Portugal is experiencing a tourism boom, with record numbers of visitors flocking to cities like Lisbon and Porto. However, this surge in tourism has led to the issues of overtourism, with locals struggling to find affordable housing, public transport systems becoming overwhelmed, and public services strained. In response to this, the Portuguese government is encouraging travellers to look beyond the popular tourist destinations and explore lesser-known regions like North Central Portugal and the Douro Valley.
Lisbon has been particularly affected by overtourism, with rents and house prices skyrocketing as residential properties are converted to short-term rentals. The city’s public transport system is also struggling to cope with the influx of tourists, making commuting difficult for residents. Porto, a city with a much smaller population, has also seen a significant increase in overnight stays, prompting officials to ban new short-term rentals in busy areas and focus on urban regeneration in neglected quarters.
The Portuguese government’s tourism plan for 2020-2035 aims to shift the focus from crowded cities to more sustainable, less-visited regions like the Douro Valley. This World Heritage Site offers visitors a chance to explore one of the world’s oldest wine regions and support local winemaking traditions. By encouraging slower, high-spend tourism in regional areas like the Douro Valley, Portugal hopes to ease the pressure on cities like Lisbon and Porto while promoting sustainable growth in rural communities.
North Central Portugal is another region highlighted as a destination for travellers looking to explore Portugal’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Cities like Coimbra and villages like Sortelha offer a glimpse into Portugal’s past, with historic architecture and traditional cafes providing an authentic experience away from the crowds. The government’s initiative to draw travellers to lesser-known regions aims to create new, friendly experiences across the country while preserving local culture and landscapes.
Supporting rural economies and preserving cultural heritage are key components of Portugal’s new tourism strategy. By spending time and money in places like the Douro Valley and North Central Portugal, visitors can directly contribute to the local community and help sustain traditional industries like winemaking. Initiatives in these less-visited areas allow travellers to engage meaningfully with Portugal’s culture while supporting environmental conservation efforts, such as adopting organic practices in vineyards and promoting low-impact tourism in national parks like Peneda-Gerês. Sustainable tourism is not just a buzzword in Portugal; it is a tangible way to protect the country’s natural and cultural resources for future generations.
