I'm in the early stages of planning our first trip to Ireland this year and wondering what might be the best time to visit if you wanted to avoid the summer crowds. We're thinking either late April, early June, late September, or October. What would you choose and why? Of those times what offers the best weather conditions? How long are the days during those times? Which of any are off season that may make it more affordable for airfare and lodging? Am I starting to late to plan for April? Thanks everyone.

I went once in August and saw very few summer crowds, at least like i'm used to in places in southern Europe. I wouldn't worry about crowds in Eire. that said i'd prefer spring over the fall - have been there several times in fall and inevitably seems cool and rainy, which of course it could even be in August.

To avoid the summer crowds and for the best weather, I've found September to be the best month to visit Ireland. The days are still pretty long and mostly dry.

I've also visited Ireland in November (stormy) and in April/May (showery) and, except for things like the Ennis Spring Music Festival (Fleadh Nua, the last week of May), I still like Sept. - maybe it's because I play golf and the Links courses are in such good shape in September.

During August I've actually encountered people from southern Europe (Spain) vacationing in the Irish republic to escape the heat, the crowds of European tourists and the costs of vacationing in their home country.

Not sure I understand your question about the length of days in Ireland. Longest day is June 21/22 everyplace in the northern hemisphere - it can't change unless something major happens (like the earth spinning out of it's orbit off into outer space - in which case we all have bigger problems than this).

Ireland's climate is generally mild (not hot in summer or cold in winter) and it rains (drizzles mostly) frequently any time of year.

I would go for May or June just because kids and teachers are still in school - so it's likely to be less crowded.

I would second May or September. LEss crowded!

We always go from the middle of April to the middle of May. These are the times with the most sunshine days. However, over the years, we have had all types of weather. We have had snow in the high country, very hot times, heavy rain, and all very nice weather. The Spring weather changes fast. We like the times with less tourists, but we stay in the rural areas where the invasion is less.

I would recommend the end of May. The flowers are beautiful. We were fortunate and had only a few drops of rain when we were leaving.

Statistically, rainfall varies as based on where you are as to what is the driest month. In actuality, it's a crapshoot. Ireland.com shows that, in the west and southwest, April-July tend to be the driest months with a slight slight spike in May. August and September see and increase.

As far as hours of daylight, try this site:

http://www.cmpsolv.com/los/sunset.html

Hope this helps.

Bill

I like April/May. Start planning now. It is not too late.

If you want good visual stuff, the light in May in the west of Ireland is wonderful. I note it is outside the dates you mention.

The best time in the list you furnish is possibly late September.

we went in late June, and it was great. Some things were crowded, but not unbearably so. I think summer vacation traffic picks up a little bit later. The long days were great...sunrise at 4:30, sun wasn't completely set till past 10PM. And the weather was fine. Also, May and June have more flowers than you'd find in Sept-Oct, if gardens are on your itninerary.

I'd go for any time from late May to the beginning of July.

WE ALWAYS GO IN LATE DECEMBER/EARLY JANUARY...LESS TOURISTS....AND THE SMELL OF PEAT BURNING IN THE PUBS IS IN ITSELF WORTH THE TRIP OVER! YOU'RE MORE LIKELY TO GET BREAKS ON COST OF B AND B'S, AS WELL.........