Portugal set a new record by welcoming more than 27 million guests in 2019;  7.3% more than in the previous year. The European nation saw 69.9 million overnight stays (+4.1%), with domestic tourism (+7.5%) rising at a rate slightly higher than foreign tourism (+7.1%), due to the booming economy. The fastest growing market in 2019 was the United States (+20.2%).

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

Turismo de Portugal (the Portuguese National Tourism Board) said the destination experienced an average monthly increase of 20.9% US guests, and a 22% growth in stays, achieving 2019’s goals in just 10 months.

The results show that the benefits of tourism extended to the whole country, with more significant growth in the North or Norte (+9.7% in overnight stays), the Alentejo (+7.6%) and the Azores (+7.5%).

"Tourism in Portugal continues to at a much higher pace than the international average. The results also show a clear trend of market diversification, with exponential growth in visitors from the U.S.," according to Rita Marques, Secretary of State for Tourism.

With the number from 2019, the, Rita Marques, added that sustainable growth continues given the "continued reduction of seasonality, while the tourism sector consolidates the position of the largest exporting activity in the country."

The tourism sector now employs more than 400,000 people nationally, corresponding to 9% of total national employment.

Portugal has earned major media coverage as well as awards for its diverse culture, unique cuisine and pleasant climate. And this year there were big news, as TAP Portugal has grown its non-stop route map adding services to and from Chicago, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C., to the New York, Newark, Boston, and Miami routes.

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.