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US, Spain, And Germany Lead The Charge In Azores Tourism, Driving Major Boost For Portugal’s Tourism Industry
Friday, May 23, 2025
The Azores is increasingly becoming a key player in Portugal’s booming tourism sector, with international visitors from the US, Spain, and Germany leading the charge. According to the latest data from the Sustainable Tourism Observatory of the Azores, these three countries account for a significant portion of foreign tourists flocking to the archipelago, driven by its unique natural beauty, reputation for sustainability, and emerging global appeal. This influx not only boosts the Azores’ local economy but also strengthens Portugal’s overall tourism industry, positioning the country as a sought-after destination for eco-conscious and adventure-seeking travelers from around the world.
Azores Continues to Attract Global Tourists, with Rising Satisfaction and Opportunities for Growth
The Azores, a picturesque group of islands nestled in the Atlantic Ocean, is experiencing a steady increase in international tourism. Recent figures from the Sustainable Tourism Observatory of the Azores reveal that the United States (21.23%), Spain (20.84%), and Germany (20.71%) are the top countries contributing to the growing influx of visitors to the archipelago. These numbers highlight the region’s appeal as a popular destination for travelers from across the globe.
The findings, part of the Satisfaction Survey of Tourists Visiting the Azores – High Season 2024, provide valuable insights into the motivations and spending habits of tourists visiting the islands. The survey reveals that word-of-mouth recommendations from family and friends (29.74%) are the leading source of inspiration for tourists deciding to visit the Azores. The internet follows closely behind as a key factor (14.48%), with previous visits (8.31%) and social media (7.86%) also playing a significant role in drawing people to the islands.
Beyond these, a number of other factors contribute to the Azores’ growing popularity. A significant portion of tourists (6.10%) find the destination particularly appealing because it is perceived as a safe haven, while 5.45% are attracted to the fact that the Azores remains relatively unknown and less commercialized. The islands’ unique identity as an island destination (4.68%) and a focus on sustainable tourism (4.61%) further enhance its allure for eco-conscious travelers.
The influence of travel agents and operators is also noticeable, with 4.61% of tourists citing their recommendation as a reason for choosing the Azores. Proximity to other European destinations (3.64%) and competitive pricing (3.51%) were also mentioned, along with less prominent factors like promotional material, media advertising, and participation in travel fairs.
Tourist Spending Habits: Accommodation, Food, and Transport
The survey reveals interesting trends in tourist spending within the Azores. A substantial 35% of total spending is directed towards transportation and accommodation, with tourists typically spending over €1,000. Food and dining represent the next largest expenditure, with 57.7% of visitors spending between €200 and €499 on meals during their stay.
Despite the costs associated with travel, the feedback from visitors indicates a high level of satisfaction with the quality of services provided. An impressive 73.2% of tourists were “satisfied or very satisfied” with the price and punctuality of air transport, indicating that the Azores’ connectivity with the world is largely meeting expectations.
When it comes to accommodation, 81.6% of tourists expressed satisfaction with the size and comfort of their lodging, reinforcing the appeal of the Azores as a quality destination for rest and relaxation. In terms of dining, 73.4% of respondents were equally satisfied with the quality of service, suggesting that local restaurants are succeeding in delivering a positive gastronomic experience.
Areas for Improvement: Public Transport, Events, and Signage
While the overall experience for tourists is positive, there are areas where the Azores could improve. Visitors have pointed out the need for better public transportation options, suggesting that expanding and enhancing infrastructure could further improve the accessibility of the islands. Additionally, tourists expressed a desire for a broader range of events, highlighting an opportunity for the region to diversify its offerings and attract more visitors year-round.
Tourists also indicated that improvements in road signage and airport infrastructure would be beneficial. As the number of visitors continues to grow, these enhancements could help streamline travel around the islands and ensure a smoother, more efficient experience for all.
Interest in Returning and Growth in Tourism Numbers
The Azores’ charm is evident in the strong desire for repeat visits. The survey found that 73.3% of tourists expressed interest in returning to the destination, a testament to the lasting impression the islands leave on visitors. This loyalty is an encouraging sign for the region’s tourism sector, suggesting that the Azores is not only attracting new tourists but also building a dedicated base of repeat travelers.
In 2024, the region witnessed a record-breaking performance in its tourism sector. For the first time in history, the Azores recorded over 4.2 million overnight stays, marking a remarkable 27.6% increase compared to 2022. Hotel industry revenues surged by 46%, reaching over €187 million, while rural tourism generated €18 million in revenue, contributing to a total of more than €200 million in tourism income.
This growth is an indication of the Azores’ expanding global presence and its increasing competitiveness on the international tourism stage. As tourism becomes a more significant contributor to the region’s economy, the sector now accounts for approximately 20% of the Gross Added Value, 17% of the GDP, and 17% of regional employment.
Survey Demographics and Global Appeal
The Satisfaction Survey of Tourists Visiting the Azores was based on a sample of 1,550 respondents. Of those, 82.27% were international visitors, while 17.73% were residents of Portugal. This highlights the strong appeal of the Azores not only to domestic tourists but also to visitors from around the world. The survey data is a vital tool for understanding the preferences and behaviors of the islands’ diverse visitor base, providing key insights for future development and marketing strategies.
The Azores is driving growth in Portugal’s tourism sector, with a surge in visitors from the US, Spain, and Germany. The archipelago’s appeal lies in its stunning landscapes, sustainability focus, and rising international recognition.
A Bright Future Ahead
As the Azores continues to grow in popularity, there is no doubt that the region’s tourism sector has a bright future ahead. With its unique combination of natural beauty, sustainability, and safety, the islands are well-positioned to meet the demands of a diverse and ever-growing market. By addressing areas for improvement and leveraging its strengths, the Azores will likely see even greater success in the years to come, ensuring its place as a premier global perfect spot for travelers looking for a blend of adventure and tranquility in a pristine setting.
