Weather in ireland in February

If you’re thinking of visiting Ireland — a destination Rough Guides’ readers voted the world’s friendliest country — read on for detail on the weather in Ireland in February. In short, this low-season month is quiet and chilly — well-suited to brisk walks on the wild side, and cozying up in charming pubs. 

Ireland in February at a glance

Wondering what’s the weather like in Ireland in February? In short, it’s chilly and unpredictable, so wrap up warm and come prepared for varied conditions.

• Expect an average temperature range of is 39–48°F (4–9°C), with frosty mornings and chilly evenings.
• Rainfall is frequent, with around 50–80 mm falling through the month.
• Unpredictable and cold, February is a good time to visit Ireland if you’re fine with such conditions, best avoided if you don’t!
• February is low season, which means it’s a quieter, budget-friendly month.

Considering visiting the Emerald Isle? Read up on how to plan a trip to Ireland.

Is February a good time to visit Ireland?

Given that the weather in Ireland in February is pretty cold and often rainy, whether it’s a good time to visit will depend on your tastes and what kind of vacation you have in mind. 

For example, sitting in the low season for tourism, February can be a great time to explore popular natural attractions like the Cliffs of Moher on the Wild Atlantic Way, or the Ring of Kerry in less crowded conditions. 

If you’re fine with it being cold, and come mindful of the fact that visibility may be affected by mist, these landmarks exude an otherworldly romantic charm in the winter months. 

Conversely, if you’re looking for a good-value city break, Dublin, Galway and Cork are packed with cozy pubs and museums, making them ideal for winter-time exploration.

Want more winter vacation inspiration? Discover the most beautiful winter destination in the world, and the best winter sun destinations.

Average daily temperatures in February

The weather in Ireland in February brings daytime highs of 44–48°F (7–9°C), and night-time lows of 34–39°F (1–4°C), with occasional frost.

For context, along with January, this one of the coldest months of the year while July — the hottest month — sees averages of 59–68°F (15–20°C).

When it comes to rain, Ireland sees an average of 15 rainy days in February, and 50–80 mm of rain.

For comparison, dry-ish April sees an average of 40–60 mm of rain.

If you haven’t yet decided where, exactly, to go in Ireland in February, note that the west coast is wetter as a result of Atlantic storms, and it’s colder in the Midlands and higher-altitude regions, where frost and chilly nights are more common.

Want wider context on the weather? Read up on when to go to Ireland around the year.

What about the crowds and cost?

Good news if you’re not a fan of crowds — February is firmly in the low season for tourism in Ireland. This means top attractions will be pretty quiet, with far fewer tourists than there are through summer.

Even popular places like Blarney Castle and the Giant’s Causeway will be peaceful. That said, while the likes of Dublin won’t be over-run with international visitors, its cozy bars will still have a friendly, lively vibe. 

In conjunction with February being a quiet month, the costs of flights and accommodation will be cheaper than during the high season, making it a good-value time for budget-conscious travelers.

Editor’s tip: while planning your budget, read up on great things to do in Dublin for free, a destination Rough Guides readers voted the friendliest city in the world.

Things to do in Ireland in February

From discovering natural landmarks and historic attractions in gloriously uncrowded conditions, to uncovering culture and cute pubs in history-packed cities, here are a few of best things to do in Ireland in February.

Explore castles and historic sites

With smaller crowds allowing you to explore more peacefully, and cooler weather better suited to indoor attractions, February is a good month to visit some of Ireland’s iconic historic sites, with the winter vibe adding charm to the country’s medieval marvels.

So, consider including the likes of Kilkenny Castle, Rock of Cashel and Dublin Castle in your February itinerary.

Cozy up in traditional pubs

February is also a fine time to enjoy live music, hearty food, and Irish hospitality in traditional pubs.

Editor’s tip: read up on the best pubs in Ireland for traditional music.

Warm up on a winter food tour

Staying on a cozy theme, February is a wonderful month to take a guided culinary tour of cities like Dublin and Cork.

Wrap up warm while you're shown around local markets ahead of sitting down someplace cozy to warm up with a steaming bowl of traditional hearty chowder.

Drive the coast

Given that the weather in Ireland in February can be unpredictable, it’s a good month to take scenic road trips along the Wild Atlantic Way or Causeway Coastal Route — the roads will be clearer at this time of year.

When it’s bright and sunny, you can jump out to enjoy spectacular coastal walks along the way, and stay put in your vehicle when the weather isn’t so great.

For more ideas, read up on the best things to do in Ireland.

Festivals and events in Ireland in February

If you’re looking for extra reasons to visit Ireland in February, here’s an overview of a few festivals and events held through the month.

• St. Brigid’s Day: marked on February 1, St. Brigid’s Day is a traditional Irish celebration marking the start of spring in the Celtic calendar — the meteorological calendar has March as the start of spring. Since 2023, St. Brigid’s Day has been recognized as an official bank holiday in Ireland.
• Dublin International Film Festival: held in mid-to-late February, the Dublin International Film Festival showcases Irish and international films in venues across Dublin.
• Six Nations Rugby: Ireland’s rugby team often hosts Six Nations Rugby home games in Dublin during February, creating a lively atmosphere across the city’s pubs and outdoor screening venues.

Plan your trip with our Ireland itineraries

If you’ve decided to visit Ireland, you’ll find more inspiration in our suggested itineraries for spending different durations in the Emerald Isle.

Browse them to forgo the hassle of having to make your own trip plan.

• Ireland itinerary 7 days
• Ireland itinerary 10 days
• Ireland and Scotland itinerary