The Popular European Country Boomers Love To Visit More Than Italy (No, Not Scotland)

For travelers in the baby boomer generation, a European vacation can be a chance to check off some bucket list destinations, with fewer work calendars to plan around. That might look like lingering over a long lunch in a sun-drenched piazza or wandering through centuries-old castles. Where Italy has its Renaissance cities and Scotland the dramatic Highlands, the European country that earned higher favor than both among boomers is Ireland, according to a YouGov study published in 2026. With its emerald countryside, historic towns, and pubs — plus the added convenience of traveling somewhere English is spoken — Ireland has plenty to entice travelers ready to make the most of their golden years.

To find out where boomers prefer to visit the most, YouGov surveyed U.S. adults from March 2025 to March 2026 across generations. Hawaii and Canada earned the highest positive impressions among boomers overall, while Ireland ranked third at 46%, edging just ahead of Italy and Scotland as the top European destination. The enthusiasm was notably stronger among boomers than younger generations — 38% of non-boomers had positive impressions of Ireland. The survey analysis also offers clues about what might draw older Americans to the Emerald Isle. Boomers' three most-favored trip types were beach vacations (50%), countryside escapes (44%), and sightseeing (43%). Ireland can cater to those interests with its coastal scenery, green rural landscapes, and iconic landmarks, like Blarney Castle or the Cliffs of Moher. Aside from the sites, there could also be something in the convivial culture of Irish people that resonates with older travelers — travel writer Rick Steves named Ireland one of his favorite European destinations because of its charming people.

A single trip to Ireland can include a day by the sea, a scenic drive through rolling green hills, a tour of a medieval castle, and lingering in small town pubs. One of the country's most famous destinations is the Cliffs of Moher, rising up to over 700 feet above the ocean. Located in a scenic region and that's pretty easily accessible, the Cliffs of Moher could be an appealing trip for boomers drawn to countryside exploration and sightseeing. Owing to their fame, the cliffs can get packed with tourists — travelers looking for a quieter alternative to escape the crowds might consider Ireland's underrated Slieve League (Sliabh Liag) Cliffs, which are in fact even taller, at nearly 2,000 feet high.

For a taste of Ireland's medieval past, boomers can add a few castle visits to their itinerary. Blarney Castle in Cork is known for the Blarney Stone, which legend says grants the gift of eloquence to anyone who kisses it (be aware: getting to the stone involves climbing a steep staircase). In Kilkenny, Kilkenny Castle showcases restored period rooms, an art collection, and formal gardens you can wander without having to climb. However, the castle itself has about 200 steps across four floors and is only partly wheelchair accessible.

Ireland's beaches may not offer a Caribbean beach vacation with tropical temperatures, but they have their own charm, with unique coastal scenery and welcoming seaside towns. One that boomers could check out on a visit is the seafood- and surf-filled beach town of Clonakilty, which serves as a gateway to Inchydoney Beach. The beach has cliff sides and grassy dunes for a day of coastal wandering. Another traditional seaside-town option just south of Dublin is Bray, where a Victorian-era promenade suits a gentle stroll with sea views.