Dublin in March: 15+ Best Things to Do, Weather + Tips (From a Local) (2024)
Planning a trip to Dublin in March?
Then you’ve come to the right place!
I live in Dublin and have always felt that March is a wonderful time to visit. As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, Dubliners shed their winter coats and bask in the (slightly) warmer sunshine.
While March in Dublin can still be cold and damp, there are many events and activities that make this the perfect time to visit the Irish capital.
From the annual St Patrick’s Day Festival to spring blooms at the National Botanic Gardens, read on for a complete local’s guide to visiting Dublin in March!
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Is March a Good Time to Visit Dublin, Ireland?
March is a fine time to visit Dublin. While it’s technically still winter in Dublin, the days are getting longer and the temperature is warming up. March even brings the first signs of spring, with daffodils blooming and green leaves returning to the trees.
Another benefit of visiting Dublin in March is that it’s the start of the shoulder season, meaning hotels and attractions are less crowded and often offer reduced prices. While some attractions may have reduced hours, most Dublin attractions are offered year-round, meaning Dublin is worth visiting, even in March.
Dublin Weather in March
March in Dublin has an average high temperature of 51 F (10 C) and an average low of 37 F (3 C). According to historical weather data from Met Éireann, the Irish National Meteorological Service, Dublin gets an average of 59 mm of rain in March, falling on 15 days of the month.
The table below depicts Dublin’s weather in March.
| Avg. High Temp. (F/C) | Avg. Low Temp. (F/C) | Avg. Rainfall | Avg. Days Rain |
|---|---|---|---|
| 51 / 10 | 37 / 3 | 59 mm | 15 |
Things to Do in Dublin in March
Celebrate St Patrick’s Day
St Patrick’s Day on March 17th is the most famous Irish holiday, exported to cities throughout the world.
Don’t expect green beer and rivers in Ireland, though. Here, the celebration of the country’s patron saint is less about getting drunk (although there’s plenty of that too) and more about celebrating being Irish.
Every town across the country has its own parade for the holiday, but the one in Dublin is the largest, drawing crowds in the thousands.
It’s a lot of fun, but it does get extremely crowded in the city center. You need to arrive hours ahead of time to get a good spectator spot and don’t expect to move anywhere quickly anytime soon. We once tried to push our double stroller through the dense parade crowds and could barely move, so just keep the crowds in mind if you’re interested in going to the Dublin St Patrick’s Day Parade.
Enjoy spring blooms at the National Botanic Gardens
March is an ideal time to visit the National Botanic Gardens in Dublin. As spring begins to unfold, the gardens transform into a spectacular display of early blooms and fresh greenery.
Strolling through the gardens, you’ll witness the first signs of spring: delicate flowers breaking through the soil and trees adorned with newly sprouted leaves. The gardens offer a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
See the Daffodils in Merrion Square Park
Winters in Dublin are cold, dark, and dreary, but thankfully they’re also short-lived. Spring comes early, and nothing says “spring is here” like daffodils.
The daffodils come out as early as late February, but March is the best time to enjoy these lovely yellow blooms. My favorite place to enjoy the daffodils is in Merrion Square Park, but you can see them in Stephens Green and Iveagh Gardens as well.
Take a Liffey boat tour
The River Liffey, slicing through the heart of Dublin, is the literal and figurative center of the city.
Taking a boat tour along the Liffey lets you glimpse the city from a unique perspective. From the comfort of the boat, you’ll see iconic Dublin landmarks such as the Ha’penny Bridge, the Custom House, and the modern Docklands area.
While you won’t see anything you can’t see from land, the narration onboard the boat makes the experience worthwhile. The guides offer tidbits of Dublin history, with a heavy side of humor. I laughed at the jokes they cracked, and even my five-year-old thought they were funny.
Taste some Irish whiskey
When in Dublin, tasting some traditional Irish whiskey is a must (if you’re over 18!).
Irish whiskey is known for its smoothness. As you taste different varieties, from single malts to blends, you’ll discover the subtle nuances and rich flavors that make Irish whiskey renowned worldwide.
I’ve become quite partial to whiskey since moving to Ireland, and have taken several Dublin whiskey tours and tried many different types from distilleries across the country. There’s nothing quite like the warmth of Irish whiskey to counteract the chill of a cold early spring evening.
In Dublin, Jameson and Teeling are two of my go-to brands, and each offers a great tour of their facilities (including whisky samples!).
Go on a walking tour of Dublin
Walking tours are one of my favorite things to do while traveling. They’re a great way to explore a new city and get a dose of local history.
When I moved to Dublin, I took multiple walking tours as a way to get to know the city. One of my favorites is this free walking tour which gives a great general overview of Irish history. History lovers should check out this tour, led by history graduate students from Trinity.
While you can take a walking tour of Dublin any time of year, March is such a lovely month to explore the city on foot. With spring blooms popping up and fresh green leaves on trees, the city is looking its best and brightest in March.
Visit the Guinness Storehouse
No trip to Dublin is complete without a visit to the Guinness Storehouse, and March is one of the best times to see this Dublin Landmark.
In March, this iconic destination takes its St Patrick’s Day celebrations to another level. The storehouse is adorned with shamrocks and the vibrant Irish tricolor, wrapping visitors up in the festivities.
To celebrate the holiday, the Storehouse has live bands performing throughout the month, adding to the festive environment.
Check out the Easter Extravaganza at Dublin Zoo
With Easter coming early this year, why not celebrate with the animals at Dublin Zoo?
Every Easter weekend the zoo puts on its annual Easter Extravaganza. Held on Easter Sunday and Monday, this event is a wonderful blend of festive fun and educational encounters with wildlife. The zoo transforms into a hub of Easter celebrations, making it a fun outing for families visiting Dublin during this time.
The Easter Extravaganza includes activities designed to engage children, such as fun craft sessions and the appearance of the Easter Bunny.
Catch a show
Dublin has a robust theatre and music scene, and there are always new acts coming to town.
Theatergoers can head to the Bord Gais Energy Theatre, The Gaiety, The Olympia, or the Abbey Theatre for plays and musicals. In March, the Abbey hosts a Dublin walking tour that explores the city through the eyes of theatre. It’s a great way to get to know Dublin and to learn about the city’s prolific legacy of Irish playwrights.
Music lovers can always find a concert or show in Dublin. See the latest up-and-coming acts at the Button Factory, or check out what’s on at 3Arena or Aviva Stadium where major world acts tour regularly. Tickets can be purchased online via TicketMaster, or directly from the venue.
See top Irish artists at the National Gallery
Dublin’s National Gallery is a treasure trove of art and culture. This esteemed free museum houses an impressive collection of Irish artists, showcasing the rich legacy of Ireland’s artistic heritage.
From historical pieces to contemporary works, the artwork in the gallery gives visitors a glimpse of life in Ireland. In addition to the mesmerizing permanent exhibits, the National Gallery has a steady rotation of special exhibits highlighting art from around the world.
To make the most of your visit, consider joining one of the free docent-led museum tours. The museum also offers family tours crafted specifically to engage young visitors with the art.
In March, you can still catch some of the “Dublin in Winter” themed art tours, which explore representations of the city during the winter months through art.
Grab a pint at a classic Irish pub
I know it’s cliche, but you can’t come to Dublin and not go to at least one pub. Visiting a traditional Irish pub is a quintessential Dublin experience.
Pubs are steeped in history and culture. Many pubs you can still visit today were once clandestine meeting places for Irish Revolutionaries, or where great musicians played to their first audiences.
Pubs are also the perfect places to warm up on chilly March days when the cold hand of winter is refusing to let go and let spring in. In a traditional Irish pub, you’ll find a warm, welcoming atmosphere and those friendly vibes that Ireland is famous for.
Ride bikes through Phoenix Park
Phoenix Park is the largest walled park in Europe, and what better way to explore the furthest reaches of the park than on a bicycle? March is a great time to ride through Phoenix Park since you can ride around spotting the early signs of spring.
As you pedal along, keep an eye out for the park’s famous herd of fallow deer. You can also stop for a bite at the picturesque Victorian Tea Rooms, head to the famed Wellington Monument, or learn about the history of the park at the visitor center.
Whether you’re an avid cyclist or just looking for a casual ride, cycling through Phoenix Park is a fun outdoor activity appropriate for all skill levels.
Take a popular Dublin walk
With March signaling the start of spring, and with it the spring weather, why not spend some time outside enjoying some of Dublin’s best walks?
For a historic walk with incredible views of Dublin Port and the Irish Sea, head out to the historic Poolbeg Lighthouse.
Another classic Dublin walk is the Grand Canal, which wraps its way around the city. March is the perfect time to enjoy this leisurely city walk, with new greenery popping up and migratory birds arriving in the waterway.
Outside the city center but still in County Dublin are the Howth Island Cliff Walk and Bull Island. Both are great choices if you’re looking for expansive sea views and a break from the city.
Go on a Viking Splash Tour
If you’ve spent any time in Dublin, chances are you’ve encountered the infamous Viking Splash Tours. These large yellow amphibious vehicles are the bain of Dubliners’ existence, driving slow as molasses and taking up a lane and a half on the road.
Still, despite their garishness, the Viking Splash Tour is a lot of fun. We decided to take the tour one year with an out-of-town visitor, and the experience had us laughing the entire time. Our guide was charismatic and funny, and we still managed to learn a lot about Dublin that we didn’t already know.
The tour focuses on Dublin’s Viking history but also touches on modern-day issues and local landmarks. You don’t have to wear the Viking hat, but it’s more fun for everyone if you do (and perform your Viking yell on command!).
The tours close for the off-season and reopens in late February. They’re very popular and often sell out, so March with its smaller crowds is a great time to take advantage of going on the Viking Splash Tour. I still recommend pre-booking to avoid disappointment.
If this tour doesn’t appeal to you, there are many exciting boat tours in Dublin, Ireland to choose from!
Cheer for the Boys in Green during the Six Nations Rugby Finals
Ask any sports fan in Dublin, and they’ll tell you March is for Rugby, specifically the Six Nations Rugby Championship. This exciting tournament sees Ireland battling for the title against France, England, Italy, Scotland, and Wales. It’s a big deal in the Rugby world, and if you’re around in March it’s fun to get wrapped up in all the excitement.
While you can go to a pub and cheer at the television along with other fans, if your timing is right you can also head to Aviva stadium for a live match. Splurging on tickets to a live game will make you feel a part of the action. Plus, the stadium is lovely and well worth a visit.
Pay Tribute to a Rock Legend at the Rory Gallagher Birthday Bash
Rock music fans have certainly heard of Rory Gallagher, one of the best guitarists to ever live. Rory fans visiting Dublin this March should head to the Rory Gallagher Birthday Bash, an annual event celebrating the music and legacy of this local legend.
If you’re not familiar, Rory Gallagher rose to fame in the 1960s with his blistering guitar riffs and blues-rock tunes. His energetic performances left a lasting legacy in the music world, influencing countless artists to come.
The Rory Gallagher Birthday Bash takes place every year at The Grand Social Club. Tribute bands play homage to Gallagher, playing covers of his songs to an enrapt audience. The atmosphere is electric, filled with the spirit of Gallagher’s music, making the Birthday Bash an exciting and fun event for all attendees, and a perfect way to experience Dublin’s vibrant music scene.
Watch a Gaelic Sports Match
Another one for the sports fans: Why not go to a Gaelic football or hurling match during your visit?
Local games take place throughout March, providing visitors with an authentic glimpse into the heart and soul of Irish sporting culture. These fast-paced, high-energy games are a cornerstone of Irish identity, and attending a match is a fun way to get into the local spirit.
Tickets for the matches can be purchased through Croke Park, the national home of Gaelic sports.
Tips for Visiting Dublin in March
Here are some practical tips to help make your March trip to Dublin go smoothly:
1. Be prepared for all weather: March weather can be unpredictable and is often cool and damp. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes. You can bring an umbrella as well, but I find they’re useless when the winds pick (which happens fairly often in Dublin).
2. Stay Hydrated: Tap water in Dublin is safe to drink and delicious. Do your part to help save our planet by asking for tap water at restaurants and traveling with a refillable water bottle.
3. Keep Safe: Dublin is a pretty safe city, but like any city, it has areas to be cautious in, especially at night. Avoid less frequented areas and stick to well-lit busy streets.
4. Public Transportation: Dublin is a walkable city, but when the weather is poor or you need to save time, public transit can be handy. I recommend visitors utilize Dublin’s extensive public transportation network, including buses and trams, for an efficient and cost-effective way to explore the city.
5. Experience Local Culture: If you’re visiting Dublin in March, be sure to take advantage of March events like the St. Patrick’s Day festivities, Rugby matches, and local music events.
6. St. Patrick’s Day: If visiting around St. Patrick’s Day, book accommodations and event tickets well in advance as the city gets very busy. Also, note that prices for accommodations and flights will be inflated due to high demand.
7. Walking Tours: Join a walking tour to learn about Dublin’s rich history and culture. They’re often more intimate in March due to fewer tourists.
8. Buy Travel Insurance: I always recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip in case of unforeseen closures, cancellations, or health problems.
What to Wear in Dublin in March
The weather in Ireland can be a bit unpredictable in March, so packing layers and being prepared for four seasons in a day is a must.
The key piece of clothing you’ll need is a waterproof jacket or rain shell.
Scarves, a hat, and gloves are good to carry with you for evenings when temperatures drop.
While it often feels cold, the Irish sun is strong. Wear sunscreen, even on overcast days. You never know when the sun will burst through the clouds, and you’ll be wishing you had slapped on the SPF 50.
Finally, wear good walking shoes for exploring the city. A good pair of walking sneakers is a must for getting around Dublin without wrecking your feet and back.
FAQ: Dublin in March
The weather in Dublin, Ireland in March is typically cool with average temperatures ranging from 3°C to 10°C. Dublin gets an average of 59 mm of rain in March, and about half the days of the month are rainy.
March is a good time to visit Dublin. You can experience the St. Patrick’s Day festivities, smaller tourist crowds, and exciting sporting events like the Six Nations Rugby tournament.
Yes, March is a rainy month in Ireland, with frequent showers, though not excessively heavy.
Yes, Dublin is worth visiting in March! There are great cultural events, like St. Patrick’s Day, as well as events at museums and theatres throughout the city.
The best months to visit Dublin are June or July for the warmest and driest weather and long days.
I recommend visiting Dublin in March for the reduced crowds, fun events (including St Patrick’s Day), and a chance to see the spring flowers starting to bloom.
I recommend packing layers if coming to Ireland in March. Be prepared for chilly temperatures and rain. Pack a warm, waterproof coat, hat, gloves, scarf, and water-resistant walking shoes.
The weather in Ireland in March is usually cool and damp, with frequent rain showers.
It does rain quite a bit in Ireland in March, although the rain is usually not very heavy.
Dublin in March can be cold with temperatures often below 10°C.
Dublin is lovely in March. Despite the cold, you’ll see daffodils blooming and green returning to the trees. It’s a beautiful month in the city as signs of spring appear.
It rarely snows in Dublin at all, let alone in March. While it could happen, it’s very rare to that it will snow in Dublin in March.
Dublin is busy for the St Patrick’s Day Parade and festivities, but otherwise, March is not a very busy month in Dublin.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Dublin in March
March is a wonderful month to visit Dublin, and I hope this post helps you make the most of your shoulder season trip to the Irish capital. Whether you plan to take part in the St Patrick’s Day Festivities or experience the world of sports in Ireland, you can’t go wrong with any of the activities mentioned above. There are many things to see and do in Dublin in the month of March, so enjoy this lovely month in the city of Dublin.
Have you been to Dublin in March? What activities do you recommend people do? Send me an email and let me know!