During World War II the race was cancelled between 1942 and 1945.

Although not as important as the three Grand Tours, it has long been a significant competition.

In the last few years, however, it has declined in importance, especially because it now takes place immediately after the Tour de France, and before the Vuelta a España, a schedule that precludes the participation of major teams and cyclists.

As of the 2016 edition, the jerseys worn by the leaders of the individual classifications are: Since 2021, a women's edition of the race, known as the Volta a Portugal Feminina, has been held.

Initially on the national calendar, it has been categorized as a 2.2 UCI event since 2024.