Increasing number of US visitors coming to Ireland in the winter

December last year saw just under 80,000 US visitors arrive in Ireland, one of the strongest December on record for US tourists, writes Emer Walsh.

Tourists from Colorado, USA, brave the Irish weather at the Gap of Dunloe, Co Kerry. Picture: Dan Linehan

The number of US citizens visiting Ireland is expected to increase further this year, signalling a boost for Irish tourism after a stagnant 2025.

Research from hospitality data and analytics company STR found that American arrivals to Ireland continue to grow, with US tourists staying longer and spending more than the average visitor.