ivy covered stone wall by Dublin St Patricks

best time to visit Dublin: a season-by-season guide

Temple Bar exterior in dublin

when is the best time to visit Dublin?

The short answer? It depends on your vibe. If you prefer mild weather and streets that aren’t packed with selfie sticks, spring and autumn are ideal. Expect blooming parks, crisp air, and just enough sunshine to keep things pleasant. Chasing (occasional) sunshine and a buzzing city? Summer is your best bet, with long daylight hours and a packed festival calendar. If your perfect trip involves twinkling lights, festive markets, and the unbeatable cosiness of a pub on a rainy night, winter is calling. Whatever the weather, Dublin’s waiting. Get the lowdown in our Dublin city guide.

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.

park in Dublin during the summer

Dublin in summer: long days, lively nights (June-August)

Summer in Dublin? It’s as good as it gets—long daylight hours, buzzing streets, and just enough warmth to make you think about leaving your jacket at home (but don’t). With temperatures hovering between 12-20°C (and the occasional heatwave—aka anything over 22°C), the city is alive with festivals like Bloomsday and Dublin Pride. Outdoor pints are practically a sport, with spots like The Barge and The Bernard Shaw packed from afternoon till late. Just be prepared for bigger crowds, higher prices, and locals taking full advantage of every drop of sunshine.

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.

two people in a citizenM bed with coffee cups

where to stay in Dublin

Rain or shine, festival season or quiet winter nights—citizenM Dublin is always the right choice. Located in the heart of the city, our hotel puts you within strolling distance of Dublin’s best pubs, parks, and pint-pouring institutions. Need a cosy hideaway from the rain? Sink into a super king-size bed and stream your favourite shows. Heading out for summer adventures? Our 24/7 coffee and cocktails will keep you fuelled. Whatever brings you to Dublin, citizenM is where great sleeps meet great stays—all year round.

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