Spain's 'daily rate' increases to £164 as country now attracting 'different' UK tourists
UK tourists are still flocking to Spain and are spending more than ever during their trip, new figures suggest. Recent data from the National Statistics Institute shows a surge in international visitors as well as the amount they spend, despite fears that recent anti-mass tourism protests would drive travellers to spend their summer holidays elsewhere.
Holidaymakers spent an impressive €71.108 billion in Spain between January and July this year, up 18.6% from the year before. This rapid rise in spending was more significant than the increase in visitor numbers, suggesting that Spain is attracting a different type of tourist than in previous years - one with a higher spending power.
Spain welcomed 53.4 million international visitors in the first seven months of 2024, marking a 12% increase from 2023. As usual, UK tourists remained the main source of tourism in Spain in July, with 2 million visitors, up 2.5% on last year.
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UK tourists also spent the most in Spain overall. However, the largest increase in visitor numbers came from Asia, up 11.5% year-on-year. For several years, Spain's government has been trying to boost its tourism from countries with the highest purchasing power, including Asia, to reduce its reliance on traditional low-cost tourism.
In July, the average spending per traveller rose to €1,432, up 4.3%. The daily rate per tourist increased to €195 - a 2.1% compared to the previous year - and equivalent to £164.
The Balearic Islands was the most popular holiday destination that month, drawing 23.4% of all visitors. This was followed by Catalonia at 22.1%, then Valencia at 13.6%.
Spain's Minister for Industry and Tourism, Jordi Hereu, said: "The significant increase in spending by international travellers visiting our country confirms that tourism, thanks to the efforts and work of everyone, continues to drive the country's economy, generating wealth and employment in the sector."