| 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.
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.
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.
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.
Interest in Portugal’s lesser-known regions is also on the rise. The Azores, Alentejo and Central Portugal are among the strongest-performing destinations, reflecting a growing appetite among the Irish to explore beyond the country’s most established holiday areas.
Air connectivity between Ireland and Portugal will reach new highs in Summer 2026, with up to 141 weekly flights operating across three airlines – Aer Lingus, Ryanair and TAP Air Portugal.
Aer Lingus will operate 39 weekly flights, including nine weekly services from Dublin to Lisbon (an increase of one), 23 weekly flights from Dublin to Faro during the peak summer month, and seven weekly flights from Cork to Faro.
Ryanair will offer 88 weekly services connecting Ireland and Portugal, including routes from Dublin to Lisbon, Porto, Funchal and Faro, as well as services from Shannon, Cork, Kerry and Ireland West Airport Knock.
Meanwhile, TAP Air Portugal will operate 14 weekly flights between Dublin and Lisbon, with onward connections available via Lisbon to destinations including Porto Santo, Ponta Delgada and Terceira.
Commenting on the continued growth of the Irish market, Carlos Oliveira, Director of Visit Portugal Ireland, 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.”
For more information on planning a trip to Portugal, visit the Visit Portugal website at www.visitportugal.com.
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