Ireland in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for December
Average temperature across Ireland in December.
City Weather in December
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dublin | 9° | 3° | 71 mm | low | Cold |
| Cork (city) | 9° | 4° | 118 mm | low | Cold |
| Limerick | 9° | 4° | 124 mm | low | Cold |
| Galway | 9° | 4° | 114 mm | low | Cold |
| Tallaght | 8° | 3° | 82 mm | low | Cold |
| Waterford | 9° | 3° | 102 mm | low | Cold |
| Swords, County Dublin | 8° | 3° | 76 mm | low | Cold |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Eastern & Dublin (Leinster and East Coast)
A typically mild but changeable December rounds the year off with chilly days, rain, and the odd frost; the city glows with holiday lights and markets, which makes the dampness easier to tolerate. Higher ground in Wicklow may carry sleet or brief snowfall on colder spells; expect packed public transport around major shopping areas. Bring warm layers and waterproof footwear if you plan to mix city exploration with day trips into the nearby hills.
The Midlands & Shannon Basin (Central Plains)
December’s short, often overcast days bring a cold damp rather than deep freeze; when winds drop you may get crisp, frosty dawns that coat hedgerows and fields in rime. Rivers and canals are quieter except around holiday weekends; rural B&Bs are festive but some country cafés reduce hours. Travellers coming to the central plain for quiet countryside should be prepared for muddy tracks and have warm waterproof clothing for any outdoor walks.
Southwest (Cork, Kerry, Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula)
December’s festive atmosphere in Killarney and Cork contrasts with short, often grey days and frequent Atlantic showers; coastal cliffs can be dramatic under low cloud. Boxing Day and New Year events draw domestic visitors, so book ahead if staying. For travel, keep a weather eye on sea conditions for any island plans and expect cool, damp days requiring thermal layers and reliable outerwear.
West Coast & Connemara / Galway / Clare (Aran Islands, Cliffs of Moher)
December’s winter light and frequent cloud make for intimate coastal scenes, with festive crowds in Galway on weekends and quiet elsewhere; short days limit long walks but birdwatching and storm-watching are rewarding. Sea conditions are unsettled and many island services close for the winter; if your main aim is rugged coastal scenery, check local operators and aim for sheltered routes. Warm layers, waterproof boots and a plan B for rough seas are essential.
Northern & Northwest (Antrim Coast, Derry, Donegal)
December feels raw and often windy along the northern seaboard with short, grey days and frequent precipitation, though prolonged severe cold is unusual. New Year events in Belfast and Derry draw visitors, while remote peninsulas are quiet and atmospheric. If you plan spectacular coastal photography, aim for a calm spell; otherwise bring full wet-weather gear and plan indoor back-ups for stormy days.