Ireland Tours in December 2025

What our customers ask about Ireland Tours in December 2025

• What special Christmas activities and events happen in Ireland during December?

  Cities across Ireland embrace the holiday season with distinctive celebrations and markets. Dublin features Christmas markets at St Stephen's Green and the Docklands where visitors can browse local crafts and seasonal treats. The medieval streets of Galway transform Eyre Square into a festive marketplace with food stalls and local vendors. Historic sites like Muckross House in Killarney host special Victorian Christmas tours while properties such as Dingle Benners Hotel serve seasonal afternoon teas. A TourRadar traveler notes: "The Christmas atmosphere in Dublin was magical - from carol singers at Temple Bar to festive shop windows on Grafton Street."

• What is the weather like in Ireland during December?

  Winter temperatures in Ireland average between 4-8°C (39-46°F) with regular rain showers. The coastal region near the Cliffs of Moher sees stronger winds but milder temperatures while inland areas like Killarney can get frosty. Visitors need waterproof boots a warm coat layers gloves and rain gear. Areas like the Wicklow Mountains and Connemara National Park require extra warm clothing. A TourRadar traveler shared: "The weather was changeable but we were comfortable with proper waterproof gear and layers - the moody winter skies actually made places like the Ring of Kerry even more dramatic."

• Are the Cliffs of Moher worth visiting in December?

  December visits to the Cliffs of Moher offer reduced crowds and raw natural beauty. The visitor center stays open year-round and clear winter days create excellent photo opportunities. TourRadar travelers report that "the wild December weather made the cliffs even more impressive and atmospheric." Most tours spend 1.5 hours at the site with access to both North and South viewing areas. Nearby Trump International Golf Links & Hotel in Doonbeg offers upscale lodging for visitors to the cliffs.

• What are the best indoor attractions to visit in Ireland during December?

  Winter months are ideal for exploring Ireland's indoor cultural venues. In Dublin the Guinness Storehouse and Jameson Distillery offer tastings while the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum provides shelter from the elements. Waterford Crystal runs factory tours and Bunratty Castle hosts evening banquets. One TourRadar traveler noted: "the Pearse Lyons Distillery tour was a perfect escape from the December chill." The centrally located Westbury Hotel and Brooks Hotel provide easy access to these attractions.

• How crowded are popular tourist sites in Ireland during December?

  December brings fewer tourists to Ireland except during the Christmas holidays when domestic travel increases. Major sites like Trinity College's Book of Kells and Dublin Castle see shorter lines and smaller crowds. A TourRadar traveler observed: "December was perfect for exploring without the crowds especially at places like Kilkenny Castle and the Rock of Cashel." Hotels like the Fitzwilton in Waterford and Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge in Dublin typically have good availability.

• What traditional Christmas food and drink can I try in Ireland during December?

  December brings seasonal Irish delicacies to the forefront. Cork's English Market sells Christmas pudding mince pies and regional specialties. Dublin's Temple Bar area features holiday menus while Galway's pubs serve Irish coffee and festive dishes. A TourRadar traveler noted: "the Christmas menu at O'Connor's Pub in Doolin was a highlight of our December trip." The Radisson Blu Hotel Dublin Airport and International Hotel Killarney create special menus showcasing traditional Irish Christmas dishes.