Why Don’t Irish Accommodations Have Air Conditioning?

If you're planning a summer trip to Ireland, you might be surprised to discover that air conditioning is not common in most accommodations. Whether you're booking a hotel, a B&B, or a self-catering cottage, it's likely the rooms won’t have A/C – and that’s not a mistake. It's simply because Ireland hasn’t really needed it.

Ireland Accommodations: Built for Warmth, Not Cooling

Ireland has a mild, temperate climate. Even in summer, daytime highs often stay in the 60s or low 70s Fahrenheit (15–22°C). Buildings were traditionally built to retain heat, not to cool down. So air conditioning just never became standard—even in hotels.

That said, summer can bring the occasional heat wave with highs in the low 80s, and those warmer spells can feel uncomfortable, especially if you're not expecting them.

Most places still don't have A/C, but newer or more modernized hotels might. You're most likely to find air conditioning in:

• Large chain hotels
• Five-star luxury properties
• Recently renovated accommodations

How to Know If a Room Has A/C

If you’re traveling during the summer and air conditioning is important to you, don’t assume it’s there. Here’s how to check:

• Search online: Type the hotel name + “air conditioning” into a search engine. Guest reviews will often mention if it’s missing.
• Check the amenities list on the hotel’s website or booking platforms for terms like climate control or individual A/C.
• Contact the hotel directly – but be specific. Ask: “Do the bedrooms have air conditioning or individual climate control?”
  Some properties will say “yes” to having air conditioning, but they’re only referring to common areas like the lobby or restaurant.

Staying Comfortable Without A/C

Most accommodations will provide fans in the rooms or on request, and many rooms have windows that open, which can help bring in cool evening air.

Unless you hit one of those rare “this is the week we get summer” stretches, you’ll probably be just fine.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 276

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