Ireland in September–October: Weather, Events & Where to Go
Fewer Crowds, Fiery Foliage, and Festival Charm
Ireland in autumn is pure magic. The tourist buzz dies down, the landscapes blush with golden-red leaves, and the calendar fills with intimate cultural festivals and countryside escapes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore deeper, September and October offer one of the best times to travel to Ireland.
From theatre festivals in Dublin to foliage-filled walks in Killarney, this guide highlights what to expect, where to go, what to pack, and how Voye Global’s Ireland eSIM keeps your journey smooth and connected.
Why Visit Ireland in September or October?
- Mild weather, fewer tourists
- Cheaper accommodation and airfare
- Cultural festivals and Halloween roots
- Autumnal beauty across national parks
With the summer crowds gone, you’ll enjoy more local experiences, empty scenic trails, and better deals. It’s also the perfect time for photographers and foodies: think moody skies, seasonal produce, and cozy pubs.
🇮🇪 Weather Overview
| Month | Avg. High | Avg. Low | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| September | 15–18°C | 10–12°C | Moderate |
| October | 12–15°C | 7–10°C | Higher, but scenic misty vibes |
Expect occasional rain (this is Ireland, after all), but also brilliant blue skies, especially in early September. Days get shorter, so plan outdoor adventures earlier in the day.
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Top Events in September–October
Dublin Theatre Festival (Sept 26 – Oct 13, 2025)
One of Europe’s oldest theatre festivals, this event brings local and international talent to life on stage. Book in advance and explore performances in English and Irish.
Where to go: Abbey Theatre, Project Arts Centre, Gate Theatre
eSIM Tip: Use Voye Global’s Ireland eSIM to book last-minute tickets, access maps, and share live updates without Wi-Fi.
Halloween in Ireland (October)
Did you know Halloween originated in Ireland? The ancient Celtic festival of Samhain marked the end of harvest and the beginning of winter.
Things to do:
- Derry Halloween: Europe’s biggest Halloween festival
- Dublin Ghostbus Tour
- Wicklow Gaol haunted experience
Where to See Autumn Foliage in Ireland?
Killarney National Park
One of the best places for fall color. The oak woods around Muckross Abbey and Torc Waterfall are magical in the morning mist. You can even take a horse-drawn jaunting car ride through the forests.
Glendalough, Wicklow Mountains
Just a day trip from Dublin, Glendalough’s monastic ruins are surrounded by golden woodlands and mirrored lakes.
Powerscourt Gardens
Near Enniskerry, these formal gardens burst into red and orange in early October.
Best Places to Visit in Autumn
1. Dublin
Don’t just hit the pubs—explore the museums, Georgian neighborhoods, and take in a play at the Dublin Theatre Festival.
2. Cork
Known for its food scene and the English Market, Cork also has riverside beauty, music festivals, and access to Blarney Castle.
3. Killarney
A scenic haven with waterfalls, trails, and lake views. September is great for hiking; October turns it into a fairytale.
4. Galway
Street performers, hearty food, and friendly vibes. Check out the Galway Oyster Festival (early Sept) and cozy music pubs.
5. Derry (Londonderry)
A must-visit in October for Halloween lovers! The walled city transforms into a spooky celebration of its Celtic roots.
Explore Ireland & Beyond This Fall
Planning to hop to France or the UK? Voye’s Europe eSIM has you covered.
What to Pack for Ireland in September–October?
- Waterproof jacket & umbrella
- Waterproof boots for walking trails
- Layers (light sweaters, thermal tops)
- Reusable water bottle
- Universal travel adapter
- Download offline maps—but better yet, use your Ireland eSIM for travel for real-time GPS
- Small backpack for day trips/
How Voye Global’s eSIM Makes Travel Easier?
Standing in airport lines for a local SIM is the last thing you want on arrival—especially in the rain. Instead, use Voye’s esim for travelers and get instant access to data, WhatsApp, and navigation.
Why Choose Voye eSIM for Ireland:
- Instant QR activation
- No physical SIM swap
- Fast 4G/5G across cities, towns, and rural areas
- Great for navigation, festival bookings, and sharing trip moments
- Plans tailored for short stays, long weekends, or cross-Europe trips
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Going beyond Ireland? Explore Europe eSIM
Travel Tips for Visiting Ireland in Autumn
- Book indoor attractions on rainy days (museums, castles, whiskey tastings)
- Join pub crawls or ghost tours in Dublin or Galway for social fun
- Use ferry or train apps with your eSIM for day trip planning
- Expect earlier sunsets in October—plan hikes and drives accordingly
- Don’t forget your rain gear—even on sunny mornings!
FAQs: Ireland in September–October
Is Ireland crowded in September or October?
No. September sees fewer crowds than summer, and October is perfect for relaxed travel.
Is it cold in Ireland during these months?
It’s cool, but not freezing. Bring layers, especially for the evenings.
Can I travel between cities easily?
Yes. Buses, trains, and short domestic flights are available. Use apps like Irish Rail, Bus Éireann, or Rome2Rio with your eSIM.
Where should I base myself for foliage?
Killarney or Glendalough are perfect. You can also take foliage day trips from Dublin.
Will my Voye eSIM work on rural drives and hikes?
Yes—Voye partners with Ireland’s top mobile networks for full coverage.
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