Galway, located in the west of Ireland, is known for its cultural and artistic heritage, as well as its scenic location on the Atlantic coast. But what’s the weather like in Galway? If you’re planning to visit Galway anytime soon, you might want to know what to expect from the climate and how to pack accordingly. So let’s dive in!
Galway is known for its mild and changeable weather, influenced by the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf Stream. It rarely gets too hot or too cold, but it can be quite wet and windy at times. The average annual temperature is around 10°C (50°F), with the warmest months being July and August, and the coldest months being January and February.
When is the best time to visit Galway?
If you’re wondering when might be the best time to visit Galway, then it’s usually a tough question to answer as every season brings with it its own unique charm and beauty!
Spring (March-May): Spring is a lovely time to visit Galway, as the days get longer (in terms of daylight hours), the grass & trees start to turn green, and the flowers start to bloom. The average temperature in spring is around 10°C (50°F), but it can range from 4°C (39°F) in March to 15°C (59°F) in May. You can expect some rain and wind (and even potentially snow). You can also enjoy some sunny days, especially in May, when the sun sets around 9:30 pm.
Summer (June-August): Summer is the peak season for tourism in Galway, as the city hosts many festivals and events, such as the Galway Arts Festival, the Galway Film Fleadh, and the Galway Races. The average temperature in summer is around 19°C (66°F) / 20°C (68°F), but it can reach up to around 30°C (86°F) during very hot spells. However, don’t always expect prolonged sunshine, as there is generally some cloud cover which can provide a welcome break from the intense sun. You can also experience some showers and thunderstorms, so pack some light layers and a raincoat.
Autumn (September-November): Autumn is another beautiful season to visit Galway, as the leaves change color and the air gets crisp. The average temperature in autumn is around 11°C (52°F), but it can drop to 5°C (41°F) in November. You can also expect more rain and wind, so bring a warm jumper and a scarf. You can also enjoy some sunny spells, especially in September and October, when the sun sets around 7:30 pm.
Winter (December-February): Winter is the coldest and wettest season in Galway, but it can also be very cozy and festive. The average temperature in winter is around 7°C (45°F), but it can drop below freezing on some nights. You can also expect snow on rare occasions, usually in January or February. You will need a warm coat, a hat, gloves, and boots to stay comfortable. You can also enjoy some clear days, especially in December and January, when the sun sets around 4:30 pm. Some of the best sunrises and sunsets across Galway Bay can be found during the wintertime.
What clothes should I bring / what should I wear?
If you’re wondering what clothes to wear while visiting Galway, we would recommend layers that you can easily add or remove depending on the weather. A waterproof jacket or coat is a must, as well as an umbrella and some sturdy (ideally waterproof) shoes. You might also want to bring a hat, a scarf and some gloves for the colder days, and / or some shorts, t-shirts & sun cream for the hotter days.
Additional tips for visitors
To make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable, here’s some additional tips:
- Check the weather forecast before you go and pack accordingly. You may need a raincoat, an umbrella, a jumper, a hat, gloves, shorts, t-shirts, and sun cream.
- Layer your clothing to adapt to changing temperatures and conditions. You may experience four seasons in one day in Galway.
- Enjoy the indoor attractions when it rains, such as museums, galleries, theaters, pubs, and restaurants. Galway has a vibrant cultural scene that will keep you entertained.
- Explore the outdoor attractions when it’s sunny, such as beaches, parks, gardens, islands, and cliffs. Galway has a stunning natural beauty that will take your breath away.
Current weather / daily forecast
To find out what the latest weather is in Galway, and its extended forecast, check out the following reliable and trustworthy sources;
- Met Éireann – The official Irish Meteorological Service
- AccuWeather