when should we plan our trip to Ireland

I think May (my favourite)-August is lovely here. We get tons of daylight hours during that time!

Keep in mind, too, of when will be the busiest times, as far as other travelers going, too. August is typically when it's the busiest. May and June are good times to go, it's still considered "shoulder season", so rates for accomodations, rental cars are typically cheaper. I don't think their schools get out until end of June/beginning of July.

We went in May and that seemed to be ideal - good weather, better transportation prices and not as crowded.

Secondary Schools (high school) get out the first week of June. The lower levels are out the last week of June.

How about September? Would you prefer June or September?

We went in late May and loved it. Just make sure you miss and Great Britain bank holidays. If you can go whenever you want, avoid the time when school is out in the UK. Ireland is a major vacation location for them.

We went in March/April/September/October/December/I think the spring and fall are the best/fewer tourists/less crowds than the summer/December very few people but very short days/I would try Spring or Fall but certainly not summer

We had fantastic weather this past June! IMHO...June tops September :)

I've been to Ireland in July and August. If I had the choice, I would go in September or May because flights are usually cheaper and it is less crowded. But I have to say we were not bothered by crowds at all on either trip. One trip we had fantastic weather, the other trip we had a lot of rain, but it was mostly drizzle that didn't stop us from doing everything we wanted to do. Both times, temperatures were fairly cool -- in 60s and some 70s. Rain is always a risk in Ireland, but it keeps it green.

I have been to Ireland on 3 occasions. Once in summer and twice in spring. I would vote for spring. I am always blown away by the profusion of daffodils growing everywhere. Less crowded too.

Well so far, I only have one opinion about June or September. What is prettier, the new garden flowers of spring or the mature gardens in fall? When do the kids go back to School? Get out of School?

Joe - Kids go back to school the first week of September. Out the first week of June.

We spent two weeks in Ireland last September, middle of the month. Weather was great all the sights were open and a few less tourists. Another plus is cheaper air fares

I have been in early Sept. 3 times-lucked out all 3 times with lovely weather-sunny and high 60's.Went once mid-October and had cold,rainy,foggy days.I would like to go again-may try May the next time.Fuschia lines the Hedgerows abundantly in September and the heather is still out.

I have been there all seasons of the year. My favorite time (and best weather) Has been last week of May/first week of June. September is gorgeous as well!