Before we get into it, this top 25 is by no means definitive!. We’ve just have too much to choose from in Ireland with lush green landscapes, enchanted castles, a rich history and culture and we couldn’t squeeze them all in.
The following is just some of our favourites in August with a little local knowledge from the Carrolls team.
The Weather in Ireland
Lets get this out of the way. You are not coming for the weather but August is a great time to visit Ireland. The weather is usually pretty good but despite being summer, we have to make peace that Irelands weather is unpredictable. July 2023 has been a bit of wash out so far but you’ve not come to Ireland for the weather. Average temperature range between 12-18℃ with about 16 hours of daylight to explore this beautiful country.
For the Foodie’s
Irelands food and drink scene is at an incredible level right now. The pool of master distillers and passionate chefs are responsible for Irelands rapidly growing reputation. We really have a lot more to offer than spuds and pints but you need to try these also!
1. Europe’s biggest BBQ & Food Festival is held in Dublin. You have to check out The Big Grill festival (August 17th – 20th August) biggrillfestival.com
2. Indian cuisine in Dublin doesn’t come better than Pickle by the award-winning chef Sunil Ghai – PICKLE Indian Restaurant Dublin
3. A small restaurant that punches. This gem is home to some of the best Spanish inspired plates in the city. You have to try the Flan de queso. Uno Mas
4. For the lovers of authentic Italian seafood food, there is only place and that’s Rosa Madre located in the heart of Temple Bar. Rosa Madre
5. A firm favourite with the Carrolls team is 147 Deli on Parnell St. you wont get a better sandwich in Dublin. It was voted in at 39th in the world for the best sandwiches.
6. Ireland is home to some of the world’s leading distillery’s.
Guinness Storehouse (guinness-storehouse.com)
Jameson Irish Whiskey Distillery Tour
Check out Irelands best beaches.
Ireland has over 3,000 Kilometres of glorious coastline that hosts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, secluded coves, and towering cliff walks.
7. Howth Cliff Walk will give you one of the best views of Dublin bay, Lambay island and Irelands eye. There is a couple of routes you can check out and Howth village is a must see after your walk.
8. Dogs Bay (Co Galway)
9. Keem Beach, Co Kerry
10. The famous Forty Foot in Dublin (The locals Swimming Spot)
11. Inchydoney Beach, Co. Cork
12. Curracloe Beach Co Wexford
Sport in August
Sport plays an important role in Irish society. Gaelic Football (Native Sport) would be the most popular but we are not lacking in stars when it comes to the world stage of sport. Rory McIlroy, Katie Taylor, Brian O’Driscoll to proudly name drop a few. . . .
13. Dublin Horse Show Dublin Horse Show – 09 – 13 August, 2023
14. Notre Dame V Navy American Football Aer Lingus College Football Dublin, Ireland
15. Ireland Rugby World Cup warm up games Aviva Stadium | Rugby
16. Galway Races (July 31st – August 6th) https://galwayraces.com/
Free things to do in Dublin this August.
Ireland is often considered expensive but no one told you about all these free things to do once you got here –
17. Attend a free walking tour Home | Dublin Free Walking Tour
18. National Museum of Ireland National Museum of Ireland (Check out the dead Zoo)
19. Walk through Temple Bar – one of the best places to hear live music through the day.
20. Explore the grounds of Ireland oldest University – Trinity College Dublin.
How to keep all the family entertained in Dublin
Looking for fun things to do in Dublin with kids? Don’t miss these ideas for unique experiences the whole family will love.
21. Viking Splash
One of the best tours in Dublin departs from St Stephen’s Green, Dublin. Viking Splash Tours on a thrilling tour around the main sights of Dublin City – by land and water Viking Tours Dublin (vikingsplashdublin.ie)
22. Emerald Park
Escape to Ireland’s only theme park and zoo located in the heart of the nation’s ancient east, Co. Meath. This is Irelands only theme park. There are over 100 exciting attractions for all ages. Emerald Park | Ireland’s Only Theme Park and Zoo
For the Arts and Traditional Music Fanatics
23. Puck Fair (August 10th – 12th)
Ireland oldest festival is in Killorglin, Co. Kerry. This street festival has roots in the Gaelic calendar and is held without fail on the 10th, 11th and 12th of August every year with free family- friendly street entertainment daily. Puck Fair
24. Kilkenny Arts Festival (August 10th – 20th)
Set against the backdrop of the picturesque Marble City, the festival will transform Kilkenny into a hub of artistic encounters. Get ready to explore, experience, and enjoy the magic … Kilkenny Arts Festival | 10 – 20 August 2023
25. Fleadh Cheoil (August 06th – 14th)
Traditional musicians of all ages are invited to gather once again in Mullingar from 6th to 14th August. This event is the world’s largest annual celebration of Irish music, language, song and dance. Fleadh Cheoil
