Jul 03, 2026 • 08:00
TAP Adds Lisbon–Athens and Porto–Terceira Routes from July 2026
Summer Network Expansion Strengthens European and Island Connectivity
TAP Air Portugal has launched two new routes from 1 July 2026 as part of its summer network expansion. A new Porto–Terceira service operates four weekly frequencies via Airbus A320neo, improving access to the Azores from the north of Portugal. The Lisbon–Athens route, starting 2 July with five weekly flights, opens direct connectivity between Portugal and Greece for the first time under this schedule. Both routes reflect growing leisure demand during peak summer season.
Jun 25, 2026 • 14:00
Alentejo and Comporta Emerge as Europe's New Eco-Luxury Corridor
Low-Density Development Model Attracts Premium International Operators
Alentejo is consolidating its position as one of Europe's most closely managed luxury tourism zones, with development focused on restored estates, vineyard properties, and rural heritage assets rather than mass resort construction. Comporta has been designated a high-value eco-luxury zone with strict dune protection and controlled construction codes, while Melides is gaining recognition as an ultra-luxury retreat destination defined by privacy and landscape integration. International operators are increasingly positioning both areas as premium alternatives to saturated Mediterranean coastal destinations.
Jun 03, 2026 • 09:00
Portugal's Tourism Spending Hits New Highs in Early 2026
UK and US Visitors Drive Revenue Growth Across Lisbon, Porto and Algarve
International tourism spending in Portugal reached record levels in the opening months of 2026, driven primarily by strong demand from British and American visitors. The growth reflects Portugal's sustained ability to attract high-value travelers seeking cultural richness, gastronomy, and authentic experiences within a competitive European price point. Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve continue to lead in visitor expenditure, while emerging regions such as the Alentejo and the Douro Valley show accelerating interest from premium market segments.
May 28, 2026 • 15:00
Portugal 2025 Tourism Figures Confirm Shift in How Visitors Discover Destinations
Digital Planning Tools, Short-Form Video and Review Platforms Reshape Pre-Trip Behaviour
Analysis of 2025 visitor data reveals a significant shift in how international tourists research and book Portugal trips, with travelers increasingly arriving with restaurants saved on mapping apps, accommodations compared across multiple platforms, and activities pre-booked online. The change affects how tourism operators and DMCs communicate with potential clients, with short-form video content and verified reviews playing a growing role in destination selection. Portugal's strong performance in user-generated content platforms is seen as a competitive advantage for attracting younger high-value segments.
May 10, 2026 • 11:00
Comporta Sand Resort Opens in Protected Pine Forest
New Property Targets Families, Couples and Exclusive Events Market
Sand Comporta has opened in the Comporta pine forest, positioning itself as a larger and more versatile evolution of the area's boutique hospitality offer. The property features villas and suites with architecture inspired by traditional Comporta cabanas, using natural materials, minimal volumes, and optimal airflow within a low-density pine forest setting. The resort is designed to serve three distinct guest profiles — families, couples, and groups seeking exclusive event spaces — in line with Comporta's strict environmental and construction codes.
Apr 30, 2026 • 09:00
Resident Tourist Trips in Portugal Rise 13.7% to Record High in 2025
Domestic Tourism Growth Supports Regional Diversification Strategy
Tourist trips made by Portuguese residents reached a record high in 2025, rising 13.7% compared to the previous year, according to data released in late April 2026. The figures support the national strategy to develop tourism beyond the traditional Lisbon, Porto, and Algarve circuit, with inland and rural destinations benefiting from growing domestic demand. Turismo de Portugal has committed €17 million across 22 contracted tourism projects nationwide to support this regional diversification.
Apr 17, 2026 • 11:00
Portugal Invests in Inland Tourism to Reduce Coastal Pressure
New Projects and Infrastructure Target Visitors Away from Saturated Destinations
Portugal is increasing investment in inland tourism infrastructure as part of a deliberate strategy to redistribute visitor flows from congested coastal areas. The initiative targets regions such as the Alentejo interior, Trás-os-Montes, and the Beiras, promoting nature-based and cultural experiences for both domestic and international audiences. Tourism authorities have contracted 22 projects totalling €17 million, with a focus on accommodation development, trail infrastructure, and local experience programming.
Apr 08, 2026 • 09:30
Delta Air Lines Launches Direct Porto–JFK Route
New Transatlantic Connection Opens North American Market to Northern Portugal
Delta Air Lines has inaugurated a direct route between Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, launching in May 2026. The route is part of Porto Airport's plan to introduce 21 new routes in 2026, with a clear focus on expanding long-haul and transatlantic connectivity. The Porto–JFK service is expected to significantly increase North American visitor flows to the north of Portugal and the Douro Valley region.
Apr 02, 2026 • 16:00
Porto Airport Announces 21 New Routes for Summer 2026
Expanded Connectivity Includes Long-Haul, Cape Verde and North African Destinations
Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport will introduce 21 new routes during the summer 2026 season, according to ANA Aeroportos/Vinci Airports. Highlights include the new Delta Air Lines Porto–JFK transatlantic service launched in May, EasyJet routes to Cape Verde serving São Vicente, Boa Vista, and Praia, TAP's new regular service to Praia launching in June, and a Ryanair route to Rabat in Morocco. The expansion reinforces Porto's growing role as a diversified international gateway and is expected to increase visitor volumes to northern Portugal and the Douro Valley throughout the season.
Mar 30, 2026 • 14:00
M&I Flagship Algarve 2026 to Take Place at Pine Cliffs Resort in October
MICE Event Brings UK and EU Buyers to Portugal for Pre-Scheduled Meetings
M&I Forums has confirmed that M&I Flagship Algarve 2026 will be held at Pine Cliffs Resort, a Luxury Collection property, from 4 to 7 October 2026. The event brings together selected UK and EU MICE buyers and suppliers for 40 pre-scheduled one-to-one meetings, networking dinners, and destination experiences. Pine Cliffs Resort offers 2,184 square metres of adaptable indoor event space across 13 rooms with capacity for up to 1,000 guests, plus outdoor terraces and beach access.
Mar 25, 2026 • 10:45
Portugal Rolls Out EES Biometric App
Digital Transformation at Borders to Speed Up Entry
Portugal has become the second EU country to adopt the "Travel to Europe" app for the Entry/Exit System (EES). The app allows third-country travelers to pre-register biometrics, aiming to reduce the massive 7-hour queues previously seen at Lisbon Airport. The full rollout is scheduled for completion by mid-April 2026.
Mar 24, 2026 • 16:00
Feel Group launches DMC to strengthen integrated tourism offer
New brand "Feel Essence DMC" focuses on authentic experiences and corporate market.
The Feel Group announced the launch of Feel Essence DMC, a new brand dedicated to the development and management of tourist experiences in Portugal, aimed at the international market and the corporate segment. The new Destination Management Company (DMC) integrates the group’s strategy to consolidate an integrated service offering in the hospitality and tourism sector. According to Nuno Trigo, co-founder and co-CEO of Feel Group, the creation of Feel Essence DMC complements a path initiated several years ago to build an integrated offer by destination and region, based on the concept of "vertical hospitality" that integrates mobility, accommodation, events, services, and experiences. The launch was marked during the Lisbon Tourism Exchange (BTL).
Mar 21, 2026 • 18:30
Middle East Conflict Shifts UK Demand to Portugal
WTTC Reports Increased Interest in Western Mediterranean
According to Publituris, the ongoing Middle East conflict has led to the cancellation of 24,000 flights in that region. This disruption is favoring Portugal as a safe-haven destination, with British travelers redirecting their bookings to the Algarve and Madeira for the 2026 spring/summer season.
Mar 21, 2026 • 17:03
Tourism Revenues Grow 3% in Early 2026
Banco de Portugal Data Shows Positive Start to the Year
Tourism receipts in Portugal grew by 3% in January 2026 compared to the previous year. Despite a global slowdown in imports, Portugal maintains a strong competitive position in the Mediterranean basin against emerging destinations like Albania and Montenegro.
Mar 21, 2026 • 14:03
Portugal Launches Nature Exploration App
Digital Guide for Sustainable Tourism and Hiking
A new official application has been launched to promote sustainable nature tourism across Portugal. The app provides real-time information on hiking trails, birdwatching spots, and eco-friendly accommodation, supporting the 2030 Climate Action Agenda for Tourism.
Mar 20, 2026 • 08:30
Easter Travel Warning Issued for UK Tourists
Strikes and National Terrorism Alert Level 3 in Portugal
The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for Portugal ahead of Easter 2026. Travelers are warned of ongoing industrial action at AIMA and the Institute of Registries and Notaries, which may cause delays in public services and transport. A Level 3 national terrorism alert remains in place for the holiday season.
Mar 19, 2026 • 09:00
Hyatt Debuts Masana Algarve Resort
Luxury Wellness Retreat Opens in Olhos de Água
Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the opening of Masana Algarve, the first Destination by Hyatt branded resort in Portugal. Located in Olhos de Água, Albufeira, the resort focuses on wellness and coastal living, featuring high-end villas and apartments with panoramic sea views. This marks a significant expansion for Hyatt, aiming to triple its room count in Portugal by 2027.
Mar 18, 2026 • 10:00
ALTS UK & EU Luxury Travel Show Confirms Lisbon for September 2026
Event Connects Luxury Hospitality Brands with European Travel Designers
The Access Luxury Travel Show (ALTS) UK & EU has confirmed Lisbon as the host city for its September 28–30, 2026 edition. The event is designed to connect luxury hospitality brands with hand-picked travel designers from the UK, Scandinavia, France, Southern Europe, and Switzerland, through a format of pre-scheduled one-to-one meetings, networking dinners, and curated local experiences. DMCs are listed as a core exhibitor profile, making the event a significant commercial opportunity for Portugal-based destination management companies.
Mar 17, 2026 • 16:00
ALTS UK & EU luxury travel show to take place in Lisbon
The event will bring together luxury hospitality brands and European travel designers from September 28-30, 2026.
Lisbon will host the ALTS (Access Luxury Travel Show) UK & EU from September 28 to 30, 2026. The event is designed to bring together exceptional luxury hospitality brands and hand-picked European travel designers from the UK, Scandinavia, France, Southern Europe, and Switzerland. Over 2.5 days, the format includes pre-scheduled 1:1 meetings, networking dinners, and local experiences. The event explicitly lists Destination Management Companies (DMCs) as part of the exhibitor profile, making it a key gathering for the luxury tourism sector in Portugal.
Mar 15, 2026 • 09:00
Andaz Lisbon Opens in Baixa District
Hyatt Lifestyle Brand Makes Portugal Debut with 170-Room Property
Andaz Lisbon has officially opened its doors on Rua do Comércio, marking the brand's first property in Portugal. The 170-room hotel occupies a former banking headquarters in the heart of Baixa, with interiors designed by Studio Urquiola that blend azulejo references and Atlantic light into a contemporary register. The property features a rooftop restaurant and terrace, the Andaz Lounge inspired by Lisbon's traditional kiosk culture, and original artwork by local and international artists throughout.
Mar 10, 2026 • 15:00
MACAM Hotel Opens Inside 18th-Century Palace in Belém
Art Museum Hotel Concept Debuts in Lisbon with Contemporary Portuguese Collection
MACAM has opened in Belém, occupying three floors of an 18th-century palace connected to a contemporary building via an internal atrium. The property functions simultaneously as a hotel and an art museum, with rooms, terraces, and common areas displaying works by contemporary Portuguese and international artists. The concept positions MACAM as one of Lisbon's most distinctive accommodation offerings, combining cultural immersion with hospitality in one of the city's most heritage-rich districts.
Mar 09, 2026 • 07:00
Holy Week in Braga Expected to Break Attendance Records
Religious Tourism Peak from March 29 to April 5
Braga’s Holy Week (Semana Santa) is set to be one of the largest religious events of the year. The city expects record numbers for its Baroque processions and medieval rituals. DMC operators are reporting high demand for cultural packages during this period.
Mar 06, 2026 • 10:00
Óbidos International Chocolate Festival Underway
Medieval Town Becomes Gastronomic Hub Until March 22
The annual Óbidos International Chocolate Festival is currently attracting thousands of visitors with live sculpting, workshops, and traditional Alentejo pork pairings. The event is a key driver for domestic and international leisure tourism in the central region.
Mar 05, 2026 • 12:00
Mythic Sana Opens All-Suites Boutique Hotel in Lisbon's Baixa
Restored Pombaline Building Houses New Fine Dining Concept Black Moon
Mythic Sana has opened in a restored 18th-century Pombaline-style building in the Baixa district, offering an all-suites format designed to feel more like a private apartment than a conventional hotel. The property includes the Black Moon fine dining concept, featuring a tasting menu with cocktail, wine, and champagne pairings, alongside butler service throughout. The opening reflects continued investment in premium boutique hospitality in Lisbon's historic centre.
Mar 05, 2026 • 11:00
Turismo de Portugal Extends Emergency Housing Program
"O Turismo Acolhe" Extended Until March 31, 2026
Turismo de Portugal has extended the "O Turismo Acolhe" program to support populations displaced by storm Kristin. Over 123 tourism establishments have joined the initiative, providing more than 900 accommodation units for emergency housing and recovery teams.
Mar 03, 2026 • 16:00
Gray Dawes Events highlights Lisbon as exceptional host for Global DMC Partners Connection 2026
Event manager shares insights on venues like Epic Sana and SUD Lisboa after attending January conference.
Gray Dawes Events published a detailed recap of the Global DMC Partners Connection 2026, held in Lisbon from January 8-11, 2026. The event brought together leading DMCs from across the globe. The report highlights Lisbon as an exceptional host destination, perfect for incentive programs and mid-to-large conferences. It praises the EPIC SANA Lisboa, awarded Portugal’s Leading Conference Hotel, and the riverside venue SUD Lisboa for gala dinners, providing valuable insights for the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry in Portugal.
Feb 26, 2026 • 16:00
Portugal's Tourism Schools win "Best Training in Tourism" award at Publituris Portugal Trade Awards
The Turismo de Portugal (Tourism of Portugal) Schools were distinguished with the award for Best Training in Tourism at the "Portugal Trade Awards by Publituris @BTL 2026," a ceremony that took place on February 25, as part of BTL - Better Tourism Lisbon Travel Market. The award recognizes the work developed in qualifying professionals for the tourism sector. In the same event, awards were given for Best DMC, Best Hotel Management Company, and Personality of the Year, awarded to Lídia Monteiro, a board member of Turismo de Portugal.
Feb 18, 2026 • 14:00
Hyatt Regency Vilamoura Opens Near Marina and Golf Courses
250-Room Resort Strengthens Algarve's Premium Offer for Groups and Incentives
Hyatt Regency Vilamoura Algarve has opened in the Vilamoura area, offering over 250 rooms and suites with direct access to championship golf courses and the renowned marina. The property includes multiple dining venues, expansive outdoor areas, and flexible meeting and event spaces, reinforcing Vilamoura's position as a leading MICE and incentive destination in southern Portugal.
Jan 20, 2026 • 14:00
Mercan Properties to Open Two Hilton Hotels in 2026
New Investments in Porto and Lisbon Total €81 Million
Mercan Properties Group confirmed the 2026 opening of "The 6th Bridge, Tapestry Collection by Hilton" in Porto and "DoubleTree by Hilton Lisbon Airport". The Porto project involves an investment of €7.6M, while the Lisbon airport property represents €73.5M, strengthening the upscale hospitality offer in both major hubs.
Jan 15, 2026 • 09:00
Lisbon Named Europe's Best City Break Destination for Sixth Time
World Travel Awards Recognition Reinforces Capital's Global Positioning
Lisbon has been awarded the title of Europe's Best City Break Destination at the 2025 World Travel Awards, marking the sixth time the Portuguese capital has received the distinction. The recognition reflects sustained international interest in the city as a cultural, gastronomic, and lifestyle destination, supported by a wave of new hotel and restaurant openings and a growing events calendar. Industry operators report continued strong advance bookings for group and incentive programs in Lisbon through the end of 2026.
Jan 12, 2026 • 16:00
Turismo de Portugal opens registrations for key international trade fairs
IMEX Frankfurt, ITB China, and Arabian Travel Market have registration deadlines in early 2026.
Turismo de Portugal (Tourism of Portugal) has announced the opening of registrations for the national participation in several major international trade fairs. Key events for DMCs and the MICE segment include IMEX Frankfurt (May 19-21), with registration opening February 12, and ITB China (May 26-28), with registration opening February 10. The organization also detailed the schedule for ILTM Latin America and the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai. New participation fees for fairs organized by Turismo de Portugal will be applied in 2026.
Jan 06, 2026 • 16:00
Lisbon hosts Global DMC Partners Connection 2026 convention
The event gathered 90 international buyers and DMCs from various countries at the Epic Sana Lisboa.
Lisbon hosted the annual Connection 2026 convention, promoted by Global DMC Partners, from January 8 to 10, 2026. The event, held at the Epic Sana Lisboa hotel, brought together 90 international buyers, including event agencies and collaborators from major multinationals mostly from the United States and Europe, and DMC companies from various countries. The opening session featured Carlos Abade, president of Turismo de Portugal. The program addressed key trends, the future of artificial intelligence, and analyzed the MICE industry.
Jan 04, 2026 • 16:00
Turismo de Portugal participates in ILTM Latin America 2026
The event in São Paulo is the largest luxury tourism fair in Latin America.
Turismo de Portugal is organizing the national participation in ILTM Latin America, taking place in São Paulo from May 4 to 7, 2026. The event is the largest luxury tourism fair in Latin America, bringing together around 350 luxury segment brands. The B2B format involves over 18,000 business meetings between hotels, airlines, and DMCs, with the presence of professionals from more than 60 countries. Participation is by selection, with Turismo de Portugal negotiating a discount on 30 meeting tables for Portuguese companies.
Dec 18, 2025 • 16:00
Emotionstore DMC collaborates on logistics for Global DMC Partners convention
Group Embrace's unit helped coordinate the major international event in Lisbon.
The Embrace Group, through its unit Emotionstore DMC, collaborated on the logistics coordination for the Global DMC Partners Connection 2026 convention in Lisbon. Frédéric Frère, co-founder & group leader of Embrace, emphasized the importance of the event for Portugal, reinforcing the country's positioning as an excellence destination for the Meetings & Events industry. The convention took place from January 8-10 at the Epic Sana Lisboa, with around 90 international buyers and various DMC companies participating.
Dec 12, 2025 • 16:00
Portugal strengthens presence in China with ITB China 2026
Turismo de Portugal opens 17 spots for national companies to participate in Shanghai.
Turismo de Portugal announced the opening of registrations for ITB China 2026, to be held in Shanghai from May 26-28. The fair is the largest outbound tourism business fair in the world's largest tourist-emitting market. Registration for the 17 available spots opened on February 10. The event is crucial for Portuguese DMCs and tourism companies looking to attract the Chinese market, one of the most relevant for luxury and business tourism.
Nov 28, 2025 • 16:00
IMEX Frankfurt 2026 opens registrations for Portuguese DMCs and MICE specialists
Turismo de Portugal will organize the national participation with 64 spots for specialized companies.
The registration period for Portuguese companies to participate in IMEX Frankfurt 2026 opened on February 12. Turismo de Portugal will organize the national participation at the fair, which will take place from May 19-21. A total of 64 spots were made available for companies that demonstrably operate in the MICE segment, including DMCs, PCOs (Professional Conference Organizers), Event Planners, Venues, and Hotels. The fair is one of the main events globally dedicated to business tourism.