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Travel Department 30th Anniversary

2026 is set to be a year of celebration for Travel Department, as we are marking 30 years in business! From our very first trip to Lake Garda Italy back in 1996, to our now 100s of destinations we offer across five continents, the stories along the way are endless!

To celebrate this milestone, we’d love you to get involved! Share your favourite Travel Department moments, unforgettable guides, and your best holiday photos. Keep an eye on our social channels for upcoming competitions and ways to submit your stories of discovery! Stay up to date by signing up for our brochures and email newsletters, featuring special offers, inspiring stories, and fantastic giveaways.

Our Timeline

Top 30 Holidays

Our Statistics

Customer Photos

Blog Spotlight

Travel Department Timeline

1996

Travel Department is Founded

Travel Department began with early tours including F1 holidays, eventually expanding into 200+ curated itineraries worldwide.

1998

Our First Website

One of Ireland’s earliest travel websites—setting the foundation for digital-first holiday planning.

2006

Moving to Harmony Row

The company moved into its long-term headquarters, expanding into a multicultural team of 60+.

2007

Expanding to the UK

Travel Department officially began selling tours in the United Kingdom.

2008

New Horizons: Lake Como, India & Australia

A major year of destination expansion, opening three of our most iconic holiday regions.

2008

First Egypt Tours & Nile Cruise

Our first Nile Cruise departed—sparking high demand and rapid future expansion.

Nov 2008

First Solo Holiday

The first “Singles Friendly” holiday launched, supporting independent travellers.

2009

First Yangtze River Cruise

Launch of the China river cruise collection—an instant customer favourite.

2009

Garden Holidays Begin

Introduction of horticulture-inspired tours across Europe and beyond.

2009

New Destinations: Argentina, Brazil & Canada

A huge expansion into long-haul cultural destinations.

2014

Tours from Arnotts, Dublin

Customers could book in person at Arnotts—personalised travel returned.

2014–2015

Growth of River Cruising

A surge in demand led to expanding our European river cruise portfolio.

2022

Award-Winning & Carbon Offset Initiative

First British Travel Award win + sustainability contribution option introduced.

2023

Continued Awards & Recognition

Named Ireland’s Best Travel Agent or Tour Operator by Independent.ie readers.

2024

Our Most Decorated Year

Multiple British Travel Awards including Best Travel Company for Touring.

2025

Celebrating Sustainability

Winner of Sustainability Initiative Award at the Irish Travel Awards.

Top 30 Travel Department Holidays

For three decades, Travel Department has been helping travellers see the world with ease, creating countless memories and moments along the way. As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we’re taking a look back at some of the incredible destinations that have defined our story our Top 30 Tours chosen from the journeys our customers have loved most since 1996.

So, as we celebrate 30 years of travel together, here’s all the inspiration you need to plan your next adventure.

Europe

Long Haul

River