Ireland in February: Weather, Fewer Crowds and More!

Ireland’s weather in February is marked by cold, windy days with frequent snow and rain. But you still get around ten hours of daylight. So with proper planning, you can pack in a lot of exciting destinations and activities into your itinerary. The average temperature in Ireland in February hovers between 2°C and 9 °C.

However, it can dip below the freezing point on some days. Also, the February weather can be unpredictable. Within a matter of hours, you might experience sunshine, rain, and snow. But this very capricious nature of Irish weather makes the country visually spectacular. With warm layers of clothes, you should be able to enjoy the changing weather of Ireland in February.

Check out our seasonal overview on the best times to visit Ireland.

Weather-wise, February may not be the ideal time to head for Ireland. However, there are some very good reasons that should make holidaymakers start planning for a visit to Ireland in February. We have listed a few of them below.

• No crowds: Since a new year and Christmas party crowds will have left Ireland by February, you can explore popular tourist sites in the country with virtually no one around.
• Great deals: Expect a good bargain on hotels and airfares if you head for Ireland in February. This is a big plus for travelers on a budget.
• Dublin comes calling: February is an ideal time to explore the city of Dublin. Ireland’s weather in February might be cold, but the country’s capital is charming as ever. See the artwork on display in Dublin’s world-class museums, do some shopping, and have a pint or two of Guinness at one of the many traditional pubs across the city.
• Festive season: Some of the most important and exciting Irish cultural events take place in February. These include Saint Brigid’s Day, a celebration of one of Ireland’s most important female saints, in the town of Kildare; the Gathering, a traditional music and dance festival at Gleneagle Hotel in the town of Killarney; and the Chinese New Year celebrations in Dublin.

Start your February trip in Dublin, where the city’s charm thrives even in winter. Stroll through the cobbled streets of Temple Bar, which is alive with traditional music and cozy pubs. Visit Trinity College to marvel at the Book of Kells and the iconic Long Room Library, bathed in soft winter light. Don’t miss a tour of the Guinness Storehouse, where you can enjoy a pint with panoramic views of the city from the Gravity Bar.

Head west to experience Ireland’s rugged landscapes in all their winter glory. The Cliffs of Moher are particularly dramatic in February, with Atlantic waves crashing against the towering cliffs beneath a moody sky. Explore Galway’s vibrant streets and sample local seafood in its many lively restaurants. If time allows, take a ferry to the Aran Islands, where the quiet beauty of the landscape and ancient stone forts create an unforgettable experience.

February is also an excellent time to explore Ireland’s historic treasures without the summer crowds. Visit the Rock of Cashel, where medieval architecture meets sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Journey to Kilkenny, a city steeped in history, to wander its narrow streets and tour Kilkenny Castle. The misty winter air adds a magical atmosphere to these ancient sites, making the experience even more enchanting.

 Venture north to uncover Northern Ireland’s breathtaking scenery. The Giant’s Causeway, with its unique basalt columns, is mesmerizing in the crisp winter air. Walk along the coastal paths or visit Dunluce Castle, perched dramatically on a cliff’s edge. For fans of "Game of Thrones," February offers the chance to explore filming locations like the Dark Hedges without the crowds, making it a truly immersive experience.

Visiting Ireland in February means embracing its cozy winter charm with fewer crowds and lower travel costs. Pack warm layers and waterproof gear to explore dramatic landscapes like the Cliffs of Moher or the Giant’s Causeway. Enjoy traditional music by roaring pub fires, and experience Ireland’s iconic sites in peaceful serenity.

Click here for a customized trip to Ireland designed by our team of local travel experts. If a personalized itinerary is not your thing, you can check out our Ireland tours in February.

Other related articles:
Ireland in January
Ireland in March