Summer in Ireland & Scotland
Summer travel and vacations in the Celtic Isles are marked by the best weather for outdoor activities, frequented by families and filled with the best festivals. This is the best times to visit Ireland and Scotland if you want to spend more time under the sun.
That means getting more sun for golf in Scotland and Ireland on history laden greens and more time spent in nature. Nearly every week of summer is home to some regional festival in Ireland and Scotland. Whether you want to get out and explore, try your skill on the course or immerse yourself in culture and heritage, you’ll find plenty of each throughout our summers.
Summer Highlights in Ireland & Scotland
Festivals
Summer is when Ireland and Scotland come alive with festivals. Some of our favorites include the Bloom flower festival in Dublin, The Edinburgh Fringe festival and if your in need of a giggle, the Kilkenny Cat's Laughs is Irelands premier comedy festival.
Edinburgh Military Tattoo
The Edinburgh Tattoo is a visceral showcase of music, dance, and military pageantry set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, a towering structure that seems to grow from the city itself.
Beaches
It's a little known fact that Ireland and Scotland have some of the most stunning beaches in the world. Park up, leave your shoes in the car and feel the prisitine sand between your toes on perfect lazy summer days at the beach.
Celtic Summer Weather & Temps
Normal Monthly Rainfall
Ireland: 10 days
Scotland: 10 days
Daylight Hours
June. - 16, July - 16, Aug. -14
Temperatures
Ireland: June - 63f / 17c, July - 65f / 18c, Aug. - 66f / 18.8c
Scotland: June - 60f / 15c, July - 63f /17c, Aug. - 64f / 17.7c
Top Summer Travel Tip
Take advantage of longer days to visit popular destinations in peak travel season. The Cliffs of Moher are deeply (and steeply) dramatic in the late afternoon light, plus there are fewer people on the walkways – making it easier to get that perfect solo shot or the most enviable family photo to share at the holidays.
Summer Packing Essentials
Swimsuit or trunks, Sunscreen & Sunglasses, Closed toed shoes for walking, A light sweater or jacket for evenings, A light, waterproof jacket or windbreaker.
Summer Nature Highlights
Summer is the best season to travel to Ireland and Scotland with family if you have kids with lots of energy - get them outside to explore! National Parks, city walking tours, plenty of family-friendly active experiences to book for all levels of skill and then, the best ice cream you’ll ever have afterwards to relax and cool off with.
Top Trips for Summer in Ireland and Summer in Scotland
Best Summer Travel Experiences
Biking in Killarney National Park
Traditional Breadmaking at Tracey’s Farmhouse Kitchen
A Cruise on Loch Lomond
Best Places to stay in Ireland and Scotland in Summer
Need more inspiration for summer travel in Ireland and Scotland? Explore our blog "The Gab"
