Published on
January 17, 2026
Spain is on track for another remarkable year in 2026, as its tourism sector continues to thrive with an expected surge in foreign visitors and an increase in tourism spending. Following a record-breaking 97 million tourists in 2025, the country’s diverse attractions and favorable travel conditions are drawing even more travelers, resulting in a positive outlook for both visitor numbers and economic impact. This growth reflects Spain’s ability to offer year-round tourism experiences, reduce seasonality, and maintain its status as one of the world’s top destinations, ensuring a steady boost to its economy.
Spain is anticipating a continued surge in foreign visitors and tourism spending in 2026, following an impressive record of 97 million tourists in the previous year. This marks a steady upward trajectory for the country’s tourism sector, which plays a crucial role in its economic growth. In 2024, the sector saw revenues climb by 6.8%, reaching a total of 135 billion euros. With the industry showing no signs of slowing down, Spanish authorities are projecting a 3.7% increase in foreign visitors during the first four months of 2026, alongside a corresponding rise in tourism spending.
The country’s robust tourism performance places it firmly in the second position globally, behind France, in terms of visitor numbers. Tourism is an essential pillar of the Spanish economy, and the industry’s contribution to the national GDP has seen considerable growth over recent years, particularly in comparison to other European nations. The rise in foreign visitors is further reflected in Spain’s 2025 economic data, where the tourism sector accounted for an estimated 13% of Spain’s gross domestic product, showcasing its critical role in the country’s overall economic health.
Looking ahead to 2026, Spain’s tourism sector is poised to build on last year’s successes. Authorities are optimistic that the country will see even more foreign visitors, as the nation continues to offer attractive vacation options, ranging from stunning Mediterranean beaches to rich cultural experiences in cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville. The country’s growth trajectory remains strong, as evidenced by projections for the first quarter of 2026. With an expected 3.7% rise in visitor numbers during the first four months, the total number of tourists is anticipated to reach 26 million. This growth is predicted to be accompanied by a 2.5% increase in tourist spending, bringing the total to 35 billion euros.
The continued success of Spain’s tourism sector reflects the country’s evolving tourism model. Over the past few years, the country has shifted away from the traditional summer seasonality that once dominated its tourism flow. Authorities report that spending in the low and mid-seasons has increased by an impressive 53% compared to 2019, a year prior to the pandemic, while high-season spending has grown by 34%. This shift indicates that tourists are now exploring Spain throughout the year, rather than concentrating their visits during peak summer months. As a result, the nation’s tourism industry is benefitting from a more evenly distributed influx of visitors, reducing the strain on popular destinations and offering new opportunities for lesser-known regions.
One of Spain’s greatest strengths is its ability to maintain its allure for returning tourists. Two-thirds of those who visited Spain in 2025 indicated their intention to return, citing the country’s safety, welcoming atmosphere, and broad range of attractions. This strong sense of loyalty among visitors has contributed to the resilience of Spain’s tourism sector, with repeat visits providing a steady stream of revenue. Despite global geopolitical challenges and concerns over flight availability, Spain’s tourism remains unaffected, with booking trends continuing to show robust demand for travel to the country.
However, Spain’s tourism success has not been without its challenges. As more tourists flock to popular destinations, issues such as overcrowding, rising housing prices, and the environmental impact of mass tourism have become more pronounced. The tourism boom, while boosting the country’s economy, has placed pressure on local communities and natural resources. In particular, regions like Ibiza have implemented measures to address the negative effects of short-term rentals, which have contributed to housing shortages and inflated rental costs. As these challenges continue to emerge, Spain is seeking to balance its tourism growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of the sector are shared widely across the country.
One of the key areas of focus for Spain’s tourism sector in the coming years is the expansion of sustainable tourism practices. With increasing pressure on popular destinations, the government and industry stakeholders are exploring ways to promote responsible tourism that preserves the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Initiatives aimed at minimizing the environmental impact of tourism, such as eco-friendly travel options and responsible tourism campaigns, are expected to play a central role in Spain’s tourism strategy moving forward.
Despite these challenges, Spain’s tourism sector remains resilient and continues to attract record numbers of visitors. With its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and diverse range of attractions, the country is well-positioned to maintain its status as one of the world’s leading tourism destinations. As Spain moves into 2026, the tourism industry’s growth prospects remain strong, with increasing visitor numbers and higher spending contributing to the country’s economic recovery and long-term prosperity.
Spain’s tourism sector is experiencing a period of unprecedented growth, driven by a combination of factors such as increased foreign visits, higher spending per tourist, and a shift towards year-round tourism. While challenges such as overcrowding and rising housing prices persist, Spain is focused on creating a sustainable tourism model that can support long-term growth. With its diverse offerings and welcoming atmosphere, Spain is set to continue attracting millions of visitors, contributing to its economic success and reinforcing its position as one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.
