The demand for summer holidays abroad is reaching record levels and is leading many Portuguese people to leave the Algarve for cheaper beach destinations, such as the Caribbean and Tunisia, in a context marked by inflation and international instability. Even with the increase in the cost of living, data indicates that traveling continues to be a priority for families, who prefer to adjust their destination rather than give up vacations.
According to , sales of tourist packages increased by 5% compared to 2025 and have accumulated an increase of 20% in the last two years, reaching a new historical record. This growth comes at a time when the war in the Middle East is impacting energy prices and costs associated with travel.
Budget remains unchanged, destiny changes
Data from the National Association of Travel Agencies shows that the average value of reservations for the summer is around 1,500 euros, remaining in line with the previous year. According to the same source, consumers are not cutting back on vacations, but are opting for destinations that fit their available budget.
The entry of more foreign tourists into Portugal, driven by the diversion of tourist flows from the Middle East, is increasing pressure on prices, especially in the Algarve. The newspaper writes that this reality could keep many Portuguese people away from holidays in the national territory.
Millions of tourists change routes
The sector estimates that millions of tourists who would normally travel to the Middle East are now choosing alternative destinations in Europe. According to the same source, this deviation was already felt during Easter and should continue to influence the summer. Given this scenario, destinations such as the Caribbean and Tunisia stand out as more accessible alternatives compared to the south of Portugal. The publication adds that these places have been consolidating themselves as preferred options among the Portuguese.
Despite inflation, tour packages continue to have relatively stable prices, as they were contracted in advance. Many of these deals are made up to a year in advance, protecting consumers from recent volatility.
Traveling on your own becomes more expensive
Those who choose to organize their holidays independently face higher costs, especially in terms of flights. The same source mentions that air travel prices have increased by around 7% in Europe and up to 15% on long-haul routes. Among the most sought after destinations, Brazil appears as a growing alternative, with significant demand from the Portuguese. Cape Verde continues to lead in the medium-haul segment, remaining one of the best-selling destinations.
International instability is also leading many travelers to postpone or change plans to regions most affected by conflict. According to the same source, trips to the Middle East and parts of Asia are being rescheduled for the end of the year. With some options off the tourist radar, other destinations are viable alternatives for summer holidays. Diário de Notícias indicates that Mexico and the Dominican Republic are capturing part of this demand, functioning as natural substitutes.
Pattern that repeats itself in times of crisis
Consumer behavior is not unprecedented and has been observed in previous periods of economic instability. Travel remains a priority, second only to essential needs. Even with the widespread rise in prices, the tourism sector continues to demonstrate resilience and adaptability.
The data points to consistent demand, supported by consumers’ flexibility in choosing destinations. The summer of 2026 should be marked by more calculated decisions, with the Portuguese favoring destinations that offer a better relationship between price and experience. In a scenario of pressured prices in the Algarve, the trend is clear: change geography without giving up your vacation.
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