Planning a trip to Ireland in February can be a wonderful experience. February can be a great time if you plan your trip to Ireland because it’s that time of the year when you get a chance to see the rugged landscapes, intimate pubs, and lively culture with fewer tourists than usual, which peaks during the other seasons.
And, of course, the chills of the weather are matched, but it has been observed that there is absolute serenity in the surroundings, deals are good, and loads of local events going on.
So, let’s just dive into what makes February a special time for visiting Ireland: the weather, activities, the best places to visit- and everything in between.
Key Takeaways
- Weather: Cool and changeable, with temperatures between 2°C and 10°C. Rain is common, and snow is rare.
- Top Destinations: Dublin, Galway, Killarney, and Belfast. Enjoy less crowded attractions and cozy indoor spots.
- Festivals & Events: Celebrate St. Brigid’s Day and attend local festivals like the Dublin International Film Festival and Galway’s TradFest.
- Travel Benefits: February is the off-season, offering lower prices on flights and accommodations.
- Packing Tips: Dress in layers, bring a waterproof jacket, and pack comfortable shoes for unpredictable weather.
Understanding the Weather in Ireland During February
The weather in February in Ireland is cool and quite changeable. So, this period could be considered very average as far as temperature is concerned: between 2°C and 10°C (36°F to 50°F) of temperature mostly.
Even though it might rain a bit more than during other periods, there’s still hardly any chance of seeing snowfall, especially at higher elevations.
You will also need sweaters, some waterproof jackets, and moderately strong shoes with you in case it rains suddenly.
How to Dress for Ireland in February?
Layer up for unpredictable weather in Ireland. Here is a quick, foolproof essentials list:
- Waterproof jacket and umbrella: Put on a waterproof jacket or carry an umbrella; rain showers may pop up out of nowhere at any given time.
- Warm sweaters: Layer with sweaters or fleeces to keep warm at the dawn and dusk when it’s usually chillier.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Waterproof shoes or boots are essential if you have planned trekking or any other outdoor attraction.
Benefits of Visiting Ireland in February
- Low Season: February is one of the low seasons to visit Ireland. Therefore, the travelers get discounted accommodations, discounted flight tickets, and tours. Avail cheaper airfare using Google Flights.
- Less Crowded: You won’t need to fight against crowds to see popular attractions like Cliffs of Moher and Ring of Kerry.
- Festivals and Events: Experience St. Brigid’s Day on February 1st- the dawn of spring according to folklore in Ireland or other festivals including Galway’s Dublin International Film Festival and Traditional Irish Music Festival.
Top Destinations to Explore in Ireland during February
Although cities and landscapes are beautiful every time of the year, some places are particularly charming in February. Check out some unmissable spots below:
1. Dublin
February is a great time to enjoy a less crowded, more relaxing Dublin atmosphere. Visit the famous Trinity College and Guinness Storehouse with short lines. The city’s rich history can also be explored in the National Museum of Ireland, or exploring live music in the Temple Bar district.
2. Galway
Galway is always so lively in winter with the city of arts and culture. Take a walk along cobblestone streets, admiring colorful storefronts, warming up in one of the cozy pubs in the city, and do not forget to try local seafood chowder!
3. Killarney and the Ring of Kerry
Killarney is the entrance to the beautiful Ring of Kerry. February is a great time of the year to take a drive on this iconic route. You will stop in quaint villages, and scenery and see the sweep of coastlines. The roads are empty because it’s the off-season.
4. Belfast and the Giant’s Causeway
Head north to Belfast and find an equal combination of modern attractions and historical interest. A day trip to the Giant’s Causeway is well worth it, offering a unique wonder of nature that has fewer tourists around.
Top Things to do in Ireland in February
There certainly isn’t a shortage of things to do in Ireland in February, whether you are after history, outdoor adventures, or just local culture.
- Ireland’s castles and gardens: Visit in February It’s one of the best months to visit numerous magnificent castles in Ireland, including Ashford Castle, Kilkenny Castle, and Bunratty Castle. You’ll probably have ample time to understand the extraordinary beauty of those old places and their gardens for most of the tourists who usually come here are probably away during this month.
- Enjoy traditional Irish pubs and live music: Warm up with a pint of Guinness or an Irish coffee at a local pub. Many pubs offer live traditional music sessions to let you in on the soul of Irish culture.
- Take a Road Trip along the Wild Atlantic: Way As one of Ireland’s most impressive scenic routes, the Wild Atlantic Way includes some of the most breathtaking views that exist along Ireland’s coastline. Take a road trip down the Wild Atlantic Way to discover unassuming gems in quaint villages, secluded beaches, and even dramatic cliffs.
- Attend Local Festivals and Events Ireland: Even in winter, has quite a lively cultural life with festivals and events. St. Brigid’s Day is the first of February. Celebrate the Irish goddess Brigid, patroness of Ireland, a symbol for fertility, healing, and poetry. You will find many arts and crafts workshops, traditional music, and storytelling events there.
- Go Indoors Attractions: Ireland has many indoor attractions when the sun isn’t shining. An afternoon can be spent in Trinity College studying the Book of Kells, taking a Jameson Distillery tour, or visiting the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum where you can discover Ireland’s long and varied history.
How February Stacks Up to Other Months
If you’re interested in how February compares to other months, take a look at this side-by-side comparison:
- Ireland in January: January is cold and wet, but you still see New Year’s celebrations with fewer tourists.
- Ireland in March: March is St. Patrick’s Day season, which brings in many visitors. It can be very lively, but you need to book your accommodation a long time before to avoid those outrageous prices.
- Ireland in April: April is getting warmer and flowers begin to bloom; it’s a lovely time for a visit.
- Spain in February: For a warmer break, Spain beckons, with pleasant weather throughout and cultural events occurring all over the cities, such as Seville and Barcelona.
- Italy in February: Italy’s cities are relatively not crowded in February, so you can easily roam its famous landmarks without waiting for a long time.
FAQs
Is February a good time to visit Ireland?
Yes, if you like not-so-crowds and affordable prices, then February is a great time to visit Ireland. It can explore the beautiful landscapes of the country, enjoy cozy pubs, and take advantage of great deals on accommodations and flights.
Is February cold in Ireland?
Indeed, February is a cold month in Ireland. Temperature usually ranges from 2°C to 10°C or 36°F to 50°F. You should not miss packing warm clothes and at least a raincoat; it is a terrible month for rain and chill.
Where to Go in Ireland in February?
Among the best places to visit during February in Ireland are Dublin, Galway, and Killarney. These cities host great indoor attractions like museums and cozy pubs.
Some of the most beautiful attractions include the Ring of Kerry and the Giant’s Causeway.
What’s happening in Ireland in February?
Ireland celebrates St. Brigid’s Day in February on the 1st of February. The day is special to Ireland as it is when spring starts. It also engages with good music, artistic, and folklore activities. There are festivals like Dublin International Film Festival, Galway’s TradFest, and many more.
Will it snow in Ireland in February?
It can snow during February in Ireland, but that is a very rare situation. It is mostly precipitation occurring at much higher elevations and stays there for a little time in most areas.
Which is the cheapest month to visit Ireland?
January and February usually are the cheapest months to visit Ireland. Off-season, similar to any other place, during these months, sees the prices for flights and accommodations lowered.
Is Ireland still green in February?
Yes, Ireland is still green in February. No matter how cold the weather might have become, the landscapes of Ireland look beautiful and lush throughout the year.
What is the currency in Ireland?
Euro (€) is used in Ireland. So make sure you take a small amount of Euros with you to a small amount shops or villages.
Is it costly to stay in Ireland?
Yes, it is pricey living in Ireland, especially in the cities. Living in cities such as Dublin and Cork will cost much more than many other European countries: housing, groceries, and even transportation.
Final Thoughts: Is Ireland in February Worth It?
Absolutely! Ireland is an ideal place to visit in February for those who yearn for a departure from the more classic holidays. Prices are cheaper, crowds are fewer, and some festivals simply can’t be experienced any other time of the year, so February is rather special and rarely seen by hordes of tourists. You’ll still find Dublin’s historic streets captivating, drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, and even warm up in a cozy pub.
Planning a spring getaway? Then visiting Ireland in March or Ireland in April can still enjoy relatively mild weather and seasonal festivals.
Ready to book that trip? Use Google Flights to see the lowest-priced options and start planning your unforgettable Irish adventure today!
