Dublin weather,
live right now

May, June, and September. Mild (15-19°C), the longest days, and the best chance of dry spells — though Dublin weather is famously changeable in any month. May and June often bring the year's sunniest weather; September is mild with golden light and fewer tourists. Summers are cool by most standards and rarely hot. Winters are mild but wet and dark (sunset around 16:30 in December). Pack for four seasons in one day, always.

It rains often but rarely heavily. Dublin actually sits on the drier, eastern side of Ireland — it gets around 730mm a year, less than the west coast — but rain can arrive on any day, usually as soft, light drizzle rather than downpours. The Irish phrase 'soft day' describes the typical misty wet weather. The pubs, the museums, and the cafés are all geared for it. A waterproof jacket beats an umbrella thanks to the Atlantic wind.

Layers and waterproofs, in every season. A good rain jacket is essential — Atlantic wind makes umbrellas useless. Comfortable waterproof shoes for the cobbled streets. Summer: light layers with a jumper for cool evenings and the rain jacket always. Winter: a warm waterproof coat, scarf, gloves — it's mild (rarely freezing) but damp and windy. Whatever the forecast, bring something for sudden rain; Dublin weather changes by the hour.

Dublin was practically designed for wet weather. The pubs are the obvious answer — a pint and trad music while the rain falls outside is a quintessential experience. The Guinness Storehouse, the Book of Kells at Trinity, and the National Museum (free) all keep you dry for hours. The Jameson Distillery, the National Gallery, and the city's countless cosy cafés absorb a wet day easily. Temple Bar's music sessions run rain or shine.