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Ireland in october: weather, what to pack, & spooky events to attend (2024).

Get ready for some spooky fun because Ireland in October is a whole new world of enchantment! Autumn is a fun time of year to visit, so brace yourself for shivers down your spine and entertaining activities to keep the chill at bay. Rain or shine, there’s so much going on that you won’t have a moment to be bored.

The summer crowds are long gone, and fewer tourists mean more chances to mingle with the locals returning from their summer escapades (something I love doing when visiting Irish pubs). Soak up the rays and feel the warmth on your face one minute, but hold onto your umbrellas because a drizzle can start at any time, turning Ireland into a lush green paradise that’ll thrill any ghostly explorer.

That said, don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits! October’s got a treasure trove of thrilling activities to keep you spellbound. Get your heart pumping with Gaelic games, dance to hauntingly beautiful traditional music, and take in the breathtaking coastal scenery as you cruise along the coast.

Grab your raincoats and warm clothing (trust me, I learned the hard way!), because October in Ireland is an adventure that’ll make your heart race and your soul dance. Let’s dive into the wonders that await you in this captivating month!

Table of Contents

Weather in October in Ireland

From frosty winters to the heavy swarm of tourists during the summer, Ireland in October is a top choice to experience this country at its finest.

With the mild weather and fewer crowds due to the off-season, the time of colorful fallen leaves is an excellent balance between budget-friendly and optimum weather conditions. 

In the deep recesses of fall, October in Ireland brings a mix and match of weather states to pack for. Whether it’s stormy skies or temperate sunny days, you’ll be able to brave the kaleidoscope of this country’s weather and climate conditions in their entirety.

Fall, however, is a rainy period to prepare for in advance, which could be why this season falls under the off-season category. While wet weather is not everyone’s cup of tea, Ireland provides many indoor activities to enjoy when the outdoors seem grim.

It’s also important to note that the night’s temperature, throughout the year, tends to be much colder than during the day. To brave the cold nights of Ireland like a pro, your toes and positive attitude from a toasty night’s rest will thank you if you pack with care.

What to Pack for Ireland in October

Whether it’s a handy pair of rainboots or an essential list of emergency numbers, a well-stocked backpack and luggage can make or break a trip. While lugging any extra weight can be a burden during your travels, take a look at a few key components to add to your Ireland trip packing list :

• Various long-sleeved shirts
• Walking shoes
• Sunscreen  
• Waterproof money belt (an essential item if you plan to keep your essential travel information on your person during rainy days).

Best Things to Do in Ireland in October

Ireland in the fall is wonderful to experience a sampling platter of this country during a time of great merry, as October is filled with an extensive range of events. While temperatures may drop, you’ll quickly feel your cheeks warm from excitement at social gatherings.

From national holidays to drinking traditions, you’ll be able to pick and choose your way through a variety of fun and unique things to do in Ireland in October:

Things to Do in Dublin in October

As the capital of Ireland, Dublin is a magical city filled with a buzzing atmosphere seemingly curated for your every need. Whether you’re craving a whiskey in solitude at a pub or looking to immerse yourself in the lively spirit of a celebratory event, Dublin in October has you covered:

Visit a Famous Haunted Place on Halloween

As Halloween (or Samhain) is widely celebrated in Ireland, what better way to celebrate than visiting an eerie place or two (there are many spooky Irish places to visit)? Dublin is sprinkled with a variety of haunted Irish castles and other places to choose from, which include:

• Malahide Castle – Nothing screams ‘spooky’ quite like the gothic grandeur of the haunted castles of Ireland. While Malahide Castle’s regal exterior might fool you, this attraction has had a few reports of eerie encounters. 
• John Kavanagh The Gravediggers – Located in Glasnevin, this pub was established in 1833 and was a popular hub for gravediggers to frequent. This was because this drinking den was situated next to the famous Glasnevin Cemetery. If enjoying a drink next to a cemetery doesn’t give you chills, I don’t know what will.
• The Hellfire Club – If you find yourself on a Dublin hike near Montpelier Hill, you’ll likely see the remnants of The Hellfire Club. Many myths and legends surround this location, including a sighting of the Devil on the premises.

Date: October 31, 2023

Save up to 50% off attractions with the Go City Pass ! It’s a great way to save money if you plan on visiting multiple sights in Dublin.

Catch a Show at Dublin Theatre Festival

With a heavy scoop of thrilling theatricals and a dash of local artistry excellence, this theater festival is the perfect recipe for an Irish culture-infused afternoon. The Dublin Theatre Festival aims to highlight the diverse voices that make up the unique tapestry of the city’s culture and communities.

As the festivals generally run from the end of September to mid-October, you’ll have plenty of time to find a gap in your busy itinerary to enjoy a show or two.

Dates: September 28 – October 15, 2023

Enjoy the Bram Stoker Festival

A celebration commemorating one of the most famous Gothic writers of Irish descent, the Bram Stoker Festival is a sight to behold for an epic spooky experience. As the author of the fang-fueled fiction work Dracula , you can expect a variety of vampire and horror-based activities.

This festival offers a unique experience each year, but past installations and events at this festival prelude to a wonderful and uncanny time at this happening. From eerie light projections to screenings of horror cult classics, there is something for every kind of fright fanatic.

If you cannot attend these spine-chilling spectacles when visiting Ireland in October, you can join in on the fun with a range of at-home experiences added to the program (such as themed podcasts).

Dates: October 27 – October 30

Go to the Dublin Annual Halloween Parade

Also known as the Celtic festivities of Samhain , the Dublin Halloween Parade is filled with ghouls, witches, and creatures that go bump into the night. The parade starts on Carnell Square, featuring a sea of monstrous figures and themed-based floats parading the streets.

Fireworks have also been known to line the skies to create a truly spectacular event in the year’s spookiest month.

Date: October 31

Things to Do in Belfast in October

Belfast is a blast to experience in the fall, with various cultural and indoor activities to attend and enjoy. This city is the perfect mix of the old and the new, which allows all types of travelers to find an activity they’ll enjoy in this urban space. If you’re short on time, you can compare Dublin and Belfast to see which one you prefer.

See a Show at Belfast International Arts Festival

This cultural event is known as the biggest Northern Ireland festival celebrating the contemporary arts and includes a local and international lineup. This festival has everything from riveting dance productions to melodic music shows, and it’s also one of the best things to do in Ireland in November if you extend your trip.

Dates: October 11 – November 5

Staying until November? Find out what to do in Ireland for Thanksgiving .

Attend a Belfast Autumn Event

While festivals are generally considered a main attraction in Ireland in October, smaller events are a great way to delve into the spirit of celebration without the great influx of ‘sardines in a can’ moments. There are a number of diverse and exciting events visitors can enjoy on their trip abroad, which include candlelight concerts and history of horror walking tours .

Things to Do in Cork in October

Most areas of Ireland have a wide variety of October and autumn activities to enjoy, but Cork takes the cake when it comes to providing diverse experiences during this time. Take a look at a few exciting activities in October to ensure a spectacular fall trip:

Visit The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival

Calling all jazz cats in the area, as Cork becomes drenched with jazzy tunes in October at this festival at one of the more lively things to do in Ireland in October. This annual music event has a vast repertoire of artists and performances that will be sure to satisfy every type of jazz lover.

The Guinness Cork Festival has been a part of Cork’s music scene for over 40 years, which makes this experience a must for travelers looking to jive with the locals. With an array of locations for shows to choose from, you’ll be sure to find and attend a performance close to your accommodation.

Dates: October 26 – 30

Enjoy the Halloween Spirit at Spike Island Spookfest

A real treat for young children and kids at heart on Halloween, the Spike Island Spookfest is a unique experience to make this ghostly holiday one to remember. Visitors will have to take a short ferry ride to arrive at the island, which has a wide range of themed activities and spaces.

From the wicked fun at Witches Hollow to the creepy crawlies at the spider sanctuary, you’ll surely get your heart racing at this eventful destination. As this island is known as the Alcatraz of Ireland, a trip to this floating area will also allow you to cross one of Ireland’s bucket list destinations off your list.

Dates: October 26 – 31

Eat at the Kinsale Gourmet Festival 

A foodie festival held in Kinsale, within the bounds of County Cork, this cultural event is the ultimate way to sip and taste your way through luxury cuisine. A variety of hotels and local eateries in Kinsale partake in the festivities, which are sure to tickle your tastebuds like never before.

Famous cuisine and food at this festival include seafood, which can be attributed to Kinsale’s humble beginnings as a fishing port. One of the star attractions of this festival is The Mad Hatters Taste of Kinsale, a walking tour with various nibbles along the way.

Date: October 14

Things to Do in Derry in October

Another city in Northern Ireland, Derry, has an old-timey charm embedded in its atmosphere due to its various cobbled streets and historical buildings. With a variety of museums and street art in the city, you’ll be able to capture the art of Ireland in a unique way. October in Ireland is a fun time to take a drive around Northern Ireland to see more of the land.

This city is the only metropolis in Ireland with a walled structure that is completely intact, and was constructed in the 17th century. Take a look at a few jewels of a Derry fall you won’t want to miss:

Get Your Spook on at Derry Halloween

At a time when all the ghouls and goblins come out to play, Derry takes the Halloween celebration to an elevated level. Derry Halloween prides itself on being the biggest Halloween celebration in Europe; this experience will make any spooky lover swoon.

While many might see Halloween as an excuse to dress up and enjoy a feeding frenzy of sugary delights, Derry takes this holiday as a chance to celebrate the history of Samhain. This event includes food markets, fireworks, and a mystical parade for everyone of all ages to enjoy, and is one of the best places to visit in Ireland in October if you like a scare.

Dates: October 28 – 31

Go to the City of Derry International Choir Festival

This festival is a beautiful way to experience and listen to the phenomenal voices of Derry. From international competitions to vocal skill workshops, the City of Derry International Choir Festival has many experiences to partake in and enjoy.

Dates: October 18 – 22

Things to Do in Limerick in October

With a lovely mix of emerald green settings, enticing culture, and historical significance, Limerick is the perfect opportunity to absorb what makes Ireland great.

Take the Kids to Samhain Festival

The Lumen Street Theatre is hosting the enjoyable Samhain Festival, a family-friendly event that will make any trick-or-treating experience more enjoyable. From spooky storytelling to lantern-making workshops, this experience is perfect for entertaining your little critters.

Dates: October 27 – 29

Things to Do in Galway in October

With quaint countryside and a busy city in its vicinity, Galway is a great place to include a variety of atmospheres and settings to see on your trip. Take a look at a few October activities in Galway to make your Irish excursion a vacation to remember, and book your Galway hotel ahead of time.

Enjoy The Ballinasloe Fair

A horse fair to remember, the Ballinasloe Fair is a cultural event that found its roots around 300 years ago, which makes it one of the oldest practicing horse fairs in Europe. Spectators will be able to see the best of the best regarding the stallions, foals, and mares in the area.

While this fair might be famous for providing a glimpse into the equestrian excellence of the region, there is a wide range of activities to enjoy. This includes experiences such as a jiving competition, craft market, and dog shows during this fun event in Ireland in October.

Dates: September 30 – October 5

Get Arty at Baboró International Arts Festival for Children

If you want to get your traveling family’s creativity flowing, this art festival in Galway is the perfect opportunity to get your hands dirty (with paint, of course). With a program filled with an amazing collection of activities to experience, you’ll be able to enjoy a day filled with artistic pleasures.

This event includes programs dedicated to differently-abled children, which ensures fun for the entire family at this fun-filled festival. Past performances at this space included interactive kids’ shows, seashore treasure hunts, and upcycling design challenges for children.

Dates: October 13 – 21

What do you think – are you excited to visit Ireland in October yet?

Marissa became obsessed with Ireland when she first visited in 2015, and has been back numerous times since to explore more of the Emerald Isle. She started this site to help others plan their trip to Ireland based off her experiences.

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Visit Ireland in October: Your Ultimate Guide

Read our guide to weather, festivals and food in Ireland in October.

October In Ireland At A Glance

🌤️ Prepare for Changeable Weather  

🧳 Pack Light Layers

🍎 Enjoy Delicous Food  & Beautiful Woodlands

🎃 Plentiful Festivals & Things To Do

💰 Discounts on Hotels, Flights &  Tours

Choosing the best time to visit Ireland can be confusing for first-time visitors.

We say October is a very strong candidate.

You'll pay less for your flights, hotel and tour. You'll love the autumnal colours and the lack of crowds.

Plus you are obliged to wear Halloween fancy dress on our tour vehicles! (We're only half-joking).

Now, read on, for a comprehensive guide to travelling to Ireland in October.

What's the best season to visit #Ireland and why? — VagabondIreland (@vagabondireland) April 25, 2022

🌤️How's October Weather in Ireland?

The average daily temperature high in Ireland in October is 14°C (57° F),

That might sound cool if you live in a hot climate. But it doesn't tell the whole story.

Weather in Ireland in October can be settled and warm.

Air temperatures can certainly be crisp at times. Perhaps surprisingly, there is not a huge drop in average temperature between October and summertime; July has Ireland's highest average temperature with 16°C (61° F); a difference of only 2 degrees!

Remember, weather in Ireland is changeable.

You'll most probably be surprised by a quick burst of rain showers at some point.

The upside to rain?

40 shades of green in our fields, lots of rainbows and wonderful waterfalls!

🧳 How Do I Pack for Ireland in October?

We recommend packing a mix of light layers and a weatherproof outer shell.

The weather in Ireland in October is often surprisingly mild and settled.

But the Irish climate is famously changeable. Expect the unexpected!

Here's our full packing list guide .

🤗 Things To Do In Ireland In October

Ireland in October is festival season.

It's the month when Ireland hosts the most festivals, up and down the country.

With reduced admission fees and off-peak crowds, you really get the best of both worlds in October!

🧛 Bram Stoker Festival

Where? Dublin

What? Explore Ireland's capital city and literary history through one its most famous authors; the creator of all-time classic Dracula.

😋 Dingle Food Festival

Where? Dingle

What? This charming Kerry town is a year-round foodie mecca but things get even tastier from early October.

🎶 Wexford Festival Opera

Where? Wexford

What? This Viking-established town in the Ireland's Ancient East  region plays host to an event awarded Best Festival at the 2017 International Opera Awards.

🥾 Wicklow Walking Festival

Where? Wicklow Mountain National Park

What? Just one hour from Dublin lies Ireland's largest National Park . Explore this spectacular and historic landscape with night hikes and other amazing events.

🌳 Woodland Hikes & Cosy Firesides

Autumnal colours in the foliage.

Dappled sunlight on freshly fallen leaves.

There's a strong case for October being the most aesthetically pleasant month to explore Ireland's stunning natural landscape.

It's all yours when you visit Ireland in October.

Love trees? Don't miss a stroll in an Irish forest while on tour.

Wander through beautiful native oak woodland and some of Ireland's oldest yew trees in Killarney National Park, a stop on several Vagabond and Driftwood tours .

If you're lucky, you may encounter herds of native red deer in Killarney.

Video credit: DJ Norman (@djnorman10)

The best thing about a hike is often how delightful you feel getting home!

There's nothing to beat the cosy feeling of a roaring open fire after a taste of Ireland's wilderness - preferably with a hot-spiced whiskey in your hand!

🍎 October Foods To Try In Ireland

Harvest season = Amazing Irish food

Tour Ireland in October with us to find menus bursting with delicious produce from Ireland's vast oceans and rich, fertile soil.

October in Ireland is prime time for game such as venison (deer), pigeon and partridge.

Try wild venison in a warming stew.

You may also happen upon venison sausages. Perfect with fluffy mashed potatoes .

Freshly-harvested fall vegetables, such as roast squash and carrots, offer amazing flavour autumnal colour to your meal.

Try colcannon, a traditional Halloween dish consisting of mashed potatoes blended with butter, pepper, spring onions and kale.

🍏 Apples, Orchards & Cider

Irish orchards overflow with delicious apples in October.

Try savoury apple sauce with succulent roast pork.

Or enjoy a bowl of steaming apple crumble (with Irish cream, of course!) - one of life's simple pleasures.

Don't forget to taste Irish cider, either!

Irish craft cider (alcoholic) and apple juice (non-alcoholic) has enjoyed a renaissance in recent years. Keep your eyes peeled for Stonewell , Craigies and Highbank - three excellent craft cider labels.

🎃 Irish Halloween Traditions

Halloween is, as we all know, the highlight of October.

While America arguably perfected Halloween, did you know that it was ancient Ireland where the celebration first began ?

Strange but true; the tradition of illuminated pumpkins developed from an Irish tradition of using turnips for the same purpose.

Fireworks light up Irish skies on 31st October every year. Bonfires are also a common Halloween sight.

Catch one of Ireland's biggest Halloween celebrations in Derry/Londonderry .

Or read our blog all about Halloween in Ireland .

🙃 Any Downsides To Touring Ireland In October?

Every month in Ireland has its advantages and its disadvantages for visitors.

In October, tourist season is definitely winding down. The upside of this is less demand at popular attractions.

The downside could be that some destinations or activities may have reduced opening hours.

The following boat trips may not be available during our scheduled October tours:

• Skelligs Islands Cruise
• Skellig Michael Landing
• Garnish Island

If you are especially keen on any of the above experiences, check with our friendly team  before you book an October tour.

💰Cheap Flights, Hotels & Reduced Tour Prices

Both flights to Ireland and hotels in Dublin tend to be lower in price during October.

That's not even the best news!

You'll receive an automatic 10% October discount off the price of scheduled Vagabond & Driftwood Tours.

Hurry! We have limited capacity on our scheduled tour departures in October.

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Ireland In October: Weather, Things to See and Travel Tips

Categories Travel Guides

October is among the best months to visit Ireland, despite its unpredictable weather. It is quite mesmerizing to witness how the emerald state turns into the stunning colors of autumn.

A lot of interesting events and festivals also happen during this month and all of them showcases diverse and just a little quirky culture.

Ireland in October is a bit colder as winter approaches bit most attractions are still accessible and open for visits.

Things you'll find in this article

Average Temperature in Ireland in October

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If you’re going to Ireland in October, make sure you plan things ahead to make the most of your stay. Here are a few things you might consider.

What is the weather like in Ireland in October?

8°C to 13°C (8 to 13 degrees Celsius)

80mm over 24 days

The average wind speed in Ireland according to the Irish meteorological office is 7 – 18 mph.

There is an average of between 3¼ and 3¾ hours of sunshine each day. Irish skies are completely covered by clouds most of the time.

Wool skirt – a wool skirt is great for those who don’t want to ditch those chic clothing pieces. You can also wear leggings underneath it. Check out this classic A-line wool skirt in Amazon .

Leggings – fleece-lined leggings will also save you from the dropping temperature. When buying one, be sure to choose a high-quality and opaque fabric like this listing in Amazon .

Fleece sweatshirt – Perfect for layering, a fleece sweater is also a good consideration. You can wear it on top of a jacket or just wear it as it is. This sweatshirt from Amazon should be added to your essentials. 

Umbrella – Don’t forget to include an umbrella in your packing list to shield you from the rain. This compact travel umbrella from Amazon is a good option as it will easily fit in your luggage or in your everyday bag.

You can also check out our Ireland packing list for all season.  

Although there are a lot of accommodations in Ireland that will fit any traveler’s budget, nothing beats the experience of staying in castle hotels in Ireland. So here are some of the affordable castle hotels that you can stay in Ireland for the month of October.

Cabra Castle Hotel still has the 18th-century castle vibes but with the modern touch from its amenities. A 4-star castle hotel in Cavan situated in a quiet neighborhood in Kingscourt, Cabra Castle Hotel is a mix and match of royalty and modern luxury. Rates start at $162. To book, click here.

A Gothic castle dated from 1209, Kinnitty Castle Hotel is located at the foot of Slieve Bloom Mountains. If you want the unique experience that comes with this castle, better check it out before it’s too late. Also, the rates start at only $110 a night. To book, click here.

Things to do in Ireland in October

If you’re going to be in Ireland in October, a leisurely stroll through the autumn leaves is a must. The emerald state bursts in autumn colors and every park, garden or woodland surrounding a castle or forested hill is a good place to enjoy the foliage.

Wrap up and get a cup of hot coffee or tea abs enjoy either an early morning or late afternoon stroll when it’s less crowded.

Some of the best places to visit in Ireland that you must see for its autumn splendor are the serene grounds of Birr Castle in County Offaly and the themed gardens, woodland walks and lake at the Mount Stewart Gardens in Northern Ireland. 

October is when the Northern Ireland capital city of Belfast holds its yearly Belfast International Arts Festival. It runs for two weeks with a diverse, impressive lineup of exhibits, performances, and other related events.

It is a must if you want to get to know Ireland’s vibrant arts scene, or simply want something different to enjoy.  The festival covers dance, film, literature, music, and theatre so there’s plenty to choose from and enjoy. 

The best Irish produce, food products and cuisine showcased in a fun-filled event decked in a distinctly local flavor — that’s exactly what happens in one of the best food festivals in Ireland. It also takes place in what is often described as among the most beautiful places on earth, Dingle.

It happens yearly during the first week of October, right in one of the most picturesque places you’ll ever see as Dingle is in the Wild Atlantic Way . Sample some of the best food and drinks on offer in over 70 venues.

There are also interesting activities such as cooking demos, street entertainment, live music, as well as wine and whiskey masterclasses, or draft beer and cider trails. 

This festival celebrates the Dublin-born author of Dracula, as well as kick-off Ireland’s horror-themed events. It starts on October 25th and the festival features literary events, pop-up Victorian parks, film screenings, music gigs in unusual places, parades, and a Gothic Ball.

It is also one of the most interesting festivals in Ireland.  

Experience a creepy, low-light tour of the Crumlin Road Gaol, which used to house a prison for Ireland’s hardcore criminals and also a former execution site.

Aside from the usual tours that take visitors through a tunnel with horrid tales about its former residents, Crumlin Goal has a paranormal tour that happens every October.

The tour takes guests to the flogging room as well as the hot spots of paranormal activity, which are verified by paranormal experts with detection equipment.

Get ready for Halloween with your very own pumpkin which you actually picked. It’s a fun activity nonetheless, and among the best things to do in Ireland in October.

Go on a trip to a pumpkin patch and enjoy the autumn vibe as you sip apple cider or snack on apple fritters or pumpkin pies.

Some of the best pumpkin patches you can visit are the Ballycross Farm in Bridgetown, Co. Wexford ; The Farm in Grenagh, Co. Cork ; Kennedys Pumpkin Patch in Julianstown, Co. Meath , and Tinahely Farm in Coolruss, Co. Wicklow . 

Ireland is the birthplace of Halloween, and if you’re here especially in late October, then it’s a must to join in the spooky fun.

Dublin has a Halloween parade that honors its Celtic heritage with music and dance, as well ad parties and events held in pubs . 

Being the birthplace of Halloween, Ireland and especially Dublin has quite a variety of activities lined up. There are festivals with parades, then there’s a tour that takes you through Ireland’s necropolis in the Glasnevin Cemetery .

This place has 1.5 million people buried here since 1832 so it’s massive. It’s ‘residents ‘ include famous patriots, poets, musicians, and writers.

The unusual guided tour is filled with fascinating stories, while the museums have exhibits on burial practices, a feature on the famous and infamous that are buried here and a genealogy research center. 

1.  Make sure to bring an umbrella and a light waterproof jacket as the weather can be unpredictable. 

2. Do not bring items of clothing that are made of denim as they get too heavy when wet and takes a while to dry. They also won’t help keep you warm. 

3.  Make sure to wear wool docks instead of cotton as they’re warmer, and knit hats and scarves. 

4. October is a good month to find good deals on accommodations as its mot peak season so be sure to check with your travel agent or your trusted online booking sites. 

5. If you’re looking for some of the best fall foliage sceneries, check out places like Wicklow and Killarney national parks, where you’ll also get to enjoy the crisp, fresh air. 

6. Check out this list for more travel tips for Ireland for first-time visitors. 

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Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries for the past 8 years. I also lived in 3 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia to Africa. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.

Does It Snow In Ireland? - Ireland Travel Guides

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Dublin In October: Weather, Tips + Things To Do

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: July 27, 2023

Visiting Dublin in October is a great shout, once you’re aware of the pros and cons.

I’ve lived in Ireland’s caital for 34 years and, in my opinion, October is one of the best times to travel to Dublin .

The LTA (Long Term Average) temperature in Dublin in October 10.3°C/50.54°F with rainfall measuring 79.0mm.

Below, you’ll discover everything from things to do in Dublin in October, the various festivals running this month and much more.

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows before visiting Dublin in October

Photos via Shutterstock

Although a visiting Dublin in October is reasonably straightforward, there are a handful of need-to-knows that’ll get you up-to-speed quickly.

Below, you’ll find info on the weather in Ireland during this month along with some handy info.

1. The weather

The weather in Dublin in October, as is the case with every single month, can be very unpredictable. October is autumn in Ireland and in years past we’ve had everything from warm days to wintery outbreaks. 

2. Average temperatures

3. daylight.

The days are still relatively long in October. At the beginning of the month, the sun rises at 07:33 and sets at 19:09. That’s a solid 11 hours a day to plan your Ireland itinerary around.

4. It’s shoulder season

October is shoulder season in Dublin (i.e. the time between peak-season and off-season). This means flights should be cheaper and places will be quieter. Keep in mind that kids get a week of holidays in Ireland at the end of the month, so prices for hotels in Dublin can rise around then.

5. Festivals and events

Heaps of festivals in Ireland run during October. Two of the most notable are the Dublin Festival of History and the Dublin Theatre Festival. However, if festivals aren’t your thing, there’s endless things to do in Dublin in October.

Fast facts: The pros and cons of October in Dublin

So, I lightly touched on the handful of advantages and disadvantages to visiting Dublin in October above, but I’ll list them out properly below.

I’ve lived in Dublin for 33 years, so the below are based on my own experience (note: you’ll find detailed info on the weather in the next section):

The pros 

• Longish days : At the beginning of the month, the sun rises at 07:33 and sets at 19:09
• It’s quieter : As we’re outside peak season, many places will be much quieter in comparison to the months previous
• Attractions open : You’ll find that some tours and attractions in Dublin close during winter – most  are still running in October
• Weather : October is generally quite mild and the cool, crisp weather is nice to saunter around in
• Festivals : Numerous Halloween festivals take place (see our Irish festivals calendar for more)
• Unpredictable weather : Yep, it’s a pro and a con. In October 2017, Storm Ophelia hit Dublin, and it was the worst to hit the island in 50 years

The weather in Dublin in October

Click to enlarge image

The average temperature in Dublin in October is generally cool, as you’ll see in the graphic above. 

It is important to note that these temperature ranges can vary considerably from year to year.

Below, you’ll find a comparative analysis of recent years that uses data from various weather stations.

Please note that all of the Dublin in October weather data is via Met Eireann – the Irish Meteorological Service.

A comparison of October weather in Dublin in recent years

The table above offers a look into the average temperature in Dublin in October along with Galway, Cork, and Kerry over the past few years.

As you can see, the average temperature in Dublin in October remains relatively consistent across different years and in various counties.

Rain in Dublin in October

The Long Term Average rainfall for Dublin in October is 79.0mm. This is in comparison to 59.5 in September and 73.3 in August.

We get asked ‘Does in rain in Dublin in October?’ quite a bit. The answer is yes, yes it does (see our guide on what to wear in Dublin in October ).

If you look at the table above, you’ll see that the counties on the west coast get an awful lot more rain than those on the east coast.

Things to do in Dublin in October

Although it’s still off-season, there’s still endless things to do in Dublin in October, from the many great restaurants in Dublin to hikes, walks, castles and more.

Below, you’ll find the likes of the Jameson Distillery, itineraries you can use and pub recommendations.

1. Have a good itinerary mapped out

Click to enlarge map

The worst thing you can do if you’re spending October in Dublin is to arrive with no clear itinerary.

If you do, the chances are you’ll just waste time while you’re here and (hopefully not) whittle away all of your time in Temple Bar .

We’ve several ready-made options for those of you looking for things to do in Dublin in October, with itineraries ranging from 1 to 5 days:

• 1 day in Dublin
• 2 days in Dublin
• 3 days in Dublin
• 4 days in Dublin
• 5 days in Dublin

2. The key attractions

Photos by James Fennell via Failte Ireland

Although we have the ‘main’ things to do in Dublin in October in the itineraries above, here are a few suggestions.

For some of these attractions, like the Storehouse, it’s worth having your ticket booked in advance:

• The Guinness Storehouse
• Trinity College
• Christ Church Cathedral
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• Dublin Castle

3. Walks and hikes

One of the more popular things to do in Dublin in July is to walk/hike, especially on those fine days.

There are  plenty  of walks in Dublin , with something to suit every level of fitness. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• The Howth Cliff Walk
• The Poolbeg Lighthouse Walk
• The Killiney Hill Walk
• The Hellfire Club Walk
• The Ticknock Walk

4. Trad pubs

Photos left + bottom right: The Irish Road Trip. Other via Google Maps

There are some mighty pubs in Dublin that you can tuck yourself away in for an hour or five.

If you’re looking to see some of the oldest pubs in Dublin , head to the likes of the Brazen Head or the Stag’s Head.

If you want to dodge the touristy pubs in Temple Bar , there’s some great pubs with live music in Dublin , like the Cobblestone.

Or, if you’re looking for a fine pint of the black stuff, see our guide to the best Guinness in Dublin .

What to pack / what to wear in Dublin in October

Click to enlarge

Although we’ve a detailed guide on what to wear in October in Dublin , I’ll give you the need-to-knows.

I’d recommend bringing layers (e.g. light tops) and one warm jacket/coat that you can pop on top. Here are some more suggestions:

The essentials

• A waterproof jacket (and trousers if you plan on hiking)
• Comfortable shoes to walk in
• Light layers (e.g. t-shirts, long-sleeved tops, etc).
• A hat and gloves, just in case
• Causal clothes for going out in the evening (pubs in Dublin are fairly relaxed)

Are you considering visiting during a different month?

Deciding when to visit Dublin is tough – and anyone that tells you otherwise is talking out of their hole ( Irish slang for they’re full of sh…)!

It’s worth taking a bit of time to compare what it’s like here during the other months, as when you visit affects everything from your experience to the cost of a trip to Ireland :

• Dublin in January
• Dublin in February
• Dublin in March
• Dublin in April
• Dublin in May
• Dublin in June
• Dublin in July
• Dublin in August
• Dublin in September
• Dublin in November
• Dublin in December

FAQs about spending fall in Dublin

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What should I wear in Dublin in October?’ (see above) to ‘Is it rainy in Dublin in October? (it can be).

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

Is October a good time to visit Dublin?

What is the weather in dublin in october like, are there many things to do in dublin in october.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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