Travel and tourism in Portugal - statistics & facts
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Mild winters, hot summer temperatures, and a diverse offering of coastal and mountain destinations have turned Portugal into an ideal holiday spot in Europe – so much so that, in 2022, the country was among the best European destinations to visit by car based, among other factors, on its weather, safety, affordability, and landmarks.
The Portuguese tourism sector faced severe challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, when its balance of payments, which shows the difference between the inflows and outflows from international tourism, diminished by more than 60 percent in 2020. Nevertheless, this sector emerged from the pandemic even stronger, generating 32.7 billion euros in sales in 2022, more than ever before.
The role of tourism in the Portuguese economy
When thinking of Portugal, it is impossible not to think of its white sand beaches, clear blue skies, and golden cliffs. The grandiosity of the natural beauty of the country explains why Portugal remained among the top three most tourism-dependent countries in the European Union in 2022.The Portuguese tourism sector faced severe challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, when its balance of payments, which shows the difference between the inflows and outflows from international tourism, diminished by more than 60 percent in 2020. Nevertheless, this sector emerged from the pandemic even stronger, generating 32.7 billion euros in sales in 2022, more than ever before.
