Published on
September 28, 2025
Ireland is taking center stage at the IFTM Top Resa 2025, one of France’s premier travel and tourism events. Key players from the international tourism industry are attending this important event, which takes place from September 26 to 28, and Tourism Ireland is making a strong impression. Ireland is exhibiting the amazing variety of tourism experiences across its regions and seasons with 15 Irish tourism companies, including well-known brands like Letterkenny’s Dillons Hotel.
A Key Event for Tourism Promotion
IFTM Top Resa has long been recognized as a vital platform for countries to promote their tourism offerings to an influential audience. Attracting nearly 30,000 visitors annually, this event draws a wide variety of professionals, including travel agents, tour operators, media representatives, and decision-makers from the business events sector. It provides Ireland with an opportunity to not only showcase its tourist destinations but also to build and strengthen important relationships with French tour operators and travel professionals.
Tourism to Ireland from France is of significant importance, as France ranks among the top four inbound tourism markets for Ireland. This makes the event a prime opportunity for Irish tourism businesses to highlight the diverse travel options available in Ireland, ranging from scenic landscapes and cultural experiences to vibrant urban hubs. The primary aim is to attract French travelers to visit Ireland in 2026 and beyond, and the business generated during the event will help strengthen tourism ties between the two countries.
Meeting of Minds at IFTM
During this year’s event, Tourism Ireland is set to conduct around 675 commercial meetings on the Ireland stand. This is a promising indicator of the level of interest that the Irish tourism sector is receiving from French industry professionals. These meetings will focus on exploring partnerships, discussing future travel packages, and planning inclusions of Irish destinations in French travel programmes for the upcoming years. It also marks the start of an extensive promotional programme that Tourism Ireland is rolling out in France for the autumn of 2025.
The Irish representatives at IFTM are not only looking to boost the visibility of Ireland but also to negotiate specific deals and partnerships with French tour operators and travel agents. This will help Ireland secure its position as a sought-after destination for 2026 and the years to come. The aim is to increase late-season travel to Ireland, encouraging more French tourists to explore Ireland during the off-peak months.
The Economic Impact of France on Ireland’s Tourism
In recent years, France has played a crucial role in boosting the Irish tourism economy. Over 2 million French visitors travel to Ireland each year, contributing significantly to the local economy through travel spending. The ongoing partnership between Irish tourism companies and French travel professionals continues to be vital in maintaining and growing these numbers. Ireland’s presence at IFTM Top Resa further solidifies its standing as a prominent travel destination, continuing to attract visitors from across France and beyond.
The strong relationships formed at the event will also help ensure the continuity of successful collaborations and the expansion of tourism offerings in both countries. Ireland’s tourism sector continues to evolve to meet the needs of a diverse range of international travelers, and the French market remains central to that growth.
Promoting Ireland’s Year-Round Appeal
Tourism Ireland’s presence at IFTM Top Resa also focuses on showcasing the wide array of experiences Ireland offers throughout the year. From vibrant city breaks in Dublin and Cork to quiet retreats in the countryside, Ireland is positioning itself as a versatile destination for all types of travelers. The diversity of experiences available throughout the four seasons is also highlighted, encouraging French visitors to consider Ireland as an all-year-round destination.
The involvement of 15 tourism companies from Ireland, including high-profile establishments like Dillons Hotel, emphasizes the broad appeal of Ireland as a travel destination. These companies offer everything from luxury stays to unique cultural experiences, ensuring that there is something for every kind of traveler. Irish tourism representatives are at the event to forge strong relationships with French businesses, offering everything from guided tours of Ireland’s natural wonders to bespoke luxury travel experiences.
Targeted Promotions for 2026 and Beyond
Tourism Ireland has rolled out an extensive promotional programme in France aimed at increasing late-season travel and ensuring the country remains at the forefront of French travelers’ minds when booking their vacations for 2026. Through a combination of digital marketing, travel trade campaigns, and public relations efforts, Tourism Ireland aims to position itself as a go-to destination for French travelers looking for unique and enriching experiences.
In addition to general tourism promotion, Tourism Ireland has focused on specific demographics, including younger, more adventurous travelers, as well as families and business groups seeking unique venues for meetings and events. By diversifying its promotional efforts, Ireland is ensuring its tourism offering remains appealing to a wide range of potential visitors from France.
Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond
The partnership between Ireland and France’s tourism sectors is expected to continue growing in the coming years. With the boost provided by events like IFTM Top Resa, both countries can anticipate a positive increase in travel business for 2026 and beyond. As travel restrictions continue to ease globally, Ireland is well-positioned to welcome more French visitors, further strengthening the bond between the two nations’ tourism industries.
Conclusion
Travel Ireland’s participation in IFTM Top Resa 2025 marks a significant milestone in the two countries’ continuing tourism partnership. Ireland is well-positioned to draw even more French tourists in 2026 and beyond by promoting its varied tourism experiences and fortifying its relationships with French travel agents and policymakers. Ireland’s tourism sector is expected to flourish in the upcoming years thanks to focused promotions meant to increase late-season travel and fortify current alliances.
