best month to visit ireland and england

When Is The Best Time To Visit Ireland?

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: March 21, 2024

The best time to visit Ireland is the months of May, September and October, as the days are long and mild. These months avoid summer, when it’s crowded, and winter, when it’s cold. With that said, Ireland’s temperate climate means you can visit throughout the year.

In this guide, I’ll give you an overview of every month, with the pros and cons of each.

You’ll also find info on the weather in Ireland , what’s on and what to expect from each month. Here’s a quick overview:

• Summer (Jun, Jul + Aug): Warmest months. Crowd/flight prices are at peak
• Winter (Dec, Jan + Feb): Coldest months. Crowd/flight prices are lower
• Autumn (Sept, Oct + Nov): Days long in Sept + Oct. Short + wintery in Nov
• Spring (Mar, Apr + May): Tends to be rainy in Mar + Apr. Summery in May

Table of Contents

The best time to visit Ireland: A month-by-month overview

Click to enlarge image

If you take 20 seconds to look at the illustration above, you’ll get a quick insight into the seasons in Ireland and what to expect from them.

Below, you’ll find an overview of each month with info on average temperatures, what’s on during that month along with travel tips for Ireland .

Ireland in January can be very hit and miss. The average temperature in January hovers around 7°C/44.6°F with average lows of 3°C/37.4°F.

January is the best month to visit Ireland if you are working with a tight budget and you are willing to take a gamble with the weather.

• Prices : If you’re visiting Ireland on a budget , flights and accommodation tend to be cheaper
• Crowds : The popular attractions in Ireland will be quieter, as this is off-season

Disadvantages

• The weather : The days tend to be cold, wet, and windy
• The days are short : The sun rises at around 08:29 and sets at around 16:38
• Closed attractions : Some seasonal attractions will be closed

Visiting Ireland in February can be another tricky one, especially if the weather is your deciding factor.

Spring is still far from the horizon and the days are short and chilly. In the past, we’ve had heavy snow fall, flooding and stormy weather in February.

February is the best time of year to go to Ireland if you have a limited budget and you aren’t too phased by potentially poor weather conditions.

• Prices : February is off-season in Ireland, so flights and accommodation are cheaper
• Crowds : Ireland’s usually busy attractions will be quieter (the Guinness Storehouse and Giants Causeway will always draw crowds, though)
• Weather : The weather in February is unpredictable, with average highs of 8°C/46.4°F and average lows of 2°C/35.6°F
• Short days : The sun rises at 07:40 and sets at 17:37
• Seasonal attractions : Some seasonal attractions will remain closed

Many people want to visit Ireland in March to attend a St. Patrick’s Day festival or to soak up the buzz surrounding March 17th.

March marks the arrival of spring in Ireland. In years past, we’ve had heatwaves in March and stormy weather. 

March is the best time to go to Ireland if you have a sizable budget and want to experience St. Patrick’s Day festivities. Spring has sprung, the days are longer and the weather isn’t as cold as the previous months.

• Weather : March marks the start of spring. There are average highs of 10°C/50°F and average lows of 4°C/39.2°F
• Long ish days : The sun rises at 07:12 and sets at 18:17
• Prices : The period around March 17th sees prices skyrocket. The end of the month (Easter) can be pricey, also
• Weather : The weather can be very changeable. Over the last five years, we’ve had snow storms, heavy rainfall and scorching weather
• St. Patrick’s Day crowds : Crowds are at their peak (it’s for this reason that, for many, March won’t be the best time to visit Dublin )

in April, the weather has picked up, the days are longer and there are average highs of 13°C/55°F and average lows of 4°C/39.2°F.

The only issue with April, aside for the potential for bad weather, is that schools get two weeks off, which results in a shortage of accommodation in some places.

April is best time of year to visit Ireland if you’re working within a budget (after Easter) but want plenty of daylight hours to explore the island.

• Flights : The cost of a trip to Ireland is much less in April, thanks to lower flight prices
• Long days : The sun rises at 06:23 and sets at 20:00
• Weather : The weather can to be nice and mild
• Easter holidays : Schools get 2 weeks off around Easter, which can drive up the cost of accommodation
• Weather : The weather  can  also be terrible (see our April weather guide )

Along with September and October, May is the best time to visit Ireland. This is the shoulder season and the weather is mild, the days are long and both prices and tourist numbers are yet to skyrocket.

I.e. the weather is mild, the days are nice and long and we’ve haven’t yet reached the summer holidays, so places aren’t too busy (see our guide to Ireland in May for more).

• Weather : The weather in May can  be good, with mean temperatures ranging between 9.0°C/48.2°F and 13.0°C/55.4°F
• Long days : The sun rises at 05:17 and sets at 21:26
• Summer buzz : Long, mild days and the incoming summer tends to bring a lively atmosphere to many towns and villages
• Festivals : This is when they really start kicking off (see our Irish festivals calendar)
• Weather : Yep – it’s a pro and  a con – the weather in May can also be awful (it was last year!)
• Prices : Accommodation and flights will be near peak level price-wise
• Crowds : Better weather and long days means more people tourists

June in Ireland marks the arrival of summer, bringing with it warm and often dry weather and average highs of 18°C/64.4°F and lows of 11.6°C/52.88°F.

This is peak season in every sense – tourist numbers jump as do the price of flights and hotels.

June is regarded as the best time to travel to Ireland by many visiting tourists as the weather tends to be good, temperatures are mild and there’s plenty of daylight hours.

• Weather : Weather tends to be dry and warm with highs of 18°C/64.4°F and lows of 11.6°C/52.88°F
• Long days : The sun rises at 05:03 and sets at 21:42
• Festivals : Numerous music festivals in Ireland  take place during June
• Prices : Demand is at its highest, so you can expect to spend more for flights and hotels
• Crowds : As June is peak season in Ireland, expect places to be more crowded

July is the best time to go to Ireland if you’re looking for good weather. Although it’s not guaranteed, it’s more likely to be fine in July than during many other months.

Personally, I head away for one week in Ireland every mid-July and, for the most part, we always get decent weather (see our guide to Ireland in July for more info).

• Weather : We get average highs of 19°C/66.2°F and lows of 12°C/53.6°F
• Long days : The sun rises at 05:01 and sets at 21:56
• Summer buzz : Long, balmy days tend to bring tourists and a lively atmosphere to many towns, villages and cities
• Prices : Summer is peak season, so you’ll be paying more for hotels, B&Bs and Airbnbs
• Crowds : As the schools are out for the summer, expect more crowds travelling around the island, especially to the likes of Killarney and the Dingle Peninsula

August boasts long days, warm weather and plenty to see and do (see our counties hub for endless places to visit).

As was the case with July, there’s several pros and cons for visiting Ireland in August , many of which revolve around the demand for accommodation and crowds.

August is the best time to go to Ireland if peak prices and crowds don’t bother you. The trade off is mild weather, long days and a busy festival calendar.

• Weather : It’s usually good with highs of 18°C/64.4°F and lows of 11°C/51.8°F
• Long days : You’ll have 16 lovely hours of daylight to wander
• Summer buzz : Again, the summer months bring a buzzy atmosphere to many towns
• Prices : Yep – prices are still at peak levels
• Crowds : The likes of the Dingle Peninsula , the Inishowen Peninsula , the Ring of Kerry and other tourist hot-spots will be very busy

Ireland in September is when the shift from a busy summer season takes place. Tourist numbers drop and the kids go back to school.

This is Ireland’s shoulder season (the season between peak season and the off season) and it’s a great time to explore.

September, along with May and October, is the best time to visit Ireland as prices drop, the days are long, the weather is mild and there’s less crowds.

• Crowds : As kids have gone back to school, there’s less crowds
• The weather : The average high temperature tends to hover between 13°C/55.4°F and 16°C/60.8°F
• Flights : Flights should be a little cheaper as this is the shoulder season
• Long days : The days are starting to shorten, but the sun still rises early at 06:33 and sets at 20:15
• Weather : Yep, a pro and a con. The weather, as always, is unpredictable. With that being said, we’ve had some great Septembers recently

October in Ireland is Autumn and you’ll find many places blanketed in orange leaves and the weather is cool and crisp.

Ireland experiences average highs of 13°C/55°F and average lows of 6°C/42°F during October

October, along with May and September, is the best time to go to Ireland thanks to lower flight and hotel prices, relatively long days and its often dry days with cool temperatures.

• Weather: We often get Octobers that are sunny, crisp and dry
• Crowds: Ireland’s usually busy attractions will be less crowded as we’re no longer in peak-season
• Prices: Accommodation in the more off-the-beaten-track locations will be cheaper (you won’t notice a huge difference in the hot-spots)
• Prices: You should find that flights are cheaper than in peak-season
• Shorter days : By mid-October, the sun won’t rise until 08:00 and it sets at 18:40
• Weather : The weather in Ireland in October is unpredictable (see our October weather guide )
• Mid-term : Schools break in Ireland at Halloween for a week and hotel prices jump

Visiting Ireland in November comes with its pros and cons. On the plus side, many towns and villages come alive with Christmas markets from mid-month.

On the con side, it’s winter , so the weather can be all over the place. November tends to be cool and crisp with an average temperature in Ireland in November between 12°C/53.6°F and 9.5°C/49.1°F.

November is the best time to travel to Ireland for a city break. Many cities (Galway, Dublin, Cork and Belfast) holding Christmas markets.

• Crowds : You’ll encounter fewer crowds at the usually busy attractions (although places with Christmas markets will be busy)
• Prices : Accommodation in the more off-the-beaten-track towns in Ireland will be more affordable
• Flights : Should be cheaper as we’ll be in the depths of the off-season
• Short days : The sun doesn’t rise until 07:23 and it sets early at 16:53
• Seasonal attractions : Some seasonal attractions in Ireland’s quieter villages in towns will be closed
• Weather : The weather could  be wintery. We’ve had mild, stormy and freezing cold Novembers in the past few years

December marks the arrival of Christmas in Ireland and you’ll find most towns and villages alight with fairy lights.

The average temperature for Ireland in December tends to be similar to November, coming in at around 5°C/41°F, but this can vary.

December is the best time to visit Ireland if you’re happy to chance the weather and you want to experience Christmas markets, cosy pubs with big open fires and less crowds.

• Festive buzz : Most towns and villages in Ireland will be decked out in Christmas lights
• Crowds : You’ll encounter fewer crowds at the usually busy attractions
• Prices : Accommodation in the more off-the-beaten-track towns and villages will be cheaper
• Flights : Flights can be pricey with people flying home for Christmas
• Short days : Sun rises at 08:16 and sets around 16:10
• Weather : The weather in December has been mild for several years, but there’s also a good chance of rain and strong winds

The best time to go to Ireland climate wise

For most, the best months to visit Ireland will be the ones where the weather is at its best. For those planning a trip to Ireland on a budget, it’ll likely be the off-season months.

Below, I’ll give you an overview of the climate in Ireland by month in some of the tourist hot-spots, like Killarney. This data comes from Met Eireann , the Irish Meteorological Service.

Need help with your Ireland itinerary ? We recently published the world’s  largest library of Irish Road Trip guides (and it’s free!)

Summer (June, July and August)

Autumn (september, october and november), winter (december, january and february), spring (march, april and may), frequently asked questions.

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Emails asking about the best time to go to Ireland hit our inbox on an almost daily basis, from ‘ What to wear in Ireland ‘ to ‘What is the best time of year to visit Ireland price wise?’.

I’ve attempted to ask the most FAQs that we receive about the best time to travel to Ireland below, but feel free to ask questions in the comments.

What month is the best to go to Ireland?

The best months to visit Ireland is May, September and October. The days are long and mild, crowd levels aren’t anywhere near peak summer levels and you avoid the chilly winter months.

What is the cheapest month to go to Ireland?

January is the cheapest month to visit with flight prices at their lowest and accommodation deals available. January can be the worst time to go to Ireland weather-wise, however.

What is the off tourist season in Ireland?

The off season in Ireland are the months of November, December, January and February. Tourist levels are at their lowest and, while you run the risk of bad weather, this is the best time to travel to Ireland if you want to avoid crowds.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Monday 8th of March 2021

Hi! Thank you so much for all of your wonderful tips! My husband and I are planning to bring our adult daughters (24 and 29) to visit at the end is September. We are very excited! Should we stay in Dublin and then take our guided tours from there? We will have 9-10 days. Thank you! Janine

Thursday 27th of February 2020

We just booked a trip to southern Ireland for November. I am very excited. Can you recommend some must do's while we are there?

Wednesday 4th of March 2020

If you hop into our guide to the counties of Ireland you'll find heaps of things to do!

Thursday 30th of January 2020

Hi Keith Thankyou for the great read. My daughter and I are wanting to travel to Ireland for Xmas from Australia. As it will be cold n rainy which doesn’t really bother us, but worried we mighten get to see a lot of attractions would many be closed? Cheers Toni ?

Saturday 1st of February 2020

If you pop in the name of the attraction into Google and visit the official site you should get an idea of whether or not they'll be open or close when you're visiting.

Everywhere will be closed on Christmas Day with many places also staying closed on December 26th, but that can change from attraction to attraction.

Thursday 18th of July 2019

Well... Just booked a week for the end of November. Realized that may have been stupid on my part. Luckily, I've been before as I studied abroad there, but the husband's never been so it'll be his first time for everything. Will we still be able to salvage the trip, even with not great weather?

Wednesday 24th of July 2019

Sorry – I’ve been away on holidays for the past week and I’m only catching messages here now.

Of course you will.

Just go into it with a sure-look-if-it-rains-we'll-still-make-the-most-of-it-attitude.

The weather can be shite regardless of the time of year. One of the things you'll be up against is the shorter days.

But you'll gain cosy pubs, a Christmassy atmosphere and plenty more.

Don't be stressing about it. It'll be great!

Weather & Climate

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Best Time to Visit England

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There's no bad time to experience England, especially since the country has such a diversity of destinations, from cities to beaches to scenic countryside. England boasts moderate weather year-around (and far less rain than you might expect), and even in damp weather, there's always something to see and do. Still, there are better times of the year to visit England, bearing in mind crowds and popular events. To avoid big groups of tourists and to take advantage of the nicest weather, the best times to visit England are in the spring, from April to May, and in the fall, from September through November.

Weather in England

While England is notorious for its rainy weather, there are actually far fewer rainy days than people assume. Summers in England can be quite hot, especially in the southern parts of the country, and the winters are usually moderate, even in the more northern regions.

During the summer, the average temperature in England is 60 F (15 C), although London and the surrounding areas can go as high as 90 F (32 C), usually in August and September. The summer heat is more bearable in coastal areas, which get nice breezes, but in the cities, the high temperatures can be challenging, especially since most public transportation lacks air conditioning. The south coast tends to get more sunshine than mountainous areas like the Lake District, which is the wettest part of England.

The winter brings an average temperature of 40 F (15 C) and some light snow can be expected throughout the country. Winters are typically cloudy and wet, and travelers should pack accordingly. Expect windy and rainy conditions during the winter when visiting northern regions, especially along the coast. Don't let the colder, damper weather deter you though; winter is a great time to come to England thanks to smaller crowds and lower rates.

Spring lasts from March to May and often brings some rain, although there are usually sunny days as well. Early spring tends to be quite cold, especially in the north, and a trip in March or April can be chilly. May is a great time of year to visit England as many flowers and trees are blooming and the weather is typically nice, especially on the coast.

Fall, which lasts from September to November, is another great time of year to visit England. The weather does cool down, but September and October can bring heat waves, especially in the south.

Crowds and Peak Season in England

Summer is the peak season for travel to England, although you can expect lots of visitors in the spring and early fall as well. The Christmas and New Year holiday period is also very busy, especially in London. Spring and fall can be the best times to come if you want to avoid larger tourist crowds and high season hotel rates.

The crowds in England can depend on what part of the country you want to visit and what events are happening at the time. During the summertime, seaside towns like Brighton or Whitby can be crowded, particularly on the weekends or over bank holidays. Areas like the Cotswolds, Cornwall, and the Lake District also attract a lot of visitors during warmer weather. Smaller towns and more remote areas tend to have fewer accommodations, so it's best to book in advance when traveling during busy periods.

British school holidays can also bring crowds. School holidays occur during summer, from July through September, and at half term, which take place the end of October and in mid-February. Schools are off around the Christmas and Easter holidays as well. Many families elect to travel around the country to tourist spots during these periods, so it can be best to schedule your trip when kids are in school.

While you will need to pack a winter coat and an umbrella, January can be a great time to explore England, especially if you want to take advantage of travel deals at country hotels and on various train lines.

Events to check out:

• The annual New Year's Day Parade takes place in London on Jan. 1, with celebrations taking over Oxford Circus and Piccadilly.
• Manchester hosts the Beer and Cider Festival every year in late January. The multiple-day event showcases hundreds of British brews, with children allowed until 7 p.m. daily.
• Burns Night , an homage to Scottish poet Robert Burns, takes place Jan. 25. It's celebrated throughout the U.K. with Scottish-themed food and drink served at many pubs and some restaurants.

February can mean some crowds thanks to schools' half term, but coastal towns and country villages tend to be less crowded, especially if you're traveling without kids.

• London celebrates Chinese New Year in Chinatown with a festive parade and a lively street fair. The dates vary based on the Chinese calendar.
• Portsmouth showcases its literary heritage at BookFest in mid-February. The festival features readings from authors, events and celebrations.
• York is home to the annual JORVIK Viking Festival , the largest viking event in Europe, which draws thousands to its reenactments, marketplaces and talks.

Spring starts to come to England in March, which means picturesque scenery throughout the countryside and in the national parks.

• St. Patrick's Day brings out the fervor around England as well as Ireland, with celebrations taking place in pubs around the country. There is also the  London St. Patrick's Day Festival in Trafalgar Square, which usually takes place on the weekend closest to St. Patrick’s Day.
• Poetry fans can discover the Words By the Water Festival in the Lake District in early March. The festival features literary events, readings and discussions.
• Mother’s Day arrives in March in England (the date can vary) and visitors will find mom-themed events around the country, including special afternoon teas and set menus at restaurants.

April is an ideal time to visit England thanks to a plethora of events around the country and many tourist spots starting to get going for the season. Look out for Easter travelers, who can bring crowds during the two-week school holiday.

• Watch for the London Marathon on a Sunday in April. It usually means big crowds and lots of road closures around the city.
• Head to the home of Shakespeare for the week-long Stratford-Upon-Avon Literary Festival . It's one of the U.K.'s most significant literary festivals and includes events and activities for visitors of all ages.

May brings flowers, sunshine, and crowded beaches to England, making it the start of peak tourist season, especially along the coast. There are two bank holiday weekends in May, so be sure to book accommodation in advance or look for less busy destinations.

• The Harrogate Flower Show kicks off with massive floral displays, crafts, and cooking demonstrations for a weekend.
• In London, the iconic  Chelsea Flower Show  is a five-day celebration of flowers and plants and is held in the upscale neighborhood of Chelsea.
• The Great Escape is a popular music festival that takes over Brighton for several days each May. It always features well-known musical acts, as well as up-and-comers, and means big crowds for Brighton and Hove during that weekend.
• If you love seafood, look for Devon's Salcombe Crab Festival , a one-day event each May. The festival celebrates the local coastal catch, with lots to eat, drink and do.

June is a busy month for travel in England, boasting nice weather and lots of events around the country. It's a particularly good time to decamp from the cities to enjoy the famous English countryside or to experience the hikes in the Lake District.

• The Queen's annual birthday parade, Trooping the Colour, takes place at Buckingham Palace in June and includes an appearance by Her Majesty herself. Be sure to buy tickets in advance (or just watch it live on the BBC).
• The famous tennis tournament Wimbledon kicks off in late June and lasts for two weeks, with tickets available for members of the public.
• England's Pride celebrations take over the country in June, with a massive parade in London. Other cities follow suit later in the summer, with Brighton's popular festivities taking place in August.
• The Royal Ascot , usually held in mid-to-late June, is a high-class horse race attended by well-dressed Brits and the queen in the Berkshire town of Ascot.

July tends to be one of the most busy months in England, as well as one of the hottest. Cities like London will be very crowded with international tourists, and holiday destinations like York and Brighton are likely to be packed as well. It's a great month for outdoorsy travelers, who can take advantage of the long daylight and sunny weather to go hiking or cycling.

• Head to Whitstable to experience the famed Whitstable Oyster Festival , which serves food and live music to a discerning crowd.
• Fan lovers fill the muddy fields at Glastonbury , a five-day music festival that is one of the world's most popular. Held in Somerset, the event usually sells out almost immediately.
• A more family-friendly festival can be found in Suffolk at Latitude Festival , which features music, yoga, theater, comedy, and activities for kids.

Like June and July, August is usually very popular for international travelers, particularly in seaside locations. There's a bank holiday each August, which can mean crowds, so book ahead.

• London's Notting Hill Carnival  is one of Europe’s largest street parties, held over the Summer Bank Holiday weekend.
• Liverpool is all about the Beatles during International Beatleweek , held in the historic Cavern Club.
• Reading and Leeds is one of England's biggest music festivals, taking place over a weekend at the end of August. The event, which is technically two separate festivals in two different cities, boasts some of the biggest artists out there.

September usually features nice weather and less crowds, so it's a great time to explore destinations around England, especially more remote areas. Enjoy beaches and country villages without the throngs of tourists, or embrace the city life of London or Manchester.

• Bath hosts the annual Jane Austen Festival , which honors all things Jane Austen, in September. It's a massive undertaking, with events held over 10 days.
• Outdoorsy travelers will enjoy the Yorkshire Wolds Walking and Outdoors Festival , a 10-day event with a variety of activities from hiking to cycling to horseback riding. It's open to families and those of all fitness levels.

The weather begins to cool down in October, but so do the number of tourists, so travelers can make the most of typically busy destinations.

• The prestigious BFI London Film Festival brings a vast selections of international films every year for 10 days in October. Many of the screenings, events, and even film premieres welcome the public.
• Enjoy the 700-year-old Hull Fair , known as England's largest traveling fair. It's a true spectacle, with rides, games, food, and live events.
• Oktoberfest is a German invention, but England celebrates the annual festival as well. Look for Oktoberfest events in London, Manchester, Bristol, and Kent throughout October.

Because the U.K. doesn't celebrate Thanksgiving, November can be a great time to take advantage of smaller crowds in England. While you may need a coat and an umbrella, there's still a lot to see and do around the country, especially as the Christmas season kicks off.

• Bonfire Night , which is also known as Guy Fawkes Day, is celebrated on Nov. 5 throughout the U.K. It commemorates Guy Fawkes’ failure to blow up the House of Parliament, which all of England remembers with firework shows, bonfires and lots of drinking.
• Many Christmas festivities kick off in England in November (the British love Christmas), so look for tree lighting ceremonies, Christmas markets, and theater events throughout the country towards the end of the month. London features tons of celebrations to illuminate the various lighting displays as well.

England is obsessed with Christmas, so a visit in December means vibrant decorations and massive shopping crowds. Skip the packed streets of London and head to lesser-visited areas to make the most of your trip. Many English country hotels also offer specials and package deals around Christmas stays.

• Find your Christmas spirit at the Grassington Dickensian Festival in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. It features Victorian reenactments, performances and a Santa procession.
• London's Hyde Park gets taken over by Winter Wonderland each year in December (it sometimes kicks off as early as November). The fair has rides, market stalls, ice skating, and a lot of activities for the whole family.
• On New Year’s Eve, London puts on a big fireworks show on the River Thames with music and festivities. It's the biggest celebration in England, but many other towns and cities host their own parties and fireworks shows.

You can take advantage of decent weather and avoid the big summer groups by visiting in the shoulder season, either in April and May or September through November.

The south of England generally has slightly sunnier and warmer weather, particularly in on the coast in cities Bognor Regis and Brighton.

Although it's not the warmest month, June generally has the best weather in England because it is still quite warm and it does not rain as much as it does in July and August.

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in London, UK Year Round." Retrieved March 22, 2021

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The Ultimate London-Scotland-Ireland Itinerary

Last Updated on December 6, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

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Travelling through the British Isles is something many people want to do in their lifetimes. And it’s no surprise as to why. England, Scotland, and Ireland not only have a fascinating history that dates back thousands of years, but is home to both bucolic natural scenery and some of the world’s most vibrant and diverse cities. With so much to see and do in a seemingly small landmass, it can be hard to plan out the perfect London-Scotland-Ireland itinerary.

Luckily, I’m here to help. Read on to find out the best places to visit in Great Britain and Ireland and where you should spend your time!

Table of Contents

Planning a Trip to England, Ireland and Scotland

If you’re wondering about the best way to see England, Scotland and Ireland, then make sure to follow the tips and tricks outlined below.

Though it can be fairly easy to travel around this area, there are a number of logistical things and considerations to take into account in order to make the most out of your trip.

Everything from the time of year you visit to the mode of transport you use to get around can make an impact on your trip, so we’ve taken the time to outline all major options out there.

Best Time to Visit the United Kingdom and Ireland

Contrary to popular belief, it is not always cold and rainy in Britain and Ireland. The weather tends to be mild in the British Isles no matter what time of year, with no extreme variance between the seasons.

However, there are some seasons to travel to this beautiful corner of the world that are better than others which is important to consider when wondering how to plan a trip to England, Ireland and Scotland.

Summer is the most popular time to plan a trip. The days are long and the weather is as warm as it can be.

Highs in most of England and Ireland in the summer average around 20-22ºC (68-72ºF) and you can expect highs in Scotland to be about 15-17ºC (59-63°F). Though there are definitely rainy days, you can generally expect more sunshine this time of year than in other seasons.

While the weather is fantastic (for Britain) in the summer, it is also the busiest time for tourism. That means that the prettiest cities and towns will be filled with people and accommodation will book out well in advance. Prices are likely to be higher as well.

If you plan to go to Edinburgh, it is best to avoid the city during the month of August when its world-famous Fringe Festival is going on (unless you specifically want to visit for this occasion). Accommodation books out months in advance and it can be absolutely packed with people.

Autumn could arguably be the best time to visit Britain and Ireland because you get fewer crowds and decent weather. It doesn’t tend to get properly cold in the British Isles until November, so if you don’t mind a bit of rain and needing to wear a jacket outside , then autumn might be the best bet for you.

Along with the beautiful colours of the changing leaves, average highs in England and Ireland land somewhere around 10-17ºC (50-63ºF) and 8-14ºC (46-57ºF) in Scotland. Plan your visit for late September to early October and you very well might get some beautiful sunny days that are over 20ºC!

Spring in Britain and Ireland can be quite chilly still as the weather doesn’t start warming up properly until mid to late May and doesn’t consistently stay warm until June.

It can be quite rainy, windy, and miserable through most of the spring and even a bit dreary as the leaves don’t return to the trees until May. If you’re travelling in the spring, expect highs to be between 9-14ºC (48-57ºF) in England and Ireland and 7-13ºC (45-55ºF) in Scotland.

Winter is the coldest and darkest month in England, Scotland, and Ireland. While the majority of the isles don’t get a lot of snow, it does get dark quite early (around 3 or 4 PM depending on where you are) and it can be extremely wet and rainy.

Snow and sleet are common so make sure to pack accordingly. Average high temperatures in England and Ireland in winter clock in around 5-7ºC (41-45ºF) and 0-5ºC (32-41ºF) in Scotland.

Winter in Britain and Ireland can be miserable, however, many do like to travel around Christmas time in order to enjoy the decorations and markets scattered throughout the cities.

Cities like London and Edinburgh have wonderful Christmas markets and carnivals set up, but most major towns and cities all throughout this England-Scotland-Ireland itinerary will have something to fill you with holiday cheer.

How to Get Around

When it comes to planning a trip around England, Ireland, and Scotland, many people assume that it is easy to see a great portion of all three countries relying solely on the train. While the train network, especially in England, is extensive, it can be very expensive and they don’t always connect to smaller towns and more rural areas.

We recommend relying on the train and public transport systems while visiting England and then hiring a car once you arrive in Scotland and Ireland respectively if you’re following this itinerary. Both of the countries are noticeably more rural than England and don’t have as extensive of a train network.

The bus is also another option and there are more reliable bus connections within Ireland and Scotland than there are with the train.

Bus tickets can also be considerably less expensive than train tickets, however, it is almost always cheaper to book tickets for both at least a little bit in advance instead of on the day of travel. We suggest looking on Omio to book tickets for trains and buses in the UK

If you can drive, however, and your budget allows for it, then we would seriously recommend you hire a car in Ireland and Scotland . There are many places on this Ireland and Scotland itinerary that are much easier reached if you have your own mode of transportation.

Having a rental car not only allows you to get to more off-the-beaten-path and hard-to-reach areas, but it also gives you more flexibility. Nobody likes to be at the mercy of irregular bus timetables! You can browse car rental options here.

It can also be worth taking out an excess insurance policy with iCarHireInsurance to ensure you don’t need to pay a cent if you get into an accident. This will be significantly cheaper than taking out additional insurance from the car rental company.

It is worth knowing that the majority of rental cars available have a manual transmission. If you can only drive automatic, you need to expect to pay a little bit more for that! Also, this goes without saying, all three countries drive on the left-hand side of the road.

Finally, are you considering taking out a travel insurance policy before your trip? World Nomads   offers flexible and simple travel insurance policies with coverage for more than 150 activities that you can buy or extend while on the road.

3-Week London-Scotland-Ireland Itinerary

In order to get a good feel for each country, we recommend you spend at least one week in each of them. Obviously, you could easily spend weeks exploring all three countries on their own, but then that is what future trips are for!

If you have a shorter period of time, why not make it solely a London-Scotland-Ireland itinerary? While we recommend spending as much time in the massive city that is England’s capital as possible, you can see all of the biggest tourist attractions of London in just three or 4 days before taking the train or flying up to Scotland.

Week 1: England

London — the capital of the United Kingdom — is the most logical starting point for this itinerary. London is an absolutely massive city and while most visitors only spend a couple of days exploring, we would recommend that you spend the entirety of your week in England solely staying in London .

While there is certainly more to England than London, due to its central location as a transport hub, it is easy to visit other English cities as a day trip by train. And also a week in the city allows you to dig deeper and see beyond the main tourist draws and get a glimpse at how and where locals actually live in this diverse metropolis.

If you have never visited London before, then it is only understandable that you might want to spend a couple of days seeing everything that makes The Big Smoke so famous. Take the time to visit Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London and the Houses of Parliament.

If you plan on visiting many paid attractions, then consider investing in a London Go City Pass that includes entry to several of the most popular places in the city and will save you money if you visit enough places!

Enjoy free entry into some of the best museums in the world like the British Museum, Science Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. And, if you can, be sure to catch a West End show.

If these are the only things you plan on doing, then we suggest planning to stay in Central or West London (neighbourhoods like Soho, Kensington, and Knightsbridge) in order to avoid wasting valuable time sitting on the tube or bus.

Many first-time visitors to London grossly underestimate the city’s size and expect everything to be quite close to each other when, in reality, travel times in the city can take a very long time.

One benefit to spending one week in London, however, is that you will have time not only to do that traditional “touristy” things but also be able to get a little bit off the tourist trail and significantly reduce your overall London trip cost .

After you’ve spent your first couple of days exploring Central London and the museums, take a journey east and hang out with the hipsters in Shoreditch, walk along Regent’s Canal to London Fields, or see some live music in Camden.

London is much more than what is displayed in movies and in the media — it is easily one of the most multicultural cities in the world and has close to 9 million residents. Take the time to realise that London is not solely British and you won’t be disappointed.

Another benefit to spending one week in London is that it gives you the opportunity to take some day trips to other English cities. London is very different from the rest of the country, so it can be a really great experience to see how other cities function in England. Cities like Oxford , Cambridge , and Brighton are very popular day-trips from London and are all within about an hour’s train journey.

If you want to visit some less touristy cities that are still easy to do as a day trip, we would recommend getting up early and catching a train to Bristol or Bath in the west, which is a very cool and completely underrated city with an amazing craft beer and arts scene. Or, if you want to see a beautiful walled medieval city, head north to York , which can also easily be visited as a day trip from London.

If you don’t want to spend your entire week in England completely in London, then we would actually recommend spending five nights in the capital before spending two nights in York. There, you can spend one day exploring the city and another venturing out into the beautiful Yorkshire countryside.

Where to Stay in London

It really depends on what you want to do and see in order to find the best area to stay in London . These are our suggestions for some of our favourite areas of the city:

Z Hotel Soho  – cool boutique hotel located right in the centre of Soho. The rooms have been stylishly decorated and there are a number of great cafes, restaurants and bars nearby. 

Astor Hyde Park Hostel   – great budget option in this area offering a mix of dorm and private rooms. The hostel has a brilliant common area, large kitchen and cheap breakfast available with proceeds going to charity. 

Eden Plaza Kensington   – a mid-range hotel located just a few minutes walk from the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum. Also well connected with nearby Tube stations.

Shoreditch: 

Prime Backpackers Angel  – this hostel is located in Angel, just a short walk along the canal to lively and bustling Shoreditch. They have a range of great dorm and private rooms available and come quite highly rated. 

The Hoxton   – boutique hotel with funky and stylish rooms, located only a few minutes from Old Street Tube Station. Downstairs is a popular bar and restaurant that gets busy on weekends, however, rooms are completely soundproof. 

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other London hotels.

Week 2: Scotland

After spending one week in London and exploring England, it is time to head north to Scotland. You can reach Scotland either by taking the train — which is incredibly scenic, though expensive — or flying, which is often cheaper. If driving, there are a number of great stops between London and Edinburgh to check out!

Begin your adventures in Scotland by spending two days in Edinburgh , the Scottish capital. This beautiful city has an incredible history but it is quite compact and easy to get around — and it’s drastically different from London!

Take the time to walk the Royal Mile, tour Edinburgh Castle, swill some single-malt whiskey in a convivial pub, or maybe let your inner Harry Potter nerd run wild at Greyfriars Kirkyard!

After spending two days in Edinburgh, it’s time to venture into the Scottish Highlands and to explore the largest city there: Inverness. Inverness has the feeling of a small town and the main tourist appeal is its proximity to Loch Ness , however, it is very much worth exploring in its own right.

Spend one day in Inverness itself and another on a day trip from Inverness to Culloden Battlefield, Cawdor Castle, or the famous Loch Ness.

From Inverness, it’s time to get in the car and drive to one of the most beautiful areas of Scotland and a top place to visit in the country: the Isle of Skye . Though many people treat Skye as a simple day trip or stopover spot, it is quite large and really deserves to be explored fully.

That is why we recommend spending 2 full days here in order to see some of the main attractions while also getting a bit off the beaten path. There are some really fantastic hikes to do on Skye as well, so make sure you have proper boots!

After you have spent a wonderful two days exploring the beautiful Isle of Skye, head back to Edinburgh of one night before catching a flight to the Emerald Isle.

Where to Stay in Scotland

Apart from the traditional accommodation options listed below, you can find a number of private rentals in Scotland such as this contemporary cottage on the Isle of Skye or this charming riverside cottage in Inverness.

Edinburgh  

Cityroomz Edinburgh — Located in the heart of the city, this small hotel had a number of rooms on offer and comes very highly rated.

Castle Rock Hostel   — This small, centrally located hostel continues to be one of the highest-rated places to stay in Edinburgh. They have a number of rooms on offer, from dorm beds to privates, a friendly staff, and are a great option for both budget and solo travellers.  

Torridon Guest House – a quaint bed and breakfast that is a great place to stay in Inverness. It is within a short walking distance of the city centre and a good option if you don’t want to stay in a hostel.

Black Isle Hostel  – a great hostel offering dorms and private rooms that is a fantastic option if travelling solo and if you want to meet other travellers. 

Isle of Skye 

An-Airidh Bed & Breakfast Portree – located in Portree, this is a cosy bed and breakfast with plentyof great rooms, a hearty breakfast and friendly owners. Perfect for mid-range visitors.

Skyewalker Hostel — one of the top-rated hostels in all of Scotland, it’s excellently located, they have a number of different room options, a friendly staff, and they sometimes organise social events in the evening. 

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other Scotland hotels

Week 3: Ireland

Ireland is a country that fills many people with visions of rolling green hills, pastoral beauty, and incredibly friendly people — and upon visiting you will find that it certainly delivers!

While most people spend one week in Ireland going a pretty standard route from Dublin south to Cork and then following the coast up to Galway , we suggest that you venture on a path less taken when you get to this portion of the London-Scotland-Ireland itinerary.

It is easiest to begin your Ireland trip in Dublin, the capital of the Republic of Ireland. Dublin is a large and dynamic city with many layers, however, it can be quite expensive for tourists and there aren’t a plethora of things to do.

Two days in Dublin should be more than sufficient to see the main sites such as Trinity College, Temple Bar, and the Guinness Storehouse.

From Dublin, instead of following all too many tourists ahead of you and going south, it’s time to instead head west for the naturally stunning Connemara region in County Galway.

Situated on Ireland’s west coast, Connemara is famed for its rugged scenery, mountainous and boggy terrain, and unique Gaelic culture.  Though Connemara is your eventual destination, there are a number of interesting stops you can make in the drive along the way.

Spending two days in Connemara will give you time to experience all of the fantastic things to do in this beautiful peninsula.

You can spend the day driving the famous scenic Sky Road outside of Clifden, explore charming fishing villages like Roundstone and Letterfrack, lie on the pristine white sand of Dog’s Bay Beach, and visit the gorgeous and historic Kylemore Abbey.

The final stop sees you in the wonderful Irish city of Galway. There are a number of great things to do here from exploring the main sites like the Spanish Arch and Eyre Square, whiskey tasting at Garavans Pub, listening to traditional Irish music in the trendy West End, and eating at some of Ireland’s top restaurants.

Spend two days exploring Galway city and one more day to take a day trip to one of Ireland’s most famous natural attractions: the Cliffs of Moher . These amazing cliffs are a popular spot for a reason: they are absolutely stunning. Avoid the tourist crowds by trying to get there early, you won’t be sorry!

Where to Stay in Ireland

Apart from the traditional accommodation listed below, you can find a number of private rental properties in Ireland including this stunning city-centre flat in Dublin or this lovely restored barn in Connemara.

Hotel 7 – This perfectly located boutique hotel is the ideal place to stay if you’re looking for a bit more comfort in Dublin. Situated within easy walking distance of some main attractions, they have a number of plush rooms available and a restaurant and bar on site.

Jacobs Inn – This centrally located hostel is a great place for solo and budget travellers. As one of the best-rated hostels in Dublin, they have a range of dorm rooms and privates available and they also organise social events. 

Island View B&B  – Located in the small seaside village of Roundstone, this B&B is the perfect base to explore all that Connemara has to offer. They offer a tasty and filling breakfast and the rooms were clean and comfortable. This is absolutely one of the best places to stay in Connemara. 

Galway  

The Stop B&B   – This is a great bed and breakfast located in the Claddagh neighbourhood of Galway. Though the location is more quiet and residential, it was only about a ten-minute walk to the city centre and even closer to Galway’s vibrant west end. They also have a fantastic breakfast in the morning, included in the room rate. 

Kinlay Eyre Square Hostel – Centrally located just off of Galway’s Eyre Square, this is one of the top-rated hostels in Galway City. They have both dorm and private rooms on offer and also include breakfast in their nightly rate. It’s a fantastic option for both budget and solo travellers alike. 

Additional Information

If you have more time to devote to your itinerary, it can be worth adding a week onto all three countries or forgoing visiting one country altogether.

If you want to see more of England, consider spending a week in the beautiful southwestern region of Cornwall (there are a number of great stops from London to Cornwall to explore!) or heading north to the perennially popular Lake District. The latter makes more sense for an England-Scotland itinerary.

If you have more time and want to spend it in Scotland, consider adding on the Orkney Islands or driving all or part of the North Coast 500 route – this will allow you to see some of the most beautiful areas of the country where few tourists ever venture.

If you want to spend more time in Ireland or want only an Ireland-Scotland itinerary, you can head south from Dublin and spend time in Cork and the Ring of Kerry before tacking on Galway City and Connemara or alternatively head north from Dublin to Belfast and explore Northern Ireland!

Planning the perfect itinerary for England, Scotland and Ireland can be difficult as there is so much to see in each country. With these suggestions, however, you are sure to have the trip of a lifetime!

Are you trying to plan a trip to England, Scotland and Ireland? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Best Shoes for Scotland & Ireland

Best Area To Stay In London For First-Time Visitors & Tourists

14 Best Stops on the Edinburgh to Inverness Drive

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

I am a widower and solo traveller of 76 years old can you recommend a company that would cater to my age group to see england scotland and Ireland, would it be better to take a cruise on small ship or land tour. I want to spend some time in London as well. It’s been thirty years since Ive been there. I realize this may be too much for one trip but not sure I would ever get back. I am not one to organize tours on my own look forward to hearing from you martin taffel

Hello Maggie,

Hope you are doing great and thank you for having chat blog which would help travelers like us.

We are a family of three adults and fan of Manchester United. We are planning to travel in September/October to see or 2 matches of Man U then travel to Scotland and Ireland. . I also want to know how could travel to the three places, train or air would be better. We are coming from Singapore. Any tips and guidance for us would be good.

Thank you very much Seli

Hi Selvi, if you don’t want to drive yourself, I’d recommend taking the train from London to Manchester and the same onward to Scotland. Then it’s a quick flight to Ireland 🙂

Thanks for the ideas and feedback. This helps stop the head spinning.

One question as we are planning something in June or July 2024 ( I know need to get going), but it will be a family of 3 (2 adults and 1 14YR Old Son). Knowing all cool viewing points will not always be as fun for a 14 year old, any thoughts/suggestions for his consideration?

Hi Tom, maybe plan to spend more time in the cities rather than in the country? There are lots of things that could be of interest to a teenager depending on what your son likes!

Love your recommendations! We will likely visit England, Scotland and Wales in a three to four week trip. Any thoughts about a brief Wales tour? My ancestors are from Llanddulas and we’ve never been to Wales.

I saw you suggested Ireland and Scotland if you only plan to spend 10 days, but what do you think about Ireland and England? I’d love to know your thoughts.

Thank you so much for the great info! My husband and I just booked a trip in and out of London from 9/12-10/16. We plan to do 2 weeks in England and a week each in Scotland and Ireland. He has roots in County Cork so we definitely want to go there. Can you help with an itinerary? Since we’re flying in and out of London, do you recommend one week in the city and one week in the countryside? We definitely want to go to Bath. York, Cambridge, Oxford and maybe the Cotswalds? What do you suggest? Also, is there a ferry from Scotland to Ireland and how are the roads in the rural areas of these two countries? We’ve never driven on the UK side of the road. Will we need a car at all in England? Thank you so much! Debbie

Hello Maggie, I enjoyed your article. My wife and I are planning a Sept 2023 trip to Scotland/London area. Will spend 14 days or so. Wondering if we fly into a Scottish airport or London on a RT ticket from Seattle, WA? The only thing in England we want to see is Sudeley Castle (family relationship), then it’s off to Scotland for 11-12 days (focused on highlands), probably by train then rental car. We could do Sudeley on front end or back. Any suggestions? Thanks!

I am planning a 13 days trip to the UK in January.

I want to understand if I should do both Scotland and Ireland with london.

Please guide.

Thanks for your super helpful blog! I have just a couple of questions:

– Would you recommend separate car hires for Scottland and Ireland? – If you recommend separate car hires, would you recommend travel to Ireland from Scottland via ferry, or plane?

Hello Maggie,visiting Europe for the first time- London – Paris – Italy – would love some advise from you Is the Oliver plaza hotel a good choice to stay in London We are considering 3 to 4 days in London ( sight seeing the most famous sites) – traveling to Paris via the eurostar – 4 day stay in Paris- need advise on hotel close to normal sight seeing- then Italy Rome-pissa -Venice- any and all advise is welcome Thanking you in advance for your help! Adriana

Greetings Maggie! We have a reunion meeting in Belfast on 16-20 Sept 2022. I am flying from New York to Heathrow with connection to Belfast. After the reunion we want to explore Wales and Edinburg and Loch Ness (20-22 Sept) then back to London for return flight to NY. Would appreciate if you could recommend a good itinerary (I don’t drive manual so driving is not for me) taking the ferry from Belfast to Wales and maybe by air to Edinburg (pls suggest the best transport to take). Thanks in advance for your suggestions.

Wonderful information. I have a 1 week trip to London in August and want to spend 2 days in Ireland. My family is from County Fermanagh but I am not sure I can get that far in such a short time and still enjoy it leisurely. Any must do’s or suggestions?? I am not too interested in Dublin.

Spending 2 days in Ireland will definitely be a bit rushed, especially when you consider travel times. I would recommend planning to visit another time if you’re strapped for time on this trip 🙂

Hello Maggie we are 6 people from India all 60 plus of age want to visit London & Countryside in second half of June for around 12 nights what can be best ittenary for the same.My daughter living in London suggested Isle of Wright,Cotswold & Scotland

Hi Maggie- My son is graduating from college and we are planning to go to Ireland, Wales and London. We have approximately 2 weeks. We fly into Dublin and will finish up in London. I’m going home then and he’s heading over to the continent for another 10 days before he returns home to Chicago. I’m considering renting a car in Ireland so we can have more flexibility getting to more places “off the beaten path”. Any advice? Thanks!!

Hi Patrice – sounds like you’re planning a really memorable trip! I think that renting a car in Ireland (and in Wales, too) is a great idea as it will give you a lot more flexibility. Hope you have a great time!

I’m returning to the British Isles in April with my husband & son, as we will be visiting our older son studying in Swansea, Wales. Do you have any recommendations/links for a bed & breakfast or hotel in Swansea and for a bed & breakfast in Dublin, Ireland? Thank you for your kind consideration.

Hi there Maggie,

Thank you for this interesting read! I’ve actually been wanting to do a eng-sct-irl tour like this for quite a while (due in part to being a huge Harry Potter nerd), but I’ve never actually looked into it until now. Your itinerary guide has been really informative!

I know it’s almost impossible to say, BUT if you were to give a ballpark cost figure for the full tour for a single traveler hiring a car, what would it be?

Thanks again! And best wishes.

Thanks for your comment, Jason! We actually have a few cost guides that you might find helpful when coming up with a rough budget. England: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/england-trip-cost/ Scotland: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/trip-to-scotland-cost/ Ireland: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/ireland-trip-cost/

Great article, thank you. In terms of a budget for the three locations, do you have anything on this? Many thanks, Ken

Hi Ken! We actually have separate budget guides for England ( https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/england-trip-cost/ ), Scotland ( https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/trip-to-scotland-cost/ ) and Ireland ( https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/ireland-trip-cost/ ). To help you even further we also have budget guides specifically for London ( https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/london-trip-cost/ ), Edinburgh ( https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/prices-in-edinburgh/ ) and Dublin ( https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/prices-in-dublin/ ). Hope this helps!

Dear Maggie, thank you so much for putting this information out. 6 of us (3 couples family) want to plan a vacation to these locations in June 2022. This really helps us. My mother in law was from England and my husband and siblings want to see it all again. Fingers crossed. Thank you, Barbara

Thanks for your comment, Barbara! Really hope you’re able to have a fantastic trip 🙂

Dear Maggie, This is wonderful information. Thank you so very much. I along with 3 other nurses who have worked off and on together for over 30 years are planning a 6 week trip through England, Wales, Ireland and Scotland. Your tips have helped me with the planning of this trip. Thank you again,

Thanks for your comment, Terry! So happy that we’ve been able to help you plan your trip and I hope that you’re able to have an unforgettable adventure.

Hello, we are considering a 4 week trip for our family of 5, and I was wondering how your 6 weeks went? I am starting to think 4 weeks isn’t enough time

I am planning a trip to the U.K next year. I’m planning on moving to the U.K from Maryland. Where are the best location to settle down. It’s just me and no kids.

Hi Felicia, thanks for your comment! Where you plan to live in the UK really depends on what you’re after. There’s quite a lot of options so make sure to do some research and see where you like the most when you’re visiting next year 🙂

My husband and I are hoping to travel next year to London, Scotland and Ireland. This was a very informative and helpful article. We unfortunately will only have two weeks and not three to do this trip so we may leave off Ireland. Any suggestions on how to spilt the 3 of them in a 2 week period or do you suggest skipping one for a later time date by itself? Thank you

Hi Vicki, thanks for your comment! If you only have two weeks, I think the right move is to only concentrate on England and Scotland and leave Ireland for another trip. It is way better to visit fewer places and actually get to see and experience them then feel as if you have to rush through too many places and not really get the most out of them. Hope this helps and you’re able to have a great trip in the future!

Thanks for your tips etc on visiting Scotland/Ireland. A question can I rent a car in Scotland go over to Ireland leaving the car behind and pick up another car with the same rental company. Thus saving Ferry costs for the car. Whick port do you advise to use?

Regards Sakkie

Hi Sakkie, I’m not aware of any particular companies that you could do this with — you’ll need to contact a few yourself. Hope you have a great trip!

hello maggie,me and my wife are leaving USA,first time for our 30th anniversary.taking 2 1/2 weeks.wanted to visit all 3 places plus amsterdam,and normandy.was planning on flying to all of them,we heard it was the less expensive and doing small day tours in each.3 days in each,London,Edinburgh,dublin,amsterdam and normandy,all in may 2021.think too much?trying to plan a headstart.

Hi Jeffery, I think if you want to visit all of these places in 2.5 weeks it’s going to be a bit too much. Personally, I would limit yourself to just England and Scotland and maybe Ireland and save continental Europe for another trip 🙂 I think you will be able to enjoy the places you visit more this way.

Wondering what the best itinerary would be for 17 day trip. We would fly into the suggested city and rent a car for sure. Looking to get all 3 in and definitely want to see all the highlights. Any recommendations ?

H John, if you have 17 days, I would follow the 3-week itinerary that I’ve lined out and just pick one or two places that don’t interest you in order to meet your time constraints.

Dear Maggie, Thanks for the great information I’m planning for my short vacation (one week ) trip to London . North iceland and Scotland. Do you have any idea or suggestions for this short period ?? Regards Joanne

Hi Joanne, that is a lot of places to pack into one week! I would honestly only suggest sticking to the capital cities (London, Edinburgh, Belfast) and maybe take a day trip or two from them. That would allow you to get a good feel for the places without cramming too much in. Hope you have a great time!

Wonderfully insightful and helpful information on traveling the British Isles. I am planning an 18 day trip next September for my wife and I. Following your suggestions, I think 3 days in London would be enough for us to see many of the important and historic sights there. Then we would take the train to Edinburgh and stay for 2 or 3 days (maybe a short trip to St. Andrews one of those days). Then off to Inverness and the Isle of Skye for 2 days. I’d like to know if you think Glasgow is a must see. If not, we will simply head to Ireland and have a few more days to spend there.

I like the idea of Air BnB sites, but have no experience with them and want to make sure there is no concern necessary. I am a bit cautious at this point.

I’m looking forward to your response and any further/additional suggestions for helpful information.

Best regards, Pat

Thanks for your comment, Pat! I’m glad you’ve found this information helpful and it sounds like you’re planning a great trip. A lot of people tend to skip Glasgow when visiting Scotland (I, myself, have never been) as I don’t believe it has the same kind of beauty and historical sites that you can find in Edinburgh or elsewhere in the country. It is pretty up and coming, however, and there is a great music scene (so I’ve heard), so it all depends on what you’re after.

As for Airbnb, I have stayed in many many Airbnb properties all over the world and have never once had any sort of safety issue. It is actually my preferred kind of accommodation and I use it more often than not. All I would say is make sure you read the reviews of whichever property you want to stay in so you know what to expect. But there isn’t anything to worry about 🙂

Hope this helps!

Maggie, I really enjoyed your discussion and suggested itinerary. I is a great start for us. We are planning a five week trip to England, Scotland and Ireland (hopefully including Northern Ireland). A bit of Wales if we can fit it in would be nice. We are deciding between May and September. Do you have any recommendation/preference? I was thinking September since we would be heading pretty far north in Scotland. Also, do you have any thoughts on additional places to add for a trip of this length. We would likely limit our time in London to two-three days max. Both my wife Sue and I have visited London multiple times, but that is the extent of her travels to Britain. I have seen a fair share of the West Country and South Wales, but would appreciate any thoughts from an expert on how to expand your suggested itinerary. FYI, I have been no further north than the Cotswolds and have not seen Oxford/Cambridge/York and only limited places in Kent/Sussex/Hampshire/Dorset. Thanks in advance.

Thanks for your comment, Bob. I think that planning to go in September is a better bet, the weather is more consistently warm then — May can be really cold throughout Britain. If you’ve already been to London, then I would recommend spending some time in Cambridge and York. The Lake District could be a good option for you, as well, especially if you like nature. I hope you have a great trip!

Thank you so much for such informative articles (I’ve read several of them tonight)!

My husband and I are celebrating our 40th anniversary this December. We never had a honeymoon, so we have been planning a trip to Ireland and Scotland in March/April of 2020.

After reading this article, however, I’m thinking we might be better off to wait until Fall of 2020. ?

I have been looking into tour group trips, but none of them seem to be what we really want. After waiting all this time to go on a trip we’ve dreamed all our lives, I want it to be as special as can be. You have given me the courage to try and plan a trip myself and even hire a car! ?

Thank you again for the insightful advice.

Hi Lorrie, thanks so much for your comment and I am so happy that I’ve inspired you to travel independently for your 40th anniversary “honeymoon!” I’m sure you and your husband will have an amazing time! If you have any questions regarding your trip, please don’t hesitate to get in touch 🙂

we plan to travel to London 14 days on 19dec2019 onwsrds for Christmas celebration n New year 2020 and knowing that daylights short..about 4pm will b dark..

We don’t plan to drive.. can u recommend which date shall we stay in London ? will like to travel to Paris, Scotland or any better suggestion.

Regards Amie

Hey Amie, you can stay in London on any of these days but keep in mind that virtually everything shuts down on Christmas (25 Dec), including all public transport. Other than that, I’m sure you will have a great time — there are lots of markets and fun, festive things to explore that time of year. Just make sure to pack warm clothes!

We are planning a 10 days trip to London Scotland and Ireland.Please suggest an itinerary.

10 days in all three of London, Scotland, and Ireland is going to be too rushed. I would suggest concentrating on either London and Scotland or Scotland and Ireland depending on what interests you most. Hope you have a great trip!

Hi Maggie, Planning a 2.5 week trip and a friend has offered for me to use her vehicle (starting point West London). Would this be a good option or will I be wasting time driving long distances?

Hi Stephanie, if you have the option to borrow your friend’s car for the trip, I would definitely recommend it! Driving in London can be a nightmare, but otherwise, you will have so much more flexibility on your itinerary without being beholden to bus and train timetables. The UK is a small country, so no drives are really that long, either. And you can always find somewhere great to stop along the way!

Hi Maggie! We are looking for a 2 week trip to all 3 places. London we only want to do a few days and see the highlights. Then Scotland and Ireland. We want to stay a night in a castle in Scotland. Ireland we have to kiss the Blarney Stone. Touristy stuff as we have never been. Guinness and Jameson yours too! Ideas?

Hey Maureen, sounds like you’ve got a great trip planned! Hope you have a great time 🙂

Dear Maggie, Read your wonderful and infomative blog. Planning a trip to England, Scotland and Ireland in Mid September for family of 4 adults , a 4 years child and a 8 months baby.

We have only 2 weeks to spend. Please recommended some suggestions and an itinerary. Would like self driving in Scotland and Ireland.

Glad you found the information helpful! While the above itinerary is 3 weeks long, it is entirely possible to cut it down to 2 weeks if you just decide to skip some of the destinations that don’t interest you. For instance, you can only spend a couple of days in London, and skip one destination from each Scotland and Ireland and you will be able to plan to perfect 2-week trip. Hope you and your family have a great time!

Dear Maggie, Happy New Year! Your information is great but I was wondering if you have info on just navigating travel to these beautiful cities via train or other types of transportation between your suggested cities What is your opinion of taking a ferry to one of our selected city? I will be traveling with my 16-year-old daughter and will not be renting a car. I would be too freaked out and make our trip unbearable. We have been to London but never to Scotland or Ireland. We are traveling from Los Angeles and look for to making this a reality. Our travel will be in June of 2019. Great Article and look forward to reading more of your articles.

Happy New Year, Rosemarie! Thanks for your comment 🙂 Depending on where you want to go in Ireland/Scotland, renting a car isn’t entirely necessary, it can just make things more convenient if you want to visit more rural areas. Bus and train connections between the bigger cities in both countries are frequent and reliable, so you shouldn’t need to worry much about that. I’m not sure where you plan to take a ferry to, however, in my experience, the ferries are large, clean, and comfortable and tend to operate on time. If you’re not renting a car, you can also take day tours from all of the bigger cities/towns to visit more difficult-to-reach areas as well. I hope this helps you plan your trip! If you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to send us an email 🙂

Hi Maggie, my husband and I are planning a trip Oct 1-15 for his work to Tenby, Wales. He will have to work each day and I would love to see the UK, my daughter is planning on flying for one week of our stay and just wondering how we could see Ireland-Scotland-London in a 7 day period or is that too much to see in such a short time? Would love your suggestions!!

Hi Pam, thanks for your comment! I personally wouldn’t recommend trying to cram a visit to England, Scotland and Ireland into one 7-day trip – you’re likely not going to get a lot out of it and will spend more of your time travelling between places rather than actually seeing anything. I would recommend staying simply in England and Scotland (or just one of them) and then plan to visit Ireland some other time when you have enough time to properly dedicate to it.

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When is the best time to visit Ireland?

Mar 13, 2024 • 6 min read

You may have to wrap up warm in the off-season but the lack of crowds and lower prices make Ireland the place to be © David Levingstone / Getty Images

Ireland's famously lush green landscape may be partly due to its unpredictable weather but don't let a chance of rain spoil your trip to this wonderful island nation .

No matter when you choose to visit, there'll be no shortage of fun things to do – hiking through stunning scenery, catching up with locals in a cozy pub, enjoying incredible food and joining in the celebrations at one of the many festivals that pack the Irish calendar.

Though the summer months enjoy the highest temperatures, Ireland's year-round temperate climate rarely freezes in winter or blisters in summer making it possible to enjoy outdoor activities at any time.

The end of October marks the year’s passage from long days into darker evenings and keeping in tune with the passing of this season is deeply rooted in the Irish DNA. This is the time of year when things slow down as ferries to the islands scale back their service and smaller restaurants and hotels close for the season. Off-season isn’t the worst time to visit Ireland, though, as there are still plenty of things to see and do during wintertime.

The best time to visit Ireland depends on the type of trip you want to have – here's everything you need to know to help make that decision. 

September and October are the best times for festivals and fall colors

Along with springtime, the months of September and October can be the best time to visit Ireland to avoid crowds and save money as prices come down from their summer peak. Expect long days with mild temperatures and plenty of dry spells to explore the explosion of color throughout the island's national parks and forests. Even the famous  Ring of Kerry , with its dramatic mountainous setting against a vivid ocean backdrop, can be navigated without a convoy of tour buses blocking the views.

Many of Ireland’s best festivals shift into gear at this time. Expect some tasty offerings at the Armagh Food and Cider Weekend or Galway’s International Oyster and Seafood Festival in September. County  Cork goes big in October with the  Kinsale Gourmet Festival and  Guinness Jazz Festival  and a spooky twist brings the month to a close with a spectacular parade at the Galway Aboo Halloween Festival . If you're in Dublin, the hometown of Dracula’s creator, catch the  Bram Stoker Festival.

November to February is the best time for budget travelers

For some, an evening in a cozy pub before turning in for the night in a thatched cottage as an Atlantic gale bellows outside is the ultimate romantic getaway. For others, it’s the lantern-lit, cobbled lanes of  Kilkenny ,  Limerick or  Galway that offer the perfect winter break – all the benefits of good transport links to scenic locations and a wide selection of restaurants and hotels offering off-peak rates to while away the long evenings.

However, with shorter days, the occasional storm and icy road conditions, any independent road trips should stick to main roads and motorways. Apart from the heavy-hitting tourist attractions like the  Cliffs of Moher ,  The Rock of Cashel ,  Bunratty Castle or urban museums, many of the interpretive centers close for the season, while transport services scale back and remote hospitality goes into winter hibernation.

The holiday season is celebrated throughout December in Ireland, so expect plenty of Christmas markets in places like Eyre Square in Galway or  The Milk Market in Limerick. Things are a little quieter in January as the whole country recovers from the endless festive activities but Tradfest gets everyone back in the party spirit towards the end of the month. A little bit of Hollywood magic descends on the capital to celebrate the Dublin Internation Film Festival at the end of February and the national rugby team roars into action with the (literal) kick-off of the Six Nations Tournament.

March is a pricier time to visit because it's all about St Patrick's Day

Let’s face it – St Patrick dominates the entire month of March in Ireland. It’s also when the tourism and transport industries come to life after their winter respite. While weather conditions are still unsettled, the thermometer edges up to 10°C (50°F) and days are much lighter.

The St Patrick’s Day Parade takes center stage in towns and cities across the country with floats, jigs, reels and pints of creamy Guiness as everyone celebrates sentimental shenanigans and silliness. And yes, expect price hikes in hotels for that week. Unsurprisingly, Dublin has the biggest parade that dominates the streets of the capital. However, country parades like the County Clare procession in Doolin offer a satirical take on the larger events and can be equally rewarding.

The global phenomenon of lighting sites up in green is predictably rampant in Ireland and can create an atmospheric glow against the limestone render of medieval buildings. Top tip for visitors: it's Paddy's Day, not Patty's Day. The only patty is the one in your burger.

April to June is the best time for golf, flowers and coastal drives

With temperatures an average high of 18°C (64°F) and prices that haven’t maxed out yet, this is the best time to take a road trip along Ireland’s magnificent  Wild Atlantic Way . It’s a 2600-km (1600 miles), signposted west coast route that connects west Cork in the south to Donegal in the north. It’s also the best time to visit Ireland for a round of ten of golf; play on links near charming villages, white sandy beaches, coves, castles teetering on cliff tops and vibrant towns like Westport or Sligo.

Blossoms burst into life throughout the country from April, so visit the garden county, Wicklow , to catch bluebell season at  Powerscourt or  Glendalough . County Clare’s  Burren in Bloom  festival in May is a great way to see rare species in a spectacular moonscape setting.

It can also be the best time to visit Dublin as June kicks off with the Flowers, Food and Family Festival shortly before the city hosts Bloomsday on June 16, a celebration of writer James Joyce’s blossoming of a different nature. The festivities are followed a couple of weeks later with a sea of rainbow flags with the country’s biggest LGBTIQ+ Pride Festival .

July and August are the best times for sunny days and crowds

First the bad news: all Irish schools and colleges are now closed for the summer, so you’re competing with the home market when it comes to accommodations, food, car hire and visitor attractions. That means higher prices and busy beaches (when the sun is out). Leaving bookings to the last minute at hotels and restaurants in popular locales is risky and not recommended. Galway is booked and busy in July when the Galway International Arts Festival brings visitors from far and wide, while the streets of Miltown Malbay are filled with music and dance during the Willie Clancy Summer School .

However, it's an excellent time to stay on an island like the Arans or Inishbofin, where bikes are the best form of transport. Alternatively, Ireland’s lesser-visited Midlands are filled with medieval fortresses, blue river trails and quaint villages – and they’re crowd-free. There’s no better way to explore the area than hiring a boat for a cruise along the Shannon, the longest river in Ireland, to visit off-radar places like the pretty town of Killaloe, the high crosses at  Clonmacnoise or  Sean’s Bar , the oldest pub in Ireland. Boat hire means setting your own independent itinerary and it offers excellent value for money given you sleep on board.

Galway barely has time to recover from its Arts Festival before Race Week hits the town in late July, stretching into early August – expect glamorous outfits and high spirits. Down south, the town of Tralee warmly welcomes visitors from around the globe for the annual Rose of Tralee Festival . The words "beauty pageant" just don't do it justice and the atmosphere is incredible throughout the area.

This article was first published February 2021 and updated March 2024

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Best Time to Visit Ireland: When to Go & When to Avoid

Home » Blog » Europe » Ireland » Best Time to Visit Ireland: When to Go & When to Avoid

Ireland is a magical place to travel for breathtaking natural beauty, fascinating history, and a vibrant culture of music and dance. This guide will help you decide the best time to visit Ireland, as well as give you an idea of what to expect during each season.

From charming cities steeped in history to a rugged coastline kissed by the wild Atlantic Ocean, Ireland has a treasure trove of experiences to captivate the soul. 

Unlike other destinations, Ireland is not known as a land of extremes. Temperatures are fairly mild year-round while severe weather events are rare and the climate doesn’t vary much between geographic regions.

That said, there are still a few things you definitely want to consider before you pack your bags for the Emerald Isle.

In this guide, we’ll go over each season in detail so you can decide on the best time to visit Ireland for your travel style and preferences.

Psst!  Don’t miss these tips and  mistakes to avoid while planning your trip to Ireland ! (You’ll thank us later!)

When is the best time to visit Ireland?

The best time to visit Ireland overall is during shoulder season, either mid-April to May or September to October. These months offer plenty of daylight hours and mild temperatures, but without the crowds and price hikes of peak tourist season (summer).

However, the dark, rainy winters can be cozy as heck and the summer months guarantee that even seasonal attractions and Airbnbs will be open. So, the best time to visit for YOU largely depends on what you want to see and do. 

Answer these questions to get started:

• What region of the country do you plan to visit?
• Are you easily bothered by crowds?
• Are you negatively affected by rain and cold?
• Do you prefer to spend your time in nature or exploring a new city?
• Are you planning to do activities like hiking and spending time outdoors?

Thinking about your answers to these questions is going to help you start to determine when to visit Ireland.

Trying to decide whether to visit Ireland or Scotland? You’re not alone! We’ve done both, and we have a whole guide where we compare the two and give our personal recommendation on the Scotland vs. Ireland debate.

Article contents

Our experience, ireland geography overview, weather in ireland, summer in ireland, fall in ireland, winter in ireland, spring in ireland.

• What to pack for Ireland

Overall BEST time to visit Ireland

Want a quick recommendation? Jump down to see our personal advice for the best time to visit Ireland. Plus, we’ll share what times of year we’d avoid visiting!

• Our Recommendation…

Want to save time and energy on planning?

In June 2023, we spent 2 weeks traveling around Ireland and living in a campervan. We were lucky enough to explore a lot of what this country has to offer!

We took our 2-week travels and are in the process of  creating the perfect Ireland road trip itinerary .  We’ll send you our complete 2-week itinerary, filled with tips and advice, once it’s finalized! Just click below to get on the waitlist for our  2-week Ireland road trip itinerary !

We visited Ireland in June

When we traveled to Ireland in June, we packed lots of layers, rain jackets, and overall warm, practical clothes. Well, we ended up getting the warmest, sunniest 2-week streak of weather Ireland has experienced in years! While I can’t complain because we truly had wonderful weather and clear skies, it was definitely not the typical gloomy, drizzly Irish weather we were expecting. 

We ended up having to buy some new outfits for the unexpectedly warm weather and we used our swim suits much more than we thought we would with some spontaneous stops at beaches packed with locals also soaking up the perfect weather.

In retrospect, I still think we packed really well for Ireland at that time of year, and I’m not necessarily advising you pack multiple tank tops and sundresses in case of a hot spell.

Just days after we left, the temperatures dropped to their normal chilly selves and clouds and drizzles returned to the skies. We truly experienced a fluke. 

I share this with you so you don’t look at our photos and expect endless sunshine, because that was honestly not normal Irish weather in June.

Check out what our time looked like in our Ireland Road Trip video:

While sharing our Ireland trip on our Instagram stories , we received countless messages from people who live in Ireland and the UK saying how uncommon this weather was, that sometimes there’s a day or two of hot, sunny weather followed by a return to “normal”. But 2 straight weeks of this, they all assured us, was definitely not normal for Ireland.

Insider tip (for when you didn’t pack for the weather!)

If you, too, arrive in Ireland and realize the weather isn’t quite what you packed for, head to Penneys, a popular chain that truly has everything , from undergarments to outerwear to bath towels to accessories. You’ll find men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing all at super reasonable prices.

The quality is average (a.k.a. what you’d expect for a big box store selling everything for cheap), but you can find this store in most large cities (simply type “Penneys” into Google Maps to find the closest location). It comes in clutch when you need to grab something in a pinch and don’t want to spend your entire day searching (or your entire budget).

Our waiter the first night recommended Penneys after we told him we definitely didn’t pack for the heat and sun, and it was such a great rec that we wanted to pass it along so you can keep it in mind. H&M is also pretty common and another good option when you need to do a quick bit of shopping.

The Emerald Isle is so named for a reason; thanks to the abundant rain, Ireland’s rolling hills are famous for their lush green color. You know what they say about why the grass is always greener.

The verdant plains are dotted with shimmering lochs (lakes), heathered moors, and craggy mountains. The mountains are moderate, with the highest peak of Carrantuohill in the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks range reaching 1,041 meters (3,414 feet).

Ireland is surrounded on all sides by 3,172 kilometers (1,971 miles) of rugged coastline where the Atlantic Ocean crashes against towering sea cliffs and weathered islands are sprinkled offshore.

Let’s get one thing straight right off the bat: it will most likely rain during your trip to Ireland , no matter when or where you visit. But don’t let that deter you, just make sure ya pack a rain jacket.

That said, there are some variances in precipitation across the country. The west coast gets almost twice as much rainfall as the east, since prevailing winds tend to break over the western mountain ranges.

The rainfall does also vary throughout the year, with May and June receiving the most sunshine on average.

The weather can change on a dime in Ireland and it’s not uncommon to experience rainshowers, sunny breaks, and rolling clouds all in the span of a few hours.

The good news is that the presence of the Gulf Stream means Ireland’s climate is quite mild and doesn’t typically experience extreme temperatures one way or the other. 

Winter temps rarely dip below freezing and summer generally sees highs under 21 degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit), making for comfortable temperatures year-round.

Stats on Ireland Weather & Seasons

• Warmest month(s) in Ireland: July and August
• Coldest month(s) in Ireland: January and February
• Rainiest month(s) in Ireland: December and January
• Driest month(s) in Ireland: April
• Most crowded month in Ireland: June – August
• Least crowded month in Ireland: November – February

June – August

Summer is peak tourist season in Ireland, due to warmer weather and outdoor activities. During these months, temperatures range from mild to warm, averaging around 15-20°C (59-68°F). The days are long, with daylight extending well into the evening, allowing for more time to explore before dark.

The summer months offer an array of festivals, music events, and traditional Irish gatherings. Plus, you can be assured that restaurants, Airbnbs, and tourist attractions will be open and tours will be operating for the high season.

Best places to visit during summer in Ireland

• Kinsale for water activities and award-winning restaurants
• The Ring of Kerry for beaches
• Galway for festivals and a lively atmosphere
• Inishbofin Island for unspoilt wilderness

Best things to do during summer in Ireland

• Cycle the Aran Islands
• Indulge in fresh seafood on the Dingle Peninsula
• Take a break from the busy cities at Glenveagh National Park
• Cheer with the locals at a Gaelic games match

September – October

In the fall, Ireland’s lush greenery transforms into a captivating display of red, orange, and gold as the leaves change color. The crowds begin to dwindle, providing a more relaxing experience for those seeking a quiet getaway.

September and October offer comfortable temperatures and average 12.5 daylight hours, making it ideal for exploring Ireland’s ancient castles, strolling through charming villages, or embarking on scenic hikes.

Best places to visit during fall in Ireland

• Dublin for the Theatre Festival or Festival of History
• Killarney National Park for spectacular fall foliage
• The Antrim Coast for fewer tourists at some of Northern Ireland’s most popular attractions
• The Gap of Dunloe is another can’t-miss sight that is less crowded in the fall

Best things to do during fall in Ireland

• Go whale watching and try to spot some of the 25 recorded species of dolphins, whales, and porpoises that call these waters home
• Celebrate Halloween in the land where it originated at the spooky Púca Festival
• Delve into the darker side of Irish history and folklore with a ghost tour in Kilkenny or Kinsale
• Conquer the Wild Atlantic Way on a bucket-list road trip

November – February

Some might find the darker, drizzly months of winter in Ireland dreary, but they can also be downright magical.

When the crowds of tourists disappear, a peaceful slowness settles over the country. Fires crackle to life in cozy pubs where pints of Guinness flow over traditional Irish music sessions.

The atmosphere turns festive come December, with outdoor markets spreading Christmas cheer amidst twinkling lights.

Best places to visit during winter in Ireland

• Waterford for Winterval, Ireland’s biggest Christmas festival
• The iconic Cliffs of Moher , usually crawling with tourists, are much quieter in the winter
• Northern Ireland for a chance to see the Northern Lights
• Belfast to experience the popular Titanic Quarter with fewer crowds

Best things to do during winter in Ireland

• Dance your way to Temple Bar in Dublin to celebrate Irish music and culture at TradFest (January).
• Eat, drink, and be merry at the Christmas markets in Belfast or Galway (December).
• Enjoy hearty Irish food next to a roaring fire in a traditional pub.
• Go castle-hopping among Ireland’s many historical sites and ancient ruins

March – May

In spring, the Irish countryside begins to burst with vibrant hues of green, and wildflowers bloom across the meadows. 

March, of course, brings St. Patrick’s Day celebrations across the country. Both big cities and small villages alike come alive with parades, traditional music, and dancing. If you enjoy festive atmospheres and cultural events, visiting Ireland during St. Patrick’s Day can be an unforgettable experience.

April and May bring milder weather and longer daylight hours, which make this a great time to immerse yourself in Ireland’s natural beauty by hiking the coastal trails or exploring the national parks.

Remember, rainfall is common throughout the year in Ireland, so be prepared for sporadic showers regardless of the season.

Best places to visit during spring in Ireland

• Wicklow Mountains National Park for scenic hikes and waterfalls
• The Kerry Cliffs in the spring are crowned with seas of wildflowers
• The Skellig Islands to explore the ancient monastic site and spot adorable puffins
• Connemara National Park to spot newborn lambs and ponies
• The Blarney Castle & Gardens for breathtaking blooms

Best things to do during spring in Ireland

• Take a road trip around the famous Ring of Kerry
• Paint the town green at any of the country’s St. Patrick’s Day festivals (around March 17).
• Stop and smell the flowers in some of the country’s many gardens
• Rent a bicycle, pack a picnic, and explore the charming Irish countryside

Best time to visit Ireland in our opinion…

Because Ireland doesn’t experience extreme temperatures and receives rain year-round, there isn’t really a bad time to visit.

In our opinion, the best time to visit Ireland depends on what you prefer to do. 

If you want to check off all the must-see sights and popular tourist attractions, then spring and fall offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds and slightly cheaper accommodations . We would avoid the summer months for visiting big cities and popular sights.

If hiking national parks is your goal, then the months of June through August provide the most daylight hours for exploring Ireland’s wilderness. But keep in mind that this is peak tourist season, which means higher prices and booked-up accommodations.

Winter is the rainiest, but also the least crowded season, and offers its own unique opportunities like Christmas markets and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights.

Overall, we recommend visiting Ireland in May or September/October for a more affordable trip with fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and access to most tours and activities.

What to pack for your trip to Ireland

We know it can be overwhelming packing for a trip to a new destination. That’s why we spent hours creating this super helpful PDF just for you.

In this free Ireland packing list PDF download , we’ve provided packing checklists for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women and men!) to electronics and extra gear you may consider packing if you plan to do some campervan travels.

Plus, we’re sharing tons of packing hacks and tips for traveling in Ireland that you won’t find anywhere else!

Are you planning a trip to Ireland?

We’re creating lots of resources for travel in Ireland and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ireland Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Ultimate 2-week Ireland Road Trip Itinerary
• Places to Visit in Ireland You Can’t Miss!
• Unforgettable Things to do in Ireland: Ultimate Bucket List
• Camping in Ireland: Essential Tips + Best Campsites

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When is the best time to visit Ireland? Here’s your season-by-season guide

If you’re wondering, “When is the best time to visit Ireland?” we’re happy to report that it’s any time! From Celtic festivals in February to the Guinness Jazz Festival in October, the spirit of Ireland shines year-round. If you’re thinking of taking a tour of Ireland , read on for our season-by-season guide—and get ready to experience the best of the Emerald Isle no matter when you visit.

The best weather in Ireland by month

The green fields, blue skies, and baby lambs of spring and summer always make the Emerald Isle a treat. But, Ireland in winter is also as atmospheric as it gets. If the idea of a chilly trip gives you pause, all we can say is don’t knock the weather in Ireland in December or the weather in Ireland in February. Winter is the best time of year to visit Ireland if you’re looking for fewer crowds and warmer pubs. No matter which time of year you visit, the Irish weather is all part of the experience.

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Best Time to Visit Ireland (from a local)

If you are looking to visit the Emerald Isle you are probably wondering “when is the best time to visit Ireland ?”. For me, there is no bad time to visit Ireland, but for other people, there are some things that will play a role in when they decide to book that trip. With this guide, I share everything you need to know to help you make your decision.

What is the best time of year to visit Ireland for sightseeing?

Best time to visit ireland.

For its latitude, Ireland has a mild climate compared to other countries of the same latitude. This is thanks to the Gulf Stream in the Atlantic Ocean making its weather warmer and milder than would be expected. Ireland’s climate is temperate with an abundance of rainfall and a lack of real temperature extremes. Weather can be a factor in when people decide to make that visit to Ireland.

Best Time to Go to Ireland – Things to consider

When it comes to deciding the best time of year to go to Ireland, there are a few things to consider.

Budget – If you working to a strict budget when planning a trip to Ireland, the time of year will be a huge factor. Summer is the most expensive time to visit Ireland, simply down to supply and demand, while winter will be the cheapest.

What are you going for – The purpose of your visit can be another factor. If it is simply to enjoy a city break, this can be done at any time of the year. However, if you want to enjoy hiking and the outdoors, then summer is when you will have a better chance of finer weather and more daylight hours.

Do you like crowds or not – If you want to avoid crowds at the most popular tourist attractions, then a summertime visit is to be avoided. Winter sees fewer visitors but there are other compromises to be made.

Weather – Deciding when is the best time to go to Ireland can simply come down to the weather. Winter can be cold and wet, while summer can be warm and dry. But, and it’s a big but, you can often see rain during summer. If it is a decision between cold temperatures or warmer ones, then your decision is already made for you.

When is the best time to visit Ireland – Month-by-month weather

As already mentioned, the best time of the year to go to Ireland can be based on a few factors but the majority of the time, people make the decision based on the weather. Here is a month-by-month guide to help you narrow it down.

January – This is typically the coldest month of the year. Average highs of 7°C are offset with average lows of 3°C. Days are short, and snow can make an appearance on higher ground, while rain is highly likely.

February – February is cold, wet, and often windy with the most probability of storms. Temperatures are not too dissimilar to January, although there may be a slight decrease in the amount of rain.

March – While rain is still highly likely, days are starting to become longer, although sunlight might be hidden behind rain clouds. Temperatures are starting to rise ever so slightly to highs of 10°C and lows of 4°C. It is not unheard of for there to be snow on the coldest days of March.

April – With the clocks having gone forward at the end of March, days are starting to stretch, temperatures are slightly warmer than last month with highs of 11°C and lows of 4°C. Rain is still common but to a lesser degree than the winter months. Spring has sprung.

May – Warmer, finer weather arrives with average daily temperatures now heading to highs of 15°C and lows of 7°C. Days are longer and sunnier but do not pack away the umbrella as you might still need it.

June – Warm, sunny weather continues to improve with highs of 17°C and lows of 10°C. Sunlight hours are the longest they will get, and the sun doesn’t set until nearly 10pm! Keep the raincoats handy though as rain is still a high possibility.

July – July is usually the driest month of the year in Ireland with highs of 19°C and lows of 12°C, but you cannot be guaranteed not to see rain if you visit Ireland during this month. Days are still long and enjoyable.

August – The warmest month of Ireland is usually August with high and low temperatures equal to July. Rain starts to increase this month and days are beginning to get shorter.

September – There is often more sun than rain in September with average high temperatures of 17°C and lows of 10°C. It can be one of the best months to visit Ireland with a good amount of daylight hours still around.

October – The cooler air starts to show an appearance in October with highs of 13°C and lows of 8°C. Autumn colours make an appearance and, while rain is almost guaranteed, it can be one of the best months to visit Ireland to avoid the crowds.

November – This month it turns colder and frosty with temperature highs of 10°C and lows of 5°C. With the clocks having turned back at the end of October, days are noticeably shorter heralding the start of winter.

December – December is often the wettest month in Ireland with high temperatures of 8°C and low temperatures of 5°C. That said it is not unheard of for temperatures to dip below freezing and snow can occur too. The days are the shortest of the year, with darkness creeping in just after 4pm.

The moral of the story when it comes to visiting Ireland and the weather is to go prepared with layers, a raincoat at the very least and also an umbrella. Just because the table below doesn’t mention rain in certain months does not mean there is none. Rain can occur during every month of the year in Ireland and it is best to be prepared.

When is the best time to go to Ireland – Public Holidays Guide

When deciding the best time of year to travel to Ireland, you may want to take into account public holidays. This can be for several reasons. Firstly, one of the biggest public holidays is St Patrick’s Day on March 17 th and accommodation and prices of flights can be very expensive. There are also lots of crowds in many of the cities, particularly in Dublin. Secondly, if you are visiting during a public holiday you may find shops, restaurants and tourist attractions closed for the day. Public transport may also operate on a reduced timetable. So, bear this in mind.

Here is a list of the public holidays in both the Republic and Northern Ireland. Where the holiday is shared by both parts of Ireland, no separate note is marked. Where it applies to only the Republic of Ireland, it is marked with Rep, and where it applies only to Northern Ireland it is marked with NI.

• January 1 st – New Year’s Day
• First Monday in February – Imbolc/St Brigid’s Day (unless February 1st is a Friday in which case the bank holiday falls on a Friday) (Rep)
• March 17 th – St Patrick’s Day
• Easter Monday (generally late March or early April)
• First Monday in May
• Last Monday in May (NI)
• First Monday in June (Rep)
• July 12 th – Battle of the Boyne (NI)
• First Monday in August (Rep)
• Last Monday in August (NI)
• Last Monday in October (Rep)
• December 25 th – Christmas Day
• December 26 th – St Stephens Day (Rep)/Boxing Day (NI)

Note: Good Friday is not a bank holiday in Ireland but is in Northern Ireland. However, in the Republic, schools and most businesses close that day.

Best time to travel in Ireland – Seasons Guide

Tourist seasons can play a big role in deciding the best time to travel to Ireland.

Peak or High season in Ireland is from June to September and the week surrounding St Patrick’s Day (March 17 th ). These are by far the busiest months with a huge influx of visitors. Aside from March, the summer welcomes warmer, usually drier weather with long days of more than 15 hours of daylight. This makes these months the ideal ones for cramming in lots of sightseeing into an Ireland itinerary. However, the result is these months are also the most expensive times of the year to visit Ireland.

The week around St Patrick’s Day is also very busy with visitors from across the globe descending on Dublin to enjoy or take part in the St Patrick’s Day Parade. This often coincides with the Six Nations Rugby Championship and Ireland may be playing a home game during the weekend which increases the number of visitors, with supporters of the opposing team arriving in Dublin.

The Shoulder season in Ireland is April to May and October and is often said to be the best time to visit Ireland for a few reasons. The weather is often mild, although be prepared for rain. Crowds are lighter than in the summertime and with a good number of daylight hours, these two things combined make sightseeing a more pleasurable activity. Fewer crowds also mean lower costs for flights and accommodation.

The Low season in Ireland is November to March, not counting St Patrick’s Day. These are the coldest and often wettest months of the year with reduced daylight hours resulting in much shorter days. While this results in fewer crowds, cheaper flights and accommodation, you may find some attractions closed or with reduced opening hours and potentially fewer accommodation choices on offer. That said, if you plan things right, don’t mind the cold and rain, and pack accordingly, this can turn out to be the best and cheapest time to visit Ireland, especially if you are on a budget.

What is the best time to visit Ireland weather-wise?

If the weather is your big deciding factor and good weather is a must, then you are limited to travelling to Ireland during the summer months.

As mentioned already, these are the months with the warmest temperatures and the least amount of rain, although you can still experience rain throughout the summer. The days are long with lots of hours of daylight, making the summer months the best time to visit Ireland weather-wise.

All attractions are open and there are generally lots of activities on offer for tourists visiting from June to August. Visitors can enjoy the outdoors and there are lots of festivals and events during these months. Just be aware that primary schools in Ireland finish up at the end of June, while those in secondary school who are not sitting exams finish for the summer at the start of June. Most schools return during the last week of August.

Summer is the best time to visit if you want to avoid the cold and the worst of the rain, you want to use as many daylight hours as you can for sightseeing and budget isn’t a factor for your trip to Ireland.

If sightseeing is your main reason for visiting Ireland, then typically the shoulder season and September are the best months to go. Crowds have thinned out, schools are either awaiting the summer holidays or have returned after them, and prices, as a result, are lower in terms of flights and accommodation.

The weather is warm and, while rain can arrive, if you go prepared you can still sightsee. Daylight hours are typically more than 12 hours giving plenty of time to squeeze in your sightseeing, but without the manic crowds of summer.

If you are interested in enjoying a festival while you are in Ireland, here is my post about the best festivals on the Emerald Isle which might help you plan exactly when to visit Ireland. Note that these will be busier times for the city or area where the festival is taking place, regardless of the time of year.

I hope this guide has helped you decide when is the best time for you to visit Ireland.

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When is the best time to visit the UK? (Seasonal & monthly guide)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 8, 2023

Are you planning a trip to the UK but unsure of the best time of year to visit? In this article discover what each season has to offer as well as a month by month guide to major events across the UK. Everything you need to know to help you make the right decision for your trip.

If you’re dreaming of having a spot of tea in England or envisioning a bagpipe serenade on the moors of Scotland, then it sounds like you’re on the verge of planning one heck of a British vacation. The question is, when is the best time to visit the UK?

There are many considerations to make when planning your trip , including the pros and cons of travelling “in season,” what types of activities you want to do and especially what kind of weather should you expect.

In this article, we will answer all commonly asked questions including

• what you can expect from the weather during each season
• the dates of school and public holidays – and the pros and cons of travelling during these peak times
• expected hours of daylight throughout the year and the impact this can have on your plans
• what (and when) major events occur throughout the year
• plus a guide to the best time to visit England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland

FAQ’s about the best time of year to visit the UK

Many questions about when is the best time to visit the UK invariably revolve around the weather. The only certainty about the UK weather is that is unpredictable.

• When is winter in the UK?

The winter months ranges from mid-November to early March.

• When is summer in the UK?

The summer months range from early June to the end of August.

• Can I see the Northern Lights in the UK?

For the best chance to see the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) head to to Northern Scotland.

• What is the rainiest month in the UK?

Although December to February are the months that tend to have the most rainfall in the UK (and often can fall as snow especially on higher ground) expect rain at any time of year.

• What is the hottest month of the year in the UK?

During the summer months expect generally warm to hot weather with July (on average) the month with the highest average temperatures.

• When is peak season in the UK?

Peak season in the UK is July and August. This also coincides with school holidays across the country.

• When is the shoulder season in the UK?

Shoulder season in the UK is May, June and September.

• When are the major public holidays in the UK?

In addition to Christmas, New Year and Easter holidays there are a number of public holidays (called ‘Bank” holidays) throughout the year including May Day Bank Holiday (first Monday in May), Spring Bank Holiday (last Monday in May – and yes there are two Bank Holiday weekends in May!), and the Summer Bank Holiday (last Monday in August)

• FAQ's about the best time of year to visit the UK

The weather

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Factors to consider when planning your trip

• Pros and cons of travelling during Peak Season, Shoulder Season or Low Season
• The impact of daylight hours

The UK is a small island divided into 4 separate nations — England , Wales , Northern Ireland and Scotland . Each has their own cultural identities and attractions to consider, not to mention their own weather idiosyncrasies.

Basically though, the entire UK has a temperate climate with warm summers that never get too hot and cold winters that never get too cold.

The UK weather is, however, famously unreliable and generally not the primary reason to visit the UK! Think about your many clothing options when packing— and don’t forget the umbrella (my UK packing guide for every season will help!)

The answer to the question, ‘When is the best time of year to visit the UK?’ really depends on what you’re looking for. The UK’s warmest weather is in the summer. Autumn and spring are charming but may be a little bit chilly for certain outdoor activities. Winter can be cold, blustery and damp, though it usually only snows around 24 days out of the year.

Spring in the UK begins in March and goes through to the end of May. The weather starts off cold and rainy but becomes more mild as the months progress. Finally, by the end of May and beginning of June, the UK starts to warm up. The average maximum temperatures are as follows:

• March, 12°C (54°F)
• April, 15°C (59°F)
• May, 18°C (64°F)
• June, 21°C (70°F)

Read – Complete Guide to visiting the UK in spring

The summer is generally very pleasant in the UK and tends to be dryer than in the autumn and winter months. The summer begins in June and ends in early September. The average maximum temperatures for the summer months are as follows:

• July, 23°C (73°F)
• August, 23°C (73°F)
• September, 20°C (68°F)

Read – Complete Guide to visiting the UK in summer

Autumn goes from September through to the end of November. Days change from crisp to blustery and then get downright cold. There tends to be a higher level of precipitation during these months as well. The average maximum temperatures for the autumn months are as follows:

• October, 16°C (61°F)
• November, 12°C (54°F)
• December, 9°C (48°F)

It can get rather bleak and cold in the UK during the winter months, which go from the start of December through to the end of February. The average maximum temperatures for the UK in winter months are as follows:

• January, 9°C (48°F)
• February, 9°C (48°F)

Read – Complete Guide to visiting the UK in winter

Peak season for travel in the UK are the summer months of July and August. These dates also coincide with the long 6 week summer school holidays (and hopefully sunny weather)

What are the pros of visiting the UK during peak season?

• The UK weather is generally at its best during these months.
• Hours of daylight are long which means more time to explore the sights.
• Some of the UK’s major events occur during July (Wimbledon) and August (Edinburgh Festival)
• Many historic sights have special events on especially for families e.g jousting at Warwick Castle.

What are the cons of traveling during peak season?

• It is the most expensive time of year to visit and prices for flights, accommodation and transportation can be sky-high.
• Main attractions across the country are busy – buy tickets ahead of time (skip the line tickets are worth the expense unless you enjoy wasting precious holiday time in a queue!)
• Restaurants and hotels are jam-packed.
• Roads are busy and traffic jams are common which can add to the stress if you are planning to hire a car for a road trip

Shoulder season in the UK is in May, early June, September and early October.

What are the pros of visiting the UK during shoulder season?

• Less expensive than peak season
• Better availability for accommodation
• Some of the UK’s most popular events occur during these months such as the Chelsea Flower Show (May), Trooping of the Colour (June)
• Less crowded (though the Bank holidays can be busy)
• There are 2 public (bank) holidays in May (first and last Mondays of May) and many popular historical sights organize events especially for families over these long weekends.
• Expect fewer crowds at popular attractions (though school groups may visit museums, art galleries, and castles during term time)
• Long daylight hours

November through to April is generally considered to be the low season for travel to the UK.

Note that some parts of the UK such as London and Edinburgh experience significant numbers of tourists during December and early January which can significantly impact costs.

Pros of visiting the UK during the low season

• Budget friendly
• Less crowded
• Enjoy special events over the festive period including Christmas markets, Christmas lights and decorations in major cities and New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Cons of visiting the UK during the low season

• Weather can be very cold (expect snow during the winter months)
• Daylight hours are reduced (it can get dark as early as 3.30 pm)
• Many popular attractions are closed over the winter months.

The amount of daylight you can expect fluctuates greatly across the year and can have a major impact on your plans.

The amount of daylight can also vary depending on your destination within the UK. The further north you travel the more daylight you can expect in summer and the less in winter.

Average hours of daylight in June (longest day)

London – 16 hours +

Scotland – 17 hours +

Average hours of daylight in December (shortest day)

London – 8 hours

Scotland – 7 hours

First of all, there’s no bad time to visit England , though travelling during every season has its advantages and disadvantages. You can, however, expect some seasonal variation in prices, crowd size and availability of activities.

The summer is the peak tourist season, which is from the end of May to early September. The daylight hours are at their maximum, up to 16 hours per day. The weather is usually delightful and kids are off school (July and August). The inevitable consequence is that everyone starts flocking to the tourist destinations and adding to the already long lines and crowds.

If you dream of gallivanting through the English countryside, add throngs of people sharing the roads and limited parking to your vision. Unfortunately, hotel rates and airfare are usually more expensive in the summer. Still, that charming weather can be a lure that outweighs all of those inconveniences.

If you travel in winter, it may be cold and bleak, and the daylight hours will have waned to just 8 to 10 hours per day. That’s the bad news. The good news is you won’t have to fight any crowds or struggle to get a dinner reservation. There will also be deals to be had on hotel rooms and flights. So if your itinerary contains a lot of indoor activities, maybe winter travel is right for you.

If you’re wondering when is a good time to visit London , it’s similar to travelling in the rest of the UK in terms of weather and seasonal availability. There are a few exceptions, however.

Christmas time in the capital city has been an incredibly popular destination for decades, what with the shopping, the decorations and abundant Christmassy charm.

If however you are a royal watcher, consider traveling in the summer when there are more opportunities to have a peek into the royal lifestyle . Many royal residences are open to the public during the summer because the royals themselves are away on vacation.

Taking all of this into consideration, if you want to know when the best time is to visit England, the answer is (if you can) spring or autumn. During these times the weather is favourable and the daylight hours vary from 11 to 15 hours per day, so there’ll be plenty of time for sightseeing.

Taking a road trip through the English countryside (the Cotswolds , Lake District , Peak District or Northumberland are just two suggestions) is gorgeous in the spring or autumn because either the flowers are blooming or the leaves are turning brilliant shades of orange and yellow. While there are crowds they are smaller and more manageable than in the peak summer season.

Just like it did for England, the timing of your Scotland trip depends upon what you activities have planned. The country’s winter may be more suited to hunkering down in an Edinburgh pub rather than hiking through the Highlands. The average temperature hovers around 0°C (32°F) and is likely to be even colder on the coast and in higher attitudes.

Like England, airfares and hotel rooms will generally be cheaper and you won’t have to fight the crowds in the cities or in the train stations. You will, however, need to be ready for the reduced daylight hours. In January, for example, the sun rises at 8:47 a.m. and sets at 3:53 p.m.

There is good news, though. Because of Scotland’s high latitude and particularly dark winter nights, there’s a chance that you will be treated to the aurora borealis or the northern lights — a dazzling and somewhat ethereal light show in the sky.

A summer trip to Scotland is defined by pros and cons.

The pros — you’ll have lovely weather, as it never gets too terribly hot in Scotland. Temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 17°C (63 °F). The daylight hours are also long. In August, for example, the sun rises at 4:22 a.m. and sets at 8:03 p.m.

There will be a lot to do, like hiking, camping, driving tours, beautiful train journeys , exploring the cities, islands and the countryside.There are festivals for every taste, such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival  in Inverness.

Now for some cons — July and August are peak months for travel, and the crowds will be significantly larger and the prices will be higher. If you don’t mind competing for a little space and paying more for the privilege, then a summer trip may just be the perfect one for you.

As with England, visiting Scotland in the late spring/early summer or early autumn is ideal. By June, Scotland gets an amazing 17 hours of daylight. That combined with the spring’s pleasant weather, an average of 7°C (45°F) to 13 °C (55°F), and you will be able to conquer every outdoor activity there is to offer.

If you would prefer to spend your time in Scotland’s cities, the good news is that the summer tourists haven’t arrived yet, so lines won’t be as long and the prices will be more reasonable. The same thing is true for an autumn visit. Starting in November through middle December, airfares tend to be cheaper.

Early autumn is an ideal time of year to drive North Coast 500 , a spectacular 516-mile trip from Inverness along Scotland’s North Highlands that might be one of the most scenic drives in the world.

No matter when you visit Wales , remember, the weather can be unpredictable and you should pack well and be prepared for a variety of temperatures.

The temperature in winter averages 6°C (43°F), but compared to Scotland, there is a good amount of daylight — sunrise is around 7:40 a.m. and sunset is around 6:28 p.m. In spite of the cooler weather, daffodils have been known to make their cheerful appearance late in the winter.

Another plus, if you travel on or near March 1st, you can join the locals in celebrating St. David’s Day. The patron saint of Wales is feted with parades, traditional Welsh dress and plenty of delicious food, not to mention scores of daffodils and leeks.

The summer is a lovely time to visit, as the weather is very agreeable, although the region can get quite a bit of rain. There is between 15-16 hours of daylight during the summer. Temperatures average 16 °C (61 °F), so hiking and camping would be fantastic during this time, as would any coastal family trips.

If you wish to see the Atlantic Puffins take over the island of Skomer, then early July is the time to go, especially if you want to see them parenting their new chicks.

Summer is the busiest time of year, so expect higher prices and be prepared to book well in advance for hotels (and popular Welsh castle hotel stays ), air travel, restaurants and activities.

The late spring and early autumn are great times to go to Wales. There are between 13 and 16 hours of daylight during both seasons. The temperature usually hovers around 13°C (55°F). In May and June, flowers will be blooming in a riot of colors, making the already breathtaking scenery fully come to life.

The Wales Coast Path, an 870-mile long footpath that winds its way along the coastline, makes for a perfect hike during this time. For something a little different, check out The Laugharne Weekend in West Wales — a local, literary and arts celebration of Dylan Thomas and other writers, musicians and comedians who’ve come from Wales.  

In the autumn, the mountains and valleys look to be on fire with all shades of gold and orange, and the nights begin to get crisp with a touch of chill. Places like Hay-on-Wye, a charming market town on the River Wye become even more magical in the autumn.

There will also be plenty of seasonal activities, such as at the medieval Powis Castle and Garden. Each year they create the Powis pumpkin trail, where kids can search for the carved pumpkins hidden throughout the garden.

If spending a night in a Welsh castle is on your bucket list why not book one of these amazing Welsh castle hotels ?

If you wish to visit Northern Ireland when the temperatures are at their warmest, then go during July and August. The average temperature in the summer is 17°C (63°F), but beware because summertime is also when the country’s rainfall is at its peak.

The summer in Northern Ireland has amazingly long daylight hours, 5:00 a.m. to 10:00pm, so you’ll be able to pack in a lot of activities. It is the peak season, which means you’ll be fighting the crowds as you see the sights.

Also, keep in mind, summer vacations for their school children start a few weeks earlier than they do in England, meaning the tourist sites may be more crowded starting at the end of June.

In winter, Northern Ireland is a little colder than England and has about 7-8 hours of daylight. That won’t matter too much if you seek out Belfast’s St. George’s Market, Northern Ireland’s last surviving Victorian market. In December, they offer twilight days for evening shopping. There will also be crafts from local artisans, delightful food and family entertainment.

Like with the other UK regions, you get the best of everything by visiting in the spring or autumn. By late spring, you’ll start to see lambs and calves in the pastures as the temperatures rise to between 10°C (50°C) to 16°C (60°F).

Visit Rathlin Island in the late spring and you’ll see all kinds of nesting birds and the area’s famous puffins. Also, for those festival fans, check out the two-day Bushmills Salmon and Whiskey festiva l held in early June.

In the autumn, as the leaves are changing colors, it’s a perfect time to visit the Glens of Antrim, or known locally simply as The Glens. It’s a region of County Antrim known for it’s astonishing natural beauty.

In October, the Glens Storytelling Festival is a five-day event for tourists and locals alike to experience the magic of this area’s story telling traditions. Expect family-friendly stories to have a touch of Halloween magic.

Which is the best month to visit the UK? Month by month pros and cons + guide to all the major events in the UK

❄️ Visiting the UK in winter

🌷 Visiting the UK in spring

☀️ Visiting the UK in the summer

🍂 Visiting the UK in autumn

🧣 Visiting Scotland in winter

January in the UK falls within the low tourist season, which creates some distinct advantages for travellers. Students return to school and the cold weather, gloomy skies and waning daylight translate into fewer people, cheaper hotel rooms and inexpensive airfare.

Also, the after-Christmas sales are in full swing, so bargain hunters will have a field day shopping. Theatre tickets and restaurant reservations will also be easier to get. A January trip is sounding better and better. Here are some fun things to do in January:

• New Year’s Day Parade in London —This is a fabulous, free and family-friendly parade in the city’s West End. It’s three and a half hours of music and revere that won’t soon be forgotten.

• Simplyhealth Great Edinburgh Winter Run— If you’re in Scotland and are a fitness buff, join 3000 other hardcore health nuts for this 5k of fun that also affords fantastic views of the city.

• Big Burns Supper in Dumfries Scotland— Part of the country’s Burns Night, this event occurs in the latter half of the month and offers all sorts of venues with everything from comedy to cabaret.

February in the UK falls securely within low season for travellers, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have an absolutely fantastic vacation if you choose to travel then. If you don’t mind cooler weather, the seaside towns should be virtually empty, for example.

Keep in mind that UK schools have a half-term break in February, which may cause unexpected crowds at tourist sites. Here are some fun things to do in February:

• V alentine’s Day in London —A visit to multiple artisan chocolate shops would definitely be in order, as would a romantic dinner for two in one of London’s many fine-dining restaurants.

• The Orchid Festival at London’s Kew Gardens —If you adore flowers and don’t want to travel all the way to Indonesia, then this show is not to be missed. There will be over 5000 species of orchids to admire.

• London’s Classic Car Show in Olympia Exhibition Centre —You’ll see some of the finest and most collectable vintage models in the world.

Flowers will be just beginning to bloom throughout the UK, a promise that spring is just around the corner.

March is a shoulder season for tourists, which means it’s not too busy and not too light. So you can throw on a coat and start taking advantage of some of the outdoor fun that the UK has to offer. Here are some fun things to do in March:

• Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race in London — When is the best time to travel to England? When there are 250,000 screaming rowing fans cheering on the edge of the Thames. This is one of the largest sporting events held in London and it’s free! (Sometimes this event happens in April, so check online to see.)

• Glasgow International Comedy Festival —Are you a comedy fan? In the latter half of March, travel to Scotland and see the funniest stars from all around the UK hit the stage in what is Europe’s largest comedy festival.

• St. Patrick’s Day in Northern Ireland —On March 17th, County Armagh and County Down host the annual Home of Saint Patrick Festival that consists of concerts, family-friendly activities and general fun.

Ah, April. The flowers are blooming and the days are getting longer. It’s a shoulder season, so it’s a pretty good time to enjoy the natural beauty that the UK has to offer without having to brave too many crowds.

Students in the UK have a school break around Easter, which usually falls in this month, so that may alter the tourist scene slightly. Regardless, there are also a lot of fun, local activities to choose from. Here are some examples:

• Isle of Wight Walking Festival —Fun for all ages and all fitness levels. Thousands of locals and tourists alike explore the island and take in its stark, scenic beauty.

• Shakespeare’s Birthday in Stratford-upon-Avon —Celebrate The Bard’s birthday by traveling to his birthplace for performances, music and all kinds of fun.

• Cardiff Flower Show —If you’re a gardener or a flower appreciator and are planning to be in Wales, you might want to visit the Royal Horticultural Society’s Cardiff Flower Show. There are countless exhibits and demonstrations to inspire and fascinate those with or without a green thumb.

The weather is getting ever warmer and the days are getting longer in the UK, yet May is still a shoulder season, which means its an excellent time to visit. Things can get busy over the Bank holiday weekends with many Brits enjoying a spring staycation .

It’s also getting dryer, so rain may not be as much of an issue as it is in other months. Still, bring a few layers to wrap up in, just in case. Here are some fun things to do in May:

• Chelsea Flower Show – Since 1913, except during the two world wars, the famous Chelsea Flower Show has been a glamorous affair celebrating British flowers and garden design. It takes place on the grounds of the Royal Hospital in Chelsea and makes for a fun and historical activity whilst in the UK.

• Gloucester Docks Tall Ship Festival — Come see tall ships in all of their splendor along with fun and games for the whole family. There will be live stages with local bands as well as a food market

• Gordon Castle Highland Games and Country Fair – Join over 10,000 locals and tourists at Scotland’s only highland games and country fair. It’s at the magnificent Gordon Castle located near Fochabers in Moray.

The middle of June marks the beginning of peak season for traveling in the UK, so make sure you’ve got those reservations, tickets and bookings well ahead of time.

You have an excellent chance of pleasant weather and agreeable temperatures, so live it up! Here are some fun things to do in June:

• Glastonbury Festival — This world-famous five-day festival takes place in Pilton, Somerset, in the south west of England. It features big-name contemporary musical acts as well as dance, cabaret and theater.

• Gregynog Music Festival — Attention classical music lovers! In the gorgeous Welsh countryside in the village of Tergynon, you’ll find the oldest classical music festival in Wales, which attracts some of the world’s finest musicians.

• The Royal Highland Show — Scotland’s largest agricultural show put on by the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland. Thousands of visitors come from all over the globe to see over 1000 exhibitors and scores of livestock. It’s in Ingliston, an area of West Edinburgh.

July is peak travel season with very long days and probably the best weather offered by the UK. Restaurants will be jam-packed and tourist sites will be overflowing with visitors.

Add in the students who have just been released from school on summer break and you will have a lot of people to contend with. No wonder there is a lot going on the UK during the summer! Here are some examples:

• Wimbledon — In a town called Wimbledon, there’s a little yearly tennis tournament. Actually, it’s probably the most major tournament in the tennis world.

Good to know – If you want to do it on the cheap, go outside the stadium to Henman Hill and buy a £30 ticket to watch the matches on a giant TV. If you want the real thing, then you’ll need to shell out quite a bit more, depending on which match you see.

• The Big Cheese at Caerphilly — History buffs, would you like to be sent back to medieval days at Caerphilly Castle ? See reenactments and battles, along with entertainment, food, period dance and a whole lot of fun.

The weather is warm, so that distracts you from the peak season crowds traveling throughout the UK. All schools are enjoying summer break, so expect to be shoulder to shoulder with locals and tourists alike at all the tourist sites.

Here are some fun things to do in August:

• Wilderness Festival —Located in Oxfordshire’s Cornbury Park, this festival offers easy-going music, theatrical productions, amazing food and really cool art, all in a gorgeous lakeside setting.

• Edinburgh Fringe Festival — If you like crowds, music and having serious fun, then try out the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the world’s largest arts festival. It goes on for days and hosts so much talent, it takes hundreds of venues just to fit everything in. Check their website to see the list of performers.

• The National Eisteddfod — A festival celebrating all things Welsh . It’s in the first 8 days of August and there is food, music, arts and design.

The beginning of September is part of the summer peak season but with the end of summer and beginning of autumn, the rest of the month is a shoulder season.

Most students head back to school early in September, so vacationers return home and tourist sites will be less crowded. Here are some fun things to do in September:

• The Jane Austen Festival — Do you dream of spending a quiet evening with Mr. Darcy or Elizabeth Bennet? Travel to Bath and spend 10 days choosing from over 80 Jane Austen-related events. There’s even a Regency Costumed Masked Ball!

• Culture Night Belfast – For the past several years, in the second half of September, people hit the Belfast streets from City Hall to the Cathedral Quarter to enjoy a free celebration of art, language and history of Northern Ireland. There is something to do for all ages.

There’s a crisp autumn chill in the air and Halloween ghosts and goblins are just around the corner. The beginning of October is a shoulder season, and by the end, it slows down into low season. Still, there are lots of interesting things to tackle in the UK during October.

• Harwich International Shanty Festival – For those who can’t resist the call of that salty ocean air, sail on over to Harwich and sing an old song of the sea. There’ll be concerts and barge trips and crafts for the saltiest old sailors to the youngest of landlubbers.

• The Callander Jazz and Blues Festival — Who doesn’t enjoy jazz in a charming rural setting? In 2006, this festival was born and has grown larger every year. It’s a long weekend of all types of music in a variety of venues. You’ll see live blues, jazz, boogie and soul from a huge variety of artists.

This is the low season for travel in the UK. The weather is brisk and it’s best to remember to bring a bunch of comfy layers and a jacket in your suitcase. Here are some fun things to do in November:

• Guy Fawkes Night —This celebration marks the night back in 1605 when Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament. He did not succeed, and the anniversary has traditionally been remembered with a bonfire. Given that could easily get out of hand, most celebrations have switched to fireworks.

• Diwali on Trafalgar Square – Diwali is the festival of lights celebrated by Hindu, Jain and Sikh people all over the world. This one is the biggest in the UK and features amazing dancers in stunningly beautiful and colorful dress. Expect to see market stalls with amazing food, as well as crafts and fun activities for the whole family.

Yes, it’s pretty chilly in the UK during December, and the days have grown a wee bit short. There’s still a lot to love about this winter month. Keep in mind, that students in the UK usually have the final weeks in December off, so that could affect the crowd levels.

The weeks closest to Christmas are considered a peak tourist season, so there are many Christmas activities to choose from including festive markets all over the UK.

• Belfast Giants Ice Hockey — For something really different, grab the whole family, live like a local and check out an ice hockey game. Their website has all the information about tickets and times.

• Elfingrove at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum —This magnificent museum in Glasgow transforms itself and offers night-time tours along with local food and singing.

This is really a difficult question to answer and really deserves a post all of its own.

Many people insist that it’s Christmas. Trafalgar Square has a giant lit up Christmas tree dripping in ornaments and Christmas cheer. Carol singing and festive events occur all throughout London.

There are several London Christmas Markets that will surely take care of everyone on that Christmas list. There are also a number of festive events held annually around Christmas at many of the castles near London.

But in summer the hours of daylight are longer and exploring London’s attractions on a warm sunny day is also a wonderful experience.

To be honest for me deciding when to visit London is best answered with the words “it is always a good idea!”

Read more – Visiting London in winter | 21 Festive things to do and see in London in December | 29 Things to do in London in Spring | Guide to visiting London in Fall

So the only true answer to the question, “When is the best time to go to England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland?” really does depend on your own interests and available time to go.

Once you have settled on the time of year to visit the UK you are now ready to start planning your trip itinerary.

My UK Trip Planner will help you to plan the perfect UK vacation in 10 easy to follow steps – I recommend starting there!

For UK inspiration my top 21 landmarks in England , 19 places to visit in Scotland , top 10 things to see in Wales , top 10 things to do in Northern Ireland and London bucket list articles are great places to start.

I recommend prioritising what you want to see and do. You can also take some virtual tours of London and UK landmarks and sights to help you plan.

Other useful resources to help you plan your trip:

• How much does a holiday in the UK cost? Read my UK travel budget guide to help calculate your budget!
• Choose from my selection of the best guidebooks for UK travel
• Click here for my recommendations of the best booking sites for travel to the UK
• Prefer an organised tour? Check out our recommendations of the best UK tours available for 2021 and beyond!
• How to get around the UK (Complete Guide to Transportation in the UK)

Thanks for visiting nordicvisitor.com! For the very best browsing experience on our website, we urge you to upgrade to the most recent version of your browser . Some of our site features may not function properly on older versions.

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Best Time to Visit Ireland: Your Complete Guide

Ireland, also known as the Emerald Isle, is a country you can enjoy whatever the season. There are countless fantastic activities to enjoy and sights to admire all year long. As your visit may depend on your interests or your available time, we have you covered with this useful guide.

If you’ve already booked your trip, you can see what the best things to do in Ireland are at that time of year. Maybe you want to visit for a particular activity, or you’re simply looking for some inspiration. Read on to learn all about the best time of year to  visit Ireland .

When is peak season?

Thanks to its temperate climate and beautiful sights Ireland is a great year-round destination. That said, it's still the summer months that draw the most visitors. You'll find the high season for accommodation and attractions is usually from April until September.

The most popular time to travel is July and August, when you may find yourself sharing attractions with many other visitors. Meanwhile, during spring and early autumn you can enjoy mild weather paired with fewer other travellers.

Another period that sees a lot of international visitors is mid-March. Dublin is particularly lively around this time of year as it coincides with the ever-popular St Patrick’s Day celebrations.

• Browse our  best-selling tours of Ireland to find your perfect match

When is the best time to visit Ireland for the weather?

To make the most of the year's best weather, you'll definitely want to explore Ireland during the spring and summer.

Between May and September, you can take advantage of the warmest and driest months of the year. Plus, there's more daylight at this time of year. This is ideal for soaking up the scenery and enjoying the sights into the evening.

It’s good to keep in mind that, like many countries in Northern Europe, it rains year-round in Ireland. It is not such a green country for nothing! As the weather is pretty changeable, you may find you encounter rain, sunshine and wind all within one day. It is part of the experience and charm of Ireland!

But, come prepared and you won’t need to miss a single thing. This is why we recommend always having a few layers with you, especially windproof and waterproof layers. Check out our  Ireland packing guide for more information.

The weather conditions you experience also depends on where in Ireland you're visiting. For instance, the west coast is windier as it is exposed to the Atlantic Ocean. Meanwhile, it tends to be sunnier and drier in the southeast.

You can find out more about the weather in Ireland  in this handy guide.

• Discover Ireland on a self-drive tour , guided small group trip or privately guided package

What is the best month to visit Ireland?

While the weather may be a big draw for some, you may want to come to Ireland for a particular month or season, whether that’s when you have holidays or when you want to enjoy a certain activity.

Exploring Ireland in summer

One of the best times to visit Ireland is during the summer. You’ll enjoy warmer weather, ranging between 13°C and 18°C (55°F-64°F) and longer daylight hours to take advantage of all the summer activities, festivals, and attractions.

Ireland is truly booming at this time of year, offering you plenty to do and see.

Summer is also the perfect season to take the wheel on an  Irish road trip . Plus, with longer daylight hours, driving in Ireland can feel easier at this time of year.

Or if you'd like to travel with a local expert, why not join a small group trip or privately guided tour ? This way you can sit back and learn from your driver-guide as they take you between Ireland's highlights.

If you want to visit the remote Aran Islands or even Skellig Michael , the summer is the time to plan your visit. Boating trips are often only available during the high season, and are always dependent on weather and sea conditions.

To make the most out of your visit, especially if you intend to go to a lot of attractions, we recommend you plan your trip between April and September. Places such as museums, distilleries and historic sites often have restricted hours during the winter. Some are closed completely after October.

One thing you should consider when planning to explore Ireland is how popular the country is during the 'peak season'. Between June and August, the country is abuzz with visitors from around the world.

For that reason, we recommend the shoulder months. April-May and September-October still features nice weather and has fewer visitors as well. Those months are ideal if you are looking for a quieter vacation.

• Take a summer road trip around Ireland
• You can also explore from April to October on one of these classic holidays in Ireland

Exploring Ireland in winter

Winter in Ireland roughly extends from October until March. Thankfully, because of the island's location, right in the path of the Gulf Stream, local temperatures rarely drop too much during this time. The average temperature is between 4°C and 8°C (39°F-47°F).

Irish winter is a season characterised by wind and rain. You’ll also find that it rarely snows in Ireland. However, you may find some snow up in the mountainous regions, which receive around 30 days of snow a year.

Travelling during the 'off season' has its advantages. While the shorter daylight hours may mean you have less time during the day to visit and see the sights, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted sweeping views and smaller crowds. You may even find you have some sites to yourself!

The great thing about Ireland is that since it doesn’t get too cold during the winter, you can still experience all the famous sights. Don’t let the weather stop you! You may even really enjoy the different perspective and lovely soft light that winter casts on the Irish landscape.

If you want to experience the local culture, you may really enjoy visiting Ireland during the winter. It’s the ideal time of the year to curl up in a warm pub with a glass of whiskey listening to traditional music. Get a taste of the local food and drink and experience the warm Irish hospitality.

The downside of travelling to Ireland during the winter is that, despite being a year-round destination, there are fewer activities available at that time of year. Be aware that some top attractions have restricted opening hours, or are closed for the winter.

When is best to explore Ireland for…

There are truly no bad times to visit Ireland. To help you plan your dream trip we’ve compiled the most requested interests and activities and when is the best time of the year to come to Ireland for them. Look up the one you’d love to experience while in Ireland:

What is the best time to visit Dublin, Ireland?

The best time to visit the capital of Ireland, Dublin , has to be summer. This is a great time to enjoy all that this buzzing city has to offer. From festivals to discovering its green parks, and even day trips to the seaside nearby.

There is so much to love about Dublin at this time of year. The air is warmer, there are many events, and people will be celebrating and enjoying themselves outdoors. The longer daylight hours also mean longer opening hours for parks, gardens and attractions.

You could take a walking tour to feel straight out of a James Joyce novel, have a picnic, or even enjoy shopping along Grafton Street.

If you would rather come in winter, it’s good to note you’ll have plenty to dig your teeth into as well. Does sitting in a cosy pub with a local brew in hand listening to live music sound great? The cooler months are definitely for you, then.

• Look up these  cultural tours of Ireland to immerse yourself in Irish history

Best time to visit Ireland for wildlife watching

Avid wildlife watchers will have much to spot while touring the Emerald Isle!

Ireland welcomes more than 250 migratory birds to its shores, in addition to more than 100 local species. These bird species include puffins, guillemots, cormorants and gannets – colonies are especially present on the west coast.

The Cliffs of Moher are a Special Protected Area according to Irish and EU regulations. This declaration was made because of the 20 species of seabirds found here.

If you’re visiting this iconic Irish attraction, you’ll want to look out for a huge range of birds, including:

• Peregrine falcons

Some of the species are present here all year long, but the best time to spot them is between April and July.

The coast is also a good location to go in search of the marine life surrounding Ireland. There are plenty of fish (and other species) in the sea! This is important as fishing is an important national industry.

To spot some of the best sea life, make sure to travel the iconic Wild Atlantic Way route. From Malin Head down the west coast to County Cork . Stop by the water to try to spot animals including whales, dolphins, and otters.

Summer is the best time to try to catch a glimpse of the different types of whale.

If you’re a fan of seals, you’re also in for a treat. Common seal pups are born in the spring around May. You may be able to get a look at grey seal pups later in the year as they are usually born around September.

Wildlife enthusiasts may want to make sure to bring their binoculars and camera to capture it all!

Is there a best time to visit Ireland for photographers?

Photographers will have the time of their life in Ireland. The dramatic coastal sights (especially on the west coast) will make you want to take your camera out!

We recommend the shoulder months of April and October as the popular attractions and scenic locations will be far less crowded.

Because of the country’s northerly latitude, the days are shorter in October. This means the sun does not rise too far above the horizon, which produces a very special light for photography.

While the weather may be more changeable at this time of year, you may find the occasional storms coming in from the Atlantic a real treat. They can produce powerful images of dramatic skies and waves crashing onto the rugged coastline.

A bonus is the sunsets. They are often a highlight for photographing the Atlantic coast, and during this time of year can be enjoyed at a more convenient time of the day. This is in contrast with the summer when sunsets occur late at night.

One of my favourites is the Dingle Peninsula with its narrow, twisting roads, miles of golden beaches, jagged coastal cliffs and green, sheep-filled pastures backed by mountains – a photographer’s dream! - Chris Glauche, Travel Consultant & Photographer

• Do you want the best landscapes for stunning photography? Check out these nature tours of Ireland

Best time to explore Ireland for walking and hiking

Ireland is a beauty for hikers and definitely worth the effort! You’ll want to walk along the high coastal cliffs and see the sweeping views from the top of national parks.

While Ireland rarely gets too hot or too cold to go for a hill walk or a good hike, you’ll want to visit during the April to September period to enjoy this activity.

During spring, summer and autumn, the temperatures are comfortable for you to enjoy a half or full-day hike.

More specifically, the beginning and late summer is probably the ideal time for hikers to visit and be able to take full advantage of Ireland’s beauty.

During this time of year, the trails are most accessible and less crowded. The lengthy daylight hours mean you can take advantage of long days to explore even more.

In the spring and autumn, you may enjoy the mild weather for a day of physical activity. However, you may find it a bit windy and the weather more changeable. Be prepared and you’ll surely enjoy the hike and stunning views!

At any time of the year, we recommend being prepared for any weather, especially if you are by the sea or high up the mountains. Ensure to bring layers, light, warm and waterproof, and to stay hydrated!

What is the best time to visit Northern Ireland?

Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom but shares the island with the Republic of Ireland to the south. For a full tour of the island, you could aim to visit both at once.

The best time to do so is probably during the shoulder season, just before or after the summer. That’s because at the peak of summer, the natural wonders of Northern Ireland, like the Giant’s Causeway can attract big crowds.

In late spring and early autumn, you will enjoy smaller crowds but still beautiful days to explore. The weather will also be ideal for hiking during this entire half of the year.

The capital, Belfast , is great for a city break at any time of the year. It has many museums, like the Titanic Belfast, to keep you occupied in case of a rainy winter’s day.

When you visit, you may want to be aware of the bank holidays, to know when attractions and shops are likely to be closed. This includes Good Friday and Easter Monday, St Patrick's Day and Christmas, among others.

Best time to travel to Ireland for whiskey lovers

Ireland is an ideal country to visit if you enjoy a good whiskey! There’s never a bad time of year to enjoy a glass of fine locally distilled whiskey.

In the winter, you may particularly enjoy finding a spot amongst the locals in a cosy pub. Warm up with a glass of the ‘water of life’, as they call it in Ireland.

You may also enjoy visiting a distillery to see just how your the national spirit is made. You’ll have a world of choice, with our favourites being the Old Jameson distilleries in Dublin and County Cork, Old Bushmills in Northern Ireland, and the Kilbeggan  distillery in the Midlands.

Many distilleries are open all year long, though they may operate with restricted opening hours during the winter.

• Related: Fun facts about Ireland

Best time to visit Ireland to explore castles

Ireland’s rich history makes it an ideal place to visit for castle enthusiasts. Dotted around the country, you’ll find castles, estates and mansions. Many are open to the public, with guided or self-guided tours. Come learn about Irish history, or to see how the other half used to live.

If you want to visit the many castles of Ireland, we recommend visiting between the spring and autumn.

While most castles are open all year long, some operate restricted hours over the winter or may be closed completely. It is also good to note that most attractions are closed on Christmas Day as it is a public holiday. 

Depending on the location, if you’re adamant on visiting it, make sure to check their specific opening hours and plan your trip accordingly.

To visit in a quieter time, we recommend the shoulder season, just before or after the summer. This is because, at the height of summer, it may be quite busy to visit popular attractions.

If you are here during this time, we recommend visiting early or later in the day to avoid the crowds.

• Explore all this and more on these  tour packages with Irish castles
• Related: 15 best castles to visit in Ireland

Best time to visit Ireland as a family

Ireland is a great country to visit with the whole family. There is plenty of attractions that will please both adults and children.

Your decision of when to visit Ireland with your children may depend on many factors. Have you already booked to come during the summer school holidays? Do you want to experience a particular activity with them? For this, look up our above categories to get a better idea.

For families, we usually recommend a slow-paced summer self-drive tour . This allow you to stay longer in some locations, and gives you the flexibility to choose what attractions you want to visit and when.

Plus, over the summer, there are plenty of attractions open that kids will love. From castles where they can dress up as knights, to model villages  where they can experience the ancient rural Irish life.

The summer also has more daylight hours to take advantage of for sightseeing. This is also the least rainy time of the year, perfect for making the most of the outdoors with your kids.

July and August are two popular months for travelling to Ireland. So if you'd prefer a quieter holiday during which your children can run freely, we suggest visiting in June.

While you're planning your family trip to Ireland, it's worth bearing in mind that young visitors may not be allowed into whisky distilleries for tours. And it's good to know that the minimum age for drinking in Ireland is 18.

Best time of year for an Irish honeymoon

If you’ve always dreamt of a honeymoon in Ireland, the best time to come may depend on what you want out of it. While only you can answer that question, we’re here to help!

Do you want to experience the iconic Ring of Kerry ? Summer or autumn are the best time for this.

Are you intent on seeing the island where recent Star Wars movies were filmed, Skellig Michael? You'll want to head here in summer.

Or maybe your goal is to see Ireland's highlights in peace? Travel in winter when there are fewer other visitors.

In the summer, longer daylight hours mean you'll have more time to sightsee. You’ll also be able to take advantage of the nicer weather for enjoying the outdoors together. Have a romantic picnic on a white sand beach or stroll through lavish estate gardens.

Wintertime is also a romantic time of year to visit with your new life partner. Imagine listening to traditional Irish music and cosying up with a pint in front of a fireplace in a Galway pub. 

With fewer crowds at this time of year, you may find you’re spending more quality time together at each highlight. We also recommend a slow-paced tour with longer stops at each location to enjoy a leisurely time together.

What is the best time to visit Ireland to attend events and festivals?

The Irish are renown worldwide for their festivities, making Ireland a great place to visit if you love attending events and festivals. There is a bit of everything for everyone, with festivals and events on all kinds of subjects, such as:

• Irish history.

Whether you’re here in mid-July or mid-January, you’ll always find some fun events to join in. However, summer is the busiest time with events held in towns and cities all over the country.

To mark the New Year, you may want to stay in Dublin. The city hosts a New Year’s Festival with not one, not two, but three countdown events to mark the occasion! On the first of the year, continue the celebrations at the family-friendly New Year’s Day concert. And it’s free to boot!

Later in January, Dublin is also the host of TradFest. Today it is the largest festival of traditional music in Ireland! If you love folk music, you’ll definitely enjoy this showcase of the best of Irish and international trad music.

In late February- early March, catch an interesting new film at the Dublin International Film Festival.

Many true Irish descendants may know that March marks the celebrations of St Patrick’s Day. Coming at that time of year will be a busy affair!

Especially in Dublin, where the city hosts a five-day festival to the nation’s patron saint. The celebration concludes with the parade on the 17th (the actual St Patrick’s Day).

• Learn more about Irish history on one of these  heritage tours in Ireland

During the summer, you’ll find a host of activities and events throughout the country. Two big ones to add to your diary are the Seafest at the Cork City Quays in June and the Galway International Arts Festival in late July.

September is another busy month on the Irish social calendar. Galway hosts the International Oyster & Seafood festival for those who want to sink their teeth into some delicious local food. Dingle has its very own version of Tradfest and Dublin hosts the Fringe Festival.

You’ll enjoy a spooky October if you love vampires and literature as Dublin hosts the Bram Stoker Festival.

What is the best time to visit Ireland and Scotland?

Do you want to explore Ireland and Scotland  on the same trip? These neighbouring countries go well together, and will make for the ultimate unforgettable journey. They have shared history and traditions. You'll be able to compare the whisky (or "whiskey" if you're in Ireland) and learn about the connections they still have.

With minimal snowfall, the countryside in both countries is usually accessible all year long and you’ll find many attractions open in winter and summer alike.

Late spring, April and May, is probably the best time to explore both countries, as well as summer and early autumn. This is because you’ll enjoy longer daylight hours as well as mild and warm weather during this half of the year.

Tours of both Celtic nations are feasible in winter too. However, daylight hours are low and it tends to rain more than in summer.

And if you are hoping to travel to some of Scotland’s magical islands, remember that there are fewer ferry connections at this time. They are also more likely to be disrupted by the weather.

• Browse these self-drive and guided group tours of Scotland and Ireland

Only you can truly decide which time is best for you to visit Ireland! Every month in this superb country offers great travel experiences, so we hope this guide helps you to choose with confidence.

Contact our travel consultants to discuss what you'd like to get from your Irish adventure. Our goal is to ensure you make the best of your time in Ireland!

  Camila grew up between the French Canadian and Chilean cultures, before moving to Scotland in 2012. When she’s not travelling or writing about travels, Camila loves to read, run, and puzzle. Her favourite destinations have been Reykjavík, Copenhagen, Estonia and Cape Town.  

Find Camila on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

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10 Cool Facts About Ireland

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Best Time to Visit Ireland: Navigating the Emerald Isle Travel Seasons

Do you wish to see Ireland to its fullest? Are you wondering when is the best time to visit Ireland also known as the Emerald Isle? I have been to Ireland (both the Northern and the Republic) with my friends. While every month and season offers a different kind of beauty and experience to the traveler, it is still wise to plan your travel period here.

The best time to visit Ireland varies greatly on your motivation to travel. For good weather, come during summer. If you want a quieter experience, consider travelling here during the shoulder months which are April, May, September, or October. For budget-friendly travel, visit Ireland during winter time.

Ready to pack your bags? Don’t start quite yet! Let us first look at the different points to consider when coming to Ireland.

Winter in Ireland

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Ireland Climate Summary

If you are in Ireland anytime during the months of December, January, and February, you are going to experience some of the coldest and darkest days in the country. It can definitely get cold, but it would not come to a point where you’re freezing cold. Frost and snow may occur, most often in the northern and southern parts of Ireland. 

Winter days in Ireland are short, and abundant rainfall should be expected. There are occasional cold spells that happen, with the temperature dropping to as low as -10 °C (14 °F). Make sure to pack clothes that are appropriate for the season.

Spring is when Ireland experiences a gradual change in temperature, and as May comes the whole atmosphere is quite pleasant and definitely milder than the start of spring which is March. Expect cold nights if you are visiting during this season.

During springtime, flowers are in full bloom in Ireland. You will be treated to lush and green landscapes in the countryside, and because rain will be a lot less frequent, you will be able to enjoy more time outdoors.

Cool and mild temperatures start to dominate the atmosphere in Ireland from June to August, and so expect to share the place with huge crowds wanting to visit the tourist spots here. Summer is also the driest season, but do expect rain showers every now and then. Make sure to still pack your rain gear with you on your visit.

During summer, the days are at their longest in Ireland. Sometimes, darkness only sets in at around 10 in the evening. That’s about 17 hours of daylight!

Prepare to fall even more in love with Ireland during the autumn season. Its natural beauty is on full display during this time, happening from September to November each year. It can be cloudy, windy, and rainy, so make sure to gear up for the season.

Once November kicks in, the temperature gets cooler by the day. You will also see less sunshine, so it is great to plan a little bit more indoor activities during this time.

Seasons in Ireland

Ireland by Month

• Average Temperature: 4°C to 7°C (39°F to 45°F)
• Special Events and Festivals: The New Year’s Festival in Dublin is something to look forward to. Various events, concerts, and of course a spectacular fireworks display await visitors and residents who choose to ring in the new year here. Aside from that, there is also the TradFest Temple Bar in January. This traditional Irish music and cultural festival features concerts, workshops, and street performances.
• Average Temperature: 4°C to 8°C (39°F to 46°F)
• Special Events and Festivals: If you’re in Ireland during this month, make sure to attend the Temple Bar TradFest. This is a celebration of traditional Irish music and culture held in Dublin. If you are into movies, the Dingle International Film Festival happens in February as well. This event is held in Dingle, County Kerry, and it showcases national and international films.
• Average Temperature: 5°C to 9°C (41°F to 48°F)
• Special Events and Festivals: You’re in Ireland, so you should not think twice if you are celebrating St. Patrick’s Festival here! This world-renowned celebration is an event that commemorates Ireland’s patron saint with music, dance, and cultural events. You also should not miss the biggest arts festival in the country which is the Galway International Arts Festival.
• Average Temperature: 6°C to 11°C (43°F to 52°F)
• Special Events and Festivals: For the foodies out there, the Galway Food Festival is for you. Prepare to embark on a gastronomic adventure as you dig into Irish food and attend culinary events, food tastings, and demonstrations. Do you wish to see something unique? Nothing can get any quirkier than Kilkenomics. During this event, comedians and economists gather for comedy shows and discussions.
• Average Temperature: 8°C to 14°C (46°F to 57°F)
• Special Events and Festivals: Another interesting event that happens in Ireland is the Bealtaine Festival. This event focuses on honing the older generation’s creativity through workshops, performances, and the like. There is also the Listowel Writers’ Week which happens in Listowel, County Kerry. Here, you can enjoy readings, workshops, and discussions with well-known authors.
• Average Temperature: 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F)
• Special Events and Festivals: June 16th is Bloomsday! This celebration is specifically for the life and works of James Joyce and in particular his novel “Ulysses.” Do you wish to experience a unique arts and music festival? The Body & Soul Festival mixes up live performances with art installations and wellness activities.
• Average Temperature: 12°C to 19°C (54°F to 66°F)
• Special Events and Festivals: It is in July that you will catch the Galway Film Fleadh. This is an international film festival that is held in Galway. It showcases a wide range of films, attracting filmmakers and film enthusiasts to come to Ireland during this time. Furthermore, you have Cork Week which is a  popular sailing regatta held in Cork. Sailing fans from around the globe come here for competitive racing and social events.
• Average Temperature: 2°C to 19°C (54°F to 66°F)
• Special Events and Festivals:   Are you fond of participating in equestrian events? The Dublin Horse Show at the RDS in Dublin is one thing you must not miss. There’s show jumping and, of course, competitions! If you prefer diving into the wonderful world of music, theater, literature, and visual arts, the Kilkenny Arts Festival is a must.
• Average Temperature: 11°C to 17°C (52°F to 63°F)
• Special Events and Festivals: Have you ever been to a music festival before? If this is your first time, be sure to come to the Electric Picnic which happens in September. There will be musical acts, art installations, and a fun-filled atmosphere during the whole event. The Dublin Fringe Festival, on the other hand, is what you must not miss if you are into theater, dancing, live art, mixed media, and music. This is considered Ireland’s largest annual multidisciplinary arts festival.
• Special Events and Festivals: October is the perfect time for jazz enthusiasts to visit! The Cork Jazz Festival, one of Europe’s oldest and biggest jazz event, has been around since 1978. Wishing to sample delectable Irish food and drinks? Then come to the Dingle Food Festival. Your visit will be filled with food markets, demonstrations, and tastings.
• Special Events and Festivals: Think of visiting and watching a show at the Wexford Festival Opera. This internationally renowned opera festival brings lesser-known operas to the spotlight. Moreover, there is an event called Other Voices. This music festival and TV series features Irish and international artists who are mostly playing alternative music.
• Special Events and Festivals: A trip to the Galway Christmas Market is a must! There will be seasonal deals and offers which I am sure you will not say no to. Once you’re done with all the holiday shopping, plan your attendance at the New Year’s Festival in Dublin. There will be extravagant fireworks and fun-filled concerts, of course.
• Are you planning to go on a scenic drive in the UK ? You can’t miss Ireland, of course! Read my article to see some of the most interesting routes to take, including the Causeway Coastal Route which takes you to Carrickfergus Castle , The Gobbins Cliff Path, Ballintoy Harbour, and of course the Giant’s Causeway.
• Are you curious to know about Irish traditions ? I will share with you the Irish traditions, culture, and customs in the Emerald Isles, including the origins of the famous St. Patrick’s Day and the people’s love for the Irish pubs.
• Are you planning to go to Belfast anytime soon? I visited there when I went on a British Isles cruise. I went to see the Titanic Belfast, had fun at the Belfast Zoo, and relaxed in the Botanic Gardens. Here are some of the best things to do in Northern Island’s capital .
• Are you thinking of extending your trip from Dublin to nearby destinations? I wrote about some of the best day trips from Dublin, Ireland which you can easily add to your itinerary. Some of them are the Cliffs of Moher, Belfast, and Galway.
• Curious to know which activities to do in Dublin ? You simply wouldn’t run out of things to do in this part of Ireland. One of the tours you should definitely do is a Guinness Brewery Tour. 
• I also made another great article about the 15 Beautiful Castles in Ireland (Republic) Worth Visiting . I encourage you to read it to learn more about the royal medieval history of Ireland.
• Ireland is filled with cities to visit on your trip to the UK . I have made a sample travel itinerary for two weeks in the UK if you need some help jump-starting your planning.
• If you have already booked your travel ticket and are ready to pick activities to do in Ireland, head over to Get Your Guide. They have all the best tours under one roof, including this Dublin, Ireland walking tour that features highlights and hidden gems of the city.

HERE ARE SOME OF THE MOST RECOMMENDED ACTIVITIES IN IRELAND:

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Time to Visit Ireland

Summer is the time of year when you can experience the best weather in Ireland. During this time, you will experience the country’s warmest temperatures and longer daylight hours. 

January and February are the cheapest months to go to Ireland. During winter time, flights, accommodations ,and tours are offered at lower prices compared to summer season. 

October is the rainiest month in Ireland. During this time, the country receives the highest average precipitation levels, though it basically rains in Ireland all throughout the year.

June, July and August are Ireland’s warmest months. The temperature at this time can range from 14°C to 18°C (57°F to 64°F).

Low season in Ireland occurs during winter time. Not a lot of people come to the country during this time because of the cold temperature and the unavailability of many activities and attractions due to the off-peak season. 

No, it is not warm in Ireland all year round. The country has a temperate maritime climate, so the weather is basically relatively mild but can be unpredictable most of the times.

The driest months in Ireland are May, June and September. The country experiences a lower amount of rainfall during this time. 

June, July and August are the summer months in Ireland. 

Summer months are the busiest time in Ireland. In July and August, a huge wave of visitors come in to experience Ireland’s warmest temperatures and longer daylight hours. This is a perfect time to explore the outdoors, enjoy the indoors and attend numerous festivals in the country.

The best month to fly to Ireland really depends on your personal preference. For good weather, come during summer. If you want a quieter experience, consider travelling here during shoulder months which are April, May, September or October. For budget-friendly travel, visit Ireland during winter time.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Everything Zany

Everything Zany Travel Blog exploring the UK and beyond. Sharing travel guides, tips, history, and culture. Our travel media brand is founded by travel and hotel industry expert – Ryazan Tristram, a Dual Citizen (British–Filipina) based in Birmingham, UK. Everything Zany is a reputable and award-winning travel blog. Our work and contributions have been featured in the Huffington Post, CNBC, Discovery Channel, GMA, Readers Digest, and Lonely Planet. Our mission is to build a great travel community and resource of travel tips, visas, and travel guides for travelers. Join us as we travel around the UK and beyond with a mission to share the best of the world.

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Best Time to Visit England, Ireland, and Scotland

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Port Isaac in Cornwall, England

Discover the wonders of fascinating and diverse countries when you travel during the best time to visit England, Ireland, and Scotland.

In all three, castles, quaint seaside towns, and countryside villages offer visitors the chance to step into bold, beautiful worlds. You can carefully plan each step of your journey or explore the charms of the countryside and treasures of the cityscapes on a whim.

Lush landscapes, ancient history and traditions, and boundless, flavorful cuisine display their timeless splendor, so giving yourself adequate time to uncover the ins and outs of England, Ireland, and Scotland will ensure you enjoy your desired experiences and more.

Best Time for Sightseeing

Best time for classic events, best time to avoid the crowds, best time for seniors, best time for couples or honeymooners, best time for families with children, best time for spring & summer activities, best time for fall & winter activities, book for the best time to visit england, ireland, and scotland.

Dunrobin Castle, Scotland

Best Months: May • June • September • October

The best time to visit England, Ireland, and Scotland for sightseeing is any time from late spring to early fall, enabling you to make the most of mostly clear skies and warmer weather, especially between May and June and September and October.

Castle gardens are flourishing and indoor and outdoor museums are filled with inquisitive visitors. City squares and parks buzz with travelers taking in local tastes and talent, or simply sitting and enjoying their surroundings.

May to the end of June and September to October see visitors to England, Ireland, and Scotland walking cobbled streets or admiring famous monuments as they absorb the fabulous sights at their pace.

Learn more: Best Places to Visit in England • Best Places to Visit in Ireland • Best Places to Visit in Scotland

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

London, England

Best Months: April • May • June • July • August • September • October • November • December

From celebrating the monarch’s birthday to lively concerts, the magic of international festivals to the authentic allure of local ceremonies, there are many classic events to celebrate England, Ireland, and Scotland from April to December.

Plan your visit to any of these incredible countries’ city centers, castles, and lush corners, all of which host unmissable events and displays, as well as smaller celebrations that form part of the quintessential experiences.

Learn more: Top Things to Do in England • Top Things to Do in Ireland • Top Things to Do in Scotland

Luttrellstown Castle in Dublin, Ireland. Photo courtesy of Dublin Falconry

Best Months: March • April • May • September • October • November

To ensure you get that ideal spot on a viewing platform or the chance to discover a piece of history without packed rooms or overcrowded lakesides, it is best to consider traveling out of season to England, Ireland, or Scotland, specifically between March and May or September and November.

Many exciting venues, such as museums, castles, and art galleries, can be enjoyed no matter the time of year, while other activities, from falconry to the Scottish Highlands, may be more accessible in the warmer months. By traveling during the shoulder season months, you can enjoy authentic local charms and avoid crowds.

Yorkshire Dales, England

Best Months: April • May • June • September • October

Enjoy the diverse culture, history, and breathtaking scenes that make up the charming scenery that sweeps from villages to coasts from April to June and September to October. When visiting in spring and early fall, you can ensure the experience is comfortable and the path to all sights clear.

Enjoy the quiet streets in the springtime and take in the glorious blooms at palaces and parks, or take advantage of the early summer openings of museums, churches, and popular settings in the cities and their surroundings. Settle into a cozy cottage in a crisp country haven in the fall and truly indulge in the beauty these countries share.

Learn more: England Tours for Seniors • Ireland Tours for Seniors • Scotland Tours for Seniors

Ashford Castle in Conge, Ireland

Stepping away from the hustle and bustle of city life, honeymooners and couples seeking that romantic getaway can enjoy the quaint and quiet in the simply stunning English, Irish, or Scottish countryside. To ensure the weather is on your side, late May and June will give you the freshness of the countryside and quiet streets in cities and villages.

Escape to romantic destinations in all three countries as you embrace local charm and picturesque settings each step of the way to find magic in the crisp autumn air.

Learn more: Most Romantic Places in England for Couples • Most Romantic Places in Ireland for Couples • Most Romantic Places in Scotland for Couples

Stonehenge in Wiltshire, England

Best Months: April • May • June • July • August • September

England, Ireland, and Scotland have so much to share with family members of all ages, and experiencing what’s on offer together can make all the difference when traveling between April and September.

Bring the adventure of each country to life during the more pleasant seasonal weather as you explore places like Stonehenge or Buckingham Palace, the streets of Edinburgh or the Titanic Museum in Belfast.

Learn more: England Family Vacations • Ireland Family Vacations • Scotland Family Vacations

Gap of Dunloe, Ireland

Best Months: April • May • June

Watching flowers bloom in picturesque settings, while castle and palace grounds blossom with new life as birds come out to play, makes visiting England, Ireland, and Scotland delightful.

The air is fresh and rains light or non-existent, and outdoor venues start to open their doors. Take a brisk hike or drive through beautiful countryside villages, making the most of the longer days.

Spring and summer set the scene for the perfect playground for visitors to absorb the culture, breathtaking beauty, and vibrant ambiance that comes as the warmth turns up adventure in the outdoors.

Activities: Museums • Mountain Hikes • Coastal Walks • City Walks • Monument Visits • Country Excursions • Outdoor Concerts

Christmas market in Edinburg, Scotland

Best Months: September • October • December

Enjoying a brisk walk through fall colors in massive parks or castle grounds is invigorating as September becomes October and the rush of summer dissipates, the winter throes of December providing a distinctive atmosphere.

Venture to the countryside bundled up and ready for the crisp air to complete the autumn ambiance. Indoor venues offer fascinating examples of culture, cuisine, and ancient history.

Winter brings with it a holiday feel and suddenly it is Christmas. The days get shorter and cozying up next to a crackling fire seems very appealing. Snow may dictate activities in the wonderland that settles across the countries.

Activities: Museums • Castle and Palace Visits • Cozy Lake Getaways • Skiing • Winter Sports • Christmas Markets

Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness, Scotland

There is so much to discover and enjoy in England, Ireland, and Scotland, and planning your experience around what interests you can make all the difference. Knowing when key sights will be open, how to avoid lines, and when to travel for that ultimate romantic adventure makes creating your journey easy and exciting.

Discover our featured England, Ireland, and Scotland tours , or explore the ways to spend 10, 14, and 21 days in England, Ireland, and Scotland for more ideas to inspire your travels.

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Best places to visit in ireland.

Ireland's rich culture, enchanting green landscapes and friendly locals are just a few reasons why so many travelers make the journey to this island country. But with so many cities, charming small towns and countryside wonders to choose from, it may be hard to decide exactly what should be on your Emerald Isle itinerary. U.S. News took into account sights, adventure, food and culture, plus expert opinions and traveler sentiment, to determine the best places to visit in Ireland. If you want to have a say in next year's list, be sure to vote below.

Dingle Peninsula

Cliffs of moher, iveragh peninsula, glenveagh national park, inishowen peninsula, connemara national park, aran islands.

With a stoic castle, wild coastline and great "craic" (fun, entertainment and good company), Donegal checks off many items on an Ireland vacation bucket list. Donegal visitors can see the 15th-century Donegal Castle, grab a pint of Guinness in a traditional Irish bar dating back to the 1700s or revel in one of the town's high-spirited festivals. Meanwhile, Donegal's northwest coast location makes it ideal for driving along the scenic Donegal Bay to the Slieve League cliffs – which are nearly three times as tall as the Cliffs of Moher – or hopping to islands known for their exceptional preservation of the Gaelic language and culture.

Though Dublin is Ireland's hub for politics, culture and music, its approachable and relaxed culture sets it apart from most European capitals. Before making a beeline for the Guinness Storehouse, consider a walking tour to take in popular attractions like Trinity College (and its swoon-worthy library), the 13th-century Dublin Castle and the always exuberant Temple Bar district. Save time to take in the arts, too: Dublin is home to the national theater of Ireland and plenty of festivals and museums dedicated to Irish literary greats. Plus, Dublin offers easy access  to alluring destinations like the fishing village of Howth and Wicklow Mountains National Park.

Located along the country's famous Wild Atlantic Way, the Dingle Peninsula consistently stuns with its otherworldly scenery (think: evergreen cliffs, craggy coastlines and vibrant blue waters). Begin your journey by driving along Slea Head Drive, a scenic route known for its photo-worthy vistas. If you'd rather see the peninsula on foot, head down the Dingle Way, a network of trails that spans the entire peninsula. Or, take a ferry to the Blasket Islands to explore jaw-dropping cliffs, look for wildlife like sheep and dolphins, and visit pristine beaches without rubbing elbows with other tourists.

For the quintessential Irish countryside experience, travel to Killarney. The town is surrounded by evergreen hills and valley on all sides, affording plenty of opportunities to become one with nature. Visitors gravitate toward Killarney National Park, which features Ireland's highest mountain range, MacGillycuddy's Reeks. If you aren't much of a hiker, you can still enjoy the scenic lakes or visit one of Killarney's centuries-old churches or castles.

The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland's most popular tourist attraction, welcoming more than 1 million visitors each year. In fact, the cliffs are so popular that cities situated more than 100 miles away often offer full-day bus tours to the attraction. Once you lay eyes on this sight, you'll understand why so many people travel hours to gaze at it. Measuring more than 8 miles long and 700 feet tall, the cliffs provide breathtaking views of Galway Bay, parts of Connemara National Park and the Aran Islands on a clear day.

This peninsula in County Kerry is best known for featuring the world-famous Ring of Kerry, a 111-mile scenic drive that circles around the entire peninsula. Along the way, visitors will enjoy truly spectacular scenery both on the coast and inland. Can't-miss stops include Ladies View, Rossbeigh Strand, Derrynane beach and the Gap of Dunloe. Travelers should also save time for visiting some of the peninsula's picturesque small towns and castles, which are both developed and abandoned. Be sure to stay at least one night here for a glimpse of the stars in Ireland's first dark sky reserve.

Surrounded by a looming mountain, sandy beaches and charming countryside (dubbed "Yeats Country" after the county's famed poet), Sligo offers something for everyone. If you're up for an adventure, hike the loop around the iconic Benbulben mountain, take a surf lesson in Strandhill or watch the big-wave pros at Mullaghmore Head. Meanwhile, more leisurely travelers can visit Sligo town's popular sites like The Model art center and Sligo Abbey, or take a coastal drive to fine estates like the Lissadell House and Gardens (open seasonally). Just make time for a few stops along the Sligo Food Trail on your way.

After Dublin, Cork is Ireland's largest city. Located at the southern end of the country, this city of more than 200,000 residents is famous for being home to Blarney Castle and its Blarney Stone. According to local legend, the stone will grant you the gift of eloquence, if you dare kiss it. Cork is also where you'll find 18th- and 19th-century churches, the Cork City Gaol (a former prison converted into a museum) and lush Fitzgerald Park, among other noteworthy attractions. When hunger strikes, explore Cork's English Market, where you'll find everything from meat and fish counters to cafes and bakeries.

Located just 17 miles south of Cork, this enclave on Ireland's southern coast charms visitors with rainbow-hued buildings and a "riviera" vibe. Sailing is central to Kinsale, which hosts several regattas throughout the summer, but other water activities like kayaking and surfing hold equal appeal. Those who prefer to stay on land can visit nearby attractions like the scenic Nohoval Cove and historic Charles Fort. What's more, as one of Ireland's top culinary destinations, Kinsale entices foodies with more than 50 delectable eateries and food-centric celebrations like the Kinsale Gourmet Festival and Kinsale Street Feast.

Galway offers the best of both worlds for travelers. City slickers can revel in Galway's relatively light but palpable bustle, while outdoor lovers can venture outside the city to see many natural attractions, including the Salthill Promenade, Wild Atlantic Way and, farther afield, Burren National Park. If you prefer to stay local, stroll through the lively Latin Quarter, then check out historical attractions like the Spanish Arch and St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church.

Situated in the heart of County Donegal, Glenveagh National Park sets a picturesque scene, complete with a lakeside castle and lush mountains. Here, active sightseers can bask in the unspoiled natural beauty of the Emerald Isle, with nearly 40,000 acres that are completely free to access for hiking, biking, fishing and camping. Highlights include the Derryveagh Mountains, the sweeping valleys of the Poisoned Glen and the rugged shores of Lough Inshagh and Lough Veagh. For a small fee, visitors can also take a tour of the Glenveagh Castle, a stately granite structure representing the idyllic highland retreat, and explore its varied gardens and tearooms.  

Situated just northwest of Ireland's border with Northern Ireland, the Inishowen Peninsula is the country's largest peninsula. Its remote location 170 miles northwest of Dublin plus its otherworldly scenery and thatched cottages create a peaceful setting you won't find in Ireland's more tourist-heavy peninsulas. Must-see natural wonders here include Malin Head, Trawbreaga Bay and the Gap of Mamore. If you've always dreamed of seeing the northern lights , be sure to visit in winter when the aurora borealis' beautiful hues are typically visible throughout the peninsula.

Expect awe-inspiring scenery everywhere you turn when you visit this 5,000-acre national park during the warmer months. Connemara National Park is home to the Twelve Bens mountain range, plus woodlands, grasslands, heaths (wild, undeveloped flatlands) and bogs (wetlands) that you can explore via one of several trails. To get a good overview of the park's diverse scenery, hike the Diamond Hill paths and walk the Green Road along Killary Harbour. The latter is where you'll find one of Ireland's few glacial fjords.

Travelers keen on getting a taste of what old Ireland looked and felt like should consider visiting the Aran Islands. Accessible by plane from Connemara or by ferry from Rossaveal, Galway and Doolin on Ireland's western coast, the Aran Islands feature important historical sites, Celtic churches and lots of untouched landscapes (think: the "Banshees of Inisherin," some of which was filmed here). Plus, Gaelic is widely spoken, providing an authentic cultural experience. Though all three islands offer noteworthy sights, plan on spending the bulk of your time on Inis Mór (or Inishmore), where the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa is located.

Kilkenny offers a hearty amount of historical attractions for travelers to explore. This is largely thanks to the town's prior distinction of being the medieval capital of Ireland, a heritage that remains evident today  in the Medieval Mile, Kilkenny's top attraction. Within the Medieval Mile you'll find several interesting sights, such as Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice's Cathedral and the Medieval Mile Museum. This historic part of town is also home to the Smithwick's Experience, where you can learn more about how one of Ireland's most popular ales is brewed.

Head to this small seaport on Ireland's southeastern coast to catch a glimpse of the country's oldest city. Waterford is full of history, and its attractions reflect that. History buffs can learn more about the city's Viking roots at Waterford Treasures' Medieval Museum, Reginald's Tower and Bishop's Palace facilities. Or, they can take a tour of the 18th-century House of Waterford factory to see how the city's world-renowned crystal is made. For travelers who need a break from Waterford's rich history, there's the Waterford Greenway, a nearly 30-mile-long walking and bike path.

Those who plan on visiting Cork should save time for a daytrip to Cobh. This charming small town, which sits on an island in Cork Harbor, is known for its past as both a major departure point for Irish emigrating to the U.S. and as the last port of call for the Titanic. Travelers who want to learn more about these key roles in Cobh's history can visit the Cobh Heritage Centre and Titanic Experience Cobh. Before leaving, take a stroll around town to admire Cobh's striking Victorian-era architecture and brightly colored storefronts and homes.

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Wicklow Mountains

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Europe , Ireland , Scotland , Travel

The perfect scotland and ireland itinerary.

Trips to Ireland and Scotland are some of my favorites to help plan. Both countries are some of my favorites and they can be easily combined. This Scotland and Ireland itinerary will help you plan the best trip!

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• Should I go to Scotland or Ireland?

I often get asked by my readers which trip they should take, Ireland or Scotland? While both destinations are amazing and beautiful with so much to offer, and I always try to help them make the right choice for their needs, I don’t think this has to be an either-or choice. If you’re really struggling with the Ireland vs Scotland debate, why not choose both? When you use this itinerary to travel to Ireland and Scotland you’re getting the best of both worlds within two weeks.

Here's a Short Cut

Best Time to Visit Ireland and Scotland

Fly between scotland and ireland, ferry from ireland to scotland, ireland and scotland tours, ireland scotland map, scotland and ireland itinerary, day 1: arrive in dublin, day 2: explore dublin, day 3 & 4: take an overnight trip to the west of ireland, day 5: wicklow mountains, day 6 & 7: northern ireland and back to dublin, days 1-2: explore edinburgh , day 3: scottish highlands, days 4-6: isle of skye, day 7: depart from edinburgh.

The best time to visit Ireland and Scotland is usually off-peak in shoulder season between April-May and September-October. If you go to Ireland and Scotland during these times you’ll avoid the crowds, but still be able to enjoy nicer weather than in the winter.

Getting Between Scotland and Ireland

Trips to Ireland and Scotland offer the best of both worlds and can be done affordably too. Getting from Ireland to Scotland is easy and affordable. There are many companies that offer Ireland and Scotland tours that are great, or you can choose to take the trip on your own.

There are plenty of cheap flights from Ireland to Scotland and from Scotland to Ireland. You can fly with Ryanair for as little as $21 USD! Honestly, that’s cheaper than the cost of a nice dinner! So if you really are having a hard time deciding between Ireland and Scotland, go ahead and do both!

Learn how to find cheap flights to and from Ireland and Scotland by reading my   guide to flying for cheap or nearly free here.

If you have your own car or are using this itinerary as part of a larger European trip, you might also consider taking the ferry from Ireland to Scotland or vice versa. This would also work if you’re planning to fly in and out of the same airport. However, if you are flying into Scotland or Ireland and plan to fly out of a different airport, I would not recommend taking the ferry. Especially since flights between Scotland and Ireland are so cheap! If you do decide to go for a rental car in one country and leave it in the other, it will cost you at least $1500 USD ($500 for a cross border fee and $500 for a one-way rental fee). And then you have the cost of the ferry on top of that which is a few hundred dollars. While sailing across the North Chanel is truly beautiful, It’s not worth the expense if you will be renting a car.

Visiting Ireland and Scotland can seem a little daunting on your own and tours can be a great way to go if you’re feeling a little nervous about it. These are some great Ireland and Scotland tours that will help you get a great overview of these two destinations:

This interactive map should help you plan your Ireland and Scotland itinerary. You can click on each destination to find more information.

I outline a great Ireland and Scotland itinerary below, but if you want to skip all the planning and simply use this downloadable, printable, detailed itinerary , you can find it here.

Get the Full Itinerary I’m giving you a detailed day-by-day Ireland and Scotland itinerary. You can do this itinerary in any order you wish, but this seemed the most logical to me. This itinerary begins in Ireland and ends in Scotland, where you can choose to fly home from, or simply fly back to Ireland for a round trip ticket. The choice is yours. I recommend flying in and out of wherever you can   get the best deals .  I generally find Ireland cheaper to fly to from the United States but have occasionally found great deals to Scotland as well.

Ireland could literally take you years to explore! So if you’re planning a trip to Ireland , I’m giving you just a week in this itinerary of things to do in Ireland , but I think it will show you some of the best places to visit in Ireland in a short amount of time. If you’re interested in a longer, more detailed trip to Ireland, you can check out my full  Ireland Itinerary. 

For the first day of your Scotland and Ireland vacation, arrive in Dublin airport and adjust to the time change. Dublin is Ireland’s capital city, so you’re sure to visit places while you’re here. Keep yourself awake until a reasonable hour (between 8 pm and 11 pm) and wake up early the next morning.

Now that you’re hopefully feeling well-rested and not too jet-lagged, it’s time to explore the capital of the Republic of Ireland. Don’t miss these stops in Dublin:

• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• Dublin Castle
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Trinity College Library
• St. Stephens Green
• Lunch at Avoca Wool Shop & Cafe
• Little Museum of London
• Take a   Bus Tour   of Dublin
• Howth Cliffs
• Phoenix Park

Take an entire day to explore the west of Ireland. If you’re self-driving it will take about 3.5 hours to get to the west coast known as the Wild Atlantic Way. If you’re feeling nervous about driving in Ireland there are several great day trips from Galway that will take you to the west for this 2-day trip.  This amazing tour   explores the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, and Killarney National Park, with an overnight stay in Dingle.

Don’t miss these stops on your trip to the West:

• Killarney National Park (learn more about   Killarney   here.)
• Muckross House & Traditional Farm
• Muckross Abbey
• Killarney Town
• Cliffs of Moher
• Blarney Castle

Spend a day in the beautiful County Wicklow. Be sure not to miss these:

• Powerscourt Estate: Dating back over 200 years, these are some of the most beautiful gardens in all of Ireland
• Glendalough: Beautiful lakes surrounded by stunning mountains!
• Silver Strand Beach: A beautiful and secluded beach
• Wicklow Gaol: This old jail is a great place to learn some interesting and sad Irish history.
• Wicklow Town: Adorable Irish town

Spend two days in beautiful Northern Ireland! You can take the three-hour drive yourself or take  this great two-day tour   that will take you to all the best sites. Be sure not to miss these:

• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
• Giant’s Causeway
• Dark Hedges

In between your exploration, make sure you also visit the city center and get to experience local dishes and listen to traditional Irish music while you’re in town!

Now that you’ve enjoyed a full week in Ireland, it’s time to hop over the Irish Channel and visit the beautiful and rugged Scotland! Most flights will take you into Edinburgh where you can either rent a car or spend a few days in the city then do some tours in the highlands. If you want to experience a great overview of the country, you can do my full  Scotland Itinerary.

I normally like to advise people to get out of the big cities and explore the countryside, but Edinburgh has so much to offer that I think it’s worth spending at least 2 days here. You can learn about what to do in Edinburgh in  my detailed guide here,   but be sure not to miss these top spots:

• Edinburgh Castle
• Holyrood Palace
• The Royal Mile
• St. Gile’s Cathedral
• Scott Monument
• Grass Market
• Princes Street Gardens
• Take a    Harry Potter Walking Tour
• Visit the Elephant House Cafe where JK Rowling ate
• Victoria Street
• Hike Arthur’s Seat
• Calton Hill
• Cairngorms National Park

If you’ve ever dreamed of staying in a castle, be sure to check out these awesome castle hotels in Scotland.

Spend day 4 exploring the highlands of Scotland. Visit Inverness and try and find the Loch Ness Monster! You can drive here or take   this easy day tour from Edinburgh.   Be sure to read my   guide to the highlands   and don’t miss these sites:

• Urquhart Castle
• Fort William

You can’t visit Scotland without taking a trip to visit the breathtakingly beautiful Isle of Skye. It’s rugged beauty and history combined with its rugged island charm is sure to win your heart! Driving to the Isle of Skye can be a little scary if you don’t know what to expect. The roads are one lane so you must share the road with oncoming traffic. If you’re not comfortable driving in those conditions, it might be a good idea to take a tour to the Isle of Skye.

Rabbie’s does an amazing 3-day tour that comes with your own comedic  kilted tour guide to take you through the Isle of Skye while learning all about its interesting past and natural wonders. You can find the  tour here. 

Be sure to read   my complete guide to the Isle of Skye   before going.

Whether you decide to drive to the Isle of Skye on your own or take a tour, don’t miss these sites:

• The Quiraing 
• Old Man of Storr
• Neist Point
• Dunvegan Castle
• Fairy Pools
• Eilean Donan Castle
• Museum of Island Life & Flora MacDonald’s Grave

On the last day of your Scotland and Ireland vacation, travel back to Edinburgh and either fly home from there or fly back to Dublin to fly home.

I hope this itinerary will help plan many trips to Ireland and Scotland. They are both such amazing destinations and I know you’ll love them! If you need help planning, please feel free to reach out  Facebook   or  Instagram , or send me an email me  [email protected]

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The Best Times to Visit Scotland for Good Weather, Fewer Crowds, and Lower Prices

Plan your Scotland trip based on what you want to do, see, and avoid.

Scotland may be a small country — about the size of South Carolina — but it offers an impressive variety of destinations and landscapes. Edinburgh, Glasgow, Loch Lomond, Loch Ness, Ben Nevis, Glen Coe, and the Isle of Skye are all must-sees for anyone who wants to experience the magic of Scotland. To get the most out of your trip, you'll want to make sure you visit at the most opportune time.

Scotland's seasons fall into three main categories:

• High Season: June to August
• Shoulder Seasons: April to May and September to October
• Low Season: November to March

Each of the Scottish seasons offers advantages and disadvantages, so deciding when to visit will depend on your priorities. Whether you're hoping for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, or more affordable prices, here are the best times to travel to Scotland .

Ellen Lindner/Travel+Leisure

Most Popular Time to Visit Scotland

A majority of travelers make their way to Scotland in the warmer months. Tourist season in Edinburgh ramps up in June and peaks in August, with several major festivals — including the Edinburgh Art Festival and Edinburgh Festival Fringe — happening throughout the month. The capital's summer temperatures rarely surpass 70 degrees, so traversing the hilly city is usually pleasant.

Visitors also descend on Scotland from late May to September to experience the Highland Games , a Scottish tradition dating back hundreds of years. Towns around the country host their own versions of the Games, usually in the form of a one-day event featuring traditional Scottish sports (like tug-of-war and the hammer throw), as well as food, music, and dancing. The Braemar Gathering, held in September, is one of the best-known events, with the British royal family making an appearance in the small town every year.

Outside of the summer months, the winter holiday season is one of the most popular times to visit Scotland. Celebrations of New Year's Eve — called Hogmanay by the Scots — are particularly raucous. In Edinburgh, Hogmanay festivities draw more than 70,000 visitors every year.

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit Scotland for Smaller Crowds

If you want to avoid the crowds on your Scottish vacation, consider traveling in the fall, winter, or spring. Most schools in the U.K. — much like in the U.S. — go on summer break in the months of July and August. By planning your trip outside of that period, you'll miss the throngs of local and foreign tourists whose travels are tied to their children's school schedules.

The Isle of Skye , with its rapidly increasing tourism profile, is a spot travelers would be especially smart to avoid in the busy summer months. Visiting in the off-season means lots more room to roam among the island's 600+ square miles. There are other advantages too, from increased odds of spotting a puffin (they're most common on Skye in early spring) to the views of stunning snow-capped mountains in the winter.

Best Times to Visit Scotland for Good Weather

Scotland — like the entire United Kingdom — isn't particularly known for its weather. More often than not, it's drizzly and a little dreary. When the weather shows off, though, there's nothing more remarkable than a sunrise peeping over a Scottish glen or the sun setting behind Edinburgh Castle .

To experience Scotland's best weather, you'll need to plan your trip at the right time — and have a bit of luck on your side. Temperatures are highest in the summer, but weather can be fair in the springtime, too. According to the Scottish tourism bureau , the period from March to May is the country's driest, and its temperatures rarely dip below 40 degrees Fahrenheit — though they don't often climb above 55 degrees, either. Temperatures are similar in the fall, a season that's also known for stunning foliage. Scotland rarely sees extreme winter weather (particularly in southern cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow), but starting in November, you'll want to shift your schedule to account for shorter days — the winter sun can set as early as 4 p.m.

Best Times to Visit Scotland for Lower Prices

As temperatures drop, so does the number of tourists in Scotland — and, accordingly, the prices. If you want to save money, book your trip in the low season, from November to March. While some more fragile historical sites may close during this time due to weather concerns, there are plenty of other things to do, including skiing in the Cairngorms, curling up by a fireplace in a cozy boutique hotel (like The Fife Arms in Braemar), or exploring the Christmas markets in Edinburgh.

One exception to this rule, though, is the period directly surrounding the winter holidays. Since Christmas and New Year's are popular travel times in Scotland, deal-seeking visitors may want to avoid scheduling a trip during the final weeks of December or the first week of January.

Best Time to Explore the Highlands

To have the most sunlight and best weather, many people head to the Scottish Highlands in the summer, between May and September. Starting in October, the weather can be unpredictable — freezing temperatures, gale-force winds, and snowfall are all possible. That said, the snow-capped mountains are a sight to behold, so if you plan a Highlands road trip in the winter, pack a warm winter coat and make sure your rental car is properly equipped to handle any icy conditions.

Best Time to Visit to Avoid Midges

From May until September, travelers have a high chance of running into midges , especially in the Highlands. These flying, biting insects prefer wet, humid, and cloudy conditions and come out in full force in July and August. To avoid the midges, book your trip to Scotland between late September and early May.

Worst Times to Visit Scotland

The worst times to visit Scotland will depend, of course, on each traveler's preference. If your top priorities are avoiding big crowds and pesky midges, July and August are months you should miss. (The high prices that accompany this busy season can be another dissuading factor.) August is especially busy in Edinburgh, when a host of culture fests descend upon the capital, bringing millions of art lovers along with them. This is great for those who want to partake in the superb cultural offerings, but not so great if you want a quiet sightseeing trip.

If your main goal is optimal weather, meanwhile, the winter months should be avoided. With its dreary skies, short days, and chilly temperatures, the winter is best suited for visitors in search of cozy indoor pursuits, not (relative) sun and warmth.

To avoid extremes in both climate and crowd size, travelers should consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall.