Published on
December 18, 2025
Spain has firmly established itself as the ultimate hotspot for British tourists, with a surge in visitors contributing to significant economic growth and transforming travel trends. As the leading destination for British travelers in Europe, Spain’s appeal is driven by its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and world-class tourist infrastructure. With millions of British visitors flocking to its shores each year, Spain is not only boosting its tourism sector but also reshaping the dynamics of international travel, making it a key focus at FITUR 2026. This continued success underscores Spain’s pivotal role in the global tourism market and highlights the growing importance of the UK-Spain travel relationship.
FITUR 2026: UK-Spain Tourism Ties Take Center Stage at Madrid’s Prestigious Trade Fair
The 2026 edition of FITUR, the International Tourism Trade Fair, is set to take place from January 21 to 25 at IFEMA MADRID. This prominent event will shine a spotlight on the robust relationship between the UK and Spain within the tourism industry. As one of the most anticipated trade fairs in the tourism sector, FITUR will demonstrate the growing importance of UK tourism to Spain, reinforcing the role that British travelers play in Spain’s thriving tourism market.
In 2024, Spain welcomed an impressive 18.4 million British tourists, making them a significant contributor to the country’s tourism revenue. British visitors accounted for almost 20% of all international arrivals to Spain. According to Spain’s Secretary of State for Tourism, by the end of September 2025, the number of UK visitors to Spain was expected to rise by 4%, reaching 15.3 million. With these visitors projected to spend €19 billion, it’s clear that the UK is an essential market for Spain’s tourism economy.
This exchange is not just one-way. The relationship benefits both countries, as evidenced by the growing number of Spanish tourists visiting the UK. In 2024, more than 2.5 million Spaniards traveled to the UK, contributing a noteworthy £1.4 billion to the British economy. Spain remains one of the top outbound markets for the UK, with over 60% of Spanish tourists returning for repeat visits. This pattern of frequent travel indicates a strong cultural and urban connection between the two nations, with Spain firmly established as a leading choice for British travelers and the UK as a preferred destination for Spaniards.
The UK’s importance to Spain’s tourism is underscored by recent data from the Office for National Statistics, which reveals that Spain continues to be the top international destination for British tourists. This trend is further reinforced by an increase in air capacity for the winter 2025/26 season, with a growth rate of 4.9%. British tourists visiting Spain in 2024 spent an average of €1,228 per person, and €176 per day, with typical stays lasting around seven nights. For 2025, spending is expected to rise by 5%, highlighting the financial impact of British tourists on Spain’s tourism economy.
FITUR 2026 will not only showcase Spain’s appeal as a prime tourist destination but will also emphasize the cultural and economic ties that bind Spain and the UK. At the event, Destination North East England will participate officially, reinforcing the UK’s presence alongside numerous business representatives. Prominent travel tech companies like Mews and Sabre, as well as iconic entertainment brands such as Warner Bros. London Studio, will be part of the UK delegation. Their involvement reflects the diverse sectors that contribute to the flourishing tourism relationship between the two nations.
While British tourists visiting Spain typically indulge in beach vacations, city breaks, and shopping, the reverse is true for Spanish visitors to the UK. Spaniards are drawn to the UK’s rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and the opportunity to visit friends and family. This exchange of cultural experiences and shared passions for leisure travel makes the UK-Spain relationship particularly unique and enduring. FITUR 2026 will provide the perfect stage for enhancing this cooperation, offering opportunities for tourism professionals to explore new business avenues and strengthen existing ties.
One key aspect of the UK-Spain tourism bond is the high satisfaction rate among British visitors to Spain. A report from Egatur revealed that 73.3% of British tourists were satisfied with their visits, cementing Spain’s status as a top European destination. The festival atmosphere, the Mediterranean climate, and Spain’s dynamic cities make it an enduring favorite for British holidaymakers.
In 2025, the number of British visitors to Spain was projected to grow further, cementing Spain’s position as a top tourist hotspot. With 41.2% of British travelers considering Spain one of their top destinations, and 15.2% ranking it as their number one choice, the figures speak for themselves. Spain’s proximity, ease of access, and well-established tourism infrastructure contribute to its ongoing success in attracting British visitors, who return year after year for the sun, culture, and cuisine.
FITUR 2026 will continue to serve as a vital forum for promoting the UK-Spain tourism connection. As the event unfolds in Madrid, industry professionals from both countries will gather to discuss key trends, share insights, and forge new partnerships. British tourism experts will explore how to enhance the travel experience for their citizens in Spain, while Spanish representatives will showcase their most innovative offerings for British tourists.
This collaborative environment will not only strengthen existing ties but also allow for the introduction of new ideas and initiatives. FITUR 2026 stands as a testament to the deepening bond between Spain and the UK, a relationship that is set to flourish further in the years to come.
The event’s focus on tourism, hospitality, and travel technology makes it an ideal platform for exploring new trends, including the growing demand for sustainable tourism and technological innovations aimed at enhancing the visitor experience. These emerging areas will play an important role in shaping the future of UK-Spain travel.
Spain has become the ultimate hotspot for British tourists, driving significant economic growth and reshaping travel trends. Its rich culture, landscapes, and infrastructure make it a top choice, solidifying its prominence at FITUR 2026.
In conclusion, FITUR 2026 will serve as a significant milestone in the ongoing relationship between the UK and Spain. It will not only celebrate the past successes of this partnership but also provide a forward-looking platform for expanding tourism opportunities, fostering collaboration, and ensuring the continued success of both countries’ tourism sectors. With British tourism continuing to be a key pillar of Spain’s economy, and Spain remaining a top destination for British travelers, the bond between these two nations is poised for even greater growth in the years ahead.
