Weather in Ireland in April

Wondering what the weather is like in Ireland in April? This month sees a country Rough Guides’ readers voted the world’s friendliest country in the full swing of spring, so expect milder temperatures, moderate rainfall and lengthening days. Read for more detail on weather in Ireland in April, along with suggestions for what to see and do during this bright and breezy shoulder season month.

Ireland in April at a glance

In short, the weather in Ireland in April is warming up as the country shifts to spring mode.

• April in Ireland sees average temperatures of 45–55°F (7–13°C). 
• Rainfall is moderate, though expect scattered showers.
• April is still shoulder season, which means moderate crowds and prices. 

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

Is April a good time to visit Ireland?

Overall, April is a great time to visit Ireland. 

Warmer weather — and daylight stretching to 13–14 hours — makes exploring the county’s natural landscapes and landmarks all the more pleasant during a month that still sees smaller shoulder season crowds i.e. roads and attractions are less crowded in April.

If you’re hoping to enjoy Ireland’s natural landscapes, April sees spring blooms and greenery return, with daffodils and wildflowers dotting the countryside. 

For example, Killarney National Park in County Kerry and the Burren on Ireland’s Wild Altantic Way are particularly beautiful in April.

At the same time, April’s relatively dry weather makes it a great time for hikes and coastal drives, though you’ll want to bring waterproofs for occasional showers.

Want more spring vacation inspiration? Discover the best places to visit in spring.

On a budget? You might want to read up on some of the cheapest places to visit in spring.

Average daily temperatures in April

The weather in Ireland in April means daytime highs of 52–55°F (11–13°C) and night-time lows of 39–43°F (4–6°C), with occasional frost in inland areas.

For comparison, the weather in Ireland in January — the coldest month — sees an average of 34–46°F (1–8°C), while July, the warmest month, sees 59–68°F (15–20°C).

When it comes to rain, the April weather in Ireland heralds 40–60 mm over 10–12 days. This compares with October, usually the rainiest month, experiencing 90–120 mm. 

Just be aware that while April is relatively dry, you’ll want waterproofs for spring showers.

It’s also worth noting some regional variations. For example, the West Coast (e.g. Galway and Kerry) will be wetter and windier due to Atlantic exposure.

Meanwhile, while the east (e.g. Dublin and Wicklow) tends to be drier and slightly warmer, with daytime highs reaching 55°F (13°C).

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

What about the crowds and cost?

April is part of a shoulder season in Ireland, which means you can expect smaller crowds at popular attractions like the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, and on the streets of Dublin.

That said, there will be a spike in crowds and costs around the Easter vacations when more domestic and international visitors take breaks.

Overall, the costs of travel in April are moderate. Flights and accommodation are likely to be cheaper than they are in summer, but slightly pricier than the winter months. 

If you book early, you might still bag yourself some discounts on hotels.

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 April

Here are a few of best things to do in Ireland in April. These come in addition to spending time in the best bars in Ireland for traditional music, which is always an experience to write home about!

Visit the National Museum of Ireland – Country Life 

Located in Castlebar, County Mayo, this wonderful museum offers a fascinating insight into Ireland’s rural history and traditions, showcasing artifacts and exhibits about Irish folk life from the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Spring is an ideal time to explore the museum, as the surrounding yards and grounds begin to bloom.

At the same time, you can head inside when spring showers strike. 

Drive the Wild Atlantic Way

April’s clearer weather and blooming landscapes make this scenic coastal route even more stunning. Be sure to stop at highlights like Achill Island, the Dingle Peninsula and Clifden.

Explore Killarney National Park

In spring, Killarney National Park in County Kerry comes alive with lush greenery and blooms. Highlights include Muckross House, exploring Torc waterfall and hiking in the Gap of Dunloe.

Visit the Aran Islands

Take a ferry to the Aran Islands (off Galway’s coast) to enjoy peaceful spring landscapes, ancient forts like Dún Aonghasa, and scenic bike rides.

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

Festivals and events in Ireland in April

If you’re looking for extra reasons to visit Ireland in April, a few festivals might tempt you to book your flights.

• West Waterford Festival of Food: held in Dungarvan, this festival features artisan producers, cooking demonstrations, and tastings of local food and drink.
• Catalyst International Film Festival: held in Limerick at the start of April, the Catalyst International Film Festival showcases stories and storytellers currently under-represented both on screen and behind the camera. 
• Cúirt International Festival of Literature: Galway’s Cúirt International Festival of Literature — one of Europe’s oldest book festivals — usually takes place in April.

Plan your trip with our Ireland itineraries

If you're planning a trip to Ireland, check out our Ireland itinerary suggestions for ideas on how to spend your time exploring 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