Spain

One of the world’s major tourism destinations

Spain received 96.8 million international tourists in 2025, a new record. Tourism is supported by major international airports, high-speed rail, extensive hotel and hospitality infrastructure, beaches, cultural tourism, gastronomy, sport, festivals and year-round city breaks.

Cities and places worth discovering

Madrid is known for museums, grand boulevards and urban life; Barcelona for the Mediterranean, Gaudí and Catalan modernism; Valencia for its historic centre, beaches and the City of Arts and Sciences; Seville, Córdoba and Granada for Andalusian heritage; Málaga for the Costa del Sol; Bilbao for contemporary design and the Guggenheim. Spain also includes the Balearic and Canary Islands and hundreds of smaller coastal and historic destinations.

Architecture shaped by centuries

Spain’s built heritage moves from Roman aqueducts and theatres to Islamic and Mudéjar architecture, Gothic cathedrals, Renaissance plazas, royal palaces, modernism and contemporary landmarks. The Alhambra in Granada, the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, Seville’s Giralda, Segovia’s Roman aqueduct, Santiago de Compostela Cathedral and Gaudí’s Sagrada Família are among its best-known architectural experiences. Spain has 15 World Heritage Cities.

Coast, islands and nature

The Mediterranean coast offers long beach seasons and lively seaside cities, while the Atlantic and northern regions are greener and often cooler. The Balearic Islands are associated with coves, sailing and island life; the Canary Islands add volcanic landscapes and a mild climate. Mountains, national parks, vineyards and rural villages make Spain much more than a beach destination.

Lifestyle, food and culture

Daily life often extends into streets, plazas, terraces and waterfront promenades. Tapas culture, regional cuisine, seafood, olive oil, rice dishes and wine are part of the travel experience. Festivals, football, music, museums, markets and late-evening social life create a strong public culture, while smaller towns can offer a slower rhythm.

Why Spain remains so attractive

The appeal is the combination: climate, coast, cultural depth, international connectivity, varied cities, islands, food and the ability to choose between energetic urban life and quieter Mediterranean or rural settings. For anyone considering a longer stay, the right location depends on climate, mobility, seasonality, language, services and preferred lifestyle.