Where Are the Irish Traveling This Summer? Travel Trends 2025

As the summer season heats up, a new wave of wanderlust is sweeping across Ireland. After several years of fluctuating travel norms, Irish holidaymakers are once again packing their bags—but with new priorities, new destinations, and a renewed focus on experiences over extravagance.

Here’s a closer look at Irish summer travel 2025, including where the Irish are going, what’s driving their decisions, and how this year’s trends differ from previous ones.

A Post-Pandemic Boom Gives Way to Smart, Conscious Travel

The explosion of travel in the immediate post-pandemic years has now matured into something more measured. According to a 2025 travel survey by Tourism Ireland, 68% of Irish respondents said they were planning at least one holiday this summer, with a growing number prioritising value for money, cultural experiences, and sustainability.

Top Priorities for Irish Travellers in 2025:

• Affordable but authentic destinations

• Eco-conscious travel options

• Short-haul flights to minimise environmental impact

• Flexible cancellation policies

• Locally immersive experiences

The Top Destinations for Irish Tourists in 2025

So, where do Irish people travel in summer 2025? While the classic sun-soaked destinations remain popular, some interesting shifts have emerged.

1. Portugal Remains a Firm Favourite

Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve continue to attract Irish travellers in large numbers. The combination of affordability, direct flights from Dublin, and a thriving food and wine culture has solidified Portugal’s place among the top destinations for Irish tourists 2025.

“Portugal offers everything from beaches to city breaks, and the prices remain reasonable even with the euro’s recent fluctuations,” says Linda Murphy, a travel consultant with Aer Lingus Holidays.

2. Croatia Gains Ground

Croatia has surged in popularity, especially among millennials and Gen Z. Cities like Dubrovnik and Split offer historic charm, scenic coastlines, and a Mediterranean experience without the crowds—or costs—of Italy or France.

3. Spain Holds Steady, But With a Twist

While Barcelona and the Canary Islands are still in demand, there’s a noticeable shift toward lesser-known regions like Galicia and Asturias, where Irish tourists can avoid over-tourism and discover more “local” Spain.

4. Staycations on the Rise Again

In a surprising return, 2025 has seen a revival of Irish domestic tourism. From scenic road trips along the Wild Atlantic Way to boutique stays in the Wicklow Mountains, many are choosing to holiday at home.

“Domestic travel now accounts for 34% of Irish summer trips—up from 22% in 2023,” according to a report by Failte Ireland.

Emerging Travel Trends in Ireland 2025

Sustainable Travel is No Longer Niche

Eco-friendly travel has moved into the mainstream. More than half of Irish travellers surveyed by Booking.com stated they would pay more for accommodations with certified sustainability credentials.

• Rail travel is up 17% year-on-year

• Electric car rentals have doubled since 2024

Carbon offsetting options are now offered by most major Irish travel agencies.

Travel as a Lifestyle, Not a Luxury

Post-pandemic remote work has enabled more Irish workers to take “workcations.” With flexible arrangements, many are combining holidays with remote working weeks in scenic or sunny locations.

Wellness and Mental Health-Focused Travel

Spas, nature retreats, and digital detox trips are trending strongly. The Irish holiday trends of 2025 show a growing demand for mental recharge over material indulgence.

Budget-Conscious But Experience-Rich

In the face of rising living costs and inflation, many Irish families are adopting a smarter travel strategy. The key: spending less on flights and hotels, more on experiences.

Popular Travel Choices for Irish Families in 2025:

• All-inclusive packages with eco-certifications

• Multi-generational villa stays in Europe

• Short city breaks booked around airline deals

What’s Driving These Changes?

Several factors are shaping travel trends Ireland 2025:

• Economic uncertainty: Cost-of-living pressures are making value-for-money essential.

• Climate awareness: Environmental impact is now a factor in destination choice.

• Cultural curiosity: There's a rising desire to explore places beyond the “Instagrammable.”

Digital flexibility: Hybrid work has changed how and when people travel.

A Thoughtful Summer of Travel

The big story of Irish summer travel 2025 is one of intentional exploration. Irish travellers are seeking more than just sun and sand; they want connection, authenticity, and a holiday experience that aligns with their values.

As destinations adapt and Irish preferences evolve, one thing is clear: travel is back—but it’s smarter, greener, and more meaningful than ever before.