Spain hits a new milestone, welcoming 94 million international tourists last year

A record 94 million international travelers visited Spain in 2024

Spain welcomed a record-breaking 94 million international travelers in 2024, marking its best year for tourism since records began, according to Tourism Minister Jordi Hereu.

This milestone represents Spain's second record-breaking year since 2019, the year before the COVID-19 pandemic halted global leisure travel. The rebound in tourism coincides with a growing housing crisis that has put a spotlight on accommodations for visitors.

As the world’s second-most popular tourist destination after France, according to the U.N. World Tourism Barometer, Spain saw a 10% increase in foreign visitors compared to 2023, when 83.5 million people traveled to the country. Revenue from international tourism reached €126 billion ($129.8 billion) over the past year, a 16% rise from €108.7 billion ($117 billion) in 2023. Tourism now accounts for 12.3% of Spain’s GDP.

While Spain remains a top destination for its sun and beaches, the Tourism Ministry noted a shift in visitor interests. Cultural tourism rose by 32%, and culinary tourism increased by 28% compared to 2019. The country also saw growth in travel outside the summer season and an increase in visits to inland destinations beyond hotspots like Barcelona, the Mediterranean coast, and the Canary Islands.

Spain’s appeal has expanded beyond its traditional European markets, with more visitors arriving from the United States, Latin America, and Asia. Globally, many countries are experiencing a surge in tourism, with international arrivals reaching 98% of pre-pandemic levels between January and September 2024, according to the U.N. barometer.