Portugal Market Report: International Ticketing Report for 2025
Portugal’s live ticketing market may be small in size, but it is a vibrant and lucrative industry. The local population has a strong affinity for cultural events, leading to a thriving market for both international and domestic acts.
The key players in the primary ticketing sector in Portugal include Bilheteira Online, MEO Blueticket, See Tickets (acquired by Eventim), and Ticketline. It is important to note that the resale of tickets above face value is prohibited by law in Portugal, making secondary ticketing sites such as Viagogo and StubHub illegal within the country, despite their continued operation.
MEO Blueticket is currently the market leader, closely followed by Ticketline, Bilheteira Online, and See Tickets (now under the ownership of CTS Eventim). Earlier this year, Live Nation acquired 51% of Arena Atlântico (MEO Arena) and promoter Ritmos e Blues. However, Ticketmaster has yet to make its debut in the market. While reselling tickets above face value remains a criminal offense, Twickets set up a Portuguese portal earlier this year, exclusively offering face-value resale.
The ticketing landscape in Portugal has seen a shift towards digital and mobile ticketing solutions, with innovative features like cashless payments and RFID wristbands becoming mainstream at events such as the Boom Festival, NOS Alive, and various smaller gatherings. Despite the cancellation of this year’s Super Bock Super Rock Festival, the festival scene in Portugal continues to thrive, drawing in tourists and enriching the local cultural scene.
In Portugal, a reduced VAT rate of 13% is applied to admission tickets for cultural events, providing an additional incentive for consumers to engage in live entertainment. While the secondary ticketing market is restricted by law, primary ticketing companies like MEO Blueticket are at the forefront of facilitating access to a diverse range of cultural experiences.
Overall, Portugal’s live ticketing market may be small compared to larger countries, but its vibrancy and profitability make it a significant player in the global entertainment industry. With a strong cultural tradition and a growing interest in live events, Portugal continues to be a key market for both local and international artists and promoters alike.