Ireland in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in Ireland
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Significantly fewer crowds at major attractions - you'll have places like the Cliffs Of Moher and Ring Of Kerry largely to yourself
- Accommodation rates are 30-40% lower than summer peak season, with quality hotels available for €60-90 per night instead of €120+
- Ireland's famous 40 shades of green are at their most busy after winter rains, creating spectacular photography conditions
- St. Patrick's Day celebrations offer authentic Irish culture beyond Dublin's tourist parade, with genuine local festivals in smaller towns
Considerations
- Daylight hours are still limited (10.5-12 hours) with sunset as early as 6:30pm in early March, restricting outdoor activity time
- Unpredictable weather requires constant flexibility - outdoor plans frequently need indoor alternatives due to sudden downpours
- Many seasonal attractions and tours don't begin until April, limiting options for island trips and some coastal activities
Best Activities in March
Dublin Literary and Historic Walking Routes
March's cooler temperatures (12°C/54°F) are perfect for Dublin city walking without summer heat. Rain showers last only 15-20 minutes typically, and the city's covered Georgian squares provide shelter. This is prime season for exploring Dublin's compact city center before tourist season begins.
Killarney National Park Hiking Trails
March offers crystal-clear mountain views after winter storms pass, with waterfalls at their most dramatic from recent rainfall. Trails like Torc Waterfall (1.5km/0.9 miles) are manageable in cooler weather. Low tourist numbers mean better wildlife spotting opportunities for red deer and native birds.
Cliffs of Moher Coastal Experiences
March storms create the most spectacular wave action against Ireland's famous cliffs, with dramatic cloud formations perfect for photography. Visitor numbers are 70% lower than summer, allowing unobstructed viewing. Strong winds (common in March) actually enhance the raw Atlantic experience locals love.
Traditional Irish Pub Music Sessions
March is peak season for authentic traditional music sessions as locals gather indoors during Ireland's rainiest month. Sessions typically run 9:30pm-midnight in smaller towns. This is when you hear Ireland's best musicians playing for locals, not tourists.
Ring of Kerry Driving Routes
March weather creates Ireland's most dramatic skies with fast-moving clouds and sudden sunny breaks creating perfect 'moody Irish weather' photos. Roads are quieter with no tour bus traffic jams. Sheep are visible in lower pastures, and mountain views are clearest after rain showers pass.
Whiskey Distillery Experiences
March's cool, damp weather makes warm distillery tours particularly appealing. This is shoulder season for distillery visits meaning smaller group sizes and more personalized experiences. Spring water levels are high, which distillers say produces the best whiskey - perfect timing to learn about production.
March Events & Festivals
St. Patrick's Day Festival Dublin
Ireland's national celebration extends beyond March 17th with a full weekend of events including traditional music, street performances, and the famous parade. The atmosphere is genuinely celebratory rather than tourist-focused, especially in neighborhood pubs after official events end.
Local St. Patrick's Day Celebrations
Smaller towns across Ireland hold authentic community celebrations with traditional music sessions, local parades, and family gatherings. Towns like Dingle, Westport, and Kilkenny offer more intimate celebrations where visitors can experience genuine Irish community spirit.