What to Expect from September in Ireland: A Complete Guide

Thinking about a trip to Ireland but not sure when to go? September in Ireland might just be the perfect time you haven’t considered yet.

It’s not quite summer, not fully autumn, so what can you expect? Will the weather hold? Are attractions still open? Is it too quiet?

As someone who returns to Ireland regularly and knows the rhythms of the seasons, I can say that September in Ireland offers a sweet spot for travellers, fewer crowds, better prices, and rich seasonal charm.

In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know, from weather and packing tips to where to go and what to see during this golden month.

By the end, you’ll be fully prepped to explore the Emerald Isle in September, with confidence, comfort, and maybe even a pint in hand.

All you need to know about September in Ireland

September offers visitors a perfect balance of mild weather, fewer crowds, and stunning landscapes as autumn begins to transform the countryside.

Weather in Ireland in September

September in Ireland brings pleasant temperatures averaging 12-17°C (54-63°F). Days remain relatively long with around 12-13 hours of daylight, giving you plenty of time to explore.

Rain is always a possibility, with an average of 12 rainy days throughout the month. Pack layers and a waterproof jacket for unpredictable weather changes.

The seas around Ireland maintain temperatures of about 15°C (59°F), still warm enough for brave swimmers. Not me, though! Coastal areas can be windier, so bring a windbreaker if you’re planning seaside visits.

Morning fog is common in September, especially in rural areas, but typically burns off by midday. This creates magical photo opportunities across Ireland’s countryside and ancient sites.

Glendalough Lakes

Costs and crowds during September in Ireland

September offers excellent value as you’ll find accommodation prices dropping 15-20% from summer peaks. Many hotels and B&Bs offer special autumn packages and discounts after the high season ends.

Tourist attractions remain open but with significantly shorter queues. Popular sites like the Cliffs of Moher and Blarney Castle can be enjoyed without the summer crowds.

Restaurants are less crowded, making it easier to secure tables at popular establishments without lengthy advance reservations. Many eateries also feature seasonal autumn menus highlighting local harvest.

Flight costs to Ireland typically decrease in September, with average savings of 25-30% compared to July and August prices. Car rental rates also drop, making self-driving holidays more affordable.

Rural festivals and harvest celebrations occur throughout the month, offering authentic cultural experiences at minimal costs.

Places to visit in Ireland in September

September offers ideal conditions to explore Ireland’s most captivating destinations with fewer crowds and pleasant weather. The golden autumn light brings a special quality to both urban landscapes and natural wonders across the country.

Dublin

Ireland’s capital shines in September when summer tourists have departed but the weather remains mild. You can explore the historic Trinity College and see the Book of Kells without long queues. The cobbled streets of Temple Bar are less crowded, making it easier to enjoy authentic Irish music sessions in the evening.

Dublin‘s parks transform with autumn colors, making St. Stephen’s Green and Phoenix Park perfect for leisurely strolls. September also brings Dublin’s Theatre Festival, one of Europe’s oldest, featuring performances across the city.

For history enthusiasts, Kilmainham Gaol and Dublin Castle offer fascinating insights into Ireland’s past without the summer crowds. Don’t miss the Guinness Storehouse tour, where you can enjoy the famous 360° views from the Gravity Bar.

A picture of a group of trees with golden leaves in the Phoenix Park in autumn
Phoenix Park in autumn

Belfast

Northern Ireland‘s capital reveals its charm in September when mild temperatures make exploring on foot comfortable. The Titanic Belfast Museum, voted the world’s leading tourist attraction, provides an immersive experience into the ship’s history and Belfast’s maritime heritage.

The Cathedral Quarter comes alive in the evenings with its vibrant collection of restaurants, pubs, and art spaces. You’ll find the atmosphere more relaxed than during peak summer months.

Take advantage of September’s clear days to visit Belfast Castle and enjoy panoramic views of the city. The Botanic Gardens and Ulster Museum offer quiet respite if you encounter one of Ireland’s famous rain showers.

Day trips from Belfast are particularly rewarding in September. The Causeway Coastal Route reveals dramatic landscapes with fewer tourists, while the Game of Thrones filming locations are more accessible.

An aerial picture of part of the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland, one of the best driving roads in Ireland
Causeway Coastal Route

Galway

September transforms Galway into a cultural haven as the summer crowds disperse, but the city’s famous energy remains. The medieval streets of the Latin Quarter feel more authentic when you can browse local craft shops and galleries at a leisurely pace.

The Galway International Oyster Festival typically runs in late September, celebrating the start of oyster season with food events and the World Oyster Opening Championship. You’ll enjoy fresher seafood throughout the city as local harvests reach their peak.

Salthill Promenade offers beautiful sunset walks along Galway Bay; a tradition best enjoyed in September’s mild evenings. The city’s numerous cafés and pubs welcome you with traditional music sessions that feel more intimate outside peak tourist season.

Day trips from Galway to the likes of Connemara National Park or the Aran Islands benefit from September’s stable weather patterns and reduced visitor numbers.

Ring of Kerry

The 179 km circular route known as the Ring of Kerry reveals its spectacular beauty with particular clarity in September. The tourist buses thin out dramatically, allowing you to stop at viewpoints without crowds and drive the narrow roads more comfortably.

September’s light brings out the vibrant colors of the landscape—from the deep blues of the Atlantic to the purples of heather-covered hillsides. Pack layers as weather can change quickly, but you’ll often enjoy crisp, clear days perfect for photography.

The towns along the route, including Kenmare and Killarney, offer a more authentic experience after the summer rush. You’ll find locals more relaxed and accommodating as the pace slows down.

Don’t miss Killarney National Park, where red deer begin their rutting season in late September. The Ladies View and Torc Waterfall are particularly stunning against autumn’s emerging colors.

A picture of the stunning Torc Waterfall in Killarney National Park, one of the best places to visit in Ireland
Torc Waterfall, Killarney National Park

Cliffs of Moher and Burren National Park

The majestic Cliffs of Moher offer a more pleasant experience in September when visitor numbers reduce significantly. Morning visits often reward you with misty, atmospheric views before the fog burns off to reveal the dramatic 214-meter drop to the Atlantic.

The unpredictable Irish weather tends to stabilize somewhat in September, increasing your chances of clear visibility across the 8 km stretch of cliffs. Bring binoculars to spot seabirds, including puffins if you’re visiting early in the month.

The nearby Burren National Park presents a stark limestone landscape that contrasts beautifully with autumn’s softer colors. September’s moderate temperatures make hiking the rocky terrain more comfortable than summer’s heat.

The Burren’s unique ecosystem supports Arctic, Alpine, and Mediterranean plants growing side by side, an ecological marvel best appreciated during quiet September walks. The ancient Poulnabrone Dolmen (pictured below), dating back over 5,800 years, stands in splendid isolation against the limestone background.

Things to do in Ireland in September

September offers visitors an ideal mix of mild weather and fewer crowds, making it perfect for exploring Ireland’s many attractions. The landscapes transform with early autumn colors while cultural events remain vibrant across the country.

Hiking and National Parks

A great thing to do in Ireland in September is to visit the national parks, of which there are six.

The Wicklow Mountains National Park showcases stunning early autumn foliage in September. The 131km Wicklow Way presents moderate hiking conditions with comfortable temperatures averaging 12-17°C (53-62F).

Killarney National Park’s trails are less crowded this month, offering peaceful walks around Muckross Lake and Torc Waterfall. The dramatic landscapes of Connemara National Park feature purple heather in bloom, creating spectacular photo opportunities.

The Burren in County Clare presents a unique limestone landscape that’s more comfortable to explore in September’s mild weather. Its unusual flora and archaeological sites can be enjoyed without summer’s heat or winter’s chill.

You could also join guided hikes in Glenveagh National Park, where red deer begin their rutting season, adding wildlife viewing to your hiking experience.

A picture of a lake in the Glenveagh National Park in Ireland with hills in the background and trees in the foreground
Glenveagh National Park

Cycling Routes

Cycling is another great activity to enjoy in Ireland during the month of September.

The Great Western Greenway in Mayo offers 42km of traffic-free cycling through stunning Atlantic coastal scenery. September’s clear days provide excellent visibility of Clew Bay and Achill Island along the route.

Dublin’s coastal cycle path from Sandycove to Howth also becomes more pleasant in September with reduced tourist numbers. You’ll enjoy seafront views and can stop at charming villages like Dalkey and Malahide.

The Ring of Kerry cycle route (179km) is more manageable in September when roads are less congested with tour buses. The moderate temperatures make tackling the route’s hills more comfortable. Just remember that bikes, cars and buses share the same road, so be careful.

Cultural Experiences

The Dublin Fringe Festival (typically early to mid-September) showcases experimental theater, dance, and comedy in venues throughout the capital. Book tickets in advance for popular performances.

Galway International Oyster Festival (last weekend of September) celebrates the oyster harvest with tastings, competitions, and live music. You’ll experience authentic Irish hospitality while sampling fresh seafood.

September’s Culture Night (third Friday) grants free access to museums, galleries, and historic buildings across Ireland. Many venues offer special performances and guided tours until late evening.

Traditional music sessions in pubs become more authentic after summer tourists depart. Visit smaller towns like Doolin, Dingle, and Westport for sessions featuring local musicians rather than tourist-oriented performances.

A close-up picture of a mans hands playing a banjo

Boat Tours and Coastal Adventures

Cliffs of Moher boat tours provide spectacular views from the water in September when the seas are typically calmer. You’ll appreciate the 214-meter cliffs from a unique perspective while potentially spotting dolphins.

The Skellig Islands boat trips remain operational through September, weather permitting. These UNESCO sites feature ancient monastic settlements and abundant birdlife, including puffins early in the month. You must prebook your tickets as the number allowed on the islands is limited.

Dolphin watching in the Shannon Estuary offers higher success rates in September when resident bottlenose dolphins are active. Tours from Kilrush and Carrigaholt provide expert guidance and educational commentary.

Sea kayaking adventures along the Wild Atlantic Way benefit from September’s typically settled weather. Popular locations include Dingle Bay, Cork’s coastline, and Galway Bay, where guided tours accommodate beginners and experienced paddlers alike.

A picture of Little Skellig from the side of Skellig Michael
Skellig Michael

Events During September in Ireland

September offers visitors an incredible array of cultural festivals and celebrations across Ireland. The country comes alive with artistic performances, culinary delights, and traditional music during this harvest month.

Dublin Fringe Festival

The Dublin Fringe Festival transforms Ireland’s capital into a buzzing hub of creativity for two weeks each September. This avant-garde arts festival showcases bold new performances across theater, dance, comedy, and visual arts in venues throughout the city.

You’ll discover both emerging Irish talent and international performers pushing artistic boundaries. The program typically features over 400 performances in 30+ venues, ranging from established theaters to unexpected locations like warehouses and public parks.

Tickets generally range from €10-€20, making experimental art accessible to all. For the best experience, book popular shows in advance through the festival website as they often sell out quickly.

The festival atmosphere spills onto the streets with free outdoor performances and pop-up events that surprise and delight passersby.

Galway International Oyster Festival

The Galway International Oyster Festival, held annually since 1954, celebrates the start of oyster season on the last weekend of September. This world-renowned event draws seafood lovers from across the globe to Ireland’s west coast.

You’ll witness the World Oyster Opening Championship, where skilled shuckers compete for the prestigious title. The competition combines speed, skill, and presentation in a lively atmosphere.

Festival highlights include oyster tasting sessions where you can sample the distinctive Galway Bay native oysters paired with champagne or Irish stout. Don’t miss the Mardi Gras-style parade through Galway’s streets, featuring colorful costumes and live music.

Even if you’re not an oyster enthusiast, the festival offers plenty of alternative seafood options and entertainment, including cooking demonstrations, traditional Irish music, and dancing late into the night.

Oysters and Irish Stout

Waterford Harvest Festival

The Waterford Harvest Festival transforms Ireland’s oldest city into a food lover’s paradise during early September. This three-day celebration showcases the agricultural bounty and culinary expertise of Ireland’s sunny southeast region.

You’ll find the quayside and historic streets lined with market stalls featuring artisan producers selling everything from farmhouse cheeses to craft beers. Free cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs take place throughout the weekend, revealing techniques for preparing local specialities.

Family-friendly activities include bread-making workshops, apple pressing demonstrations, and urban farming exhibits. The festival’s street feast brings everyone together at long communal tables to share a meal prepared with local ingredients.

Evening events feature live music performances in the city’s Viking Triangle, creating a festive atmosphere as you sample regional delicacies and meet local food producers passionate about their craft.

A picture of the Viking longship replica in front of Reginald's Tower in Waterford City on a grey day.

Clifden Arts Festival

The Clifden Arts Festival, Ireland’s longest-running community arts festival, takes place in mid-September in the scenic coastal town of Connemara. This two-week celebration transforms the small Galway town into a cultural haven.

You’ll experience a diverse program of literary readings, classical music concerts, traditional Irish music sessions, and visual art exhibitions. The festival attracts internationally acclaimed artists while maintaining its community roots.

Unique venues include historic churches, intimate pubs, and the stunning Connemara landscape itself. Many events take place against the backdrop of the Wild Atlantic Way, adding natural drama to performances.

The festival offers opportunities to engage directly with artists through workshops and informal discussions. Literary events feature prominent Irish authors discussing their work in relaxed settings where you can ask questions and gain insights into their creative process.

Don’t miss the traditional music sessions in local pubs, where scheduled performances often evolve into impromptu gatherings of local and visiting musicians.

Clifden, County Galway

Travel Tips for Ireland in September

September offers ideal conditions for exploring Ireland with mild weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant landscapes. Planning appropriately will ensure you make the most of your autumn visit to the Emerald Isle.

What to pack to wear in Ireland in September

Layering is essential for Ireland’s changeable September weather. Pack a waterproof jacket with a hood as unexpected showers can occur throughout the day. Average temperatures range between 10-17°C (50-63°F), so bring light sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, and a medium-weight jacket.

Comfortable waterproof walking shoes are non-negotiable if you plan to explore the countryside or city streets. Include a warm scarf and light gloves for cooler evenings, especially in coastal and rural areas.

Don’t forget to pack at least one smart-casual outfit for dining out or attending cultural events. A small umbrella that fits in your day bag is practical for city explorations. Consider including both short and long-sleeved options to accommodate temperature fluctuations throughout the day.

Practical tips for Ireland in September

1 – Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, as September remains relatively busy with tourists. Many heritage sites operate on reduced hours after mid-September, so check opening times before planning your itinerary.

2 – Take advantage of September’s heritage events during National Heritage Week, typically held early in the month. Public transportation runs regularly, but rural areas have limited service, so consider renting a car if exploring beyond major cities.

Money-saving tips:

  • Look for shoulder season discounts on accommodations and car rentals
  • Purchase a Heritage Card if visiting multiple historical sites
  • Use Leap Cards in Dublin for discounted public transport

3 – The days remain reasonably long in early September but shorten noticeably by month’s end. Plan outdoor activities accordingly, with darkness falling around 8:00 PM early in the month and 7:00 PM by late September.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Ireland in September

Final Thoughts on Visiting Ireland in September

September strikes a perfect balance for visiting Ireland, milder weather, fewer crowds, and better value. With average temps between 10–18°C and around 80mm of rain, it’s ideal for exploring without the summer hustle.

Prices drop, scenery glows in autumn tones, and festivals like the Galway Oyster and Dublin Fringe add cultural flair. Pack layers, waterproofs, and book ahead, September still fills fast.

For authentic Irish charm without peak-season chaos, September is one of the smartest months to go.

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by Cath Jordan
Cath is an Irish expat and the founder of Travel Around Ireland. She and her husband both come from Dublin, where the rest of their family remains. They regularly return to the Emerald Isle to explore the country with their son as well as to visit family. Through Travel Around Ireland, Cath shares her local expertise and knowledge with travellers and visitors to Ireland. Find out more about Cath here.

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