According to Publituris, other tourist destinations such as Costa del Sol, Greece, Lanzarote, and Spain were competing in the same category. The recognition of the Algarve demonstrates that the region continues to have the quality required to be recognised by the Irish market.

Irish market in the Algarve

Publituris says the Irish market has significant weight in the Algarve and, in 2024, was the main holiday destination for the Irish. In total, they accounted for 75.2% of overnight stays, with Ireland ranking third among the Algarve's most important foreign markets.

The same phenomenon was repeated in 2025, with 74.8% of overnight stays by Irish tourists in the Algarve between January and July.

Quoted by the same media outlet, André Gomes, president of Algarve Tourism, says that “the Irish market is a mature market, with consolidated purchasing power and travel habits, which recognises the quality and diversity of the Algarve’s tourism offer. This award reinforces that relationship and confirms that the region continues to meet the expectations of a demanding and loyal public.”

“This distinction, awarded directly by travel industry professionals in Ireland, comes in a context where travel agents, tour operators and specialised media increasingly value destinations that combine air accessibility, quality of the tourist experience and safety. For the Algarve, this award reinforces its reputation with the Irish public, giving the destination an additional advantage and competitive argument in promoting the region in the tourism channels of this market,” concludes the head of tourism in the region.