Porto: second most attractive non-capital city for Event Tourism

Porto has climbed four places and is now the second most attractive European city for hosting events among cities that are not capitals of their respective countries. It should also be noted that Porto is the leading destination among cities that belong to the collaborative network European Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Braga, Guimarães, and Matosinhos have already shown their competitiveness in this segment, moving from "modest positions" to "positions of some prominence," with Braga notably climbing 117 places.

The regional tourism officials are pleased with the significant rise in the ICCA ranking and are determined "to maintain their commitment to seeking business opportunities in this segment, as well as participating in, attracting, and supporting MICE events [Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions]," according to Luís Pedro Martins, president of Turismo do Porto e Norte de Portugal.

The Northern Region has the infrastructure, services, and organizational capacity to meet the needs of each event's profile and is working to strengthen the destination's presence in major international networks, digitalize the offerings, and intensify networking actions.

"We have no doubt that this is a great lever for tourism, due to its multiplier effect on other tourism segments, but also because it helps to boost other economic sectors," said the official.

Luís Pedro Martins emphasizes that significant work has been done to "equip municipalities and companies with the opportunities that this product represents, believing that the region will grow significantly in this segment."