President of the Government praises "remarkable increase" in overnight stays and guests in the Azores - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, expressed today his satisfaction at the "remarkable increase" in the number of overnight stays and guests in the Region. He highlighted them as positive indicators of the tourism potential of the Azores and the strengthening of their position as a destination for those looking for authentic experiences and stunning nature.

"The significant increase in the number of overnight stays and guests is a positive sign of the continued growth of tourism in the Azores, reflecting our dedication to providing visitors with unique and authentic experiences," says José Manuel Bolieiro.

According to the data revealed today by the Azores Regional Statistics Service (SREA), the Region recorded a total of 3.8 million overnight stays and 1.2 million guests in 2023, representing an increase of 15.1% and 14.8%, respectively, compared to the previous year.

This is the highest figure since tourism data began to be collected in the Azores in 2001.

José Manuel Bolieiro also reiterated his optimism regarding the future of tourism in the Azores and expressed confidence in the ongoing tourism development strategy, which will take the Region to new heights of success - always with sustainability as its motto.

In the hospitality sector, the islands registering a positive year-on-year change in overnight stays in December were: Corvo (92.3%), Graciosa (68.8%), Terceira (14.5%), Flores (10.3%), Santa Maria (7.2%) and Faial (1.2%).

In terms of local accommodation, the islands that registered a positive year-on-year change in overnight stays in December were: Santa Maria (131.8%), Graciosa (120.0%) and Flores (58.1%).

As for rural tourism, 140,700 overnight stays were recorded in 2023, an increase of 36.0% compared to the previous year, and 42,400 guests, corresponding to an annual increase of 29.7%.

It should be noted that foreign markets accounted for 55,700 overnight stays (46.2%), 0.5% less than in the same period last year.

The United States of America was the main market, with 10,400 overnight stays (18.7% of overnight stays from residents abroad) and year-on-year growth of 19.5%, followed by Spain with 9,300 overnight stays (16.8%) and Germany with 8,600 overnight stays (15.4%).

Canada was the market that grew the most compared to December 2022 (38%), followed by Norway (33.6%).