Clontarf Castle, Dublin, Ireland by IvanWalsh.com

It doesn’t actually matter what time of the year it is, as Ireland has very unpredictable weather. It may storm after a warm summer morning or it may have hurricane weather after a glorious sunny morning. This is actually what I love most about Ireland, the unpredictable, every day is different kind of life.

Spring months

Spring is a wonderful time to be in Ireland, and it is during this month that the weather is most unpredictable, although, if it is raining it won’t last very long. This month is not the peak tourist month so accommodation and airfares are cheaper, and there are fewer people in the queues for big tourist attractions. The fields are colorful and bright, overall Ireland is at its most beautiful stage.

Summer Months

This is the busiest month of the year, there are loads of festivals and the weather tends to stay warm for the entire day (although not guaranteed). Unlike other countries, Ireland does not get blistering hot, so you can enjoy the summer and the travelling. The biggest bonus of summer is that the sun only sets after 10pm, so you have extra time to enjoy the outdoors.

Winter Months

This is by far the cheapest months to travel in as all hotels and tourist destinations loose plenty of customers in the cold and rain. Most tourists do not like the rain, but I love it! So, if you are on a budget this is the best time to go, and besides it will probably be sunny by 3pm. It will also be darker earlier which means you can start pub crawling earlier.

Autumn Months

This is the best chance to see the beautiful green lands turn all different colors and shades. So, if you like nature, exploring wild life and photography then this is the best month for you.

Nicole de Freitas loves to encourage people about travelling and accommodation Ireland.

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Here are some of the many cultural events which are held throughout the year:

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Sebastian Dooris

St. Patrick’s Festival

Festival of St. Patrick is annually held in Dublin (it was between 16th – 19th March this year). It is Ireland’s official national holiday and the celebration is full of parties, festive malls and night performances. But you will certainly not be bored elsewhere in the country! Almost every town and village organize celebrations of this day. During the festival you can stay in one of holiday homes in Dublin however the prices can be slightly increased.

Days of the Titanic

Easter Titanic Belfast Festival in Northern Ireland is dedicated to the famous ship that was constructed in Belfast and lasts for the whole week. The festival has a busy schedule, including special exhibitions and tours through many places where the Titanic came into the world. (31st March – 19th May 2012)

Waterways Ireland Fishing Festival

The main point of the most important fishing event called Waterways Ireland Classic Fishing Festival is the race in classic fishing, which is annually attended by over 300 participants. It is held in Lough Erne, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland (30th April – 4th May 2012).

Writers’ Week

It is one of the world’s most respected literary festivals dedicated to writers, lectures and seminars held in Listowel, Ireland. (30th May – 3rd June 2012)

Summer horse racing

The Galway Horse Races are held in Ballybrit, Galway (30th July – 5th August 2012) and are known worldwide for its quality and exciting atmosphere.

The World Fleadh

The World Fleadh (August 2012) is considered the largest festival of Irish music. You can see concerts of artists from around the world, international competitions, or great Irish dance with the largest group throughout Ireland. There are also a number of alternative street performances.

International Festival of oysters

In Hillsborough town, in Northern Ireland you can participate in unique event called Hillsborough Oyster Festival (6th – 9th September 2012), which is known for great entertainment and excellent food.

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Trinity College is one of the most important buildings of Dublin, which was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I. The culture and traditions are the important aspects in ancient buildings of Dublin.

St Patrick’s Cathedral is another pleasing sight for the visitors. It is considered the largest church not only in the city of Dublin but throughout entire Ireland. It was founded in 1191.

Saint Patrick’s Cathedral – Dublin, Ireland by William Murphy

O’Connell street is very impressive for the tourists and the general post office is situated in this street. The building has a majestic look and it is a wonderful sight to see. The street is completely covered with statues and monuments and that is the reason for the popularity of this street.

There are three National Museums of Ireland in Dublin and the tourists should never miss a visit to these museums, since they have both traditional and historical value. One is situated on Kildare Street – Archaeology Museum, another one can be found on Benburb Street – Decorative Arts & History Museum and the last one is located at Merrion Street related to Natural History.

Temple bar is another area, which can be interesting for the tourists. It is full of entertainment, art and culinary attractions. It is a home to many cultural institutions of Ireland and one of the best Dublin’s nightlife scenes.

Merrion Square is very popular for the National Gallery which has more than five hundred art works from great artists such as Monet, El Greco, Hogarth, Poussin and others.

Dublin Castle is originally a Viking fortress which you shouldn’t miss once you are in Dublin. There are many special aspects in this Castle. Rebuilding and renovation works are being performed regularly and at present, it looks beautifully. A massive tower and the Royal Chapel are built in medieval style while all administrative buildings are built in more modern styles.

Dublin Castle, Ireland by William Murphy

Phoenix Park is situated 3 km northwest of the city center and with the area of 712 hectares it is one of the largest walled parks in Europe. This place has a long history. There are huge alleys, grassy areas and wetlands which are home to more than 350 plant species.

Apart from these, there are many more sights and attractions to see in Dublin. You can also visit a Zoo, there are numerous parks and gardens, and since the city is situated at the cost, you can even relax on its beaches. However the main advantage of your staying in this city it its events. You can find more info about Dublin at the official site visitdublin.com.

Getting There

You have two options to get to Dublin and that’s either flying or taking the ferry. Aer Lingus and RyanAir are amongst a number of airlines that offer great value flights to Dublin but if you want to explore more of Ireland you will then need to hire a car. Alternatively you could take your own car and catch a ferry. Ferryonline compare ferries to Dublin providing all options with Stena and P&O Ferries. All you need to do is choose which port to cross from, Holyhead, Liverpool or Fishguard.

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