Cheapest and Most Expensive Times To Visit Ireland

Searching for the cheapest and most expensive times to visit Ireland? This guide has you covered and will help you plan when to visit based on your travel budget.

Cheapest and Most Expensive Times To Visit Ireland

Most Expensive Time to Visit Ireland

The most expensive time to visit Ireland is during the summer months and around major holidays, when international tourism peaks across the country.

Summer (June to August)
Long daylight hours and warmer weather make this Ireland’s busiest season.

  • Hotels in Dublin, Galway, and along the Wild Atlantic Way are at their highest rates.
  • Popular attractions like the Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, and Giant’s Causeway are crowded.

St. Patrick’s Day (Mid-March)
Dublin and other cities host world-famous St. Patrick’s Day parades and events.

  • Hotels and flights sell out quickly, with rates surging.
  • Crowds fill pubs, streets, and event venues.

Christmas & New Year (Late December to Early January)
Festive celebrations bring more travelers.

  • Hotels across major cities increase rates.
  • Flights from the U.S. and Europe become more expensive.

Spring (April to May)
Mild weather and blooming landscapes draw more visitors before summer.

  • Hotels charge more than in winter.
  • Attractions like castles, gardens, and coastal drives are busy.

Cheapest Time to Visit Ireland

The cheapest time to visit Ireland is during the colder winter months and transitional shoulder seasons, when demand is lower.

Winter (November to February, excluding holidays)
Shorter days and cold, wet weather keep many tourists away.

  • Hotels and flights are at their lowest of the year.
  • Attractions like museums, pubs, and historic sites remain open and less crowded.

Late Autumn (October to Early November)
After the summer and early fall tourism peak, prices fall.

  • Hotels in both cities and rural areas are more affordable.
  • A quieter time to explore without heavy crowds.

Early Spring (February to Early March, before St. Patrick’s Day)
This short shoulder season offers budget-friendly travel.

  • Hotels and flights remain inexpensive compared to later spring.
  • A peaceful time to explore before the festival rush.

Price Summary Table for Ireland Travel

Time Period Price Level Why It Matters
June – August 💲💲💲 Highest Summer peak, warm weather, heavy tourism
Mid-March (St. Patrick’s Day) 💲💲💲 Very High National celebrations, global demand
Late Dec – Early Jan 💲💲💲 High Christmas & New Year holidays
April – May 💲💲💲 High Spring bloom, popular sightseeing
Nov – Feb (excl. holidays) 💲 Lowest Winter off-season, cheapest hotels & flights
Oct – Early Nov 💲 Low Shoulder season, affordable accommodations
Feb – Early Mar (pre-St. Patrick’s) 💲 Low–Mid Budget-friendly travel before festival season

How To Save Money When Visiting Ireland?

When you go will most certainly make the difference in costs like flights, hotels, attractions, and food. Aligning your travel dates with Ireland’s off-peak seasons can significantly cut expenses. Consider what experiences you hope to have and plan accordingly to make the most of lower prices and thinner crowds.

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