Whether you’re taking in the vibrant, modern attractions of city life or heading out to enjoy the rich unspoilt scenery across the rest of the country, go prepared for constant change in the weather. Sunscreen, windproofs and umbrella will all come in handy - sometimes all in the same day!

From Donegal in the north to Cork in the south, moist westerly winds tend to blow across the island for much of the year, bringing a fair bit of cloud. Rainfall is regular too, with autumn and winter being the wettest seasons. But we’d recommend that you prepare for some rain at any time of year. There’s a reason why Ireland’s so green!

That said, there’s quite a noticeable contrast between rugged west and the more mellow east. So Dublin, the capital, tucked away in shelter, enjoys less than half the rainfall than the west coast, fully exposed to the Atlantic. But for surfers, the Atlantic coast is the place to be - here you’ll find some of the best waves anywhere in Europe!

And thanks to those Atlantic winds, it never gets too hot or too cold. It’s a mild climate. Daytime temperatures in winter typically sit between 6 and 10 Celsius. They’re lowest over the higher hills and mountains and in the north, where snowfall is more common than down south. But remember that the blustery wind can often make it feel chillier than the mercury suggests.

Spring not only brings longer days, but more sunshine and a warmer feel. And by summer, the green landscape of Ireland is looking uniquely radiant! It’s a great time to visit, with daytime temperatures typically close to 20 Celsius and mild evenings to follow.

As the shadows lengthen in autumn, extra layers are needed; but at any time of year, you’ll never be far from the offer of a warming dram. Sláinte!

Quick facts about

Ireland

Capital:

Currency:

Dublin