Dublin Weather in December

December weather

Dublin feels cold, damp and often grey in December. Days reach about 8°C, with nights near 5°C, and rain falls often. You'll have little daylight, so long outdoor sightseeing days don't work well. Keep Phoenix Park walks or coastal trips short, and have indoor plans ready. The Book of Kells at Trinity College and the National Museum of Ireland suit rainy afternoons.

Christmas in the city

Grafton Street's Christmas lights make an evening stroll feel festive, while pubs and cafés offer a cosy break from the drizzle. Christmas at Dublin Castle is a seasonal event, though its dates and format can vary. Christmas Day brings widespread closures, so don't count on museums, shops or restaurants being open. Families who enjoy festive city outings can pair the lights with a warm stop at Bewley's on Grafton Street.

Crowds and costs

December is quieter than Dublin's popular May-to-July stretch, but the Christmas and New Year period brings more visitors. Hotel prices can rise around the holidays, even as the rest of the month is often calmer than summer. For an easy rainy-day plan, take the Luas to the National Museum of Ireland at Collins Barracks, then warm up nearby in Smithfield. Check the museum's holiday opening times before setting out.