Portugal Tourism News
Tiago Brito, Director, Visit Portugal, People’s Republic of China SARS Hong Kong and Macau
Interviewed by Justin Cooke
The Sleep Reset
At a time when the average UK adult sleeps just 6.4 – 6.5 hours per night - well below the NHS-recommended 7–9 hours - a growing number of travellers are seeking more than escape. In Alentejo a tranquil and rural region in southern Portugal known for its slow pace of life, whitewash villages, exceptional wine, and an unspoiled Atlantic coastline, two pioneering properties managed by Amazing Evolution, Sleep & Nature Hotel and Gandum Conscious Hotel, are placing sleep and deep rest at the centre of the travel experience. Through thoughtful design, immersive natural settings, and a different approach to wellbeing, these hotels, just a short distance from Portugal’s capital city Lisbon, are redefining what it means to truly switch off.
Hilton Signs Conrad Meia Praia Algarve, a New Luxury Beachfront Resort in Portugal’s Algarve
Hilton today announced the signing of Conrad Meia Praia Algarve, a new luxury beachfront resort showcasing Conrad Hotels & Resorts’ globally recognised design and experiential ethos in the Algarve when it opens in spring 2027. The project will be developed by the joint-venture between PGIM’s real estate business, Sonae Sierra and Iberian Hospitality Solutions (IHSP) under a franchise agreement – marking its second collaboration with Hilton. The new resort will also include 21 Conrad branded residences.
Algarve Wins Unprecedented Title of World’s Leading Beach Destination for the Fourth Time
The Algarve has been voted World’s Leading Beach Destination 2025 at the World Travel Awards, securing the title for the fourth time and setting an unprecedented record. With this victory, the region becomes the only beach destination in the world to be distinguished in four editions (2020, 2021, 2024 and 2025), surpassing iconic destinations such as the Maldives and the Turks and Caicos Islands, both with three titles. The distinction was announced at the World Travel Awards 2025 ceremony held on the 6th December 2025 in Bahrain.
Lisbon Set for a Standout Year of Music in 2026
Lisbon is gearing up for an exceptional year of music as the 2026 editions of Rock in Rio Lisboa and NOS Alive unveil some of the biggest global names set to perform in the city next summer. Rock in Rio Lisboa returns over the last two weekends of June, 20-21 June and 27-28 June, at Parque Tejo, one of Lisbon’s largest waterfront venues overlooking the Tagus River. The festival has already revealed a standout selection of international headliners.
Lisbon in August: Sunsets and Local Festivities
Lisbon is set to welcome Festas do Mar from 28 August to 7 September 2025 in Cascais, just a 40-minute train ride from the city centre. For ten days, the bay will come alive with free open-air concerts by some of the country’s biggest artists, colourful fireworks over the Atlantic, traditional boat processions honouring Nossa Senhora dos Navegantes, artisan markets and freshly grilled seafood served just steps from the water. Perfectly timed for late-summer travellers, the festivities pair beautifully with Lisbon’s world-famous sunsets, which are at their most captivating during the warmer months. As the heat of the day fades, the skies melt into pink, orange and lilac, casting a golden glow over the River Tagus and the Atlantic coast.
Experience the Best of the Algarve, Portugal: Spectacular Stays and Authentic Culinary Delights Awai
The Algarve in southern Portugal continues to boost its reputation as one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations with an array of refined accommodation and mouth-watering culinary experiences. Visit Algarve share their recommendations of where to stay and experience authenticity, history and ultimate relaxation, plus enjoy the culinary delights the region has to offer.
Exodus Adventure Travels Expands Portugal Portfolio with New Immersive Itineraries
Exodus Adventure Travels Expands Portugal Portfolio with New Immersive Itineraries, the leader in small-group active travel, is expanding its European portfolio with new enriching itineraries across Portugal, driven by a surge in traveler interest. In partnership with Visit Portugal, these thoughtfully crafted itineraries invite adventurers to experience the country’s stunning scenery and lesser-known treasures as curiosity for the destination continues to grow.
Portugal’s Travel & Tourism Sector Enters Golden Era
New data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) reveals Portugal’s Travel & Tourism sector is set to continue growing in 2025, following a landmark year in 2024 that saw the industry surpass all previous peaks across economic contribution, employment, and visitor spending. According to the latest Economic Impact Research (EIR), developed in collaboration with Oxford Economics, Travel & Tourism in Portugal is forecast to contribute €62.7BN to the national economy this year, representing 21.5% of GDP, and towering above the 2019 peak by nearly 38%.
Lisbon Gears Up for a Summer and Autumn of Music, Film and Gaming Festivals
Lisbon is gearing up for a summer and autumn packed with music, film, gaming and cultural festivals. From high-energy concerts and open-air cinema to cutting-edge gaming events and world-class opera, there’s something for every traveller. Here’s the Lisbon Tourism Association’s guide to Lisbon’s can’t-miss experiences in 2025.
Secret Towns, Scenic Trails & Untouched Nature: A Different Algarve Awaits
Escape the extreme heat this summer and immerse yourself in the authentic beauty of the Algarve by visiting lesser known towns, scenic trails and nature in southern Portugal. For a more unspoiled Algarve experience, consider visiting some of the lesser-known towns like Monchique, with its mountains and historical center, Vila Real de Santo António with its 18th century buildings, or Silves, known for its rustic and wild nature.
Lisbon to Host EuroPride 2025
Vibrant and inclusive Lisbon is set to take centre stage next month as it welcomes EuroPride 2025 as a first time host, a landmark international event celebrating LGBTQIA+ rights, diversity and equality. From 14 to 22 June, the nine-day celebration will transform the destination into a beacon of love, freedom and unity.