Ireland in March: Weather, Events, and Travel Tips for a Memorable Spring Trip
Introduction
March is a beautiful and often underrated time to visit Ireland. As winter fades, the Emerald Isle begins to bloom with fresh energy, cultural celebrations, and early signs of spring. From the legendary St. Patrick’s Day parades to the gentle green hills dotted with baby lambs, Ireland in March offers a magical blend of history, nature, and hospitality—without the summer crowds.
If you’re considering a spring getaway, here’s everything you need to know about traveling to Ireland in March, including weather conditions, major events, and the best places to visit.
What’s the Weather Like in Ireland in March?
Let’s get real—Ireland in March is unpredictable, but that’s part of the charm. You’ll likely experience a little of everything: sunshine, rain, mist, wind, and even the occasional burst of hail.
- Average temperature: 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F)
- Rainfall: frequent showers but rarely heavy or all-day storms
- Daylight hours: approx. 11–13 hours, gradually increasing
- Landscape: green, lush, and sometimes misty
What to Wear
- Waterproof jacket with a hood
- Layers: T-shirt or thermal + sweater or fleece
- Comfortable, water-resistant walking shoes or boots
- Wool hat, gloves, and scarf for mornings and evenings
- A compact umbrella or light poncho
Best Reasons to Visit Ireland in March
1. Spring Begins to Bloom
Though early in the season, March brings longer days, mild air, and the first signs of spring. You’ll spot blooming daffodils, fresh grass, and cherry blossoms in city parks and countryside lanes.
2. Fewer Tourists
March is considered a shoulder season—you’ll enjoy shorter lines, more availability in hotels, and a quieter experience at popular sites like the Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, and Dublin’s museums.
3. Lower Prices
Flights, car rentals, and accommodation are generally cheaper than in summer. This makes March a great time for budget-conscious travelers or those planning longer road trips.
4. St. Patrick’s Day
No surprise here—March is home to the world-famous St. Patrick’s Day celebrations (more below)!
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day Like a Local
Held every year on March 17th, St. Patrick’s Day is both a religious holiday and a nationwide party celebrating Irish heritage, culture, and pride.
Where to Celebrate
- Dublin: The St. Patrick’s Festival (usually March 14–18) includes a massive street parade, live concerts, cultural workshops, and the famous “greening” of buildings like St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the Dublin Castle.
- Cork: A more laid-back but colorful parade with a foodie twist
- Galway & Limerick: Known for music, dance, and community-driven parades
- Smaller towns: More intimate, authentic celebrations (great for families)
What to Expect
- Everyone wears green (hats, wigs, face paint—you name it)
- Live music in every pub
- Guinness and Irish whiskey flowing
- Dancing in the streets—and sometimes, in the rain
Pro tip: If you’re not into crowds, plan to explore rural areas on March 17, then attend smaller celebrations in towns like Carlingford or Dingle.
Seasonal Highlights and Natural Beauty
Spring Blooms and Garden Walks
Parks and botanical gardens begin to awaken in March. Top spots to see spring colors:
- Powerscourt Gardens (Wicklow)
- National Botanic Gardens (Dublin)
- Muckross House Gardens (Killarney)
- Wild daffodils and cherry trees along country roads
Baby Lamb Season
March marks lambing season, and many farms open to the public. Children can bottle-feed lambs, while adults enjoy farm tours, wool workshops, and fresh produce.
Try:
- Leahy’s Open Farm (Cork)
- Causey Farm (Meath)
- Donegal’s family-run farms
Coastal Walks and Scenic Drives
Crisp air and fewer crowds make it an ideal time to explore:
- Howth Cliff Walk (near Dublin)
- Cliffs of Moher (Clare)
- Wild Atlantic Way (entire west coast)
- Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula
Sunrises and sunsets can be dramatic—perfect for photography lovers.
Best Places to Visit in Ireland in March
Dublin
- St. Patrick’s Festival
- Guinness Storehouse
- Temple Bar for music and nightlife
- Trinity College and the Book of Kells
Galway
- Buskers and live trad music everywhere
- Salthill Promenade and seafood restaurants
- Latin Quarter for independent shops
Cork
- English Market for food lovers
- Blarney Castle and Stone
- Blackrock Castle Observatory
Killarney
- Killarney National Park and Lakes
- Ross Castle and Muckross Abbey
- Quiet hiking before summer crowds arrive
Belfast and Northern Ireland
- Titanic Belfast Museum
- Giant’s Causeway – fewer tourists
- Dark Hedges and Game of Thrones filming sites
March Events and Festivals Besides St. Patrick’s Day
- Seachtain na Gaeilge: Celebrates Irish language and culture (early March)
- Dingle Film Festival: (if running)—showcasing Irish and international cinema
- Local Food & Craft Markets: Often held on weekends in cities and villages
What to Pack for Ireland in March
- Warm, breathable layers
- Rainproof outerwear
- Casual clothes for pub visits
- Travel adapter (UK/Ireland use 3-pin plug)
- Camera for dramatic spring skies
- Reusable water bottle and daypack
Travel Tips and Insights
- Book early for March 17–18 accommodations
- Mix city and countryside in your itinerary
- Drive carefully—roads in the west can be narrow and slippery
- Don’t be afraid to duck into a pub during rain—some of the best memories happen when plans shift
- Be ready for pub sessions, especially on weekends
FAQs
Is March a good time to visit Ireland?
Yes. It’s a mix of cultural festivals, natural beauty, and fewer tourists—perfect for travelers who don’t mind variable weather.
Will I see snow in Ireland in March?
Unlikely. Snow is rare and usually limited to higher elevations.
Is everything open in March?
Yes, most major attractions operate year-round, though some small sites may have shorter hours.
Can I do a road trip in March?
Absolutely! Just be prepared for wet or foggy roads and always check forecasts.
Is it okay to visit with kids?
Yes. March is family-friendly, especially around farm visits, folklore events, and smaller towns.
