The Algarve Tourism Region (RTA) estimates that 2026 will be a “pivotal” year, calling for the “combination of efforts” of all stakeholders to ensure that the Algarve remains a reference destination on the international scene.
In a note released this Friday, the entity highlights that “[o ano de] 2026 will be crucial for the Algarve, requiring the combined efforts of all stakeholders to ensure that the region continues to assert itself as an international, innovative and inclusive destination of reference”.
The RTA approved the Activity and Budget Plan for 2026, which foresees a global investment of more than 8.8 million euros, including all planned sources of financing.
According to the same note, “with its unanimous approval, Turismo do Algarve thus reaffirms its commitment to an integrated strategy that values the territory, diversifies the tourist offer, promotes innovation and reinforces the Algarve’s notoriety as a sustainable, competitive destination and aligned with the challenges of the future”.
Among the initiatives planned for 2026, the institution highlights the Iberian Wine Tourism Congress, which reinforces wine tourism as an emerging product; the international conference Fórum Descarbonizar + Algarve, focused on the “sustainability and empowerment” of small and medium-sized companies in the face of energy efficiency challenges; and a new edition of the Algarve Nature Fest, which will be focused on “valuing” the cultural and natural heritage of the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
The RTA will also monitor the evaluation process of the Algarvensis Geopark by UNESCO, the decision of which is scheduled for spring 2026, “highlighting its contribution to the diversification of the tourist offer through the unique geological heritage of the region”.
The entity also indicates that it will work on preparing the application for the new Portugal Events Regional – Algarve incentive system, aimed at attracting and holding strategic events.
In the field of tourism promotion, the company states that 2026 will be marked by the region’s “reinforced presence” at national and Iberian fairs, with emphasis on the Lisbon Tourism Exchange (BTL) 2026, where the Algarve will return to its status as a guest destination, ten years after the last time.
The promotional strategy will also include participation in FITUR (Madrid), B-Travel (Barcelona), Expovacaciones (Bilbao), INTUR and FINE – Wine Tourism Market Place (both in Valladolid), among other fairs considered priority for the Iberian market.
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