Dublin in March is defined by one thing: St Patrick's Day. The 17th brings the city's biggest annual celebration, with a parade through the city centre, pubs packed from morning, and an atmosphere that is unlike anything Dublin offers the rest of the year. Outside of the festival, March is shoulder season with decent weather for walking and competitive prices. But if you are visiting in March, the question is really whether you are going for Patrick's Day or not.

Weather

March weather in Dublin is cool, often wet, and changeable. Temperatures sit between 4°C and 10°C, occasionally reaching 12°C in late March. Rain is a genuine likelihood on any given day, but heavy sustained downpours are less common than light showers. The Irish expression about four seasons in one day was not invented for nothing. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and waterproof shoes. If the sun comes out, it is genuinely beautiful.

Crowds and Prices

St Patrick's Day weekend (and the days immediately surrounding it) is one of Dublin's busiest periods of the year. Hotels book out months in advance, prices spike sharply, and city-centre pubs operate at capacity from lunchtime. Outside of that specific weekend, March is quiet and affordable. The Guinness Storehouse, EPIC Museum, and Trinity College are all manageable without queues on a regular March weekday. Book well ahead if your dates overlap with the festival.

What's On

St Patrick's Festival runs over several days around 17 March with the main parade on the day itself. There are also concerts, outdoor events, and cultural performances throughout the festival period. The Six Nations rugby tournament runs through March, and Ireland versus England or France matches in particular pull huge crowds into Dublin's pubs. Check the Six Nations schedule when planning around pubs and venues.

One Thing to Watch

St Patrick's Day hotel prices can be two or three times the normal March rate. If your trip is not specifically for the festival, it is worth either booking months ahead at regular prices, or shifting your dates by a week to avoid the surge. The city is excellent in mid and late March outside of the festival weekend, with decent prices and a relaxed feel.

Our Dublin travel guide covers the best pubs, the key sights, and how to get around the city without getting lost or overcharged.

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