Tourism in 2024: WTTC predicts highlights in Portugal

Projections indicate that Portugal will have a historic year for the tourism sector, breaking visitor records

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Tourism in Portugal is about to experience a historic year, as revealed by the Economic Impact Report released by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). According to the data in collaboration with Oxford Economics, the tourism sector is standing out as one of the country's main economic drivers, with an estimated contribution of more than 54 million euros by 2024.

The report predicts an impressive increase of 24.3% compared to the figures for 2019, before the pandemic, further consolidating the importance of tourism for the Portuguese economy. This growth projects the sector to account for approximately 20% of the national economy, highlighting its crucial role in generating jobs and the country's financial turnover.

In addition, tourism is expected to generate 1.14 million jobs in the country, an increase of 126,000 compared to 2019. This means that 23% of the Portuguese labour force is directly or indirectly linked to tourism.

Spending by international tourists is also expected to reach 30.7 million euros and by native Portuguese tourists 17.9 million euros in 2024.

Compared to the previous year, travelling in the country generated an 8.6% higher contribution, with 52 million euros, which corresponds to 19.6% of the total economic performance in 2023. International tourists spent around 29.6 million euros, 9.2% more than in 2019. Portuguese travellers spent 17.2 million euros.

Positive outlook for the future of tourism in Portugal

The WTTC has also projected extensive growth for the next ten years in Portugal. According to the report, by 2034 tourism should contribute around 66.5 million euros to Portugal's economy, an increase of 22.4% of the total economy.

This will also generate jobs for approximately 1.4 million people in the country, which represents one in four workers in the tourism sector.

Highlights of tourism in Portugal

In addition to the expected economic growth, other aspects of tourism in Portugal are also worth highlighting. The country is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes and unique gastronomy, making it an attractive destination for travellers from all over the world.

The diversity of experiences on offer, from cosmopolitan cities to picture-postcard villages and beaches, contributes to Portugal's popularity as a tourist destination and the country's positive reputation on the international stage.

Most travellers, as soon as they decide buy airline tickets to Portugal, you'll already be planning your accommodation, your sightseeing itinerary and everything you're going to do in the country, so you don't miss out on any of the countless unique opportunities it has to offer.

The future of tourism worldwide

According to the World Travel & Tourism Council's (WTTC) 2024 Economic Impact Report, tourism will add 11 billion dollars to the global GDP this year.

By 2033, the sector is expected to account for more than 11.6% of the world economy, which is equivalent to an increase of 50% compared to 2019.