Weather in Ireland in March

If you’re thinking of visiting Ireland — a country Rough Guides’ readers voted the world’s friendliest country — in spring, keep reading for detail on the weather in Ireland in March. As a snapshot, it’s a shoulder-season month that’s milder than the throes of winter, with moderate rainfall. Spoiler alert: March sees Ireland celebrate St Patrick’s Day, so you’re in for a special time.

Ireland in March at a glance

Wondering what’s the weather 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.

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

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.

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

On a budget? Here are some of the cheapest places to visit in spring.

Average daily temperatures in March

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

For context, this is on a 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 nothing 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.

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

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, best to book very early. 

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 March

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

Explore gardens and parks

Visit glorious gardens like the National Botanic Gardens 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 breath-taking year-round, March’s misty weather adds to their wild beauty. 

Experience traditional Irish music in pubs

March’s chilly evenings are perfect for cozying up in a traditional Irish pub 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 pubs in Ireland for traditional music.

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

Festivals and events in Ireland in March

If you’re looking for extra reasons to visit Ireland in March, here’s an overview of a few festivals and events held through the month. In exciting news, you’ll be here for St Patrick’s Day.

• St Patrick’s Day: celebrated nationwide, St Patrick’s Day is the biggest event of the month, if not the entire year. While Dublin hosts a weeklong festival with parades, concerts and cultural events, smaller cities, towns and villages also host their own parades and celebrations.
• Dublin International Film Festival: while this begins in mid-to-late Febraury, the Dublin International Film Festival usually runs into early March, and showcases Irish and international films in cinemas across Dublin.
• Experience Spring Equinox magic: for a touch of enchantment, visit ancient sites like Loughcrew Cairns in County Meath, where the rising sun aligns with the ancient tombs during the spring equinox (around March 20–21).

Plan your trip with our Ireland itineraries

If you’ve decided to visit Ireland, you’ll find more inspiration in our suggested itineraries for spending different durations in 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