A simple question with a not-quite-simple answer. Despite its size, Ireland’s (and specifically Dublin’s) great touristic offer packs a few punches. The best time to visit Dublin may depend on what you want to do.
One could easily say there is a plan for every season, so much so that the real question here would be “When will I next visit Dublin?”
Rather than an exhaustive list, the following are just a few season highlights that will point you in the right way when deciding the best time to visit Dublin. Summer festivals, literary wanderings, or the best festive spirit: the Irish capital’s options are off the charts!
Pack your camera and hiking boots, get ready to make the most of your time in Dublin.
Fall: Crisp, cozy (and scary) vibes
For many, the best time to visit Dublin. September is synonymous with the end of the high season, and therefore, with fewer crowds. If roaming around the city is your plan, Dublin museums await. The National Library and the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology are two local favorites. Visitors might enjoy household attractions like The Guinness Storehouse at their own pace, too.
The leafy season leaves quaint, deciduous landscapes in its wake, and Dublin cafés certainly know how to create a cozy atmosphere. Grab your Sally Rooney and head to Kaph for a chilled evening over your brew of choice in true autumn flair.
Before Halloween found a spot in everyone’s homes, every November 1st marked Samhain, the end of the harvest season, a celebration that still takes over Dublin today, with a mix of traditional and modern events.
The Bram Stoker Festival features gothic-themed performances, street theater, and horror film screenings. County Meath’s Púca Festival, an hour north of Dublin, will attract followers of mythical parades, light installations, and storytelling.
Braver souls who wish to communicate with the dead can delight in haunted tours and ghost walks that explore Dublin’s eerie history, whilst families can enjoy Halloween’s geist in true form over pumpkin carving and costume contests.
Winter: Festive cheer and indoor delight
Yes, the cold might deter some, but if we add Christmas lights and markets to the mix, Dublin’s Winter Wonderland doesn’t seem a bad idea, right?
Every December signals the start of the festive season, with a whole display of garlands, sweet scents, and cozy drinks ensuing. The Irish capital’s downtown glows like no other, with Dublin’s Winter Lights adorning Grafton Street. In addition to being the perfect occasion to get started on Christmas shopping, it is a true sight to behold.
The last month of the year doesn’t fall short of plans. Dublin Zoo’s annual Wild Lights event is a children’s and adult favorite.
Visitors will journey through illuminated, magical woodland scenes, explore the enchanting life in rainforest treetops, witness beautiful sea creatures, and admire mesmerizing coral, all brought to life by magical, hand-crafted traditional Chinese lanterns.
To wrap up the day, we suggest exploring the various markets scattered around town. The Dublin Castle Christmas market deserves a special mention. Take in the lights with a hot whiskey in hand to cope with the freezing temperatures in true Irish style.
The New Year is off-peak season, so flight and accommodation prices will be at their lowest. If you decide to visit during this time, don’t let the wintry temperatures deter you from enjoying your trip. Visiting in January and February is the perfect excuse to eat your way around town.
Spring: Walk (and paint) the town green
If there is one holiday that signals the beginning of spring, that is St. Patrick’s Day. Ireland’s national day is perhaps the most celebrated home and abroad, and the Irish capital is no exception.
The city’s spectacular parade boasts colorful floats, marching bands, and performers winding through the city center.
In addition, iconic buildings and landmarks like Trinity College and Dublin Castle are illuminated in green, adding to the celebration’s visual splendor. Families are especially welcome to enjoy outdoor funfairs, street theater, storytelling sessions, and workshops available.
Late spring can also be a good period for sightseeing, as days are longer and the rain might even give you a breather. If you’re lucky with the weather, St. Stephen’s Green is perfect for a picnic al fresco, and Phoenix Park is quite the setting for a long stroll.
Yes, our draught is largely accountable for Dublin’s unique character, and springtime Temple Bar never looked more lively. Grab a pint, sit outside, and take in the music. Sláinte!
Outside town, national sights like Glendalough, Greystones, and the seaside village of Howth have a special glow in April and May.
If you want to stretch your legs and admire the outstanding Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most visited attractions, our small group Cliffs of Moher day tours take you there and back.
Summer: Literary tours and a golden glow
The late days of spring give way to summer, which means Dublin is already in full bloom. Speaking of, every year, the Irish capital celebrates one of its most distinguished writers: James Joyce. Bloomsday takes place on June 16th and sees fans of one of Ireland’s literary geniuses celebrate his masterpiece: Ulysses.
Dressed in exquisite Edwardian attires, they take the streets of Dublin that inspired Joyce’s work and recreate some of its characters: Sweny’s Pharmacy (a must-stop to get hold of the book’s infamous lemon-scented bar of soap), Glasnevin Cemetery, Davy Byrne’s Pub in Duke Street, a pit stop for the iconic great gorgonzola sandwich, or Martello Tower, where James Joyce stayed.
This atmospheric tour also includes street performances, readings, workshops, lectures, and food events.
Music fans are in luck: longer days make the perfect setting for festivals and open-air events, such as Electric Picnic. Ireland’s response to Glastonbury is only an hour away from Dublin, and has welcomed international names such as Arcade Fire, Kendrick Lamar, and Billie Eilish.
For those who can’t get enough of the capital’s cheerful spirit, Dublin’s Pride is as joyful as parties get. Upon Ireland’s legalization of same-sex marriage in 2015, this internationally recognized parade is the meeting point for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies to celebrate their identities together.
We can’t think of a better way to enjoy perfect sunsets over hazy summer days.
Insider’s Tip: Summer means high season, so book your tickets to Dublin well in advance.
FAQs about the best time To visit Dublin
How far in advance should I plan my visit to Dublin?
There are several elements to factor in when assessing the best time to visit Dublin. For instance, if you’re coming on special, busy days, like St. Patrick’s Day, it’s better to plan at least six to nine months to avoid soaring prices. The same applies to major concerts and sporting events.
Needless to say, you should look at these rules together with your calendar. If you’re planning a trip during peak tourist season (June to August), we advise you to book accommodation four to six months ahead, as hotels fill up fast.
You’ll find no trouble securing better prices for your flights three to six months ahead. A month or two in advance will do for popular attractions and tours.
During shoulder seasons (April to May, September to October), we recommend booking your lodging and flights two to four months ahead. You can leave your tours a few weeks before your arrival.
The off-peak season runs from November to March, so booking your hotels one or two months ahead will do; for the best flight deals to Dublin, check out prices up to three months ahead.
Do I need to book travel insurance to visit Dublin?
Dublin is a safe place. However, forewarned is forearmed, so purchasing travel insurance is highly recommended when traveling to Ireland, especially if you’re coming from a country without a reciprocal healthcare agreement with Ireland.
It might come in handy in case of cancellations or interruptions due to unforeseen circumstances (such as illness, natural disasters, or other emergencies), or if your luggage gets lost or delayed.
How should I dress to visit Ireland?
Whenever packing, always consider the season you’re dressing for. However, Irish weather means you can’t go wrong layering up. The “four seasons in one day” is Ireland’s most defining feature weather-wise. Make sure to bring a few thermal layers (such as a fleece, if coming in winter). Don’t forget your raincoat, all year round!
We hope these guidelines have led you in the right direction. Whenever you decide to visit Dublin, one thing is for sure, it will welcome you with the best craic!
