weather in Dublin Ireland: what to expect year-round
Dublin’s weather is as famous as its Guinness—unpredictable, but always a talking point. Thanks to its mild, maritime climate, the city rarely sees extreme temperatures, but it does keep you on your toes with sunshine, showers, and sudden gusts of wind all in one afternoon.
Expect rain? Absolutely—but usually in short bursts rather than all-day downpours. Locals don’t even flinch at a drizzle, and neither should you.
average temperatures by season:
- Winter (Dec-Feb): 2-8°C – chilly, damp, but full of festive charm.
- Spring (Mar-May): 4-14°C – fresh and bright with the odd shower.
- Summer (Jun-Aug): 12-20°C – the warmest months, plus the occasional heatwave (by Irish standards, that’s anything over 22°C).
- Autumn (Sep-Nov): 6-16°C – crisp air, golden leaves, and cosiness levels rising.
The best packing advice? Layers, a waterproof jacket, and a go-with-the-flow attitude. If you wait for a dry day in Dublin, you might never leave your hotel—just embrace it, grab an umbrella, and carry on.
Dublin in spring: blooming lovely (March - May)
Winter’s finally had its last pint, and Dublin shakes off the chill with longer days, blooming parks, and a city that’s waking up. St. Patrick’s Day (March 17) is the headline act—think streets packed with green, Guinness flowing like water, and a party that lasts well beyond the parade. Meanwhile, St. Stephen’s Green and Trinity College put on a show of cherry blossoms, making them the perfect spots for a springtime stroll (or a smug Instagram post). The weather? Cool but climbing—expect 4-14°C with a mix of sunshine and the odd shower.
Dublin in autumn: golden hues and cosy vibes (September - November)
Dublin in autumn is all about crisp air, golden leaves, and a welcome breather after the summer rush. The city slows down (just a little), making it the perfect time to soak up its culture—Dublin Theatre Festival brings world-class performances, while the Bram Stoker Festival leans into gothic chills, because nothing says spooky season like the hometown of Dracula. Pubs feel even cosier, with roaring fires and creamy pints practically calling your name. Temperatures drop to 6-16°C, so layer up, grab a whiskey, and enjoy Dublin at its most atmospheric.
Dublin in winter: festive charm and cosy pubs (December - February)
Winter in Dublin is a true treat, especially if you’re a fan of twinkling Christmas lights, festive markets, and the unmatched cosiness of a traditional Irish pub on a rainy night. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, with Christmas markets filling the air with festive cheer and the scent of mulled wine. Whether you're sipping on a pint in a snug pub or browsing the Christmas stalls at the Dublin Castle, winter offers a unique charm.
Though it’s chilly, with temperatures averaging between 2-8°C, the city feels lively with cultural events, like the New Year’s Festival and the Dublin International Film Festival, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s artistic side. The crisp winter air is perfect for walking around iconic spots like Temple Bar and St. Stephen’s Green, which look especially magical with a dusting of snow or frost. Just don’t forget your umbrella—rain is a regular visitor in Dublin, but it’s nothing the locals can’t handle.
