We survived spring in Ireland without getting yeeted by the wind!
I remember my first Irish spring weekend trip. My mum bought me ice cream because the weather was finally the right temperature between cool and warm. I was halfway through enjoying my dessert when the wind yeeted the cone clean out of my hand!
Just pure betrayal. Cue 10 straight minutes of me throwing a fit and rolling in the grass—while my poor parents tried to calm me down and queue for a new one. To this day, my family still won’t let me live that down.
The moral of the story? Always scope out a wind-free zone before indulging in anything good outdoors. Or, just be prepared for anything! Now that I’m older and road tripping with pals, we made our own travel guide for spring in Ireland so no one ends up in tears.
What is spring in Ireland like?
Spring in Ireland is like one of the softest experiences ever! You’ll get blooming wildflowers, gentle rains, and longer days. Even the countryside here offers some of the most vibrant greenery, making it worth visiting at least once.
Best Time to Go
The best time to go around Ireland during spring is between 10 am and 4 pm, when there’s more daylight to spare. This way, you can explore the attractions or casually enjoy the weather while having a stroll.
How to Get Around
Trains: Going on the train as transportation in Ireland is a comfortable option for taking in the scenery, especially when travelling from Dublin to Galway or Cork. Be sure to look at the window for picturesque sights too!
Buses: If you need to save more, taking the bus is an affordable way to go around cities and rural areas. Bus Éireann and Citylink run frequent services here.
Taxis: Should comfort be your priority, we think hailing a cab could be very handy. This is especially for spots not covered by public transport and on rainy days.
Car: Of course, driving your own car gives you the most freedom to wander around hidden gems! And when Ireland has longer daylight hours, we reckon you can treat yourself to chill countryside or coastal route drives.
What to Do During Spring in Ireland
Chase Cherry Blossoms and Daffodils
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Website: https://www.phoenixpark.ie/
Address: Dublin 8
Contact Details: +353 1 821 3021, +353 1 820 5800, +353 1 820 3500, [email protected]
We believe spring is all about the nice weather and flowers. If that’s your thing, Dublin’s Phoenix Park is a massive green space where you’ll find pretty cherry blossoms and daffodils! There are lush meadows and hidden nooks as well.
The way we see it, it’s incredible that this park is even larger than NYC’s Central Park! And when it’s around late March to mid-April, we adore that the flowers line the pathways, especially around Chesterfield Avenue and the Victorian Walled Garden.
If you’re lucky, you might even see the resident fallow deer, so be sure to keep an eye out! You might chance upon one near the cherry blossoms, and we bet that’s adorably Instagram-worthy.
Drive the Wild Atlantic Way
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If you find peace in long drives, we reckon the Wild Atlantic Way is a fantastic option. There’s loads to see here as it stretches over 2,500 km from Donegal to West Cork—the longest coastal driving path in Europe!
And because it’s spring, you’ll see wildflowers like bluebells blossom across valleys and cliffs. Other highlights for us include the Cliffs of Moher in Clare, Slea Head Drive in Dingle, Sky Road in Clifden, and Fanad Head Lighthouse in Donegal.
On top of that, the Atlantic storms give clearer skies and calmer seas, which we believe turn the coast into something special. You can also check out some coffee shops, seafood shacks, and B&Bs if you want to stay overnight.
Experience Irish Festivals
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Want to make your spring visit to Ireland more intentional? Why not go to Irish festivals? You can bask in music, dancing, and everything green on St. Patrick’s Day! It’s also got massive, colourful parades in Dublin, Galway, and Cork.
And if you’re a foodie, we say don’t miss out on the Galway Food Festival with a bunch of tasting galore and food trails, especially with street food. If you want a show, we love the cooking demos too!
But should you be more of a cinephile, you can go for the Belfast Film Festival! You’ll catch indie Irish flicks, documentaries, experimental features, and more. Plus, directors, screenwriters, and actors could hold Q&As and panels there.
Go for Scenic Spring Hikes
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Need to make the most of the nice spring weather to do something active? There are several hiking spots to discover, such as Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains, The Burren in County Clare, and the Causeway Coast in Northern Ireland.
Like adventure? We think you’re in luck! You’ll see plenty of atmospheric ruins such as old monastic buildings, valleys in bloom, flexible trails, ocean cliffs, and the like.
Still, be sure to start early, wear layers and waterproof boots, and bring snacks or a picnic—just in case food options are limited at your chosen spot.
Where to Eat During Spring in Ireland
Linnane’s Lobster Bar
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Website: http://www.linnanesbar.com/
Address: Ballyvelaghan, New Quay, Co. Clare
Contact Details: +353 65 707 8120, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
Looking for a hearty post-hike meal? We believe Linnane’s Lobster Bar offers some of the best spring seafood options. It provides a comfy, rustic feel as well, as it’s a converted 19th-century boathouse.
We recommend the crab claws and fresh lobsters (they’re in season!). We also like the craft Irish beers. But with shellfish, we think Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with that. Otherwise, we appreciate having classic Irish coffee for a warm post-lunch treat.
As for dessert, we say stick with the classic sticky toffee pudding or lemon tart. There are local ice cream flavours too, depending on the season.
Volpe Nera
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Website: https://volpenera.ie/
Address: 22 Newtown Park, Stillorgan Park, Blackrock, Co. Dublin
Contact Details: +353 1 278 8516, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Should you want options, options, and more options, Volpe Nera offers Modern European cuisine with an international flair—expect Irish, Mediterranean, and Asian influences to keep things fresh! For us, the intimate setting is good for dates too.
We recommend the spring lamb rump or shoulder, handmade pastas like rich ragu (slow-cooked meat sauce), and duck with pickled rhubarb or soy-cured yolk.
To end on a sweet note, we like the buttermilk panna cotta as it’s light and citrusy. Alternatively, you can go for the more familiar chocolate crémeux (cream) for something richer.
Bramley Abbeyleix
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Website: https://bramleyabbeyleix.com/
Address: 10 Main St, Knocknamoe, Abbeyleix, Co. Laois
Contact Details: +353 87 946 6824, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
Something for travellers: Bramley Abbeyleix offers modern Irish items made from local produce for that cosy, country-town charm. We find it incredible that this spot’s menu shifts with the season, so you can get lighter and brighter meals for spring!
Our top picks are the spring lamb, free-range pork belly, and grilled cod. There’s something for the veggie eaters too—you can order spring risottos, heritage beetroot, or wild tortellini.
Before you leave, we recommend getting your hands on a warm chocolate brownie for a comforting dessert. There’s also bread and butter pudding, which we think is delightful for all ages.
Where to Shop During Spring in Ireland
Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre
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Website: http://www.stephensgreen.com/
Address: St Stephen’s Green, Dublin
Contact Details: +353 1 478 0888, [email protected]
Spring is a lot about the flowers, and Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre’s iconic Victorian-style glass atrium looks especially lovely in spring. Whether it’s rainy or chilly, we think this provides a nice and bright indoor space for retail therapy.
There’s a good mix of high-street and unique trinkets around here. And fashion brands, such as TK Maxx, Boots, and United Colors of Benetton, as well as some locally-owned boutiques are available.
Of course, there are Irish-made souvenirs and gifts too! This includes books for your spring read checklist or stationery for your collection. And if you need a pick-me-up drink, we find it convenient that there’s a balcony seating area upstairs for coffee.
The Irish Store
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Website: https://www.theirishstore.com/
Address: Floor 8-9, 1st, Westmoreland St, Dublin 2
Contact Details: +353 1 861 1590, [email protected]
Want a piece of Ireland to your loved ones? For us, The Irish Store is a great shop for spring gifts, mainly quality Irish-made presents. We think it’s handy that these items could be shipped internationally too!
Our best picks are the lightweight cardigans, breezy scarves, handcrafted jewellery, and sophisticated homewares (available in pastel spring colours!). Most of these things look timeless, so we bet you can gift them at any time of the year.
To save more, we recommend checking its website for spring sales or gift sets. This way, you’ll get more affordable Irish chocolate, soaps, knitwear, and other cute items.
Seasons of Ireland
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Website: https://seasonsofireland.ie/
Address: 111 Grafton Street, Dublin 2
Contact Details: +353 1 671 8265
From its name, Seasons of Ireland is where you can find seasonal, Irish-designed items for springtime souvenirs and gifts. And with its seasonal theme, we like coming back here every few months because there’s always something new to love.
In our book, the best spring-themed items here include floral jewellery, pastel soft knits, scented soaps and candles, and botanical home decor. Not only that, but you could also buy seasonal gift sets or curated hampers if you’re in a rush.
Where to Stay During Spring in Ireland
Wild Atlantic Camp
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Website: http://www.wildatlanticcamp.ie/
Address: Main St, Creeslough, Co. Donegal
Contact Details: +353 74 913 8400, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
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Wild Atlantic Camp is one of the chillest accommodations for your spring getaway in Ireland. You can get cosy glamping pods, luxury bell tents, stunning sights, and fresh air. There’s something for all preferences and budget!
It’s also amazing for us that the pods offer heating and private decks. We think these are perfect for breezy spring evenings. And when you get peckish, there are breakfast options, pizzas, and other local bakes from the Coffee Pod Café on-site.
Coral Gables Guesthouse & Campsite
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Website: http://www.coralgablesguesthouse.com/
Address: Ballycowan, Tagoat, Co. Wexford
Contact Details: +353 87 280 5600, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
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Wish to enjoy Irish spring with your dog? Coral Gables Guesthouse & Campsite is pet-friendly! The rooms, campervans, and pitches are all welcoming for furry friends and kids, so the whole family could be comfy.
What’s more, there are blue-flag beaches nearby—only 5 to 10 minutes away by car! And to make mornings more relaxing, we recommend exploring the warm, fairy garden communal areas. Full Irish breakfast would be served too!
Tips When Visiting Ireland During Spring
Now that you’re in the know about all things springtime in Ireland, here are some tips to make your stay hassle-free:
Pack all four seasons.
We know you’re visiting in spring, but Ireland’s weather is still unpredictable. For one, you can get sunshine, wind, and rain—within the same hour! It’s best to have waterproof jackets and shoes, comfy layers, compact umbrellas, and the like.
Make the most of longer days.
By April, the sun is out until around 8 to 9 pm. Why not extend your sightseeing or evening plans in Kilkenny, Galway, and Killarney—especially when you’re out with a date?
Allow wiggle room for outdoor activities.
Not everything could go according to plan, so we recommend adding backup plans to your itinerary. For example, if you can’t visit Aran Islands, be sure to include hiking, cycling, and other outdoor adventures too.