The proximity to the main tourism issuing markets in Europe and North America, the existence of airports and maritime ports on all the islands, the temperate climate, the uniqueness of the landscape and the cultural diversity provided by insularity are strengths of this sector in the Azores.

Tourism Sector Growth

In the last years, Tourism as gained importance in terms of the regional economy, to the point of being one of the three most important sectors, and with good growth perspectives.

Source: SREA

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Awards and Distinctions

The Green Destinations: Top 100 Sustainable Destinations (2018).

National Geographic Traveler: the most beautiful destination in the world for holidays or business trips (2016).

Coastal & Marine Union: Platinum Quality Coast Destination in the World (2014).

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the city of Angra do Heroísmo, at Terceira Island, and the Landscape of the Pico Island Vineyard Culture.

UNESCO World Network Biosphere Reserves: islands of Corvo (2007), Flores (2007), Graciosa (2009) and the “Fajãs” of São Jorge Island (2016).

The Azores are the first archipelago in the world to achieve international certification of sustainable destination by an entity accredited by the Global Council for Sustainable Tourism.

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Nature and Active Tourism

The location of the Archipelago, the exceptional beauty of its landscapes, the volcanic nature of the islands, are several of the factors which provide unique experiences, in all types of activities, such as caving (speleology), trekking, bird watching, among many others.

Health and Wellness

There is a huge potential in the areas of health and wellness tourism, particularly regarding the promotion, prevention, and maintenance of health, as well as rest and leisure.

Investment’s possibilities include specialized clinics, spas, and hot-spring resorts.

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