There’s a long-standing joke in Ireland that the main difference between the seasons is not so much the weather but the way people adjust their dress sense to pretend it has changed. In a mild Atlantic climate prone to plenty of rain, the evenings start to draw in throughout autumn, the leaves change colour, the pubs get more crowded and certain cultural aspects come to the fore.
Whether you’re looking to delve into the world of local GAA (which peaks in the mid-autumn evenings with county club finales), experience the trad music scene or explore the countryside at its most mystical looking, this is a great time to drop in.
Ireland is pretty great any time of year,
but autumnal weather really brings out the colours
in the green-space-filled cities,
and the sweeping, empty countryside.
It’s the perfect time for a hike,
to find something very old,
or to just to be alone
in beautiful open spaces
and connect with nature.
While you’re here, we invented Halloween, and it’s a huge deal.
We even have a huge, intimidating parade.
Our unique sports, hurling and Gaelic football, are reaching their passionate club finales.
And there’s no better spot in the world in fall than a warm Irish pub
with intimate, traditional music
and days topped off with Ireland’s must-have winter drink, hot whiskey with lemon.
Become a Culture Tripper!
Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $300 on our unique trips.
If you click on a link in this story, we may earn affiliate revenue. All recommendations have been independently sourced by Culture Trip.