Spain has set a new tourism record, welcoming 21.8 million foreign visitors this summer, marking a 7.3% increase compared to last year. This surge in tourism has brought about significant economic benefits, with tourist spending surging by 17.6% to €86.7 billion. On average, visitors spent €187 per day, highlighting the sector's robust contribution to the Spanish economy.
The most popular destinations included Catalonia, the Balearic Islands, and the Canary Islands. The British, French, and Germans topped the list of international tourists. In the first eight months of the year, Spain hosted 64.8 million tourists, further solidifying its standing as the world's second most popular holiday destination after France.
However, the influx of tourists has not been without challenges. The phenomenon of mass tourism has sparked protests in several hotspots like Barcelona and the Canary Islands. Residents have voiced concerns over the strained housing market, environmental degradation, and the pressure on local infrastructure. These protests underscore the need for a more sustainable tourism model, as acknowledged by Spain's tourism minister.
Despite these challenges, Spain's tourism industry continues to thrive, contributing 14% to the national GDP, with regions like the Balearic Islands seeing an even larger impact at 35%. As Spain anticipates nearly 90 million tourists in 2024, the balance between economic gain and sustainable tourism practices remains a pressing issue.
