Weather in Ireland in March

 The weather in Ireland in March is cool and often wet, but there are more daylight hours and occasional sunny breaks. It’s still low season in most places, except around St. Patrick’s Day, when cities fill with parades and music. March is a good month to visit if you want a quieter look at rural landscapes or time to explore cities like Dublin without summer crowds. Just pack a waterproof and expect to move between rain showers and bar stops. The early signs of spring give the countryside a fresh, green glow.

Ireland in March at a glance

Wondering what the weather is like in Ireland in March? The weather is warming a little in a shoulder-season month that sees a spike in activity around St. Patrick's Day.

• March is early spring in Ireland, with average temperatures of 41–52°F (5–11°C).
• Rainfall is moderate, typically 50–90 mm, depending on the region.
• March is a shoulder season, offering decent weather for sightseeing, fewer crowds, and good value for travel. 
• It's lively around St. Patrick's Day.

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What is the weather like in Ireland in March?

The weather in Ireland in March stays moody, with regular shifts between drizzle, sun, and cloud. Rain falls on 18 to 20 days, totaling around 70 to 80 mm, mostly in light bursts. March is still low season, which means quieter roads and cheaper places to stay, but also wet trails and blustery coastlines.

Cities like Dublin come alive around St. Patrick’s Day, even if the skies don’t always cooperate. You’ll want to pack for layers and wind no matter where you go. The countryside begins to green up with signs of spring, and indoor activities like bars, castles, and museums take the edge off rainy spells. The weather in Ireland in March is far from perfect, but it’s authentic and rarely boring. For more advice, see our favorite Ireland itineraries.
 

Average daily temperatures in March

The weather in Ireland in March means daytime highs of 48–52°F (9–11°C) and nighttime lows of 37–41°F (3–5°C), with occasional frost inland.

For context, this is on par with the weather in Ireland in February and notably colder than July, the warmest month, which averages 59–68°F.

When it comes to rain, March sees around 50–80 mm of rain over 12–15 days.

Meanwhile, the rainiest month, October, experiences 90–120 mm, and the driest month (April) sees 40–60 mm.

It’s worth noting a few regional differences in March weather in Ireland—the west coast is wetter and windier as a result of Atlantic exposure, and the Midlands are generally cooler and still experience some frosty mornings. It's not the best time to go to Ireland, but it is still a great time for a trip.

Is March a good time to visit Ireland?

On balance, March is a great time for many types of travelers to visit Ireland, as long as you’re not hoping for warm, sunny weather. 

For history and culture enthusiasts, March’s cooler weather invites enjoying indoor attractions like castles, museums, and distilleries.

Or, if you’re into exploring the great outdoors, spring brings lengthening daylight hours. While hiking trails may still be muddy, you just need to come prepared with the right gear.

Last but certainly not least, St. Patrick’s Day (March 17) is a major highlight, with parades and festivities across the country, particularly in Dublin. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Ireland.

• St. Patrick's Day celebrations nationwide
• Lengthening daylight hours
• Good for indoor attractions and museums
• Cooler weather with possible rain
• Fewer tourists than summer months

What about the crowds and cost?

March is part of a shoulder season, which means crowds and costs are generally low, with fewer tourists at major attractions compared to summer and better value prices for flights and accommodation.

A notable exception to this is the period around St. Patrick’s Day (March 17), when cities like Dublin become busier and more expensive as a result of the increased demand. So, it's best to book very early. For more advice, see our Ireland travel tips.

Where to go to Ireland in March

March in Ireland is all about contrast. The countryside begins turning green again, bars get rowdy around St. Patrick’s Day, and the weather keeps you on your toes. Here is our pick for the best places to visit in Ireland.

Dublin

Dublin goes all out for St. Patrick’s Day, but even outside the vacation weekend the city is lively. Music spills out of bars, and museums feel more personal without the summer crowds. Trinity College, the Long Room, and the Book of Kells are worth your time. Walk along the canal, stop for a pint, and listen to trad sessions in Temple Bar. March is when locals start shaking off winter and reclaiming the city.

Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry in March feels wild and dramatic. Weather changes fast, but that’s part of the charm. You’ll see green fields, lambs just born, and maybe even snow on the mountains in the distance. Tourist numbers are low, so the roads are easier to drive, and the viewpoints are less crowded. Stop in villages, hike in Killarney National Park, and find a warm bar when the rain rolls in. See our favorite best road trips in Ireland.

Galway

Galway mixes tradition with creativity. In March, the city is full of music, markets, and people who are just happy to see a bit more daylight. You can catch live sessions in nearly every bar. Walk the Salthill Prom if the skies are clear, or take the ferry to the Aran Islands for windswept cliffs and Irish-speaking villages. The arts scene starts to pick up again in March, and the seafood is always good.
 

Things to do in Ireland in March

Here are a few of the best things to do in Ireland in March—a fresh, early-spring month that sees nature start to wake up. Here are some of the best things to do in Ireland.

Explore yards and parks

Visit glorious yards like the National Botanic Yards in Dublin or Powerscourt Estate in Wicklow, when early spring flowers are beginning to bloom.

Discover Ireland's wild coast

Take advantage of the quieter shoulder season to explore Ireland’s dramatic coastal landscapes. 

For example, while the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare are breathtaking year-round, March’s misty weather adds to their wild beauty. 

Experience traditional Irish music in bars

March’s chilly evenings are perfect for cozying up in a traditional Irish bar while listening to live music. 

For a famous music experience, check out The Brazen Head in Dublin or Tigh Neachtain in Galway, and read up on the best bars in Ireland for traditional music.

Plan your trip with our Ireland itineraries

Our Ireland itineraries give you a clear route through the country without locking you into a rigid plan. They’re designed to keep travel days manageable while leaving space to slow down in places that grab you. Expect a strong mix of cities, coastal scenery, small towns, and plenty of time outdoors.

• Ireland itinerary 7 days: A week works well if you focus on one or two regions. Many travelers pair Dublin with the west, such as Galway and the Cliffs of Moher, or head south to Cork and the coast. It’s a good option if you want scenic drives and lively towns without spending every day on the road.
• Ireland itinerary 10 days: Ten days lets you see more of the island at a comfortable pace. You can combine Dublin with the west and south, adding stops along the Wild Atlantic Way or in County Kerry. This timeline allows for shorter drives, longer walks, and nights spent in smaller places rather than constant hotel changes.
• Ireland and Scotland itinerary: Combining Ireland and Scotland works best if you limit how much ground you cover. Many routes start in Dublin, continue through western Ireland, then jump to Edinburgh or Glasgow by flight. It’s a good choice if you want a broader Celtic perspective, mixing Irish coastlines with Scottish cities, lochs, and highland scenery.