I'm thinking about traveling to Ireland for a few days in December but I'm worried that it will be rainy and hazy the whole time. I don't mind cold weather and I love rain (the result of living in desert dry Egypt) but if it's too miserable to go out, is it worth it? Any advice???
Posted by
Edmonton, AB, Canada
23 posts
Any advice? Sure. Take rain gear. Warm up with hot whiskies. Peer through the mist to see if you can spot a leprechaun. Drink more hot whiskey. Have fun with the Irish. And enjoy yourself. And pat yourself on the back for having avoided all those hoards of "fair weather" tourists.
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
I've traveled to Ireland in late November, and I found the weather overall rather pleasant. Cool, but only cold late at night and early in the morning. It rained some, but not constantly. Some days were foggy and dark, others were bright and sunny. So, I'm guessing the weather you encounter won't be ideal, but it shouldn't ruin your trip either.
Posted by
Everett, WA, USA
25 posts
And bring a warm hat. Its a good time to go, and everyone goes out of their way to make you welcome and aplogize for the weather.
Posted by
Edinburgh, Scotland
13 posts
It's always worth it. As they say in Scotland, there's no such thing as bad weather - only inappropriate clothing! Keep an eye out for opening hours, as they can be shortened on certain days or days of the week, but other than that, dress warm, enjoy the pubs, and you'll find plenty to do. - kathleen
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
48 posts
We are headed out my wife and I for 2 weeks with another couple Dec. 14-28. We aren't crazy, but we do live in Seattle so the weather should not bother us.
Posted by
St. Pete, FL
75 posts
We were in Dublin last November, toward the end of the month. Yes, it was cold and windy, and we did get some rain (but not every day). We were having so much fun that the weather didn't stop us. Just make sure to dress in layers, and have a waterproof (or water resistant) coat. With a scarf, hat and gloves, we were just fine. Any rain meant an opportunity to pop into a pub or restaurant to warm up and enjoy a drink or snack. You'll be fine and Dublin is a wonderful city.
Posted by
Maryland
23 posts
Be aware that Christmas is the biggest - by far - holiday of the year in Ireland. Once the Christmas season begins on Christmas Eve most businesses close. There will be no department stores, cinemas etc open for a number of days. Most people do not go to work for about a week after Christmas Day because the season extends through the New Year festivities. It is a major family and friends time for everyone. Plan well ahead for all of this and what you intend to do. Many typical tourist sites will close down for a least a week.