There are many wonderful places in Ireland to visit, whether you’re a born and bred Irishman or a naturally curious tourist with a thirst to know more about Ireland.
Ireland is amazing in the spring. If you’re planning a trip, here are the top five places to visit in Ireland in spring, whether you are backpacking Ireland or on an Irish road trip.
The weather is usually warming up at this time of year. Still, you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared for your trip ahead of time by packing plenty of warm clothes and rain gear just in case it rains!
The weather tends to be unpredictable during springtime. So, be sure not to forget anything important before heading out on your journey!
The people are friendly and the food is great. So, what are you waiting for? If you want to celebrate spring in Ireland, here are the best places to visit!
5. Dublin – plenty to discover in the capital
Dublin is the capital of Ireland, and it’s one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. The city has a lot of culture and history, as well as several nice restaurants and bars.
There are many things to do here in during springtime, including visiting museums such as the National Museum of Ireland or the Book of Kells Exhibition at Trinity College Library.
You can also visit the Guinness Brewery or take a tour around Dublin with a knowledgeable and friendly local guide.
4. Cork – one of the best places to visit in Ireland in spring
Cork is Ireland’s second city and a great place to visit this season. Located in Munster, Cork is Ireland’s southern county and home to over 200,000 people.
It has a long history as an important port, but today is best known for its pubs and architecture. Plus, you can’t leave without trying one of the traditional local dishes, such as soda bread!
The city also boasts some of the friendliest people in all of Ireland. So, if you’re looking for somewhere new to explore this spring, consider visiting this charming city with its cobblestone streets that date back hundreds of years.
3. Galway – discover the capital of culture
You can’t really go wrong when visiting Galway. The city is especially lovely in spring, with its (sometimes) warmer weather and gorgeous scenery.
The best time to visit is March, when the climate is perfect for you to take advantage of the milder temperatures for outdoor activities like hiking or cycling.
The city itself has plenty to see, including the Spanish Arch, built in the 18th-century, which commemorates Spain’s influence on Ireland during that time period and is one of the best free things to do and see in Galway.
It’s also worth stopping by Galway Cathedral, which opened in the 1960s; the interior features stunning stained glass windows, and it is one of the biggest buildings in the city!
2. Waterford – discover Ireland’s oldest city
Waterford is a beautiful city and one of the best places to visit in Ireland in spring, as it has many interesting places to visit.
There are many historical sites, such as St. Declan’s Well and the Waterford Crystal Factory, for you to explore.
You can also go out for a nice meal or have lunch at one of the cafes in town if you fancy more of a relaxing day.
1. Limerick – one of the best in the west
Limerick is a charming city that’s right on the border of the south and west regions of the country. It’s home to one of Ireland’s best art museums and a bustling cultural scene, so it’s got something for everyone.
If you’re heading to Limerick, check out the Treaty Stone & Garden, home to a stone thought to be used when the 1691 Treaty of Limerick was signed.
There’s also the Hunt Museum, home to over 2000 ethnographic artefacts from Ancient Egypt and right here in Ireland. Definitely one for history buffs!
If you want to fly into Ireland but don’t want an overland journey from Dublin or another major city, head straight for Shannon Airport instead. It’s just 30 minutes away by taxi or car service so getting there won’t be much trouble at all!
Bonus: St. Patrick’s Day
It might not be a place as such, but if you’re in Ireland in the early springtime, you absolutely can’t miss the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations taking place across the country.
You’ll find parades in all major cities, but for the best experience, Dublin is the place to be, which is why we consider it one of the best places to visit in spring.
Here, St. Patrick’s isn’t just celebrated on one day, but five. The main parade is a sight to behold and could be just the best reason to visit Ireland at this time of year.
