Launching the Rural Tourism Fund

New data from Airbnb has uncovered an unexpected trend: while Irish people are more likely to book holidays abroad, many have yet to explore the beautiful landscapes just a few hours from home.

Three in four Irish holidaymakers go abroad at least once a year, and over a third (39%) have crossed the Atlantic to North America, however, fewer of us have been to Sligo (37%), Tipperary (37%) and Meath (36%). A quarter of the population have explored Asia, but 82% have never visited Leitrim and 76% have never visited Westmeath. And perhaps most surprising of all: 81% of Irish people who have been as far as Africa have never set foot in Monaghan!

Despite almost half (48%) of people in Ireland saying they want to see more of their own country, only one in three actually take regular holidays on home soil. This summer, Airbnb is encouraging Irish holidaymakers to swap long haul flights for local adventures waiting to be explored here in Ireland. 

This research comes as Airbnb has launched the Rural Tourism Fund  to give a vital injection to rural areas across Ireland that rely on the benefits of tourism to support local families, businesses and culture. Airbnb is committing €100,000 in grants to preserve and enhance innovative tourism projects across the country. 

With 71% of Airbnb bookings in Ireland made in predominantly rural areas – and the majority of listings outside of Dublin – Airbnb is already playing a pivotal role in bringing visitors to the heart of the countryside. Now, through the Rural Tourism Fund, grants ranging from €1,000 to €10,000 will be available to local organisations and community groups to help bring their local projects to life and boost rural tourism – from launching or expanding a local festival, to upgrading community facilities.

60% of people in Ireland recommend a domestic holiday, with the country’s stunning scenery topping the list of reasons to stay close to home. Locals love sampling food, mingling with the community and attending festivals. When it comes to rural escapes, Donegal, Kerry and Wicklow are the top choices for those seeking new adventures on familiar soil. 

Derek Nolan, Head of Public Policy for Ireland at Airbnb, said: “We’re fortunate to have some of the world’s most stunning places right here in Ireland, and it’s exciting to see nearly half of Irish people eager to explore more of our own country. Airbnb plays a key role in spreading tourism across Ireland, and the Rural Tourism Fund will boost and preserve the best of rural Ireland, allowing more people to experience our culture and beauty while benefiting local communities economically.” 

Host Shelagh Nangle in County Westmeath says, “It’s brilliant that there’s a growing desire for Irish people to explore more on our own shores. I’ve welcomed guests from America and all over Europe that are eager to experience the scenery and lively festivals local to us, and I would love to see more Irish families coming to embrace the beautiful countryside in their own backyard. With Airbnb boosting local tourism offerings through the new Rural Tourism Fund, I hope surrounding communities will be able to share even more in the benefits of welcoming visitors from Ireland and beyond.”

The Rural Tourism Fund is designed to help local organisations and communities bring their ideas to life. If you have a project that promotes or supports rural tourism in your community, you can now apply here by 11.59pm GMT on 16 June, 2025.