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Ireland is cold, wet, and windy in February. It is not surprising then that the country sees very few tourists during this time. But this also means you will practically have the whole country to yourself. While it is true that some parts of Ireland are inaccessible in February, especially its hills and trekking routes, the country still has many beautiful sites to explore.

Head out to discover the spectacular Ring of Kerry, admire the country’s snowy landscape, go pub-hopping while touring Dublin ad enjoy local festivals. Regardless of the weather, there are still plenty of places to explore during your trip to Ireland in February.

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Ireland weather in February

A busy nightlife of the Temple Bar area of Dublin, Ireland in February
The nightlife in Dublin always stays vibrant during Ireland in February

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 in Ireland in February - Rainfall and Temperatures

JanFebMar
Avg Daily (°C)7710
Avg Nightly (°C)334
Avg Daily (°F)454550
Avg Nightly (°F)383840
Avg Rainfall (mm)706070

Why Visit Ireland in February

Sheep at sunset in Ireland
Connemara’s lush landscape offers a host of outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and horseback riding, especially around the Twelve Bens Mountain range
Samuel Beckett Bridge across the River Liffey in Dublin, Ireland
Samuel Beckett Bridge in Dublin is one of the many attractions that you can explore during your trip to Ireland in February

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.

Where to go and what to do

View from Cliff Walk Bray to Greystones, Ireland in February
While traveling from Cliff Walk Bray to Graystones, make sure that you catch the view of the coastline during your trip to Ireland in February

February in Ireland is all about taking long walks along dramatic, snow-filled landscapes without a soul in sight, enjoying a drink at a quaint pub with friendly locals, and exploring the quirky sides of Dublin and other major cities. Do not let the cold stop you from enjoying the country’s picturesque outdoors. The spectacular Killarney National Park is starkly beautiful in winter, with sparkling lakes, deserted hiking trails, and snow-capped mountains looming in the backdrop. While you are there, stop by at Muckross House, a lovely, nineteenth-century mansion, and do not forget to visit the striking Torc Waterfall.

There is something mysterious and magical about Ireland’s castles in February. The magnificent, fifteenth-century Blarney Castle with its Stone of Eloquence is one of Ireland’s biggest tourist attractions. There are other gems, too, like Bunratty Castle, with its collection of art, furniture, and tapestries; and Cahir Castle, which still has defense structures from 1142.

In Dublin, February is a good month for exploring the city’s museums. Visit the Irish Emigration Museum which traces the movement of millions of Irish people who left their homes in search of a better life; Kilmainham Gaol, a former jail that is now a museum offering an evocative and harrowing insight into prison life; and the lovely Dublin Writers Museum, which pays tribute to Irish playwrights, poets, and authors.

February is also an excellent month to discover Ireland’s other attractive cities, towns, and countryside. Visit Cork, Ireland’s second-largest city that boasts stunning waterfront streets lined with excellent pubs and restaurants, or the more artsy and bohemian Galway, where you can enjoy live music and street theater at colorful pubs and cafés.

What to bring

Irelands highest sea cliffs, located in south west Donegal
Make sure to visit Donegal during your Ireland trip in February and enjoy a cliff-side view or go for surf along the beach
Sunday afternoon Ireland in November
Ireland in February offers the perfect opportunity to indulge yourself in Irish culture

February is a cold, wet month in Ireland. You will therefore need a super-warm jacket each time you step out of the heated comfort of your hotel. Also, make sure that you pack two pairs of waterproof walking shoes.

As February falls in the winter season in Ireland, some of the country’s attractions may be off-limits. But that does not mean your holiday will be any less exciting, as the country offers a lot of unique and incredible experiences during this time of year.

With fewer visitors around, you will get to know the country more intimately and at your leisurely pace. What is more, you will also get great deals on hotels and airfare. So go ahead and plan a wintry holiday in Ireland. Rest assured, you will not regret it.

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.

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Published by David Lee, updated on January 28, 2023

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