Portugal continues to reinforce its position as one of the most popular overseas destinations for Irish holidaymakers, while Ireland remains a key source market for Portuguese tourism. Visit Portugal Ireland Director, Carlos Oliveira said “Ireland continues to be one of the most important and dynamic markets for tourism to Portugal. We are seeing sustained demand from Irish travellers, not only for sun & sea but increasingly for alternative types of holidays such as walking holidays, culture touring, wine tourism and wellness. The significant increase in air connectivity for Summer 2026 further strengthens Portugal’s accessibility from across Ireland and supports our ambition to promote Portugal as a year-round destination.”
Recent figures show that Ireland ranks among the top six source markets for visitor spending in Portugal, with expenditure increasing by 2.8% compared with 2024, underlining the strong and sustained demand from Irish tourists.
The Algarve remains by far the most visited region for the Irish market, continuing to attract holidaymakers seeking beaches, golf and family-friendly resorts. However, Madeira has emerged as the fastest-growing destination, supported by increased direct air capacity from Ireland.
The Azores, Alentejo and Central Portugal are also on the rise, reflecting a growing appetite among the Irish to explore beyond the country’s most established holiday areas.
Portugal’s appeal is also extending beyond the traditional summer season. Growth in bed nights during November and December highlights the country’s increasing popularity as a low-season destination, with Irish visitors taking advantage of Portugal’s mild climate, cultural experiences and year-round accessibility.
Image Credit: Creative Commons – Benoît Prieur
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