US Tourism in Portugal Hits Record Highs in 2024

In the first four months of 2024, U.S. tourists increased their spending in Portugal by 18.2% compared to the same period last year and is now the fourth largest market in Portugal's tourism sector, surpassing the Spanish. U.S. tourists contributed €692.2 million to the Portuguese economy, while Spanish contributed 678.4 million euros.

The ranking of the most valuable markets for tourism in Portugal has traditionally been dominated by UK citizens. This is due to the long-standing diplomatic relations between the UK and Portugal which have allowed U.K. citizens to become well-acquainted with Portugal's safety, pleasant climate, and exquisite cuisine. From January to April 2024, U.K. tourists spent €960.2 million in Portugal. They were followed by German tourists, who spent €800.4 million, and French tourists, who spent €704.9 million.

The growth of the U.S. market in Portugal is evident when comparing current expenditures to those of previous years. In 2019, U.S. tourists spent €269.4 million in Portugal. By 2024, this expenditure had more than doubled, demonstrating a dynamic and significant increase in tourism from the U.S.

In broader terms, Portugal's tourism sector is flourishing, showing consistent annual growth in both revenue and the number of tourists, including both international and domestic visitors. To illustrate, the Portuguese tourism sector generated €6,829 million in revenue during the first four months of 2024, marking a remarkable 12.2% increase compared to the same period in 2023.

In the first five months of 2024, Portugal welcomed 6.9 million international tourists, a figure that excludes local accommodation units with fewer than ten beds. This marks a 7.6% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Additionally, domestic tourism saw a rise, with 4.4 million Portuguese residents travelling within the country, reflecting a 1.9% increase from the previous year.

Portugal's tourism sector experienced a significant boom in 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Adding to this, the country continues to enhance the travel experience by increasing safety and comfort for visitors. A notable advancement is the introduction of biometric technology at Portuguese airports, further modernising the journey for travellers.

The Algarve is usually the favourite region among foreign visitors, renowned for its beautiful beaches, unique seafood, and vibrant nightlife. However, Portugal's charm extends beyond this region. Lisbon and Porto, with their rich histories and dynamic cultures, are must-visit cities. Additionally, Costa da Caparica, often likened to the Portuguese California, and Cascais, a coastal town near Lisbon, attract many tourists. Notably, Cascais has been recognised as a top green destination for its efforts in promoting sustainability.

If you are considering relocating to Portugal or wish to learn more about what this beautiful country has to offer, feel free to contact us. Our dedicated team is here to provide you with expert guidance and support.