U.S. Tourists outspend Spaniards and French in Portugal

In the first half of 2024, the influx of tourists from the United States to Portugal revealed a notable trend. American visitors were responsible for spending more than their Spanish and French counterparts.

Significant increase in american tourist spending

According to data from Banco de Portugal, compiled by PressTUR, tourists from the United States were the third largest group of spenders in Portugal, with a total of €1.264 billion. This figure represents a substantial increase of 18.4% or €196.68 million compared to the same period last year.

However, the British continue to lead the list of top spenders in Portugal, with a total of €1.760 billion. German tourists hold the second position, with spending reaching €1.343 billion. After American tourists are the French visitors, who spent €1.157 billion, followed by the Spaniards, with a total of €1.100 billion.

Change in spending rankings

In the first half of 2023, French tourists were in third place in the ranking of highest spenders in Portugal, with €1.134 billion, while Spanish tourists were in fourth place, with €1.088 billion. At that time, U.S. Tourists outspend Spaniards and French, with spending of €1.067 billion.

The significant growth in American tourist spending can be attributed to a notable increase in their expenditures, as opposed to a decrease in spending by other groups. U.S. tourists showed the highest percentage increase, with a growth of 18.4%. In comparison, British tourists increased their spending by 9.4%, Germans by 11.1%, French by 2%, and Spaniards by 1.1%.

Recent spending and trends

The data shows that in the first half of this year, U.S. Tourists outspend Spaniards and French by €196.68 million more than last year. In contrast, British tourists increased their spending by €151.69 million, Germans by €134.64 million, while French and Spanish tourists had more modest increases of €23.24 million and €11.98 million, respectively.

In addition to tourists from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany, other groups also showed significant increases in their spending in Portugal. Visitors from Brazil, Ireland, and the Netherlands stood out with spending increases of €85 million, €58.8 million, and €58.28 million, respectively. Switzerland, Angola, and Belgium also showed notable increases.

U.S. tourists are emerging as a growing and influential group in Portuguese tourism, surpassing both Spaniards and French in terms of spending. This increase reflects a continued rise in American interest in Portugal, suggesting a positive trend for the Portuguese tourism sector. As the market evolves, it’s crucial for marketing and hospitality strategies to be adjusted to meet this demand and ensure that Portugal continues to attract visitors from around the world.

Source: Presstur