The lack of registration of tourist activity operators prevents compliance with licences, insurance and tax obligations. A local association laments the 'impunity', saying it is 'harmful' to those who comply with the law.
Azores: half of tourism activity on the islands is illegal
Tuesday, 20 January 2026RSS
Context & Explainers
Local accommodation (alojamento local) means short-term tourist rentals—private apartments, houses or rooms rented for days or weeks—that must be registered and licensed with municipal authorities. Municipalities can suspend or cancel licences (Lisbon cancelled about 6,700 licences in early 2026), so travellers and hosts should check a listing's registration and local rules before booking or offering stays.
