Spain | Tourism maintains momentum

Summary

Tourism spending grew by 4.7% year-on-year in the first four months of 2026, showing signs of deceleration. This moderation reflects weaker momentum in domestic tourism amid inflationary pressures, in contrast with the notable strength and resilience of demand from international visitors.

Key points

• Key points:
• Spending by Spaniards outside their home province rose by just 3%, nearly three percentage points less than in the previous period, constrained by higher prices for services such as transport, accommodation and restaurants.
• Castilla-La Mancha, Murcia, La Rioja and Asturias led spending growth, while the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands recorded year-on-year declines, reflecting a shift towards less crowded destinations.
• Spending by international visitors increased by 6.2% between January and April, supported by their lower price sensitivity and the redirection of travellers due to the conflict in the Middle East.
• Spanish travellers reduced their spending in Middle Eastern destinations, opting instead for more stable markets. Looking ahead to the second half of the year, supply disruptions stemming from geopolitical tensions could weigh on the sector.

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