The best time to visit Ireland
The best time to visit Ireland is the months of May to September , during which it is the hottest. With temperatures of up to 20 ° C, July is the hottest month in Ireland. In the spring, the weather is rather dry and the days are long in May and June. It is from November to January that there is less sun with only two hours of sun a day. Lovers of Ireland love to visit the high-contrast island in autumn. This avoids the high season during the summer months and you can always enjoy mild temperatures. in winter there are quite a few tourists in Ireland because the months are cold and dark. Compared to other European countries, the winter remains pleasantly soft, the snow falls only very rarely. With 13 days of rain per month, January, July, August and December are the months with the highest rainfall. The sea is cold throughout the year with 7 ° C in March and 14 ° C in August.
Climate in Ireland
Ireland is famous for its rugged landscapes, green meadows and endless expanses. No wonder many of you want to visit the green island . Although Ireland is not known for its high temperatures and many hours of sunshine, the Gulf Stream brings a mild climate to Ireland. In summer, temperatures rise to 20 ° C and in winter they go down to 2 ° C. A hot summer awaits you here, but the winters are mild and it rarely snows. The weather in Ireland is very variable. Do not be fooled by a clear sky, a shower can happen very quickly. On the other hand, if the sun is shining and the Irish landscape shines a rich green, you should keep your umbrella close at hand. In this article, I will write you in detail the climate in Ireland and give you the best time to go explore the green country.
Ireland climate chart
| Jan | Feb | March | April | May | June | Jul | August | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
| Max. Temperature in ° C | 8 | 9 | 10 | 13 | 15 | 18 | 20 | 19 | 17 | 14 | 9 | 8 |
| Min. Temperature in ° C | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Hours of sun per day | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 2 |
| Water temperature in ° C | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 |
| Rainy days per month | 13 | 11 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 |
The best months for a trip to Ireland at a glance
- May : 15 ° C, 7h Sun, 9 ° C Water temperature, 11 days of rain
- Juni : 18 ° C, 7h Sun, 11 ° C Water temperature, 11 days of rain
- Juli : 20 ° C, 6h Sun, 13 ° C Water temperature, 13 days of rain
- August : 19 ° C, 5h Sun, 14 ° C Water temperature, 13 days of rain
- September : 17 ° C, 4h Sun, 14 ° C Water temperature, 12 days of rain
The best time for a road trip in Ireland
To discover the unique charm of Ireland, many visitors opt for a road trip in Ireland. The Wild Atlantic Way , the longest coastal road in the world is particularly popular. For active holidaymakers, summer months are especially recommended. With seven hours of sunshine and temperatures around 20 ° C, the weather is nice on the island. In June, the days are the longest and the favorable conditions attract many tourists. The hotels can be crowded and the sights and wonders of nature are to be shared with other curious holidaymakers. Therefore, you should also consider the low seasonfor your stay. The months of May and September are perfect for a road trip across the island. In autumn, the temperature of the water is 14 ° C.
The best time to visit Dublin, the capital of Ireland
What would Ireland be without its charming Dublin capital? The beautiful city is located on the east coast of Ireland and has already captured the hearts of many visitors. During the evening, you can experience Irish pub culture in one of the countless rustic bars while listening to live music. With temperatures between 17 ° C and 20 ° C, the months of June to September are the hottest in the Irish capital. However, during this period, you will have to rely on heavy rains, especially in July, with an average of 13 days of rain. The showers are fast and the sun follows quickly. Even in winter, Dublin does not lose its charm and seduces with its uniqueness.
Weather in Ireland – Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter
The weather in Ireland can be changeable, but there is one constant: rain. No matter what time of year you discover the beauty of the green and shiny island, you must rely on a few showers. The seasons differ according to the region: the western part of Ireland is generally more rainy than the east of the island. In the south, it is on average up to three degrees warmer than in the north.
Spring
The Irish celebrate the official start of spring on February 1st, with February being one of the coldest and darkest months on the island.
The months of April and May are particularly suitable for a stay in Ireland. The first rays of sun shine on the colorful landscapes of the country and the dark days of winter seem to be forgotten. In March, there is the least rainy day and up to 15 ° C in May.
Summer
Between June and September, with an average temperature between 17 ° C and 20 ° C, summer is the hottest season of the green island. The heat records are outstanding. Summers in Ireland are relatively pleasant: perfect for active holidaymakers and nature lovers, but too cool for a beach holiday. With 20 ° C, July is the hottest month. Pleasant temperatures attract many tourists and especially domestic holidays. The hotels are then quickly complete. In summer, you can expect particularly long days . In June, there is up to 7 hours of sun a day.
Autumn
September is the beginning of the low season in Ireland. The temperatures are still mild and you can expect a few golden autumn days in October. The colorful leaves turn Ireland into a beautiful sea of colors. In September, temperatures can rise to 17 ° C and in October, the maximum temperature is 14 ° C. The high season in Ireland is coming to an end.
Winter
From late October to February, the days are darker and there is often a wet and cold weather. Temperatures are rarely below zeroand snow falls only in the mountains. Although this time is not suitable for a trip to the Irish coast, Ireland is worth the detour even in winter. A great alternative can be a city trip, especially to Dublin. In December, the Christmas market attracts with a delicious mulled wine. The many Christmas lights give the city a festive atmosphere.
My conclusion about the best time to travel to Ireland
If you want to explore Ireland, know that the Mediterranean climate ensures mild winters and cool summer months. These summer months are perfect for nature lovers who want to get lost in the vastness of Ireland. I recommend a trip between May and September to enjoy warmer temperatures and long days. Do not be surprised by the changing weather – with an umbrella, sunglasses and good mood , you are well equipped for Ireland!