Ireland in May for Weather and Things To Do [+Travel Tips]
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Planning to visit Ireland in May? I got you covered!
Visiting Ireland in May is an excellent idea as the month is characterized by sunny, warm days but with a lot fewer tourists than in peak summer months and cheaper accommodation deals. So, undoubtedly, there are plenty of pros to visit Ireland in May.
Still, let’s see everything you need to know about Ireland in May to help you decide whether this month is the best for you for a smooth and unforgettable trip to Ireland.
Visiting Ireland in May at a glance
👉 Weather
Ireland’s weather in May tends to be mild, with sunny and bright days, but as the weather in Ireland is generally unpredictable, it’s not uncommon for rainy and windy days.
👉 Average temperatures
The average high temperature in Ireland in May is around 15 degrees Celsius, and the average low temperature is about 9 degrees Celsius.
👉 Season
Although May is in the shoulder season, it is still a popular month with prices relatively higher than other shoulder season months and slightly more crowded. So, it’s best to book in advance.
👉 Daylight Hours
The days in Ireland in May are bright and long, with the sun rising at around 05:20 in the morning and setting at 9:30 p.m. This allows ample time to plan your Ireland itinerary however you want.
The pros and cons of May in Ireland
👍 The pros
✔️ Warm and Sunny Days
Undeniably, the weather in Ireland in May is still unpredictable. But generally, the days are warmer and brighter, with an average temperature of 12 degrees Celsius.
✔️ Longer Days
As summer gets closer, May offers nearly 16 hours of daylight, making it an excellent month to explore and discover every part of Ireland.
✔️ Fantastic Festivals
Ireland hosts plenty of fantastic festivals throughout the year. In May, you’ll find several fascinating festivals and events celebrating Irish culture through music, dance, art, and literature.
✔️ Summer Atmosphere
May is not part of the peak summer season, but with the days getting warmer and longer, the atmosphere is more touristy and summery across the country.
👎 The cons
❌ Higher Prices
Due to the summery atmosphere and weather, Ireland attracts more tourists in May, so naturally, accommodation prices and flights are higher.
❌ Crowds
Longer and sunny days bring more tourists, so May has more crowds compared to other shoulder season months like April and March.
The weather in Ireland in May in different parts of the country
📍 Dublin
The weather in Dublin in May tends to be mild and summery, with the average high temperature at about 15 degrees Celsius, the average low temperature at 7 degrees Celsius, and the rainfall at about 55 millimeters.
📍 Belfast
Belfast’s temperatures in May are similar to Dublin’s, with 15 degrees Celsius as the average high temperature, 6 degrees Celsius as the average low temperature, and the average rainfall level at 50 millimeters.
📍 Galway
Generally, the weather in the west of Ireland tends to be wet and wild due to the exposure to the Atlantic Ocean. In May, the average temperature in Galway is 11 degrees Celsius, and the average rainfall level is around 53.4 millimeters.
📍 Kerry
Usually, the temperatures in Kerry in May tend to be mild, but it can be a bit rainy. The average high temperature in Kerry is 12 degrees Celsius, while the average rainfall level is 59 millimeters.
📍 Cork
Cork’s weather in May is similar to Kerry’s, with the average high temperature at 14 degrees Celsius and the average low temperature at 7 degrees Celsius. But it has more precipitation as the long-term average rainfall level is at 70 millimeters.
Festivals and Events in Ireland in May
🎊 Birr Festival of Music
Established in 2016, the Birr Festival of Music is an annual classical music festival featuring a vibrant mix of indoor and outdoor events like concerts, pop-ups, street performances, and workshops with both local and international singers and musicians.
🎊 Bealtaine Fire Festival
The Bealtaine Fire Festival celebrates Irish culture on the ancient Hill of Uisneach by welcoming the arrival of summer through music, food, mindfulness, yoga, crafting demos, art, stalls, heritage talks, guided walks, and children’s games.
🎊 Dublin Dance Festival
Dublin Dance Festival is a 12-day festival celebrating the best of dance through Irish and international dancers performing in various venues across Dublin. The festival includes dance performances, showcases, workshops, films, and outdoor experiences to celebrate the transformative power of dance.
🎊 West Wicklow Chamber Music Festival
West Wicklow Festival is a chamber music festival bringing brilliant artists from Ireland and abroad to stunning venues like Russborough House and St. Mary’s Church Blessington to inspire, entertain, and engage the audience.
🎊 International Literature Festival Dublin
Dublin is home to storytellers and a city where books are treasured. Therefore, since 1998, the city has been home to the International Literature Festival to celebrate books by bringing together the world’s finest writers. The festival hosts readings, conversations, debates, screenings, guided walks, events, podcasts, and broadcasts.
🎊 Blackwater Valley Opera Festival
Founded in 2010, the Blackwater Valley Opera Festival is an 8-day festival featuring four opera performances at the impressive Lismore Castle. The festival also includes classical music recitals, concerts, and free events at various historic homes and venues along the majestic Blackwater Valley.
🎊 Listowel Writers’ Week
Listowel Writers’ Week is another excellent literature festival in Ireland, where writers, artists, and poets gather to promote the writing of all genres and create an environment where literature can be appreciated by everyone.
🎊 Ava Festival
AVA is an Audio Visual Arts Festival that this year marks its tenth anniversary. The festival takes place at the Titanic Slipways and aims to reflect on the past, present, and future through vibrant electronic music.
🎊 Open Ear Festival
Hosted at Cork’s picturesque Sherkin Island, the Open Ear Festival is described as the freshest, weirdest, and most exciting music festival in Ireland.
🎊 Doonbeg Jazz Festival
As this year is Doonbeg International Jazz Festival’s 25th year, it is going to be monumental. The festival takes place along Doonbeg’s coastline and will host several bands from across Ireland and the UK.
Things to do in Ireland in May
📝 Discover Dublin’s Many Landmarks
May is the perfect time to explore Dublin due to the weather getting milder and pleasant.
While in Dublin, you can start your adventure by visiting the iconic Dublin Castle, a marvel of medieval architecture and a symbol of Irish heritage. The castle features ancient elaborate halls and beautiful gardens.
After wandering through the castle, be sure to also make a stop at Trinity College, Ireland’s oldest university, where you can marvel at the breathtaking Book of Kells, a beautifully illustrated manuscript from the ninth century.
For art enthusiasts, the National Gallery of Ireland houses an impressive collection of Irish and European masterpieces.
Also, don’t miss a visit to the Guinness Storehouse, a must-see attraction where you can learn about the history of Ireland’s most famous beer and enjoy a pint while taking in panoramic views of Dublin from Gravity Bar.
📝 Explore Ireland’s Hiking Trails
Ireland’s lush and picturesque landscapes have a multitude of exciting hiking trails that, with May’s mild weather and longer days, can easily be explored and offer stunning views.
For instance, the famous Wicklow Way, stretching across the Wicklow Mountains, is a popular choice for nature lovers. It is a 131-kilometer trail taking you through breathtaking scenery, including glacial valleys, spectacular waterfalls, and ancient forests.
For a coastal experience, the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk in County Clare will leave you awe-inspired with its sheer cliffs and panoramic ocean vistas.
Another must-visit is the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, where you can marvel at the intriguing hexagonal stone formations as you hike along the dramatic coastline.
📝 Visit Fascinating Historical Sites
If you’re a history buff, you’re in luck, as Ireland has many fascinating sites.
You can start your journey by exploring the ancient ruins of Newgrange, a prehistoric monument older than Stonehenge, and the Egyptian pyramids. Specifically, Newgrange is an awe-inspiring passage tomb built around 3200 BC.
For a fairytale-like journey, take a trip to the mystical and captivating Blarney Castle in County Cork, where you can kiss the famous Blarney Stone for the gift of eloquence.
For those interested in Ireland’s medieval past, explore the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary, a stunning collection of medieval buildings perched on a hilltop.
Lastly, don’t miss the chance to visit Kilmainham Gaol in Dublin, a former prison that is now a museum that recounts the struggles and sacrifices of Irish independence.
📝 Enjoy a Cold Pint at a Local Pub
In May, as the weather starts to warm up, there’s nothing quite like sitting in a cozy pub with a pint of Guinness or a refreshing Irish ale.
Whether you’re exploring the cobblestone streets of Dublin, the vibrant city of Galway, or the quaint villages of the countryside, you’ll find pubs galore offering a warm Irish welcome from the friendly locals, lively traditional Irish music, and delicious pub grub that goes perfectly with a cold pint.
📝 Set Off on a Road Trip
With the weather starting to warm up and the countryside blossoming with vibrant colors, May is the perfect time to hit the open road.
A fantastic road trip is a journey along the breathtaking Wild Atlantic Way, which offers stunning landscapes of rugged cliffs with dramatic ocean views, picturesque villages, and hidden beaches.
If you prefer a more cultural experience, head to the Ancient East region, where you can discover Ireland’s ancient history through its historic castles, monastic sites, and mysterious ruins.
Overall, with charming towns, towering mountains, and serene lakes waiting to be explored, a road trip in Ireland offers the freedom to create your itinerary and immerse yourself in the country’s natural beauty.
📝 Admire the Medieval City of Kilkenny
Kilkenny is a beautiful destination that, May, makes it feel even more vibrant. Generally, Kilkenny is an ideal city to step back in time and get a glimpse into Ireland’s rich history.
While in Kilkenny, wander through the narrow, cobbled streets and get ready to discover medieval buildings and landmarks that will transport you to an era long gone.
Visit the iconic Kilkenny Castle, a magnificent structure with stunning gardens showcasing the country’s architectural grandeur. Furthermore, take a stroll along the River Nore to immerse in the city’s beauty.
Additionally, explore the charming shops, art galleries, and traditional pubs that line the city center, as they offer a taste of local culture and traditional Irish hospitality.
📝 Stroll Along the Beach
With milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, it’s the perfect time to sink your toes into the sandy shores and enjoy the soothing sounds of the waves.
From the sandy coastline of Donegal to the breathtaking beauty of the Dingle Peninsula, Ireland offers a diverse range of coastal landscapes.
Take a leisurely walk along the Dollymount Strand along the Bull Island Nature Reserve in Dublin, marveling at the panoramic views of Dublin Bay and the iconic Poolbeg Chimneys. Or, discover the picturesque beauty of the pristine Blue Flag beaches in County Kerry, where you can dip your toes in the pristine waters and bask in the tranquility of the surroundings.
What to pack for Ireland in May
When packing for a trip to Ireland in May, it’s important to be prepared for the country’s ever-changing weather. The best way to avoid Ireland’s unpredictable weather is with layering.
So, be sure to pack a lightweight waterproof jacket or raincoat to shield yourself from unexpected rain showers. Also, pack a couple of sweaters or light jackets for cooler evenings.
Comfortable shoes are also a must, as you’ll likely be doing a lot of exploring and strolling along Ireland’s beautiful landscapes.
Don’t forget to pack a hat and sunglasses for those sunny days, as well as sunscreen to protect your skin.
In terms of clothing, pack a mix of lightweight, breathable fabrics and warmer options to cater to Ireland’s unpredictable climate.
Finally, a travel adapter is essential to ensure you can charge your electronic devices throughout the trip since Ireland has plug type G.
Ireland in May Travel Tips
When planning your trip to Ireland in May, it’s essential to consider the variable weather the country experiences during this time of the year. So, as mentioned above, be sure to pack layers.
As May offers more daylight hours, be sure to explore the captivating outdoors, whether it’s hiking along scenic trails, cycling through picturesque landscapes, or visiting awe-inspiring gardens and national parks.
May also brings an array of festivals and events, so if you’d like to experience Irish culture vibrantly, check out the events schedule and book your trip accordingly.
Lastly, booking your hotels, tours, or other events in advance is best to avoid any inconvenience. Also, plan your visit to popular sites during the weekdays to avoid crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it good to visit Ireland in May?
Additionally, May is a time when many festivals and events take place.
What’s the weather like in Ireland during May?
How should I dress in Ireland in May?
Final Thoughts: Is May a good time to visit Ireland?
Visiting Ireland in May offers a mix of weather, from beautiful sunny days to occasional showers. But despite the unpredictable weather, May is an excellent time to explore Ireland’s stunning landscapes, as the country comes alive with vibrant colors.
So, be sure that with proper planning and the right clothing, your trip to Ireland in May can be a memorable and enjoyable experience.
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