Ireland in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Ireland

10°C (50°F) High Temp

3°C (37°F) Low Temp

68mm (2.7 inches) Rainfall

85% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Lowest accommodation prices of the year - luxury hotels 40-60% cheaper than summer rates, with many offering February-specific packages including breakfast and spa credits
Dramatic winter coastal scenery with massive Atlantic swells creating spectacular wave displays at Cliffs of Moher, Giant'S Causeway, and Dingle Peninsula - photographer's dream conditions
Peak storytelling season in traditional pubs - locals gather for longer evening sessions around turf fires, creating authentic cultural experiences impossible during tourist season
Optimal conditions for whiskey distillery tours - cold weather enhances tasting experiences, and February sees special cask releases from major distilleries like Jameson and Bushmills

Considerations

Daylight limited to 8.5 hours (sunrise 7:45am, sunset 5:15pm) severely restricts outdoor activity windows and sightseeing time
Persistent dampness makes 3°C (37°F) feel like -2°C (28°F) - you'll feel cold even when temperatures seem mild on paper
Many seasonal attractions closed including some castle tours, boat trips, and outdoor activity centers - particularly affects island visits and coastal excursions

Best Activities in February

Dublin Literary and Historical Walking Tours

February's cool, crisp air is perfect for 2-3 hour walking tours without overheating. Smaller group sizes (8-12 people vs 20+ in summer) mean better interaction with guides. Trinity College and Dublin Castle have reduced crowds, allowing proper appreciation of Book of Kells and state apartments. Indoor portions provide natural warming breaks.

Booking Tip: Book 3-5 days ahead through city tourism centers or hotel concierge. Tours typically cost €20-35 per person. Look for combination tickets including indoor attractions. Many tours offer bad weather guarantees with covered route alternatives.

Ring of Kerry Driving Routes

February delivers the Ring of Kerry's most dramatic scenery - stormy skies, snow-capped mountains, and fewer tour buses clogging narrow roads. Waterfalls are at peak flow from winter rains. Weather changes create constantly shifting light perfect for photography. Tourist stops like Ladies View have parking availability.

Booking Tip: Self-drive gives flexibility for weather windows - rent cars with good heating and GPS. Guided coach tours typically €45-65 and run weather permitting. Book accommodation in Killarney or Kenmare at least 10 days ahead as some properties close mid-winter.

Traditional Irish Music Sessions

February is peak session season when local musicians gather for lengthy evening performances around pub fires. Tourist-heavy venues are quieter, revealing authentic local talent. Traditional heating (turf fires) creates atmospheric settings impossible in summer. Sessions run longer (often until midnight) as locals aren't competing with tourist demands.

Booking Tip: No advance booking needed - ask locals for current session schedules as they vary weekly. Expect to spend €25-40 on drinks over 3-4 hours. Best sessions typically Tuesday-Thursday nights. Look for pubs with working fireplaces and local clientele.

Whiskey Distillery Tours and Tastings

Cold February weather enhances whiskey appreciation - palate more sensitive to subtle flavors and warming sensation more pronounced. Special February releases from major distilleries including limited editions. Indoor activity perfect for short daylight hours. Behind-the-scenes access often available due to reduced tour group sizes.

Booking Tip: Book premium tasting experiences 1-2 weeks ahead, costs typically €25-75 depending on whiskeys included. Midweek tours less crowded. Look for master distiller sessions and cask strength tastings only offered in low season. Many distilleries offer transport from nearby cities.

Giant's Causeway and North Coast Exploration

February storms create spectacular wave action against basalt columns - nature at its most powerful. Dramatic cloud formations and winter light provide exceptional photography conditions. Visitor center less crowded allowing proper appreciation of geological exhibits. Nearby Carrick-a-Rede bridge offers wild Atlantic views without summer queues.

Booking Tip: Check weather conditions day-of as high winds can close coastal paths. Guided tours from Belfast typically €40-60 including transport. Self-drive allows flexibility for weather windows. Waterproof gear essential - visitor center rents basic rain gear if needed.

Medieval Castle and Historic Site Tours

February's atmospheric conditions enhance castle visits - mist and grey skies create authentic medieval ambiance. Indoor sections provide refuge from weather while exploring history. Reduced crowds mean personal attention from guides and unobstructed photos. Many castles offer special winter exhibitions and behind-the-scenes access.

Booking Tip: Verify opening hours as some castles have reduced winter schedules. Heritage Card offers good value if visiting multiple sites - costs €40 for adults, covers 95+ locations. Book guided tours directly through heritage sites, typically €12-25 per castle. Indoor portions make weather largely irrelevant.

February Events & Festivals

Early to Mid February

Six Nations Rugby Championship

Ireland's home matches at Aviva Stadium create electric atmosphere throughout Dublin. Even non-rugby fans enjoy pre-match pub celebrations and traditional music sessions. Match days transform the city with green jerseys everywhere and impromptu street parties.

Late February

Temple Bar TradFest

Dublin's premier traditional music festival brings world-class Irish musicians to intimate venues. Mix of ticketed concerts and free sessions in pubs throughout Temple Montenegro district. Perfect February activity combining music, warmth, and cultural immersion.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof jacket with hood (not just water-resistant) - February drizzle is constant and penetrating, lasting 2-4 hours at a time

Insulating layer like merino wool sweater - damp conditions at 85% humidity make temperatures feel 5°C (9°F) colder than actual

Waterproof walking boots with ankle support - sidewalks and trails are wet and slippery, Irish stone surfaces become treacherous when damp

Quick-dry hiking pants or wool trousers - avoid jeans which stay wet for hours and become uncomfortable

Warm waterproof gloves - essential for outdoor activities, wet hands become painful at 3°C (37°F)

Wool socks and sock liners - feet stay wet in most footwear, wool maintains warmth when damp unlike cotton

Compact umbrella plus rain hat - double protection needed as Irish rain often comes horizontally in coastal winds

Portable phone charger - cold weather drains batteries 30-40% faster, essential for navigation and photos

Moisturizer and lip balm - constant wind and damp air severely dries skin, Irish pharmacy brands work best

Layers for indoor/outdoor transitions - pubs and hotels are very warm (20-22°C/68-72°F) while outdoors feels like -2°C (28°F)

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations with working fireplaces or excellent heating systems - many older Irish properties are poorly heated and damp conditions make rooms feel colder than indicated temperatures

Time outdoor activities for 11am-3pm window when UV index peaks at 2 and you get maximum daylight - morning and evening light too dim for most sightseeing

Carry cash for small pubs and traditional music sessions - many local venues don't accept cards and tipping musicians directly is expected cultural practice

Download offline maps before traveling to remote areas like Ring of Kerry - February storms frequently disrupt mobile signals and GPS becomes unreliable

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating how cold and damp 3°C (37°F) feels with 85% humidity and wind - tourists pack for dry cold weather instead of Irish wet conditions

Planning too many outdoor activities for short daylight hours - 8.5 hours of daylight means maximum 6 hours of practical sightseeing time

Expecting summer opening hours and availability - many seasonal attractions, boat tours, and restaurants have reduced schedules or close entirely in February