Spain continues to reap the benefits of its popularity among British holidaymakers. New tourism figures reveal that visitors from the United Kingdom spent an estimated €24 billion across the country in 2025, making Britain’s most valuable international tourism market and highlighting the crucial role tourism plays in the national economy. The figure is based on official Spanish tourism data showing that UK visitors accounted for around 17 per cent of all international tourist spending in Spain. According to Spain’s Ministry of Industry and Tourism, foreign
visitors spent a record €134.7 billion in the country during 2025, meaning British travellers contributed close to one euro in every six spent by international tourists. The UK also remained Spain’s largest source of visitors. Around 19 million British tourists travelled to Spain during 2025, ahead of all other international markets. The spending figures highlight the continued importance of British holidaymakers to Spain’s tourism industry despite the UK’s departure from the European Union and increasing competition from other Mediterranean destinations. Record tourism revenues for Spain
Spain’s tourism sector continued its strong post-pandemic growth throughout 2025, with both visitor numbers and spending reaching historic highs. According to government data, international tourist expenditure rose to €134.7 billion during the year, representing one of the highest totals ever recorded by the country. British tourists were the biggest contributors to that revenue stream. Their estimated €24 billion in spending covered accommodation, restaurants, transport, leisure activities, retail purchases and other tourism-related services across Spain. The Balearic Islands, Canary Islands, Andalucía, Valencia and Cataluña remained among
the most popular destinations for UK visitors, with British tourists forming a substantial share of the visitor economy in many coastal areas. Tourism is one of Spain’s most important economic sectors, contributing significantly to employment and national income. The spending generated by foreign visitors supports hotels, bars, restaurants, airlines, tour operators, entertainment venues and thousands of small businesses. How Britain compares with other European markets Although Spain attracts visitors from across Europe and beyond, the UK remains comfortably ahead of other source markets when measured
by spending. Germany traditionally ranks among Spain’s most important tourism markets and continues to provide millions of visitors each year. German tourists are particularly important for destinations such as the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands. However, German visitor spending remains below that of British travellers due to lower overall visitor numbers and expenditure levels. France also remains a major source market, benefiting from its geographical proximity to Spain and strong cross-border travel links. French tourists contribute substantial spending, particularly in northern regions and major cities,
but again fall behind the UK in overall expenditure. The Netherlands is another valuable market for Spain. Dutch visitors consistently rank among the country’s most frequent international travellers and contribute significantly to tourism revenues, particularly in coastal destinations and the islands. However, the Netherlands has a much smaller population than either the UK or Germany, limiting its overall contribution compared with Europe’s largest tourism markets. While German, French and Dutch tourists remain crucial to Spain’s visitor economy, none currently match the scale of the British
market in either visitor numbers or total spending. Why British tourists spend so much in Spain Several factors help explain the UK’s dominant position. Spain remains one of the most accessible overseas destinations for British travellers, with extensive flight connections linking airports across both countries throughout the year. The country’s climate, beaches, cultural attractions and established tourism infrastructure continue to attract repeat visitors. Many British tourists also stay for longer periods than visitors from some neighbouring countries, increasing overall expenditure. In addition, Spain has a
large community of British residents and second-home owners. Friends and relatives visiting these communities contribute further spending through accommodation, hospitality, transport and leisure activities. The strength of the British market has also been supported by year-round travel patterns. While summer remains the busiest season, winter tourism to destinations such as the Canary Islands generates significant additional revenue. What €24 billion means for Spain The scale of British spending represents a major economic benefit for Spain. An estimated €24 billion in tourism expenditure supports employment across
multiple sectors, including hospitality, transport, retail, construction and leisure services. The revenue also generates tax income for national, regional and local administrations. In many coastal municipalities, British tourism forms a substantial part of the local economy. Hotels, restaurants, bars, excursion companies, car rental businesses and shops often depend heavily on international visitors, particularly during peak holiday periods. The spending also helps offset economic challenges in other sectors. Tourism remains one of Spain’s largest sources of foreign income, bringing billions of euros into the country each
year from overseas visitors. Strong tourism revenues can contribute to economic growth, support business investment and help sustain employment in regions where tourism is a primary industry. Spain’s tourism outlook remains strong The latest figures suggest Spain remains one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, with demand continuing to grow despite economic uncertainty across Europe. Government tourism data indicates that international visitors are not only travelling to Spain in greater numbers but are also spending more during their stays. For Spain, the continued strength
of the British market remains particularly important. With around 19 million visitors and an estimated €24 billion in spending during 2025, UK tourists continue to play a central role in the success of the country’s tourism industry. As Spain looks to maintain record tourism revenues, the contribution made by British holidaymakers is likely to remain one of the most significant drivers of the sector and a key source of income for businesses and communities across the country.
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