Tourism body Fáilte Ireland has launched a new €100m fund to be invested in new and existing visitor attractions. The funds are being provided under the National Development Plan.
The body's chairman Gillian Bowler said Ireland had to be careful about becoming complacent as competition would become more intense.
Shaun Quinn, Fáilte Ireland's chief executive, said €50m would target the upgrading of around 20 of the main tourist attractions to international standard.
€14m is being set aside to encourage the development of two or three 'major new iconic Irish cultural attractions of international appeal'. €6m goes to the development of historical and ornamental gardens.
'Further funding, totalling €28m, will be allocated to supporting investment in outdoor and other active pursuits,' said Mr Quinn. He said key areas included "water sports centres and boat rental, outdoor activity centres, 'Learn to' facilities, equestrian/horse riding and angling facilities.
