs, lowest prices |
Best Months to Visit Ireland
June is Ireland's driest month and offers the longest days of the year, with sunset around 10pm in Dublin and even later in the west. The weather is warm enough for hiking the Wild Atlantic Way, visiting the Cliffs of Moher without rain gear, and exploring the Ring of Kerry in comfort. Bloomsday on June 16 celebrates James Joyce with literary events across Dublin.
July brings the warmest average temperatures (15-20C / 59-68F) and peak festival season. The Galway International Arts Festival transforms the city for two weeks, while smaller music and food festivals take place in towns across the country. Sea temperatures reach their peak by late July, making beach visits to Connemara and Kerry more enjoyable.
August remains pleasant but slightly wetter than June-July. The Puck Fair in Killorglin (Kerry) is Ireland's oldest festival, and the Fleadh Cheoil (traditional music festival) draws hundreds of thousands of musicians and fans to its host town.
May and September are excellent shoulder months with good weather, noticeably fewer tourists, and lower prices on accommodation. May brings wildflowers and longer days, while September offers warm sea temperatures and the beginning of autumn colors in the countryside.
St. Patrick's Day (March 17) is Ireland's biggest cultural celebration, with parades in every town and Dublin hosting a multi-day festival. However, March weather is cold and wet, so dress warmly.
Quick Travel Facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Currency | Euro (EUR) in the Republic, Pound Sterling (GBP) in Northern Ireland |
| Language | English, Irish (Gaeilge) in Gaeltacht areas |
| Time Zone | GMT (IST in summer, UTC+1) |
| Flight Time from NYC | 6 hours 30 minutes |
| Flight Time from Boston | 5 hours 30 minutes |
| Flight Time from London | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Average Flight Cost from US | $400 - $800 round trip |
| Visa Required (US) | No (up to 90 days) |
| Driving Side | Left |
| Tap Water | Safe to drink everywhere |
Top Destinations by Season
| Destination | Best Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Dublin | May-Sep | Temple Bar, Trinity College, Guinness Storehouse |
| Galway & Connemara | Jun-Aug | Arts Festival, Wild Atlantic Way, Aran Islands |
| Ring of Kerry | May-Sep | Scenic drive, Killarney National Park, lakes |
| Cliffs of Moher | May-Jul | Clearest views, puffin nesting season |
| Giant's Causeway (NI) | May-Sep | Longest daylight for exploring basalt columns |
| Dingle Peninsula | Jun-Aug | Beaches, dolphin watching, Gaeltacht culture |
| Wicklow Mountains | Apr-Oct | Glendalough, hiking, close to Dublin |
| Killarney | May-Sep | National Park, lakes, Gap of Dunloe |
How to Save on Ireland Travel
May and September offer the best value with decent weather and fewer tourists. Winter (November-February) has the cheapest flights and hotels but short, wet, dark days. Book accommodation in smaller towns like Kenmare, Doolin, Westport, or Dingle instead of Dublin or Galway city centers for 30-50% savings.
Rent a car for flexibility on the Wild Atlantic Way and rural areas. Irish breakfasts at B&Bs are legendary, hearty, and included in room rates, often keeping you full until dinner. Pubs serve affordable food at lunch, and many restaurants offer early bird menus (5-7pm) at reduced prices.
Fly into Shannon (SNN) instead of Dublin if you're heading to the west coast. Aer Lingus and Ryanair offer competitive transatlantic fares.
Search flights to Dublin (DUB) or Shannon (SNN) on Travorio. Book hotels and B&Bs with pay-later options or pay with crypto.
What to Pack for Ireland
A waterproof jacket is the single most important item for Ireland, regardless of season. Pack layers: a light fleece or sweater, a wind-resistant outer layer, and comfortable walking shoes that can handle wet grass and muddy paths. An umbrella is useful but can be useless in strong coastal winds.
In summer, bring sunscreen (UV can be strong even on cloudy days) and sunglasses. In winter, add a warm coat, hat, scarf, and waterproof boots. A compact daypack is handy for hikes and day trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the absolute best month to visit Ireland?
June offers the best mix of long days, relatively low rainfall, and comfortable temperatures.
When is the cheapest time to visit Ireland?
November to February (excluding Christmas and New Year) usually have the lowest flight and hotel prices.
Is Ireland very rainy in summer?
Summer is the driest period, but showers are still common, especially on the west coast.
Do I need a car in Ireland?
Not for Dublin, but a car is very helpful for the Wild Atlantic Way, Ring of Kerry, Dingle, and rural areas.
Is tap water safe to drink in Ireland?
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions answered clearly and concisely
The best time to visit Ireland for good weather is from May to September, with June and July offering the longest days, mild temperatures around 14–20°C (57–68°F), and relatively low rainfall.
The cheapest time to visit Ireland is typically from November to February, excluding Christmas and New Year, when flights and hotels are at their lowest but days are short, wet, and cool.
Yes, June is one of the best months to visit Ireland. It is usually the driest month, has very long daylight hours with sunset around 10pm, and is ideal for hiking, coastal drives, and festivals like Bloomsday in Dublin.
Summer is Ireland’s driest season, but showers are still common, especially on the west coast. You should always pack a light waterproof jacket even in June, July, and August.
You do not need a car in Dublin, but renting one is highly recommended for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way, Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, and rural areas where public transport is limited.
July and August are peak festival months, with events like the Galway International Arts Festival, Puck Fair, and Fleadh Cheoil. March is also important for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations across the country.
Pack a waterproof jacket, layers (fleece or sweater plus wind-resistant outer layer), comfortable waterproof shoes, and in winter add a warm coat, hat, scarf, and waterproof boots. In summer, bring sunscreen and sunglasses.
Yes, tap water is safe to drink throughout both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
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