Irish Tourism Sees 6% Decline in Overseas Visitors for 2025

Year-End ITIC Report Highlights Revenue Drop and Market Shifts

Ireland’s tourism sector experienced a notable downturn in 2025, with overseas visitor numbers estimated at approximately 6.16 million, reflecting a 6 percent decrease compared with 2024, according to the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation (ITIC) year-end bulletin.

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The Confederation estimates the contraction in visitor numbers will translate into an approximate €685 million shortfall in revenue for the Irish economy, with total tourist spending down by about 13 percent versus the previous year.

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Key Trends and Market Performance

• North American markets emerged as a relative bright spot in 2025, with visitor numbers from the United States and Canada increasing, helping bolster inbound travel despite broader declines in other regions.

• Conversely, traditional source markets such as Great Britain, France, and Germany saw declines in visitor arrivals, contributing to the overall downturn in international tourism.

• The overall value of the tourism industry for the year is projected at around €8.89 billion, including domestic tourism activity, which helped offset some losses from overseas markets.

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Travel And Tour World

Sector Challenges and Strategic Concerns

Industry leaders highlighted several factors contributing to the slower year for tourism:

• Cost competitiveness issues Ireland remains one of the most expensive destinations in Europe, affecting price-sensitive travellers.

• Weaker air access from Europe and the UK, constraining growth opportunities from key neighbouring markets.

• Inflationary pressures in the tourism sector, with rising costs for labour, energy and other inputs putting further strain on operators.

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ITIC has renewed calls for targeted Government policy support, including improvements in connectivity and measures to enhance Ireland’s competitiveness as a tourism destination. Ahead of Budget discussions, there has also been industry emphasis on restoring the competitive 9 percent VAT rate for the hospitality sector as a means to stimulate demand.

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Whats the view for 2026

Despite the challenging 2025 performance, industry forecasts suggest potential stabilization or modest revenue growth in 2026 should global travel conditions improve and strategic initiatives be implemented to support market diversification and access.

Irish Examiner

Aaron Joyce, Newswire, L.T.T Media; Newsdesk; 30 December 2025