Ireland in May: Weather, Tips and More!

May is considered the last month of spring in Ireland. The weather is a bit cooler than in the summer months between June and August, and with plenty of daylight to travel throughout the country. During this time of year, the average temperature of Ireland is 11 °C with slight variations across the country. In the capital Dublin, average temperatures range from lows of 9 °C to a high of 15 °C. It does not rain much during this month, which makes it the perfect time to explore the country.

For a seasonal overview, check our travel guide on the best time to visit Ireland.

Still wondering if you should take a trip to Ireland in May? Here is why traveling to Ireland in May is such a good idea:

• Pre-peak tourist season: Tourists do not descend on Ireland in huge numbers until a month later. This means you can experience top-rated sights without crowds.
• Good deals: May is not the peak tourist season in Ireland. This means that you can get better bargains on hotel bookings and airfares.
• Super spring: May is a lovely time to visit Ireland. This is the time of year when mountainsides and parks in cities are abloom with spring flowers. This is particularly visible if you are exploring Killarney and southwestern Ireland.
• Wild Ireland: At winter's height, most tourist attractions along the country’s coast and mountains are closed. But the whole country is accessible in May. Head to Ireland’s surf capital, Donegal, the best place in the country to catch a wave, or go hiking on the lovely 131-kilometer-long Wicklow Way.
• Festive season: May is a month packed with fun festivals and events in Ireland. Top of the picks are the Beltane Fire Festival when a sacred fire is lit on the Hill of Uisneach to welcome summer, the Kilkenny Roots Festival, which typically features some big names from the music world, and Vantastival, a festival dedicated to Irish musical acts.

May is the perfect time to explore Ireland’s stunning coastal routes, especially the Wild Atlantic Way. The days are longer, and the weather is warmer, making it ideal for road trips. From the Cliffs of Moher’s towering sea cliffs to the sweeping beaches of County Mayo, the Atlantic coastline offers breathtaking views at every turn. Stop in charming towns like Doolin and Clifden, where vibrant flowers begin to bloom, adding color to the already picturesque landscapes.

Another beautiful place to explore is Killarney and its national park, which includes the lovely Muckross House, gardens, and farms. The grandeur of this 19th-century mansion takes you back to a bygone era. The adjoining parks and the lake region are stunning. To add a dash of mystery to your Ireland trip, go to Glendalough, home to an important monastic site dating back to the 16th century. In addition to taking in the rich history of this place, you can also explore its surrounding woodlands, lakes, and gentle nature trails.

May offers the perfect weather for a trip to the Aran Islands, where the rolling green landscapes and rugged coastline meet the Atlantic Ocean. Take a ferry from Galway and spend the day exploring Inis Mór, the largest of the islands. Visit the ancient stone fort of Dún Aonghasa, perched dramatically on a cliff edge, and stroll along peaceful paths lined with wildflowers. The islands’ isolation makes them an unforgettable escape from the bustle of the mainland.

Northern Ireland comes alive in May, with lush gardens and stunning landscapes. Visit the expansive Mount Stewart Gardens on the shores of Strangford Lough, where vibrant spring flowers create a colorful backdrop against the backdrop of the grand estate. For a more serene experience, head to the dark hedges in Ballymoney, a hauntingly beautiful avenue of beech trees that creates a fairytale-like atmosphere, especially as sunlight filters through their branches.

While packing for your trip to Ireland in May, keep in mind that you will be spending a lot of time outdoors and temperatures can plunge. So a sturdy pair of hiking shoes and a good jacket along with warm clothes that can be worn in layers will come in handy.

Ireland is not just replete with breathtaking landscapes, lakes, and woodlands for nature lovers, the country also has a lot to offer in the forms of culture, arts, and history. There is something for everyone, and May is one of the loveliest times of year to visit this beautiful island country. If you are looking for tips on the length of your stay in the country, make sure to check our travel guide on how many days you should spend in Ireland. We recommend spending at least a week so that you don't miss out on any of the must-see highlights. If you want a more in-depth tour, you could opt for a 10-day itinerary or longer.

Feel free to reach out to our local travel experts who can help you design your own custom tour to Ireland. So, wait for no further and start planning your trip to Ireland in May right away!

Other related articles:
Ireland in April
Ireland in June