23/03/2026
Cross-Border Travel Surge Boosts NI Tourism
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has welcomed new data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) indicating strong growth in cross‑border tourism to Northern Ireland during 2025.
According to the CSO, there were 1.3 million trips from the south to the north in 2025, up from 1.1 million in 2024.
Over the same period, the number of overnight stays taken by these visitors increased to 2.7 million from 2.5 million, a rise of 9%.
Visitor spending also climbed significantly, from just over £242.7 million in 2024 to almost £317.1 million last year — an increase of 31%.
Dr Caoimhe Archibald, Economy Minister, said: "These latest figures show that the all-Ireland economy is driving growth in our tourism industry. More people from the south are visiting the north, bringing increased spending into our local economy. With Belfast hosting the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann this August we can expect this positive trend to continue."
Tourism NI continues to target further visitor growth by investing in marketing and promotion, broadening the range of attractions and experiences, and strengthening the accommodation offer to encourage prospective visitors to embark on a giant adventure in Northern Ireland.
Tourism NI's 2026 spring campaign has already performed strongly and is on track to deliver 125 million opportunities to see or hear activity in ROI. Running across TV, radio, press and social media, it showcases a wide variety of attractions, experiences and events, along with places to stay — highlighting value for money and offering clear, compelling reasons to book a short break.
Carmel Scott, Head of Marketing at Tourism NI, said: "This growth reflects the impact and importance of our sustained marketing focus in this key market, highlighting what our industry has to offer and driving demand.
"ROI visitors continue to enjoy our stunning landscapes and coastlines, vibrant food and drink scene, and world‑class attractions, experiences and accommodation—all delivered with the giant welcome Northern Ireland is known for.
"Our heavyweight marketing campaign continues in ROI until 31 March. We will maintain a strong focus on this market and encourage industry partners to do the same, ensuring Northern Ireland continues to achieve marketing cut‑through and remains top of mind for short breaks all year round."
According to the CSO, there were 1.3 million trips from the south to the north in 2025, up from 1.1 million in 2024.
Over the same period, the number of overnight stays taken by these visitors increased to 2.7 million from 2.5 million, a rise of 9%.
Visitor spending also climbed significantly, from just over £242.7 million in 2024 to almost £317.1 million last year — an increase of 31%.
Dr Caoimhe Archibald, Economy Minister, said: "These latest figures show that the all-Ireland economy is driving growth in our tourism industry. More people from the south are visiting the north, bringing increased spending into our local economy. With Belfast hosting the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann this August we can expect this positive trend to continue."
Tourism NI's 2026 spring campaign has already performed strongly and is on track to deliver 125 million opportunities to see or hear activity in ROI. Running across TV, radio, press and social media, it showcases a wide variety of attractions, experiences and events, along with places to stay — highlighting value for money and offering clear, compelling reasons to book a short break.
Carmel Scott, Head of Marketing at Tourism NI, said: "This growth reflects the impact and importance of our sustained marketing focus in this key market, highlighting what our industry has to offer and driving demand.
"ROI visitors continue to enjoy our stunning landscapes and coastlines, vibrant food and drink scene, and world‑class attractions, experiences and accommodation—all delivered with the giant welcome Northern Ireland is known for.
"Our heavyweight marketing campaign continues in ROI until 31 March. We will maintain a strong focus on this market and encourage industry partners to do the same, ensuring Northern Ireland continues to achieve marketing cut‑through and remains top of mind for short breaks all year round."
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A few showers around in the morning but still plenty of dry and bright spells. Drier in the afternoon, although the odd shower still possible, with longer sunny spells developing. Mostly light winds but breezy near coasts. Maximum temperature 12 °C.Tonight:It will be a dry evening with some late sunny spells before turning cloudier from the west. Becoming cloudy for all overnight with outbreaks of rain spreading eastwards. Minimum temperature 2 °C.