Dublin in Winter: Complete Local Guide to Weather, Food & Cozy Pubs

I lived in Dublin for well over a decade, and every time the days shortened and the winds turned blustery, I felt the city slip into a different kind of magic. 

Dublin in winter isn’t everyone’s obvious choice – people imagine grey skies, drizzle, and damp jackets. And yes, there’s plenty of that. But here’s what most visitors don’t realise: December is one of the best times of the year to be in Dublin. 

The city is alive with lights, packed pubs, and friends cramming in catch-ups before Christmas. Even after the festive season, there’s a lull that locals embrace with cosy pub nights, crisp seaside walks, and restaurant menus rich with game and seafood chowders.

One thing you’ll want to know up front? 

Umbrellas are next to useless in Dublin’s wind. You’re far better off with a good coat and gloves – something that looks stylish but won’t leave you wrestling with a brolly on Grafton Street. 

Another, is that if you’re visiting in December, book your restaurant tables weeks ahead. Dubliners love to dine out that month, and you’ll find the best spots booked solid long before you arrive.

This guide brings together my personal tips from years of living in Dublin – the pubs I still miss, the seaside routes I walked on Sunday mornings, the winter events worth your time, and the hotels I’ve actually stayed in since moving away. 

By the end, you’ll see why I believe Dublin in winter is not just worth it, but one of the most rewarding times to visit the city.

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Why visit Dublin in winter?

I always think Dublin in winter is underrated. 

December, in particular, is one of the best times to be in the city. The atmosphere is electric – the streets glow under Christmas lights, the pubs are buzzing with festive meetups, and everywhere you look there’s a sense of people catching up before the Christmas holidays. 

I’ve spent many winters here, and it’s honestly one of my favourite times of the year.

Of course, the city changes gear after Christmas.

January can feel subdued – locals tend to tighten their belts and keep things quiet after the December excess – and February is still cold and dark. But in the Irish calendar, February 1st marks the start of spring, and there’s a subtle lift in mood even if the weather hasn’t caught up yet.

Winter also brings practical perks for visitors. 

Hotels and flights are noticeably cheaper in January and February, and the queues at big-ticket sights like Trinity College or the Guinness Storehouse are nowhere near what they are in summer. 

You’ll still bump into crowds at Christmas or around St. Patrick’s Day in March, as winter gives way to spring, but otherwise you’ll often find yourself with space to breathe.

And then there’s the weather. 

Dublin in winter is rarely freezing, but it is damp, windy, and often grey. Snow is uncommon, and when it does fall it’s usually later in the season, sometimes not until March. 

The short daylight hours mean you’ll want to plan sightseeing carefully – but the payoff is that cosy feeling when you duck into a pub or café as the lights come on early and the city glows against a dark sky.

For me, that mix of festive atmosphere, quieter cultural attractions, and the sheer cosiness of Dublin’s pubs makes winter a brilliant time to visit – provided you don’t mind a bit of rain and bluster along the way.

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Pros of visiting Dublin in Winter

• Festive lights and lively atmosphere in December
• Lower prices and fewer queues in January and February
• Cosy pub culture, live music, and hearty food
• Major attractions easier to enjoy without summer crowds

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Cons of visiting Dublin in Winter

• Short daylight hours
• Grey skies, wind, and frequent rain
• Post-Christmas lull in January and February nightlife
• Rare snow, so don’t expect a “winter wonderland” look

What’s the winter weather like in Dublin?

Winter skies in Dublin are often grey. 

I always say it’s less about “four seasons in a day” and more about one mood that sticks – if it’s damp and drizzly in the morning, chances are it will stay that way. 

That said, the city can be beautiful under a crisp blue sky, and those rare clear days are perfect for walking the Phoenix Park, along Sandymount Strand, or out on the cliffs of Howth.

On paper, Dublin’s winters are mild: average highs hover around 7–8°C (mid-40s °F) with lows of 2–3°C (high 30s °F). 

Snow is rare, and when it does fall, it’s usually late in the season – February or even March. It almost always takes people by surprise, because in December you’re far more likely to be rained on than to see snowflakes.

What the stats don’t show is how it feels. 

Dublin’s damp, humid cold bites immediately when you step outside, but it’s not the bone-numbing dry chill of continental Europe. Once you get moving, you warm up quickly – sometimes even steaming through your layers. It’s why breathable clothes and layers are so important.

The city’s coastal setting keeps it milder than inland places like my homeplace of Kilkenny, where frost is common in winter. 

In more than ten years living in Dublin, I can barely recall seeing frost at all in the city centre (this does change the closer you get to the Dublin Mountains, however – the pitches at my old hockey club in Three Rock would often freeze at night in winter). 

But while the sea keeps the temperatures up, it also makes Dublin significantly windier, which is often what makes it feel so raw.

Practicalities matter here: a quilted or padded jacket that can handle rain is ideal. Anything with a hood earns its keep. Umbrellas are next to useless in Dublin’s gusts – a cap or woolly hat will serve you far better.

In recent years, Irish winters have also brought a string of named storms. 

They don’t tend to dump snow on Dublin, but the city can be hit with fierce winds and heavy rain that snarl up transport and make sightseeing less pleasant. It’s worth checking forecasts if you’re travelling in December or January and building in some indoor options just in case.

Daylight is another thing to keep in mind. 

In December, the sun rises around 8:30am and sets before 4:15pm, so much of the day feels wrapped in twilight. The sky streaks orange at dusk, then the city’s lights take over – a silver lining, because Dublin is at its cosiest under a glow of lamps, shopfronts, and Christmas decorations.

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How busy is Dublin in winter, and are prices lower?

December in Dublin is buzzing. 

The streets are packed with shoppers, after-work drinks spill out of pubs, and friends huddle together for Christmas catch-ups. The energy is infectious, but it’s very much a local crowd rather than the swell of international tourists you’ll find in summer. 

By January, things quieten right down. The festive lights are switched off, the social calendar calms, and you’ll notice far fewer people in the city centre. 

February stays subdued, but that lull has its upside – if you’re travelling then, you’ll often feel like you have Dublin to yourself.

The shift in atmosphere is mirrored in hotel prices. 

In December, you’ll still see decent value at the start of the month, but closer to Christmas and New Year the rates spike sharply – it’s the busiest and most expensive time of winter. From January onwards, though, rates tumble.

To give you an idea, using recent Booking.com prices: one of my favourite boutique stays, Number 31, drops to around €169–189 in January and February, compared with €259 or more in May. 

The Fitzwilliam, a five-star retreat at the top of Grafton Street, can sit at €300–329 in winter, but the same rooms jump to €500 by early summer. For great value, the Schoolhouse Hotel regularly goes as low as €139–149 in January and February, compared with over €200 by May. 

Even budget-but-stylish options like the Pembroke Townhouse on Baggot Street often fall to €135–144 in midwinter.

So if you don’t mind a little rain or shorter daylight, winter is hands down one of the most affordable times to stay in Dublin – with the exception of Christmas week and New Year’s Eve, when rates and crowds surge again.

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Best things to do in Dublin in winter

Sink into Dublin’s cultural icons

On cold days I make a beeline for the city’s great interiors. Trinity College is a winter classic, especially The Book of Kells and the Long Room. I don’t go often, but when I do in winter it feels calmer, the polished wood, the smell of old books, the hush.  

And then there’s Kilmainham Gaol – chilling in more ways than one. In winter, the cold stone and echoing corridors really drive home what life must have been like for the prisoners held there.

Choirs and candlelight give Christ Church Cathedral and St Patrick’s Cathedral real atmosphere in December and January, and both host beautiful seasonal concerts.

Quick aside on Dublin Castle: it’s not a personal favourite. From 1204 to 1922 it was the seat of English, then British rule in Ireland, and while the State Apartments are used by the Republic today, I can’t shake the colonial taint. If time is tight, I’d spend it elsewhere.

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Follow Dublin’s literary trail

Dublin is a UNESCO City of Literature, and winter suits its bookish side. 

You’ll bump into Joyce, Yeats, Wilde, and Beckett everywhere: browse MoLI – Museum of Literature Ireland, pop into the National Library’s Yeats exhibition, say hello to the Oscar Wilde statue in Merrion Square, and step back three centuries in Marsh’s Library near St Patrick’s, where oak galleries, chained books and the faint scent of paper feel almost monastic.

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Warm up in museums and galleries

When the weather turns, Dublin’s galleries are a gift. The National Gallery is always rewarding – whether you dip in for the Caravaggio, view Irish offerings like the Jack B. Yeats Room, or wander for hours, it’s incredible that such a collection is free. 

The Hugh Lane Gallery is one of my personal favourites, with its Francis Bacon studio preserved in all its chaotic glory (though note it closes from September 2025 for renovations). 

For modern and contemporary work, the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) out in Kilmainham is worth the short journey. Pairing it with Kilmainham Gaol on the same day works beautifully.

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Cosy pub evenings, trad music and proper chat

For me, Dublin pubs are at their most magical in winter. There’s nothing like pushing open the door to the swell of voices, the glow of lamps, and that sweet, malty scent of stout. 

Among my favourites: Kehoe’s, a true Dublin institution with wood-panelling, snug corners and a lived-in warmth that makes it my personal number one. 

Neary’s is perfect for tucking into a snug with a pint; O’Donoghue’s is legendary for its live trad music; while Toner’s and Doheny & Nesbitt still carry that old Victorian charm.

For atmosphere, The Long Hall feels like stepping onto a stage set with its polished mahogany and chandeliers. McDaid’s was once the haunt of writers, Grogans serves the city’s most famous toasties, and The Palace is known for its stained glass and whiskey shelves. 

Come December, The Ginger Man is wild with Christmas decorations – rowdy, yes, but a sight to behold.

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Guinness & whiskey: what to expect in winter

The Guinness Storehouse is more of a marketing showcase than a brewing deep‑dive, and that’s half the charm. Iconic ads, archive posters, the nostalgia of growing up with Guinness campaigns – it all builds to that pint in the Gravity Bar with city views wrapped in winter light.

Besides from stout, Ireland in renowned for its whiskey and you’ll find plenty of it in Dublin.

For a more hands‑on understanding of Irish whiskey, I prefer to visit distilleries (I’m not a whiskey drinker, but I still find these experiences enjoyable and interesting).

Jameson Bow St. is polished and crowd‑pleasing; Teeling Whiskey Distillery in the Liberties feels more craft, with working stills, proper aromas, and tastings that actually teach you something. The Pearse Lyons Distillery is located in a former church, while Roe & Co. is one of Dublin’s more recent offerings. 

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Hidden sides and winter oddities

I love places that tell Dublin’s story quickly and well. 

14 Henrietta Street walks you through 300 years from grand Georgian townhouse to tenement, which hits even harder on a grey day. The Little Museum of Dublin is small, funny, and packed with “I didn’t know that” moments. 

Marsh’s Library is atmospheric and often quiet in winter. And George’s Street Arcade is my go‑to for a rummage under cover – local makers, vintage, a coffee, and a warm-up.

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Eat your way through the city

Winter menus lean comforting: seafood chowder with brown soda bread, a proper carvery turkey‑and‑ham in December, and game like venison or duck. 

I balance third‑wave coffee at 3fe, Shoe Lane, Cloudpicker, or a pastry from Bread 41 with an unabashedly rich hot chocolate from Butlers – and yes, you get to pick a chocolate to eat to accompany your chocolate to drink!

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Get outdoors on crisp days

On crisp winter days, I always think Dublin shines outdoors. Sandymount Strand was my local walk when I lived in the area – wide open sands, clean salty air and those postcard views of the Poolbeg chimneys across the bay.

Another favourite was to cut through Irishtown Nature Reserve and follow the path all the way down the Great South Wall to Poolbeg Lighthouse. 

It’s about 10 kilometres there and back, and while the sea air is bracing at any time of year, in winter it can be especially windy. If the gusts get too much, you can always turn back before the wall. Just a heads-up: the nearby waste plant can make it a bit stinky on certain days, but it never stopped me!

Further along the coast, Dún Laoghaire Pier is a classic Dublin stroll, busy with families and dogs at weekends. For more drama, the Howth Cliff Path delivers big sea views (and wind-reddened cheeks).

If I had a full day during the weekend, I would often head into Wicklow. 

The boardwalks and trails of Glendalough are stunning in the crisp winter air, with well-marked paths that stay walkable year-round. Favourite hikes of mine include Djouce or the Great Sugar Loaf, which give you sweeping views back over Dublin Bay. 

The Powerscourt Waterfall is always worth a stop too, thundering even more impressively after winter rains. 

But my top Wicklow pick in winter is the Powerscourt Gardens. They’re expansive and beautifully maintained, from the formal Italian terraces to the sweeping lawns, walled gardens and wooded walks. 

Even without spring flowers, the scale and elegance of the design make it a spectacular place to wander. Afterwards, I love warming up with soup or cake in Powerscourt House, or stopping by Avoca on the N11 for food and a browse. 

On Sundays, we also used to slip up into the Dublin Mountains above Rathfarnham and Kilternan for quick, soul-clearing walks.

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Christmas in Dublin

December in Dublin has always been one of my favourite times of the year. The whole city feels alive with lights, music, and a sense of anticipation. 

Shops stay open late, buskers gather in clusters, and the atmosphere is buzzing with people catching up before Christmas. 

If you’re visiting, you’ll feel less like a tourist and more like you’ve stumbled into an extended city-wide celebration.

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Dublin Christmas Lights & Streetscapes

The Christmas lights are what really set the tone. 

Grafton Street’s chandeliers are iconic – they drape overhead, turning the street into a sparkling corridor. But it’s not just Grafton; one of the most magical spots for me has always been Clarendon Street, the little lane of jewellers just off it, strung with twinkling lights. 

On the northside, Mary Street and Arnott’s are decked out too, and I always love the bustle of people doing their shopping there.

There’s a real sense of theatre to it all. 

The General Post Office (GPO) often has festive projections, while the inside of Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre feels like stepping into a wrapped gift box, with garlands and decorations draped through its Victorian glass atrium. 

There were plans of demolishing and redeveloping the shopping centre recently – a brutal plan that drew absolute outrage and the planners are back to the drawing board – because while it might not be the most practical retail space, people are attached to it. 

And in recent years, the city has taken it up another notch with Dublin Winter Lights, an official programme that lights up landmarks across the city. I’ll talk about that more in the Seasonal Events section, but know that the streets themselves are dazzling enough.

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Christmas Shopping & Local Finds

Part of the fun is wandering between shops. 

The Brown Thomas windows have always been a big reveal – I remember them feeling magical as a child. These days they’re very high-fashion, a little less whimsical, but still a tradition to stop and admire.

Over on the northside, Arnott’s windows and the general buzz of Henry and Mary Street are fantastic. Then there’s Powerscourt Townhouse Centre in the Creative Quarter – a Georgian townhouse turned shopping centre, filled with boutique stores, Irish designers, jewellery, and gifts you won’t find on the high street. 

I often duck in there when I’m stuck for a last-minute present, as well as the Kilkenny Design Centre on Nassau Street, which is always reliable for Irish crafts and homeware.

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Christmas Traditions & Social Life

The run-up to Christmas in Dublin is one long social whirl. 

People meet up with different groups of friends, there are work parties, family dinners, and the infamous 12 Pubs of Christmas pub crawl, where groups in jumpers attempt (and rarely succeed) to drink their way through a dozen pubs in one night. 

I’ve never made it to 12 myself, but the sight of crowds in Christmas jumpers adds to the sense of fun.

Pubs are at their cosiest in December. 

I love The Ginger Man, which is absolutely smothered in Christmas decorations – it’s rowdy and packed, not where you’ll settle in for a quiet pint, but worth seeing for the spectacle. 

On Grafton Street, buskers fill the air with music, and on Christmas Eve you might even catch a celebrity set – Bono and Glen Hansard have shown up for impromptu charity performances.

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Hotels & Pubs Dressed for the Season

The big five-star hotels go all-out. 

The Shelbourne’s front bar is heaving with festive atmosphere, its tree glittering by the windows. The Westbury, just off Grafton Street, is another favourite of mine – I love dropping into The Sidecar cocktail bar there. 

The Merrion Hotel is also beautifully Christmassy, with fires glowing and garlands hung through its Georgian rooms.

And, as I said, The Ginger Man deserves a mention here too. For sheer festive excess, few pubs match its Christmas decorations – a real Dublin institution.

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Cribs & Churches

Ireland’s Catholic traditions mean cribs are still very much part of the season, though you’ll find them in Protestant churches too. Midnight Mass (usually not at actual midnight anymore) is still a big draw. 

Both St Patrick’s Cathedral and Christ Church Cathedral hold carol services and concerts in December, with choirs that will send chills down your spine. Even if you’re not religious, these concerts are a beautiful way to experience the city’s heritage.

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Christmas Eve, Day & St Stephen’s Day in Dublin

Christmas Eve in Dublin is electric. Many locals meet friends in the pub for a few pints before heading home to their families. The city centre thrums with that festive “last night” energy, as last minute shoppers run around frantically. 

Christmas Day itself is almost the opposite. Everything shuts down and the city empties out as families gather at home for dinner. It’s one of the few days in the year when pubs and restaurants close.

St Stephen’s Day (December 26th) brings everyone back out again. It’s a bank holiday, and traditionally a big day for horse racing at Leopardstown, or simply for going “out on the town” again. 

When I was younger, Stephen’s Night was always one of the best nights out of the year – partly because so many friends living abroad would be home for Christmas, and you’d run into them in the pub. 

There’s also the tradition of the Wren Boys – groups who once went door-to-door in costume. It has roots in older Irish customs, though the blackened faces associated with it in the past are no longer appropriate.

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Special Events During Christmas

Finally, a few highlights that have become part of Dublin’s Christmas calendar:

• Christmas at the Castle: Dublin Castle’s courtyard transforms into a festive market with stalls, food, and a huge tree.
• Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo: a spectacular lantern trail, with huge themed light sculptures throughout the zoo.
• Dublin Winter Lights: projections and illuminations across the city’s landmarks.

I’ll go into more detail on those below in the Seasonal Events section, but it’s worth knowing they’re all part of what makes Dublin so special in December.

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Seasonal Events in Dublin

Winter in Dublin comes alive with a string of seasonal festivals and events, from sparkling light shows to traditional music gatherings. Some overlap with the Christmas season, others carry you right into January, but all add something special to a winter visit.

Dublin Winter Lights

Running from late November through December, Dublin Winter Lights transforms the city’s landmarks with colourful illuminations and projections. 

Bridges, historic buildings, and squares are lit up in creative ways, from the Samuel Beckett Bridge glowing in neon colours to playful animations across City Hall. 

I always think it’s worth taking a nighttime stroll just to see how many of the installations you can find – the city feels magical under the glow.

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Christmas at the Castle

For much of December, Dublin Castle hosts a Christmas market in its courtyard. 

Wooden chalets sell crafts and festive food, with a huge tree standing guard. It’s one of the more atmospheric places to shop for gifts in the city – especially because the castle backdrop makes it feel unique compared to generic markets. 

It can be busy on weekends, but if you’re in Dublin for Christmas, it’s worth a wander.

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Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo

Every winter, Dublin Zoo puts on Wild Lights, a lantern trail that takes over the zoo with huge illuminated sculptures. Each year has a theme – from enchanted forests to journeys around the world – and it’s designed to be family-friendly but honestly fun for adults too. 

Tickets often sell out in advance, so book early if it’s on your list.

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New Year’s Festival Dublin

From December 30th to January 1st, the New Year’s Festival Dublin (NYF Dublin) brings concerts, light shows, and fireworks to the city. 

The celebrations are centred around the quays and Custom House, with music acts performing outdoors and countdown events on New Year’s Eve. It’s lively and crowded, but a great way to ring in the new year if you’re in town.

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TradFest Temple Bar

By the time January rolls around, Dubliners have shaken off the Christmas cobwebs – and just when the city risks slipping into hibernation, TradFest Temple Bar lights it up again. 

This is Dublin’s annual celebration of traditional Irish music, song, and storytelling, but it’s not just fiddles and bodhráns in pubs (though you’ll certainly find plenty of those). 

TradFest takes over some of Dublin’s most atmospheric venues – think Christ Church Cathedral, St Patrick’s Cathedral, and the beautifully restored Pepper Canister Church – and pairs them with Ireland’s best trad musicians, folk artists, and even international acts who blend tradition with modern sounds.

The result is spine-tingling: imagine sitting under vaulted stone ceilings while the air fills with reels and ballads, or ducking into a candlelit church for an intimate gig on a wild January night outside. The atmosphere feels all the more special because it’s so dark and stormy beyond the doors.

But what I love is that TradFest isn’t just concerts – you’ll also stumble across free lunchtime gigs, family events, and plenty of impromptu sessions around Temple Bar. It’s the perfect way to experience Ireland’s living musical heritage.

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Where to Stay in Dublin in Winter

I lived in Dublin for over ten years, and while I was there, I always had a list of hotels I lusted after. Since moving out of the city, I’ve finally had the chance to start working my way through them.

The properties I’ve chosen here are all ones I know well and recommend wholeheartedly: boutique hotels with personality, cosy in winter, and far from the feel of an anonymous chain. 

Some are set in Georgian townhouses, others in sleek Art Deco spaces, but all share that sense of atmosphere that makes a winter stay feel special.

I’ve also picked them for location. 

Dublin is a city that rewards walking, and these hotels let you reach most of the main sights, shopping streets, pubs, and restaurants on foot. They’re central enough to give you easy access, yet comfortable enough to retreat back to when the wind and rain pick up outside.

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Number 31

Number 31 is one of my absolute favourite places to stay in Dublin. It’s a boutique gem split between a grand Georgian townhouse at the front and a modernist mews at the back, joined by a courtyard that feels like a secret garden. 

The Georgian rooms have all the period charm – high ceilings, fireplaces, sash windows – while the mews side is stylish and contemporary. I’ve stayed here multiple times myself, and the breakfasts are genuinely some of the best in the city. 

It’s central without being swallowed by the noise of Grafton Street – you can walk there in ten minutes across St Stephen’s Green.

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Schoolhouse Hotel

The Schoolhouse Hotel is one I consider a true hidden gem. I lived nearby for years and finally persuaded my parents to stay – they loved it just as much as I do. It’s a cosy property set in a historic schoolhouse building right by the leafy Grand Canal. 

The interiors are warm, characterful, and comfortable, and it has its own excellent gastro bar that locals frequent too. Parking is free, which is a rarity in Dublin, and its location makes it easy to get into the centre without being in the thick of it.

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The Fitzwilliam Hotel

The Fitzwilliam Hotel is my go-to five-star when I want comfort and service without the price tag of Dublin’s more famous luxury hotels. I’ve stayed here several times and it always surprises me how peaceful it feels despite being right at the top of Grafton Street beside St Stephen’s Green. 

The staff are genuinely superb, and the rooms are plush, sleek, and stylish. A bonus is having Glovers Alley, a Michelin-starred restaurant by Andy McFadden, right on site. Breakfast here is also consistently excellent.

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The Westbury Hotel

If you want to be right in the heart of the city, especially around Christmas, The Westbury is the one. 

It’s a Dublin institution – its lobby is one of the city’s busiest and most atmospheric meeting places, and in December it feels like the unofficial living room of Dublin. I love popping in for a cocktail at The Sidecar, or afternoon tea upstairs, or even just people-watching in the lobby lounge. 

Downstairs, Balfe’s is buzzy and casual, while WILDE upstairs is an elegant choice for dinner. It’s glamorous, convenient, and iconic.

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Pembroke Townhouse

For something more low-key and budget-friendly, Pembroke Townhouse on Baggot Street is a personal favourite. 

I’ve stayed here myself and found it brilliant value compared to many Dublin hotels. It’s set in a Georgian building in the leafy Ballsbridge area, about a 15-minute walk straight into Stephen’s Green. 

The rooms are simple but comfortable, and parking is included, which is fantastic for Dublin. It’s unpretentious, good value, and a very handy base.

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Trinity Townhouse Hotel

Trinity Townhouse is exactly the kind of boutique hotel I love recommending. 

It’s made up of three adjoining Georgian townhouses that have been beautifully restored, right in the heart of the city near Trinity College. The interiors are warm, golden, and inviting, with wood accents and plush fabrics. 

You really feel like you’re staying somewhere unique rather than in a generic chain. The location is also superb for exploring Dublin entirely on foot.

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Stauntons on the Green

If you want the Georgian townhouse experience on St Stephen’s Green itself, Stauntons is a gorgeous choice. 

It’s housed in one of the grand Georgian buildings directly overlooking the park, with high-ceilinged rooms, fireplaces, and even stained glass windows. Some rooms look right over the green, and there’s also a peaceful garden at the back. 

The whole place feels elegant yet cosy, and you’re right beside one of Dublin’s most beautiful parks.

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Kilronan House

Kilronan House is a long-standing favourite among visitors looking for something homey and affordable near the city centre. It’s family-run, set in a period building, and the breakfasts get consistently glowing reviews. 

Rooms vary in size, but they’re comfortable and full of character. It’s about a 10-minute walk to Stephen’s Green, so you’re close to the action without paying top-tier prices.

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Wren Urban Nest

For something completely different, Wren Urban Nest is Dublin’s most stylish “green” hotel. The rooms are compact and pod-like, but beautifully designed with Scandi-style wood and natural materials. 

It’s right in the city centre and perfect if you value location and sustainability over extra space. I recommend it especially to solo travellers or couples who don’t mind a snug room but want a modern, eco-friendly base.

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Where to Eat and Drink in Dublin in Winter

Winter in Dublin is less about cliché “hearty fare” and more about atmosphere. The right restaurant or bar in this city feels like stepping into a cocoon: warm lighting, buzzy chatter, and food that feels just right for the season. 

These are the places I gravitate towards when the nights are long and the streets are damp.

What’s on the menu in winter

Winter menus in Dublin lean hearty, often meat-forward, but with enough creativity to keep things interesting. 

You’ll see duck and venison feature regularly, especially in more traditional or Irish-fusion restaurants. In December, plenty of places put their own spin on a Christmas dinner plate – think turkey and ham reimagined with seasonal sides.

Pork belly is another staple, slow-cooked and deeply comforting, while restaurants often work in playful takes on pies and puff pastries – meat-stuffed or topped with golden crusts. Fish is always on the table too, with halibut and sea bass making regular winter appearances. 

And of course, soups, chowders, and hearty vegetable sides (cabbage, root veg, roasted squash) add to that sense of comfort that winter dining in Dublin does so well.

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Festive favourites at Christmas

• Delahunt (with its upstairs cocktail bar The Front Room) serves modern Irish fare in cosy surrounds – the kind of place that ticks every box for a visitor, and one I’d happily bring friends to in December.
• The Winding Stair, a stalwart perched above the quays, is always lively in the run-up to Christmas, with classic Irish dishes and plenty of atmosphere in a historic setting.
• Mr Fox – fine dining in the basement of a Georgian mansion on Parnell Square; excellent modern Irish cooking, intimate and special for a winter dinner.

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Restaurants made for winter dining

• Rosa Madre in Temple Bar is, to my mind, one of the best Italian restaurants in Dublin. It’s upmarket but convivial, where the service feels warm and attentive, and you leave glowing as much from the hospitality as from the food.
• Allta, once a pop-up and now in Grand Canal Dock, is creative, contemporary, and one of the most exciting kitchens in the city right now.
• Spitalfields is the gastropub to beat: polished but welcoming, the kind of place you linger longer than you planned.
• Richmond and Bastible (the latter Michelin-starred) are relaxed fine dining at its best – memorable meals in intimate rooms that feel tailor-made for a dark winter evening.

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Wine bars worth braving the cold for

• Loose Canon is an OG of Dublin’s natural wine scene – grab a cheese toastie by day, or return later for charcuterie and a glass of something unusual. Limited seating, but that’s part of the charm.
• Note on Fenian Street is stylish, mid-century, and clever in its small plates – the food here is as memorable as the wine.
• Bestseller, tucked just off Dawson Street, is all bookshop vibes and candlelight, one of my go-tos for a glass with friends when it’s lashing outside.

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Hotel bars & cocktails

• The Shelbourne’s No. 27 Bar hums with energy at Christmas, full of after-work crowds and shoppers warming up with martinis.
• For something more refined, The Sidecar at The Westbury is pure Art Deco glamour – one of the best cocktail bars in Dublin, though you’ll want to book ahead. Even the lobby bar upstairs has its own allure in winter.
• Peruke and Periwig – traditional pub on the ground floor, but upstairs transforms into richly decorated Victorian-style rooms with plush seating and a theatrical cocktail list.
• 9 Below – stylish cocktail bar tucked under Stephen’s Green, dark and intimate with multiple rooms; perfect for a cosy winter night (I had my 30th here, so it’s a personal favourite).
• Afternoon tea at The Shelbourne or The Westbury is also a tradition I love in the colder months: tiers of cakes and scones while the weather does what it likes outside.

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Steak & comfort classics

When only steak will do, FX Buckley or Brookwood are the cosiest options in town. Add a glass of red and you’ve got the perfect winter evening.

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Sweet & warming treats

And of course, there are the little things: a Baileys coffee instead of an Irish coffee (my preference), a hot chocolate from Butlers where you choose a chocolate to go with it, or a flat white from 3FE or Shoe Lane when you need warming up on a wet day.

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What to Wear in Dublin in Winter

Winter in Dublin isn’t about wrapping up like you’re heading to the Arctic – the city is mild compared to much of Europe – but it is damp, windy, and unpredictable. The trick is to dress so you’re comfortable walking around outside and don’t look out of place when you step into a pub, a gallery, or a nice restaurant.

Outerwear

I usually reach for a wool coat or a stylish puffer that can handle a bit of rain. A hood is handy if you already have one, but you don’t need to buy a hooded anorak that’s best suited to hiking mountains just for Dublin.

To be honest, the “tourist uniform” here is the identical outdoor anorak/hiking jacket in black, navy, teal, or the odd splash of red, and you’ll rarely see locals in them. A good wool coat layered over knitwear works beautifully and looks at home in the city, as does a cosy puffer jacket.

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Layers

Breathable knits are essential. I often wear a chunky jumper with a lighter layer underneath so I can adjust easily when moving from chilly streets to overheated cafés or shops.

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Accessories

Scarves and gloves are non-negotiable for me – the wind cuts across the city and I often find myself pulling gloves on even for short walks. 

A scarf adds warmth outside but can be slipped off quickly indoors. Hats are optional but a chic woolly beanie or cap can save you on a blustery day.

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Footwear

Dublin is a walking city, so waterproof leather boots, ankle boots that can withstand a bit of rain, or sturdy trainers with grip are best. Pavements can be slick in the rain.

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Evenings out

Dublin style leans smart-casual. You don’t need anything too formal, but do bring one or two outfits you’ll feel good in for dinner or cocktails. 

For women: a dress with tights or smart trousers with a blouse works perfectly. For men: a shirt with jeans or chinos and good shoes. A wool coat or blazer finishes it off.

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A Quick Packing Guide for Dublin

• Wool coat or stylish puffer (doesn’t need to be hooded)
• 2–3 warm jumpers plus lighter tops for layering
• Jeans/trousers for day; one smarter outfit for nights out
• Waterproof leather boots or sturdy trainers
• Scarf, gloves, optional (but recommended) hat
• Cross-body bag or small daypack that zips shut

The main thing is balance: practical enough for rain and wind, but polished enough to fit in whether you’re exploring galleries, lingering over lunch, or ordering cocktails at The Sidecar. Dubliners don’t overdress, but they don’t underdress either.

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Tips for Visiting Dublin in Winter

1. Plan sightseeing for daylight hours

In December and January, daylight is short – usually from around 9am until 4.30pm. Prioritise outdoor activities like walks, parks, or coastal trips in this window, and keep indoor options (pubs, galleries, museums) up your sleeve for when it’s dark or rainy.

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2. Have indoor back-ups ready

Dublin’s weather is famously unpredictable, and winter often brings long stretches of drizzle or grey skies. Always have a couple of wet-day plans – whether that’s diving into the National Gallery, cosying up in a café, or visiting a distillery.

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3. Book restaurants and pubs in December

In the run-up to Christmas, Dubliners are out in force for festive dinners and nights with friends. The best spots book out weeks ahead, so make reservations early if you’re visiting then. After Christmas, things calm down – but it’s still a capital city, and the good places fill fast.

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4. Avoid the tourist traps

Temple Bar looks lively but it’s overpriced and aimed at tourists. If you want an authentic pint or trad music session, seek out beloved local pubs like Kehoe’s, Neary’s, or The Cobblestone.

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5. Follow the locals

When in doubt, watch where Dubliners themselves go. A pub with a crowd of locals spilling outside, or a busy café with Irish accents at the tables, is nearly always a good bet.

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6. Expect higher prices at Christmas and New Year

Accommodation is much cheaper in January and February, but the weeks around Christmas and New Year are peak season for hotel rates. Book early if travelling during the holidays.

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7. Dress smart-casual, not like you’re hiking a mountain

Tourists in identical anoraks stick out. Dubliners tend to dress smart-casual: a stylish wool coat, scarf, and boots for daytime; something sharper if you’re heading out for dinner or cocktails. Layers are key, but you don’t need expedition gear.

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8. Prepare for the wind (more than the cold)

The sea air makes Dublin feel windier than inland Ireland, and gloves and scarves make all the difference. Umbrellas are almost useless – a hood or hat is far more practical.

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9. Leave space for spontaneity

Plan your must-dos, but don’t overschedule. Some of Dublin’s best moments happen when you duck into a pub you weren’t expecting, stumble on live music, or just follow the crowds down Grafton Street under the lights.

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FAQs About Dublin Winter Travel

Is it worth visiting Dublin in winter?

I think it’s on of the best times to vist. Dublin in winter feels different from the summer tourist crush. December is buzzing with festive lights, packed pubs, and a uniquely Irish kind of conviviality. After Christmas, things calm down – January and February can be quieter, but that’s when hotel rates drop and you can enjoy big attractions like the Book of Kells or the Guinness Storehouse without queues. 

For me, some of my happiest memories are winter pub nights or blustery seaside walks. If you don’t mind shorter days and the odd rainy spell, it’s a brilliant time to visit.

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What are winters like in Dublin?

Winters in Dublin are generally mild, damp, and windy. Average daytime highs sit around 7–8°C, with nights dropping to 2–3°C. It’s not the bone-numbing cold of continental Europe – instead, it’s that humid chill that nips at you when you first step outside but has you peeling off layers once you’re walking. 

Skies are often grey, but on the rare crisp blue-sky day, the city is glorious for a stroll through St Stephen’s Green or out along Sandymount Strand.

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What month does it snow in Dublin?

Snow in Dublin is rare, and when it does fall it’s usually late in the season – February or March rather than December. Most winters pass with nothing more than rain and wind. When snow does arrive, it’s often a surprise, and the city can grind to a halt with even a light covering. 

So if you’re picturing Christmas card scenes, you’re far more likely to find twinkling lights and pub fires than snowflakes.

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How cold is Dublin in winter?

“Cold” in Dublin is a relative thing. Thermometers might only show a few degrees above freezing, but the damp air and coastal winds make it feel chillier than the numbers suggest. Locals rarely see frost in the city, but gloves and a scarf are still worth packing – I always find my hands need the extra layer when the wind whips across the Liffey.

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Is Dublin better in summer or winter?

It depends on what you’re after. Summer has longer daylight hours, festivals, and lusher parks – but it also has crowds, queues, and peak hotel prices. Winter is quieter, cheaper (outside Christmas), and has that cosy pub culture that Ireland is famous for. 

Personally, I think December is one of the best times to experience Dublin’s true character: festive, lively, and very much driven by locals rather than tourists.

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Where to go in Dublin in winter?

You can still see all the major sights – Trinity College’s Long Room, Christ Church Cathedral, Kilmainham Gaol, and the museums are perfect for damp days. Pubs like Kehoe’s, Neary’s, or The Long Hall are at their most atmospheric when it’s wild outside. 

On clearer days, head for a brisk walk at Dún Laoghaire Pier, Sandymount Strand, or the Howth Cliffs. And if you have time, a winter day trip into Wicklow – to hike around Glendalough or wander Powerscourt Gardens – is unforgettable.

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Continue Planning Your Winter Trip to Dublin (or Beyond)

Dublin in winter is lively, festive, and surprisingly rewarding – from cosy pub evenings and world-class museums to bracing seaside walks and candlelit dinners. Whether you’re visiting for Christmas lights, a January cultural break, or a February escape, the city has plenty to offer.

For more inspiration on Dublin itself, start with:

• 2 Days in Dublin: An Irish Insider’s Itinerary
• Savour Dublin: Guide to the City’s Best Dining Spots
• Is Dublin Worth Visiting? A Local’s Pro’s & Con’s

And if you’re planning a wider winter trip, explore my other seasonal guides:

• Ireland in Winter
• Venice in Winter
• Seville in Winter
• Granada in Winter
• Porto in Winter
• Lisbon in Winter
• Douro Valley in Winter
• Visiting Bruges at Christmas 

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