The Algarve was the only region in the country to show a decline in the net bed occupancy rate in November 2024, according to data released by the National Statistics Institute (). Despite the general increase in overnight stays in Portugal, which grew 4.1% between January and November, and 9.8% in November alone, the Algarve recorded a drop of 0.8 percentage points in the bed occupancy rate, standing at 27.1%.
The Algarve recorded a 3.5% increase in overnight stays in November, one of the lowest increases nationally. However, the region remains the destination of choice, with one of the longest average stays in the country, at 3.47 nights, surpassed only by Madeira (4.66 nights). This indicator reflects the preference for longer stays, especially by non-resident tourists.
The British and German markets continue to be the main issuers for the Algarve. However, the French market, traditionally relevant, recorded a drop of 3.6%, which may have contributed to the lower occupancy rate in the region.
National trends contrast with the Algarve
At a national level, the month of November saw a significant increase in overnight stays by residents (+22.2%) and a more modest increase in overnight stays by non-residents (+4.6%). Regions such as Centro (+24.6%) and Península de Setúbal (+19.3%) stood out for the biggest growth in bed occupancy.
On the other hand, Madeira had the highest rate (63.5%), while the Algarve was among the lowest, just above Alentejo (26.3%).
Trends and challenges
The British market continued to be the main source of tourists to Portugal, representing 14.7% of total overnight stays in November. However, the French market, which traditionally also has weight in the Algarve, recorded a drop of 3.6%.
With the increase in overnight stays and the decline in the occupancy rate, the Algarve faces the challenge of maximizing the use of its tourist establishments, especially outside the high season.
Also read:
