Profile of the tourists visiting Porto and the North of Portugal

Abstract

Purpose

This article aims to characterize the profile of non-resident tourists visiting Porto and the North of Portugal and highlights the importance and evolution of tourist flows to the region, taking into account the airport development and the impact of low-cost airlines.

Design/methodology/approach

The article presents and discusses official tourism statistics and the results of on an ongoing survey by Institute for Tourism Planning and Development (IPDT) – Institute of Tourism, conducted at Porto airport on the tourist profile of non-resident tourists to the region.

Findings

The research findings reveal a remarkable growth in Porto and North of Portugal tourism – reflecting notable work over the past few years by tourism industry organizations. The Porto airport upgrade allowed for a new dynamic in the region, opening the door to European tourists via low-cost routes. The tourist’s profile depicts a young, active, upper class tourist, with an above average income, who truly appreciates Porto and the North of Portugal region and is willing to recommend it to friends and family.

Practical implications

Results provide rich insights on non-resident tourism in the region – where tourists come from, why they selected this destination for their trip and what they enjoy doing, among other information and is highly relevant for strategic and marketing activities related to tourism promotion and the service quality offer.

Originality/value

This article seeks to illustrate the non-resident tourist profiles of those visiting Porto and the North of Portugal, based on a unique study conducted over the past three years.

Citation

Costa, J., Moreira, M. and Vieira, F. (2014), "Profile of the tourists visiting Porto and the North of Portugal", Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes, Vol. 6 No. 5, pp. 413-428. https://doi.org/10.1108/WHATT-09-2014-0027