Weather in Ireland in November

November in Ireland brings moody skies, golden landscapes, and the first signs of winter. Temperatures drop and rain becomes more frequent, but this shoulder season means fewer tourists around and lower prices across the board. The weather tends to be cool and damp, but if you’re happy to spend time indoors with a pint or enjoy stormy coastlines, it’s a rewarding time to visit. 

Ireland in November at a glance

 The country shifts from fall into winter, with misty mornings and early sunsets.

• Average temperatures hover between 41 to 50°F (5 to 10°C), colder in the north
• Great for budget-conscious travelers and anyone looking to avoid crowds
• Low season means accommodation is cheaper and attractions are quieter
• It rains more, so bring waterproof layers. On the plus side, the coast looks dramatic in this weather

What is the weather like in Ireland in November?

November feels like the slow slide from fall into winter. It’s cooler, wetter, and noticeably darker. The sunset is around 5:00 PM once daylight saving time ends. Rain is frequent throughout the month, with totals averaging 3.1 to 3.9 inches (80 to 100 mm). Expect anything from misty drizzle to heavy showers, sometimes all in the same day.

The west coast gets especially blustery, which makes for some wild sea views but can affect ferries and coastal plans. You’ll only get about 2 to 3 hours of sunshine each day, but when the skies do clear, the countryside is striking, with trees still clinging to their late-fall colors.

If you’re happy to adapt your plans around the weather and pack good rain gear, November gives you a quieter, more local-feeling version of Ireland. Bars feel warmer, towns less crowded, and everything moves at a slower, cozier pace. This is a great month to plan your Ireland itinerary.

See the best of your destination with itineraries crafted by our  Ireland local experts.

Average daily temperatures in November

November temperatures in Ireland drop noticeably compared to October, but it’s still milder than much of mainland Europe thanks to the Gulf Stream. Daytime highs usually reach around 50°F (10°C), with nighttime lows dipping to about 41°F (5°C). Frost becomes more common in inland areas as the month goes on, though coastal regions usually stay just above freezing.

The cooler air brings misty mornings in the countryside and helps the last of the fall leaves change color. By the end of the month, daylight hours are pretty limited. The sunrise is around 7:30 AM and sunset is close to 4:30 PM, so you’ll get about 8 to 9 hours of light each day.

Sea temperatures stay around 52 to 54°F (11 to 12°C), which is too cold for swimming unless you’ve got a wetsuit. You’ll want to dress in layers, especially in the evenings when it can feel colder than the numbers suggest due to humidity and wind chill. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Ireland.
 

Is November a good time to visit Ireland?

November gives you a different kind of trip to Ireland: quieter, moodier, and more tuned in to daily life. The cooler temperatures and frequent rain keep most tourists away, which means the places you do visit feel more relaxed and local. Mornings can be misty, the skies dramatic, and there are still patches of fall color hanging on in the parks and countryside. It’s a great time for atmospheric walks, cozy afternoons, and slower travel.

You’ll also find a few cultural events happening around the country, like the Cork International Film Festival and the Dublin Book Festival. Toward the end of the month, Christmas lights and markets start popping up in bigger cities. Museums, distilleries, and historic sites are still open but much less crowded, so you can take your time and actually talk to people working there. For some, November is the best time to visit Ireland, depending on what you want to do during your trip.

Why November is a good time to visit:

• The mix of fall and early winter makes for some great photo conditions
• Bar culture shines this time of year, especially with live music and warm, filling food
• Hotels often cost less than in summer
• Christmas decorations start going up in late November, bringing a festive atmosphere

What about the crowd and cost?

November falls in the low season, which means lower prices and smaller crowds. Hotel rates usually drop compared to summer, and some places throw in extras like breakfast or late checkout to bring people in. You won’t have to deal with long lines at major sites like the Cliffs of Moher or the Book of Kells, and you'll often have room to wander around at your own pace.

Restaurants and bars are mostly filled with people local to the area this time of year, so the experience tends to feel more genuine. You’ll probably notice better service too, since things are less hectic. While September and October may give you a better shot at dry weather, November is a solid choice if you're looking for a more laid-back, affordable trip with a focus on real Irish life.

Where to go in Ireland in November

November in Ireland is all about moody skies, quiet streets, and dramatic landscapes. The shorter days and changing weather give the country a different kind of beauty. You’ll want to focus on places with indoor options and good scenery, since rain is pretty common.  Here are some of the best places to visit in Ireland in November.

Dublin

Dublin is a solid home base in November. There’s plenty to do indoors, from national museums and galleries to historic bars where you’ll often catch live traditional music. The Dublin Book Festival usually runs mid-month, and the parks still hang on to some late-fall color. By the end of November, the Christmas lights go up along Grafton Street and O’Connell Street, giving the city a festive glow in the early evenings. 

Galway

On the west coast, Galway keeps its charm even as the weather shifts. There’s more rain, sure, but the coastal views become dramatic, especially when the Atlantic gets stormy. The city feels relaxed without the usual crowds, and its medieval center is easy to explore at your own pace. If you head into nearby Connemara, the low mist and golden hills make for beautiful photos and peaceful drives. 
 

Killarney and the Ring of Kerry

With fewer tour buses on the roads, November is a quieter time to explore this popular route in Kerry. The landscapes feel even more dramatic in the shifting light, and you’ll have time to stop and take it all in without pressure. Killarney National Park still shows traces of fall color, and the town itself is a cozy base, especially in the evenings when the bars come alive with music and warm food. 

Dingle Peninsula

November on the Dingle Peninsula can be wild, in a good way. The weather rolls in off the Atlantic, sending big waves crashing into the cliffs, and the mountains are often draped in low cloud. Dingle town feels local and low-key, with plenty of good bars and restaurants still open. It’s a good time for dolphin watching in the harbor or slow drives around Slea Head, with very few other travelers on the road.
 

Things to do in Ireland in November

November in Ireland offers a quieter, more atmospheric experience, with activities that highlight the country’s rugged beauty and cozy traditions. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer or prefer warm indoor escapes, there’s something unique to enjoy this time of year. Here are some of the best things to do in Ireland in November. 

Sample whiskey by the fire

When the temperature drops, it’s hard to beat a warm distillery tour followed by a tasting near a fireplace. Distilleries like Jameson and Teeling in Dublin, or the Dingle Distillery in County Kerry, are great places to learn about the craft and try a few pours. Many places slow things down in the off-season, so tours often feel more personal, and staff have more time to chat and answer questions. 

Visit the islands of Ireland

November offers a rare, quiet chance to explore Ireland’s remote islands. Take a ferry to the Aran Islands or Inishbofin, where the raw beauty of the Atlantic and the peace of the offseason create an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to pack for the wind!

Relax in a seaweed bath

For something truly unique (and warm), head to County Sligo or County Clare for a traditional seaweed bath. These rejuvenating soaks, offered in places like Voya Seaweed Baths, are perfect for unwinding after a bracing day outdoors. 

Watch the waves in Donegal

Ireland’s northwest coast comes alive in November with massive Atlantic swells. Head to Malin Head or Fanad Head in County Donegal for dramatic views of waves crashing against the rugged cliffs: a spectacle you won’t see in calmer seasons. 
 

Planning your itinerary

Ireland’s small size makes it easy to explore in a week or two. Plan around weather, driving distances, and how much bar time or countryside you want in your trip.

• Ireland itinerary 7 days: Start in Dublin, then head west to Galway. Visit Connemara or the Cliffs of Moher, then loop south through Dingle or Killarney before returning to Dublin via Cashel or Kilkenny.
• Ireland itinerary 10 days: Begin in Dublin, then explore Kilkenny and the Rock of Cashel. Drive the Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula, visit Galway, then finish with a night near the Cliffs of Moher.
• Scotland and Ireland itinerary: Fly into Edinburgh and spend a few days exploring the Highlands. Then fly to Dublin, road trip through Galway and Kerry, and fly out of Shannon or back from Dublin.