Leonardo Hotels reveals 44% of Irish Travellers pick Colin Farrell as the ultimate Road Trip companion

Colin Farrell has been crowned Ireland’s ultimate road trip companion, with 44% of Irish people choosing him as their dream travel buddy in a new national survey by Leonardo Hotels. And where would they most like to go with him? Galway topped the list as Ireland’s favourite summer city break, picked by a resounding 68% of respondents, well ahead of Cork (14%), Dublin (11%), and Belfast (7%). Galway was also chosen for the friendliest locals (59%) and the best spot for a wild weekend (54%), thanks to its unbeatable mix of trad music, late-night craic, and spontaneous fun.

As we enter the summer months, Leonardo Hotels surveyed Irish adults to uncover the real travel habits and hotel preferences shaping staycations in 2025. The survey uncovered passionate preferences, playful insights and surprising dealbreakers, proving that when it comes to hotels, Irish travellers know exactly what they want.

Top city experiences

The ultimate Irish city activity, according to the public? Wandering Galway’s Shop Street, chosen by 66%, beating out visiting the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin (7%), Belfast’s Titanic Museum (8%) and exploring Cork’s English Market (19%). Galway also stole the show when it came to spontaneous fun, with more than half agreeing that it's the city most likely to lead to a weekend that starts with a trad session and ends with tequila.

Snack and breakfast favourites

When it comes to hotel room snacks, Barry’s Tea and a biscuit claimed the top spot with 34% of the vote, edging out both Tayto crisps (27%) and the combo of Lyons Tea with Dairy Milk (27%). After a long day exploring, 43% of people want nothing more than a full Irish breakfast the next morning, followed by pastries and fruit (29%), eggs made to order (24%) and, surprisingly, just coffee (4%).

Bathroom boundaries

Bathrooms are clearly a tricky subject for Irish travellers. A surprising 61% admit they have no clue how to use a bidet, and aren’t about to ask for a tutorial anytime soon. As for open-plan bathrooms, they’re almost universally rejected, with 78% saying some things just shouldn’t be on display. Turns out, privacy isn’t overrated when it comes to shower time!

Luxury = comfort

Luxury, it turns out, is all about comfort. When asked what defines hotel indulgence, 68% said it’s all about a cloud-like bed to melt into. A deep bath came in at just 10%, while 14% of guests rated a robe that actually fits and slippers they might sneak home as the top luxury touch.

Hotel room icks

Plug sockets matter. When it comes to hotel room “icks,” 50% of guests said having no plug near the bed is their biggest gripe. Bad lighting in the bathroom came in at 22%, while 14% each were annoyed by slamming doors and Wi-Fi that requires a four-step login. And while most guests wouldn’t admit to stealing, 45% said they’d pocket the hotel toiletries if they could get away with it, a bold 29% would swipe a pillow, and 26% said the plush towels were too tempting to resist.

Celebrity road trip companions

Colin Farrell was the runaway winner as Ireland’s dream road trip companion this summer, with 44% of the vote. Nicola Coughlan came in second at 33%, followed by Barry Keoghan (12%) and Nadine Coyle (11%). As for who Irish people would most like to share a nightcap with at the hotel bar, it was a tie: 31% each for Saoirse Ronan and the Derry Girls cast. Maura Higgins (20%) and Paul Mescal (18%) rounded out the list.

Why we book

When it comes to reasons for booking a hotel stay, those needing an escape to reset led the way at 45%, followed by a deal too good to miss (26%) and the ever-handy need to celebrate an anniversary (21%). As for how far we’re willing to travel for a hotel break, 75% of people said they’ll go two to four hours, with another 14% saying the longer the road trip, the better. Just 1% preferred to stay within an hour of home.

With five centrally located hotels in Galway, Cork, Belfast and two in Dublin (Parnell Street and Christchurch), Leonardo Hotels makes it easy to explore the best of Irish cities this summer. Guests can enjoy a relaxing and stylish stay, with modern rooms designed for ultimate comfort. Every room features bespoke DREAM beds, ensuring the perfect night's sleep. Unwind with a 50-inch smart TV, refresh with a powerful shower, and enjoy thoughtful touches that make every stay special.

In addition, guests can take advantage of on-site dining options. For an early-morning boost or an afternoon pick-me-up try the on-site Lavazza coffee bar, indulge in a plentiful breakfast, all before checking out the Bar and Grill menu with an array of seasonal options ranging from simple bar snacks, casual bites, a sit down meal, or seasonal spritzes. 

Leonardo Hotels is making it easier than ever to explore top destinations with its loyalty programme Leonardo Advantage Club, whereby members receive 10% OFF bookings every time. Signing up is quick, easy, and free, giving members access to fantastic perks, including 10% off food and drinks, exclusive offers, free late check-out, and the ability to redeem points for stays across Leonardo Hotels in Europe.

Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland is a leading hotel group that operates 57 centrally located hotels. As one of the fastest-growing hotel groups in Europe, it has four brands - Leonardo Hotels, Leonardo Royal Hotels, NYX Hotels and Leonardo Limited Edition across a growing portfolio. All hotels offer a unique experience and are recognised for their prime city centre locations, dedicated and welcoming staff and comfortable and contemporary rooms, as it looks to create a world-leading superior hotel group across corporate, leisure and M&E.

For more information, to sign up to the Leonardo Advantage Club, or to make a reservation and for full T&C’s, visit www.leonardo-hotels.com

Slán go fóill.