The Porto e Norte region was named Best National Tourism Region at the 21st edition of the Portugal Travel Awards by Publituris, one of the most relevant awards in the sector in Portugal. The announcement was made in Vilamoura, in front of more than 350 national tourism professionals.

The award is presented by a jury composed of representatives from sector associations, former Secretaries of State for Tourism, entrepreneurs, professionals, and academics, who recognised the region's work, dedication, and contribution to tourism in Portugal.

The distinction comes at a time of strong growth: between 2014 and 2024, the gross value added of tourism in the region tripled, an increase of 232%, rising from 723 million to 2,401 million euros. In 2025, the region consolidated its leadership in domestic tourism, with growth above the national average in most indicators.

Luís Pedro Martins, president of Turismo do Porto e Norte, dedicated the distinction to the companies in the sector, the municipalities, and the teams who, over the last few years, have built strategies to attract more and more visitors to the region.

Porto, as the region's main gateway, is the major beneficiary of this recognition: more international visibility, more visitors, and a constantly expanding tourist offer, from gastronomy to culture, including heritage and life by the river.

For those visiting or staying temporarily in the city, this distinction confirms what many already feel on the ground: Porto is today one of the most complete and best-prepared destinations in Europe to welcome its visitors.