Boxty is a traditional Irish potato pancake made with grated and mashed potato, fried or wrapped around fillings like Guinness beef stew. It is naturally filling and can be adapted with vegetarian fillings. Gallagher’s Boxty House in Temple Bar specialises in different styles and offers gluten-free options clearly marked on the menu.
A full Irish breakfast typically includes bacon, sausages, fried eggs, tomato, beans and slices of black and white pudding. It is a morning meal rather than an all-day dish and suits omnivores; veggie versions swap in meat-free items. Bewley’s Café on Grafton Street serves a classic plate in historic surroundings, usually until late morning.
A modern Dublin favourite, the spice bag is a carton of crispy fried chicken pieces, chips, peppers and onions tossed in a chilli spice mix, sold in many Chinese takeaways. It is popular as a shared late-night snack, not suited to vegetarians or gluten-free diets. Look for busy takeaways around the city centre after pub closing.
Dublin’s plant-based scene includes dishes like seitan “steaks”, vegetable stews and dairy-free desserts. Sova Vegan Butcher on Camden Street serves a fully vegan menu using Irish produce, useful for travellers avoiding animal products. It is popular in the evenings; booking is sensible on weekends.
May is one of Dublin’s best months, with temperate weather, daylight stretching past 9 pm, and manageable tourist numbers. Parks are lush, and coastal hikes are ideal before summer crowds. Cultural events and outdoor festivals begin to pick up, making it a perfect time for sightseeing and local experiences.
Pro tips for visiting Dublin in May
Book popular attractions in advance, especially for weekends.
Take advantage of long daylight hours for evening walks or outdoor dining.
Early summer festivals and events begin—check local listings.
Parks and gardens are at their greenest; perfect for picnics.
Rain is still possible, so keep a light raincoat handy.
Hotel prices rise toward late May—book early for better rates.
Public transport is frequent and convenient for day trips to the coast.
Contemporary dance from Ireland and abroad fills major theatres and smaller spaces from April 30 to May 16. The program ranges from experimental pieces to family shows and free outdoor pop-ups. Dance fans should book headline evenings early; casual visitors can dip into cheaper matinees.
Set mainly in Merrion Square, ILFD brings Irish and international writers for talks, interviews, workshops and family storytelling tents. It is relaxed but can be busy on sunny weekends. Some headline authors sell out fast, so book key sessions and allow time to browse bookstalls between events.
This long-running LGBTQ+ theatre festival programs plays, cabaret and comedy in small city-centre venues. Many works are premieres from Irish and international companies. Audiences range from locals to visiting theatre fans; tickets are affordable but limited, so advance booking is recommended.
Held at Farmleigh Estate in Phoenix Park, this free festival celebrates African cultures with live music, dance, fashion shows and food stalls. It is family-friendly and popular with Dublin’s diverse communities. Arrive earlier in the day to avoid parking bottlenecks and bring a picnic blanket.
Citizen-led walking tour weekend where locals guide free themed walks around their neighbourhoods. Topics range from architecture to street art. Tours are usually free but can be busy; arrive promptly, dress for the weather and be prepared to stand or walk for a couple of hours.
Evening 5 km charity run in Phoenix Park supporting LGBTQ+ causes. Runners often dress in rainbow colours and an informal post-run gathering follows. It is open to all levels; register online and allow extra time to reach the park and start area by public transport or taxi.
A spring gathering of Irish craft brewers at the RDS, focusing on lighter seasonal beers and ciders. Dates in May 2026 are TBC (shown here as May 1–31). Expect tasting tokens, food trucks and live bands. It suits beer fans; weekend evenings are liveliest and can feel crowded.
Dublin in May at a glance
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Weather
Maximum temperature: 15°C
Minimum temperature: 9°C
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Daylight
Around 16 hours of daylight
Sunrise: 5:15am
Sunset: 9:15pm
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Key events
Dublin Dance Festival, International Literature Festival Dublin, Dublin City Ramble (Jane’s Walks), Dublin Pride Run 5K
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Crowds
Balanced crowds, with manageable queues and a mix of tourists and local visitors in the city.
