Portugal Tourism reaches a New Record

Portugal tourism reaches a new record. The amazing country has long been a cherished destination for travelers seeking sun-drenched beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture.  In 2023, however, the country’s tourism industry reached unprecedented heights, smashing previous records and solidifying its global leadership position. Here we’ll talk about what’s happening in the tourism industry in Portugal and what this means for tourists and immigrants considering coming to Portugal. 

Breaking Numbers in 2023: Portugal Tourism Reaches a New Record

Fueled by a surge in international visitors, Portugal’s tourism industry experienced a banner year in 2023. Over 18 million tourists flocked to the country, representing a nearly 11% increase compared to the pre-pandemic peak of 2019 and a 19% increase compared to the previous year.  

Specifically in November 2023 alone, almost 140,000 visitors came from the United States which is the third largest source of arrivals (Spain and Britain are the highest) That month also saw over 1.1 million foreigners despite not being the peak summer months. 

According to the INE, the hotel sector alone saw over 30 million guests reaching a 5% increase in Portuguese travelers. 

This influx of visitors translated into a record-breaking 77 million overnight stays, showcasing Portugal’s ability to retain tourists for longer durations. Most importantly, tourism revenue skyrocketed to a staggering €25 billion, a significant leap from €21.1 billion in 2022 and a clear indicator of the industry’s growing economic impact.

Furthermore, Portugal even recorded more number of foreign tourists from January to March, with over three million guests. Even March saw over 1.4 million guests which was also a record. 

Of course, the first quarter’s records were accelerated due to the Easter Holiday. But there’s no doubt there’ll be even higher numbers in the coming months. 

Even so, it’s important to note that these numbers only account for foreigners staying in Portuguese hotels. There’s much more staying in other types of vacation rentals such as shared apartments, resorts, and much more. 

Why is Portugal Winning in Tourism?

Undoubtedly, tourism is an important driver of Portugal’s economy. It accounts for over 15% of gross domestic product before the pandemic and revenues from tourism have helped the country achieve stronger-than-expected growth last year. But then, you might wonder why Portugal is witnessing these numbers in terms of tourism, here are some such factors.

Diverse beaches 

The country boasts a diverse range of attractions, from the stunning Algarve coastline with its golden beaches to the historic city centers of Lisbon and Porto. Beyond the beaches, the archipelago of Madeira and the Azores make ideal conditions for surfing. Surfers of all levels will find several sports across the Portuguese coast. It’s no wonder the country hosts some of the world’s most important championships such as the Rip Curl Pro Portugal. Nazare especially has some of the most giant waves and the longest tubular waves in Europe, is Figueira da Foz. Plus Ericeira is known as the 1st Surfing Reserve in Europe and the 2nd at the global level.

Culture

For a small country, Portugal has a uniquely diverse culture that’s just as diverse as its weather. Every region has its variation of everything from dance to architecture and more. Plus, it’s one of the world’s greatest historical countries. You’ll find impressive landmark architecture dating back centuries ago. A huge number of towns and villages in Portugal are also UNESCO heritage sites offering gorgeous sceneries for everyone.

Weather

One of the reasons tourists flock to Portugal is the fantastic weather. You can expect temperatures that are not too hot in summer (unless you’re inland by those times) and are generally mild in winter. Portugal also receives more than 300 days of sunshine, making it a perfect year-round vacation treat. 

Affordability 

Portugal is of course not the cheapest country to visit in the world. But it’s a great place that offers more bang for your buck. Depending on your travel budget, you’ll find tons of accommodations, treats, and more to experience the best of Europe. Do also note that this doesn’t in any way mean that Portugal doesn’t offer a great luxury experience. There are plenty of luxury treats exclusive to the elite. Unravel the costs of living in Portugal versus Spain.

Food 

The Portuguese cuisine is also just as diverse and a treat for food lovers. Of great note is the variety in terms of seafood delicacies made from freshly caught fish. You can also expect the most amazing delights in terms of cured meats, delicious breads, pastries, and more. Beyond home-oriented cuisines, Portugal also hosts several restaurants offering a gastronomy experience with meals from different countries in the world. 

Wine 

You should also note that Portugal is famous for its wines and vineyards. The regions of Dao, Alentejo, and Douro are great destinations to witness a variety of wine selections being produced. You’ll find a great selection of white and red wines, of which Port wine is its world-famous delight. 

Vibrant life

If you’re visiting places like Lisbon and Porto, you can expect a bustling nightlife. There are tons of restaurants, dance clubs, bars, and even orchestras up for you. If you also choose to visit during one of Portugal’s famous festivals, you can expect day and night-round celebrations. 

Golf

Another reason why Portugal tourism reaches a new record is its Golfing culture. Portugal is today one of the top Golf destinations in Europe. It’s even more affordable to go golfing in Portugal compared to countries like Italy, France, and Spain. 

Nature 

Portugal has several natural parks where you can go on a hiking or biking trip. There’s also a variety of well-preserved flora and fauna waiting. One such that stands out is the Peneda-Geres National Park, considered to be one of the best national parks in Europe. Beyond the National parks, there are cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and off-course delightful nature-inspired luxury resorts waiting to be explored. Who wouldn’t love to visit Portugal?

Religious Destination 

Portugal is also a fantastic place to have your religious vacation. The Catholic region is enrooted in the customs and traditions of the Portuguese nation. You’ll find churches, chapels, and monasteries spread across the country. You’ll especially love the sites in Porto, Braga, and Fatima which are some of the most important pilgrim sites. 

Fado Music 

Fado Music is a delight to listen to. This type of urban music comes with soul-stirring melodies that give off that nostalgic and melancholic feeling. Even so, this music reflects centuries and centuries of Portuguese history. Fado music is also often accentuated by the haunting sounds of the Portuguese guitar. 

Positive Impact and Future Outlook

However, it’s important to acknowledge the potential challenges associated with increased tourism, such as strain on infrastructure and potential environmental concerns. Looking ahead, the Portuguese government, along with tourism authorities, is committed to ensuring sustainable growth in the industry.

“It was a very positive year for the country’s tourism, and also for Portugal as a whole,” said Nuno Fazenda, Secretary of State for Tourism, Commerce and Services. “We are talking about a structural change in our tourism,” he added, highlighting the optimism surrounding the future of Portuguese tourism.

With its undeniable charm, diverse offerings, and commitment to sustainable practices, Portugal is poised to remain a top tourist destination for years to come.

What Does Portugal’s Tourism Growth Mean for Tourists and Potential Immigrants?

As a tourist or potential immigrant, you might wonder what tourism’s growth means for you. First, you should know that the growing tourism industry means an increase in hotels, restaurants, and tourist activities. So there’s more variety and potentially even more competitive pricing. Portugal has also in recent years made strides to reinvest in infrastructure improvements like roads, airports, and public transportation. So, it’s easier and more efficient to get around the country. 

For immigrants, the booming tourism industry also means more job opportunities and potentially improves overall quality of life. Living in this country, especially in places like Sintra, Lisbon, and Porto, means a higher chance of being exposed to different cultures and ways of life.

Wrapping Up

No doubt Portugal tourism has reached a new record and is poised to continue accelerating. You can expect to have a fabulous time in the country. And if you’re concerned about how much your trip is going to cost, look up the cost of vacation rentals and the different types of visa costs you have to deal with. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Tourism in Portugal

What is the nicest part of Portugal to visit?

There’s no single nicest part of Portugal. Portugal is one place with tons of geographic variations. So every part of Portugal has delightful tourist attractions. It all depends on what you’d like to enjoy. For instance, Evora, Porto, and Lisbon offer rich historical sites. Azores Islands and the Peneda-Geres National Park boast breathtaking landscapes. And of course, the Douro Valley is a must-visit if you love wines. 

Is Porto or Lisbon better?

Porto and Lisbon are two Portuguese cities that are just as similar as they are different. At the core, Porto gives off that “oldie” vibe with its charming narrow streets and very old architecture. In contrast, Lisbon is more urban with a mix of historical architecture and new stunning viewpoints. In terms of several days, you can cover Lisbon or Porto with 3 to 4-day trips. 

How many days do you need in Portugal?

Portugal might be a small country but you’ll need a minimum of 10 days to enjoy a more in-depth view of the country discovering its hidden gems and more. However, if you’re short on time such as 7 to 10 days, you’ll naturally pick to either spend your days in the Algarve or Lisbon/Porto. You might be able to cover Lisbon and Porto in a 3 to 4 days trip but it might not cover the towns in between them.

What is the number one tourist attraction in Portugal?

Unlike many other tourist destinations, there’s no ‘number one| attraction in Portugal. Instead, every region has something to offer. For instance, the Douro Valley is known for its picturesque vineyards and boat tours on the Douro River. The Azores is known for its lush volcanic landscape and whale watching. Sintra, which is near Lisbon, is known for its fairytale palaces and romantic gardens. 

What is the prettiest city in Portugal?

There are tons of pretty cities and towns in Portugal. But we recommend a few of the most gorgeous places that are a must-visit. Sintra is known for its colorful Pena National Palace and stunning Quinta da Regaleira. Obidos is a charming medieval town with whitewashed houses and a castle. Finally, you should visit the Albergaria-a-Velha known for its traditional houses and picturesque canals. 

Can I get an Uber in Portugal?

Portugal has tons of transportation options. You can even find Uber in major cities like Porto, Lisbon and Faro.

What is the best way to travel around Portugal?

The best way to travel around Portugal depends on where you’re going, your pace, and your budget. Ideally, you should use a combination of trains, buses, and car rentals to have the most amazing tour in Portugal. Trains are efficient and affordable for connecting major cities. Buses also have an extensive network but can be slower. Car rentals are best for exploring the rural areas. 

Is Portugal cheap or expensive?

Portugal isn’t cheap or expensive. Undoubtedly, it is generally more affordable than in Western Europe. However, accommodation tends to be the deciding factor and is generally costlier in the summer months.