Cork's Hotels and B&Bs are welcoming back guests for the first time in more than 5 months today.
Guesthouses and self-catering accommodation can also reopen, as part of the government's planned easing of restrictions.
The Irish Hotels Federation says today's reopening will result in more than 30,000 staff returning to work over the summer.
General manager of Montenotte Hotel in Cork City, Brian Bowler, says there's a great sense of excitement for reopening.
"we're absolutely just thrilled and delighted, we thought the day would never come. It's been a long six months when you think about it.
"The last time we were open to the general public was Christmas Eve. We remained open for essential workers during that time, it was really quiet in the hotel even though we were open.
"We're just really excited and can't wait to get going again."
