Dublin weather in December
“Cool and moody. Best paired with warm rooms and long lunches.”
Roughly 15 rainy days across the month, on average.
Dublin in December is cold and wet, with average highs of 9.5°C (49°F) and lows of 5.1°C (41°F). Expect around 94mm of rainfall spread across roughly 15 rainy days, so waterproof gear is essential. Sunshine is scarce at just 3.3 hours per day, creating the grey, moody atmosphere Dublin is famous for in winter. It's crisp rather than freezing, but the damp wind off the Irish Sea makes it feel colder than the thermometer suggests.
December transforms Dublin into a festive destination. Christmas markets line Grafton Street and Temple Bar, while the city's Georgian architecture glows with holiday decorations. Holiday lights illuminate the Liffey, and traditional Irish pubs buzz with seasonal cheer. Crowds are moderate compared to summer, though tourist numbers pick up in the final two weeks before Christmas. It's an ideal time for those seeking authentic Dublin atmosphere without peak-season chaos.
Travelers visiting Dublin in December 2026 should embrace the season with proper preparation. The weather demands waterproof jackets, warm layers, and comfortable walking shoes with good grip. Despite the rain and limited daylight, December offers lower accommodation prices, shorter queues at attractions, and a genuinely festive local spirit. It's perfect for visitors who don't mind cooler temperatures and enjoy cosy pubs, Christmas markets, and winter charm.
What to pack for Dublin in December
December in Dublin requires layering and waterproof protection. Temperatures hover around 9°C, but wind and moisture make it feel significantly colder. Bring versatile pieces you can mix and match for indoor heating and outdoor exploration. Waterproof outerwear is non-negotiable given the frequent rain.
- Waterproof rain jacket with warm lining
- Merino wool thermal base layers
- Insulated winter coat or puffer jacket
- Waterproof hiking boots or Chelsea boots
- Knit beanie, scarf, and thermal gloves
What to pack for Dublin in December
- →Lightweight fleeceAmazon · shop this
- →Merino travel socksAmazon · shop this
- →Compact travel umbrellaAmazon · shop this
- →Universal travel adapterAmazon · shop this
- →Compression packing cubesAmazon · shop this
- →Anti-theft crossbody bagAmazon · shop this
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Where to stay in Dublin
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Compare hotels on Booking.com→Things worth doing
Visit Christmas markets on Grafton Street, explore Trinity College and the Book of Kells, warm up in traditional Irish pubs with live music, stroll through St Stephen's Green, tour the Guinness Storehouse.
December vs. the rest of the year
How this month compares in Dublin. Tap any month to read more.
highlighted months are among the best time to visit.
Best time to visit Dublin
While December has its own character in Dublin, the data-backed best months to visit Dublin are May, June, July, August. These months combine the most favourable temperatures, rainfall, and sunshine across a ten-year climate record.
See the full best-time-to-visit guide for DublinOther places with a similar climate right now
Dublin in December — FAQ
Q01Is December a good time to visit Dublin?
Is December a good time to visit Dublin?
It is a fair time to visit — expect variable conditions and plan flexibility. In December, Dublin averages a high of 10°C (49°F) and a low of 5°C (41°F), with 96mm of rainfall across roughly 15 rainy days.
Q02What is the average temperature in Dublin in December?
What is the average temperature in Dublin in December?
The average high temperature in Dublin during December is 10°C (49°F), with an average low of 5°C (41°F). These figures are averaged from ten years of daily records (2015–2024, Open-Meteo Archive).
Q03How many rainy days does Dublin have in December?
How many rainy days does Dublin have in December?
Dublin averages approximately 15 rainy days in December, with a total monthly rainfall of about 96mm. This is based on daily precipitation records where days with 1mm or more of rain are counted as rainy days.
Q04What should I pack for Dublin in December?
What should I pack for Dublin in December?
For Dublin in December, pack a merino base layer for evenings, a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes. These recommendations are based on the ten-year weather averages for this specific month.
Q05How crowded is Dublin in December?
How crowded is Dublin in December?
Tourist crowds in Dublin during December are typically low — winter is off-season, meaning quiet streets and better hotel deals. Consider this when planning accommodation — prices track crowd levels closely.