Spain continues to shine as a top tourist destination, welcoming 33.2 million visitors in the first five months of 2024. This impressive figure represents a 13.6% increase compared to the same period last year.
In May alone, 9.3 million international tourists arrived in Spain, marking an 11.5% rise from May 2023. If this growth trend continues, Spain could see a total of 96.6 million tourists by the end of the year.
Tourist spending also saw significant growth, reaching 11.687 billion euros in May, a 19.7% increase from the previous year. Overall, spending in the first five months exceeded 43.2 billion euros, a 21.8% increase year-on-year.
Minister of Industry and Tourism, Jordi Hereu, emphasized that the increase in average spending per visitor is contributing to the sector’s modernization and sustainability. Each visitor spent an average of 1,263 euros in May, a 7.3% increase, with daily spending reaching 204 euros, an 8.6% rise.
The diversity and quality of Spain’s tourist offerings are attracting more visitors to inland regions. Growth in visits to areas like Aragon, Asturias, and Galicia outpaced traditional coastal destinations. The government remains committed to sustainability, decentralization, and extending the tourist season.
Catalonia was the top destination for international tourists in May, followed by the Balearic Islands and Andalusia. Madrid saw the highest year-on-year growth, with a 24.3% increase in tourist numbers.
The UK continues to be the largest source of tourists, followed by France and Germany. Tourists from the UK also led in spending, contributing 2.197 billion euros in May.
Main Accommodation and Other Travel Characteristics
The number of tourists opting for market accommodation as their primary lodging increased by 13.0% year-on-year. Hotel stays grew by 13.0%, while rental housing saw an 11.1% increase. Non-market accommodation also rose, albeit by a smaller margin of 2.0%.
Most tourists stayed between four and seven nights, totaling over 4.7 million, which marks a 12.0% annual increase. There was an 11.9% rise in non-overnight visitors (excursionists) and a 14.8% increase in tourists who stayed longer than 15 nights.
In May, nearly 7.0 million tourists traveled without a package tour, reflecting a 12.1% increase. More than 2.3 million tourists used package tours, up by 9.7%.
Spain’s tourism sector is not only seeing more visitors but also higher spending per visitor, indicating a trend towards more quality tourism. The government’s efforts to enhance the tourism experience are clearly paying off.
