When is the best time to travel to Ireland?

Dublin Castle

Are you wondering when the best time to travel to Ireland is? Known as the Emerald Isle, Ireland sits between the Atlantic Ocean and the Irish Sea, west of the United Kingdom. A trip to Ireland evokes images of beautiful countryside, friendly locals and pints of Guinness, best enjoyed in a cozy pub whilst watching the local musical talent! Despite the fantastic culture and landscapes of this country, you need to find out when the best time to visit Ireland is, as the climate can be a little unpredictable.

Best time to travel to Dublin

Dublin is Ireland’s thriving capital city, known for its university and lively Temple Bar area. It’s also home to a variety of medieval castles and cathedrals. The best time to travel to Dublin is during the summer, although this is also the busiest time of year. During the warmer months of June, July and August you can expect average temperatures of around 18-20 degrees Celsius. Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the local festivities.

If you’d rather avoid the crowds, visit Dublin during the spring or fall. During the shoulder-season, the city’s sightseeing hotspots will be less crowded. Be sure to pack your coat and umbrella because Ireland is known for its notoriously wet weather. No matter the time of year you visit, you’ll still find plenty of sights to enjoy. Remember, you can always escape from the rain in one of the many Irish pubs, the best place to experience Dublin’s fun-loving local culture.

travel to Dublin

Best time to visit Cork

The second-largest city in Ireland, Cork is situated in the southwest of the country. The city enjoys beautiful views of Lough Mahon and the Irish coast. A popular tourist destination, Cork welcomes visitor year-round, although the best time to visit Cork to ensure good weather is in July and August. The world-famous Guinness Jazz Festival takes place here in October, but as the winter months draw in you might need to contend with wetter and colder weather. During the summer, you can enjoy a stroll along the banks of the River Lee or around Fitzgerald Park. In the winter, there are plenty of museums and galleries to escape from the Irish weather. For example, Elizabeth Fort, Blackrock Observatory and Cork City Gaol are just a few of the sightseeing hotspots to explore on a trip to Cork.

travel to Cork

Best time to travel to Galway

The harbour city of Galway sits on Ireland’s west coast. Galway is known for its lively Latin Quarter and picturesque views of Mutton Island and the Atlantic Ocean. Galway is a great jumping-off point for adventures into the great Irish countryside and areas of outstanding natural beauty such as Connemara National Park. If you’re hoping to explore the stunning natural landscapes of this part of Ireland, you’ll want to know the best time of year to visit Galway.

July to September is considered the best time to plan a holiday to Galway. This is the warmest time of year, with highs of 21 degrees Celsius. Summer is also the best time of year to explore Galway’s dramatic coastline. Outside of the summer months, you can still find plenty of sights to enjoy. These include the beautiful Eyre Square, Galway Cathedral and Lynch’s Castle. Just remember to pack your waterproof jacket for any unexpected showers.

travel to Connemara

Best time to visit Kilkenny

Nestled in central Ireland is the city of Kilkenny, known as the ‘Marble City’. The best time to visit Kilkenny is during the summer when the weather is mild and conditions are best for spending time outdoors. Nevertheless, visitors will have a great time year-round thanks to the local culture and variety of landmarks. Furthermore, a number of Kilkenny’s famous festivities take place between May and August. These include Kilkenny Country Music Festival, Cat’s Laughs Comedy Festival and the legendary Kilkenny Arts Festival.

If you take a trip to Kilkenny you’ll be pleased to know it’s one of Ireland’s warmer locations. Expect pleasant temperatures of around 20 degrees Celsius in July and August. On the other hand, winter temperatures drop to around 5-10 degrees Celsius. At this time of year, bring warm clothes so you can get out and enjoy the sights and sounds of Kilkenny no matter the weather.

travel to Ireland

A trip to Ireland is worthwhile whatever time of year you choose to travel, although the summer months are the best time to travel to Ireland if you want to explore the verdant countryside and coastlines.

 

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