Summary:
5.2 million tourists visited Algarve in 2024, a 2.6% increase from 2023
The region has 193,100 tourism employees and 670 tourist establishments
Revenue reached €1.7 billion, a 7.3% increase from last year
Algarve Airport served 9.8 million passengers, aiming for 10 million by 2025
20.7 million overnight stays recorded, with a 5% increase in low-season stays compared to 2019
Algarve's Tourism Boom in 2024
The Algarve region has welcomed 5.2 million tourists in 2024, marking a 2.6% increase compared to 2023. This achievement solidifies Algarve's status as Portugal's top tourist destination, as highlighted by André Gomes, president of Algarve Tourism, during the BTL – Better Tourism Lisbon Travel Market.
Currently, the region employs 193,100 people in the tourism sector, boasts 670 tourist establishments, 43,700 local accommodations, 115,800 beds, and 1,454 entertainment companies.
Record-Breaking Year
After a record-breaking 2023, the Algarve has further solidified its position, generating €1.7 billion in revenue (+7.3% from 2023) and recording over 1.5 million rounds of golf played (+5%). The Algarve Airport served 9.8 million passengers, a 2% increase from the previous year, with expectations to reach 10 million passengers by 2025.
Increased Overnight Stays
The region recorded 20.7 million overnight stays and 60 million since the post-pandemic period (2022-2024). The UK, Germany, and Ireland remain the primary markets, with a notable 5% increase in low-season stays compared to 2019. Gomes emphasized this growth as a testament to their efforts to reduce seasonality, stating, "the region has grown more in the low season than in the high."
Between January and April 2024, tourist numbers grew by 16% compared to 2023, while the previous year saw a 1.3% increase in Portuguese guests and a 3% rise in foreign guests, countering the narrative that Algarve is not a destination for locals.
New Trends and Market Opportunities
Despite shorter stays, these align with current travel trends, as visitors prefer to explore multiple destinations. The year has been the most profitable ever for tourist accommodation. The UK remains a significant market for Algarve's operations and connectivity.
A new direct route from Algarve to New York launching in May is seen as a promising opportunity to tap into this market's potential.
Celebrating 55 Years of Algarve Tourism
On March 18, Algarve Tourism will celebrate its 55th anniversary with a conference titled “Algarve Tourism: Overcoming Challenges, Building Tomorrow” at the EPIC SANA Algarve Hotel in Albufeira. The event will bring together experts and leaders to discuss strategies for a more competitive and sustainable future, alongside a diverse calendar of 55 events from March 18 to September 27, 2025. These will include conferences, cultural activities, sports, and gastronomic events, showcasing Algarve's rich tourism offerings.
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