Irish hotel occupancy rose to 76% last year

Irish Hotels Federation says the sector is cautiously optimistic for 2026, partly boosted by the return of the 9% Vat rate in July

Planned investment projects include bedroom refurbishment (61% of hotels) and upgrades to restaurants, bars and common areas (47% of hotels).

Ireland’s hotel sector said it is cautiously optimistic for 2026, after the national average room-occupancy rate rose slightly to 76% last year.

The Irish Hotels Federation (IHF), which meets in Killarney today for its annual conference, says that business costs and global uncertainty are the primary concerns facing hoteliers.