When most people picture Ireland, they imagine long summer evenings and green hills under blue skies. So when I traveled to Ireland in December 2024 on a guided trip with Brendan Vacations, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I came home convinced that winter might be one of the most underrated times to go.
Our six-day trip took us from Dublin to Killarney and the Ring of Kerry, then up to County Clare for the Cliffs of Moher and two nights in a real Irish castle. Here’s how it unfolded, and why December turned out to be the perfect time to go.
My Ireland in Winter, Day by Day
Dublin: A Hundred Thousand Welcomes
We started in Dublin with a walking tour led by a local guide, who took us beyond the usual sights into corners of the city most visitors never see. Then it was on to the Guinness Storehouse at St. James’s Gate, where you learn the story behind Ireland’s most famous stout, pour your own pint and finish at the Gravity Bar, with sweeping views across the city from the top floor.
Blarney Castle and Killarney
The next morning we headed southwest to Blarney Castle, built nearly 600 years ago. Beyond the famous Blarney Stone, the gardens and the Rock Close, with its little fairy glade and waterfalls, are worth taking your time over.
And yes, I kissed the Blarney Stone! It means leaning back over the edge at the top of the castle, holding on to the iron rails, so it’s a bit of an adventure. Consider me officially blessed with the gift of the gab.
That evening we arrived in Killarney, where we stayed for two nights at the Great Southern Hotel, a grand Victorian landmark in the heart of town that first opened in 1854.
The Ring of Kerry, a Jaunting Car and Muckross Farm
Day three began with the Ring of Kerry, the scenic road that loops around the Iveragh Peninsula, where mountains, valleys, lakes and sea meet at every turn.
That afternoon, back near Killarney, we climbed into a traditional jaunting car, a horse-drawn cart, for a ride through Killarney National Park and along the Lakes of Killarney. Bundled up in the crisp winter air, it was one of those moments that felt like stepping back in time.
We ended the day at Muckross Farms with a “Be My Guest” experience, touring the traditional working farms, learning to churn butter and sitting down to a meal in a farmhouse overlooking the lakes of Killarney.
The Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty and Dromoland Castle
From Kerry, we traveled north to County Clare and the Cliffs of Moher, which rise dramatically from the Atlantic. In winter, with far fewer visitors, you can walk the clifftop paths and really take in the view.
That evening was pure fun: the Bunratty Medieval Banquet, a four-course feast in the great hall of Bunratty Castle, complete with castle singers and plenty of merriment. Then we checked in to Dromoland Castle, a luxury castle hotel whose history traces back to Gaelic Irish royalty. We spent our last two nights there.
A Day at Dromoland
Our final full day was slower, which was exactly what we needed. We started with a falconry experience on the castle grounds, getting up close with falcons, hawks and owls, and spent the afternoon at leisure enjoying the castle. We ended the trip with a farewell dinner at the Earl of Thomond Restaurant.
The falconry was AMAZING, and easily one of the highlights of the entire trip. Getting that close to these beautiful birds of prey, right on the grounds of a castle, is something I’ll never forget. If you stay at Dromoland, don’t skip it!
Why Winter Worked So Well
The Weather Is Milder Than You Think
Ireland’s winters are cool and damp rather than bitterly cold, and snow is rare in most of the country. You’ll want layers and a good waterproof jacket, but you won’t need heavy winter gear.
On our trip, it was cold but dry on most days, which, for Ireland in December, felt like a gift. Bundle up, and you’ll be just fine.
Fewer Crowds at the Big Sights
Summer brings the tour buses. In December, places like the Cliffs of Moher and Blarney Castle are far quieter, so you can linger and enjoy them without the crowds.
Cozy Is the Whole Point
Winter in Ireland is made for warm fires, long dinners and festive evenings. Between a medieval banquet, a farmhouse meal and two nights in a castle, the trip felt like one long, cozy celebration of the season.
A Guided Trip Makes It Easy
Winter days in Ireland are short, with the sun setting around 4:00 p.m. in December. That’s exactly why a guided trip worked so well. Our driver handled the narrow, winding roads (on the left side, and often in the early winter dark), and the itinerary was planned to make the most of every hour of daylight. All I had to do was enjoy it.
My Tips for Ireland in Winter
- Pack layers, a waterproof jacket and comfortable, water-resistant shoes
- Plan sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon to make the most of daylight
- Check opening hours, since some attractions keep shorter winter schedules
- Let someone else do the driving
- Splurge on at least one castle stay. You won’t regret it!
Ireland is one of my favorite places to send travelers, in any season. If it’s on your bucket list, I’d love to help you plan it.
Leave a Reply