Dublin in November: Events, Festivals and Things to Do

November in Dublin brings film festivals, comedy, Christmas markets and cosy pubs—here's what's on and where to stay.

What's On in November

November in Dublin kicks off with the Dublin Film Festival, typically held in the first week at the Light House Cinema in Smithfield and the Irish Film Institute in Temple Bar. Tickets are reasonably priced and screenings often include Q&As with directors. Meanwhile, the Dublin Book Festival takes over various venues citywide, with most events free. For comedy, the Vodafone Comedy Festival at the Iveagh Gardens features both Irish and international acts; book tickets early as weekends sell out. The Dublin Winter Lights switch-on usually happens in late November along O'Connell Street and the Liffey, with projections onto the Custom House and Samuel Beckett Bridge—a free spectacle worth catching.

Christmas markets pop up across the city from mid-November. The biggest is the Dublin Christmas Market at the CHQ Building in the Docklands, running from mid-November to December 23rd—expect crafts, food stalls and a festive atmosphere. Entry is free, but arrive early to avoid crowds. The Docklands area is easily reached via the Luas Red Line (George's Dock stop). Alternatively, the smaller market at St. Patrick's Park near St. Patrick's Cathedral has a more local feel. Both operate daily from 10am to 8pm (until 6pm on Sundays). Expect crowds on weekends, so weekdays are better for a relaxed visit.

Neighbourhoods and Sights

Beyond events, Dublin's compact centre is ideal for walking. Start at Trinity College (free entry to the campus) and see the Book of Kells (book online to skip queues). Then wander through Temple Bar's cobbled streets—lively but touristy; for a quieter pint, head to the traditional pubs around Grafton Street, like O'Donoghue's on Merrion Row. The National Museum of Ireland on Kildare Street is free and worth a couple of hours. In the evening, catch a play at the Abbey Theatre or take a Ghostbus Tour (€25-30) for a spooky take on the city's history. Note that November days are short—sunset around 4:30pm—so plan outdoor activities for the morning.

For a change of pace, explore the coastal villages of Howth and Malahide, both a 30-40 minute DART ride from the city centre (€2.25 each way with a Leap Card). Howth offers cliff walks and fresh seafood at the Bloody Stream pub, while Malahide Castle and Gardens (entry to grounds free) makes a pleasant afternoon. In the city, don't miss the Chester Beatty Library behind Dublin Castle—free and filled with rare manuscripts. And if it rains (it often does), duck into the Irish Whiskey Museum on College Green (€20 for a tour) or the Little Museum of Dublin (€10).

Where to Stay in November

Accommodation prices in November are generally lower than in summer, with mid-range hotels starting around €120-150 per night. For proximity to events, stay in the city centre: the area around St. Stephen's Green offers easy access to the film festival and Grafton Street shopping. The quieter Georgian quarter, around Fitzwilliam Square, has boutique guesthouses from €130. For budget travellers, the area around Parnell Square (near the Garden of Remembrance) has hostels and budget hotels from €70-90. Avoid Temple Bar if you're sensitive to noise; it's lively but can be rowdy at night. My pick would be the area around Merrion Square—central, elegant and within walking distance of most attractions.

Book well in advance for the Christmas market period (late November onwards), as hotels fill up. Also, consider staying near a Luas stop if you plan to explore beyond the centre—the Green Line runs from Brides Glen to Broombridge, passing through Stephen's Green and O'Connell Street. For a quieter stay, the suburb of Ranelagh (10 minutes by Luas from the city) has charming B&Bs from €100 per night and a village atmosphere with excellent pubs and restaurants. Wherever you stay, confirm cancellation policies, as November weather can occasionally disrupt travel plans.

Questions, answered

What is the weather like in Dublin in November?

Expect cool temperatures (4-10°C) and frequent rain. Daylight is short, with sunset around 4:30pm. Pack waterproof clothing and warm layers, and plan indoor activities for afternoons.

Are there any free events in Dublin in November?

Yes, many events are free, including the Dublin Book Festival, the Winter Lights switch-on, and entry to national museums like the National Museum of Ireland. Christmas markets are free to enter, though food and crafts cost extra.

Do I need to book tickets for November events in advance?

For popular events like the Dublin Film Festival and comedy shows, booking in advance is recommended. Christmas markets require no tickets, but expect crowds. Book accommodation early, especially for late November.

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