For the first time, more than one million US guests have visited Portugal this year, following five years of double-digit growth. 

Turismo de Portugal (the Portuguese National Tourism Board) has released tourism figures through October showing the destination has experienced an average monthly increase of 20.9% guests, and a 22% growth in stays, achieving 2019’s goals with still two months remaining in the year.

It means Portugal achieves two milestone records:  welcoming one million guests, with two million US stays in just ten months.   In 2017, Portugal had a record 685,200 US guests, up 35.3% from 2016.  And in 2018, 828,300 American guests, representing a 20.1% increase. 

The President of Turismo de Portugal, Luís Araújo, points out that “Having received over 1 million guests in just 10 months is a result of Turismo de Portugal's promotional efforts in this market, which position the country as a destination to visit, invest in, live, study and organize major events. These are the guidelines of our 2027 Tourism Strategy, the strategic framework for the sector. Most of these tourists come from Newark, Boston, New York and Miami, as a result of the increased connection between the US and Portugal in recent months, currently operated by TAP Air Portugal, SATA Azores Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Airlines and American Airlines. Our aim will always be to capture more and better tourism, aligning economic growth with the ever-present concern for Portugal’s environmental and social sustainability."

Portugal is a unique gem of Europe.  While the country has eight centuries of history with marvelous castles and architecture, it is also a must-visit place for foodies. Portugal has the biggest exclusive fishing zone in Europe, making seafood fresh and affordable. Local cuisine is vegetarian-friendly as well, offering hearty soups, stews and locally grown fruits and vegetables. Pop music lovers of all ages will enjoy local music festivals. www.visitportugal.com.