Burgeoning Tourism: A Million More Visitors in September, Breaking Spain's Monthly Record as Summer Carries On
Spain has been witnessing a remarkable surge in tourism this year, with the country welcoming a record-breaking 11 million international visitors in July alone, surpassing previous records. This figure brings the total number of international visitors since the beginning of the year to 55.5 million.
Despite the tensions and natural disasters such as wildfires, the demand for Spanish holidays has not been reduced. In fact, Spain seems well-placed to surpass last year's total of 94 million visitors and the tourism sector is set to exceed €260 billion by the end of 2025.
The average cost of a hotel night in Spain last September was €132, marking a 21% increase compared to the year before. Cities such as Gran Canaria have seen prices soar even higher, with 3-star hotels averaging €134.80 per night and 4-star hotels at €176.49 per night. This indicates prices well above the national average in that month. An average week's stay in Spain last September would cost around €1,490 per person.
Foreign spending in Spain reached €16.5 billion in July alone this year. Despite the rising prices, Spain remains one of the most affordable destinations in Europe.
However, the tourism boom has not been without its challenges. Spain has been experiencing anti-tourism protests since the beginning of the year, including calls to cap tourist numbers, crackdowns on Airbnb, mass street demonstrations, and attacks on visitors. The economic benefits of tourism in Spain this year amount to €76 billion, a 7.2% increase compared to 2024.
Interestingly, the main origins of tourists in Spain remain the UK, France, and Germany. However, a trend is emerging where international travellers are following the lead of one in six Spaniards who chose to go on holiday in September 2022. Many Spaniards are opting for September instead, when prices used to drop, as the bargains of the shoulder season in Spain are quickly becoming a thing of the past due to this trend.
As Spain competes with its northern rival, France, the question now is whether Spain can cope with the pressure and whether it might even overtake its competitor. With its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and now booming economy, Spain is certainly making a strong case for itself.
