The wife and I intended to make a trip to Ireland in 2020, but well, we know how that didn't go! So now that the country has removed Covid restrictions completely (so far, at least), what would be the best time/season to visit in 2023? We don't want to get caught in tourist masses, but we don't want to go when the weather is less favorable. Any suggestions?
Posted by
Irving
3226 posts
Posted by
Chattanooga, TN USA
589 posts
We went for the month of May in 2019. The weather was perfect! Lots of sunshine, long days, some misty rain. Temps were in the low to mid fifties.
Posted by
Missoula, Montana
512 posts
Add Co. Donegal to your itinerary no matter the season, although May through September are the most favorable months. It's also the least-touristed county in Ireland and well worth a week or so. The absence of train service helps keep is that way, but you can get close by taking the train to Derry. Called Ireland's "Wild West", it's pristine, peaceful and beautiful. Mt. Errigal is its scenic high point.
Posted by
Colorado Springs
2980 posts
May would be my suggestion too. Reasonably dry weather, the gardens and the countryside in the full bloom of Spring, and the summer crowds haven't arrived yet.
I also second the suggestion about Donegal, and would add a plug for Connemara as well.
Posted by
Sacramento, California U.S.A.
10600 posts
We traveled in Ireland the last week of April and the weather was fine. I agree with the others that May would be ideal. We will be there this year in August. I’m hoping it won’t be too crowded, but as part of a 10 week trip beginning in Ireland it can’t be helped.
Posted by
Land of La
9221 posts
I always go in November. Cheaper airfare, lodging prices and fewer tourists. Have experienced only 1 day of all day rain. Sometimes early am drizzle but by noon clear blue skies. Got pictures to prove gorgeous November blue skies.
Posted by
Mountains of S. Oregon
742 posts
I like May as well, and we've had some superb weather, but if music is something compelling, the trad scene really doesn't pick up until late June. There's a few weekly sessions if you plan carefully or search thoroughly, but most pubs wait till the tourists arrive in July/August. The pent up demand from Covid may change things.
Posted by
53 posts
Late May/early June seems to have the best combination of warm enough, not-too-wet, and pre-summer vacation