The tourism boom in Catalonia
Tourism in Catalonia has experienced impressive growth. Only during the year 2023, the number of visitors who explored the Catalan territory tripled the number of local inhabitants. According to the Hotel Occupancy Survey of the National Institute of Statistics (INE), a total of 15.6 million tourists visited Catalonia, doubling the 7.7 million who arrived in 2003.
Impact of overnight stays
This figure of 15.6 million includes all those who spent at least one night in hotels, campsites, holiday apartments, rural accommodation or hostels. Adding the residents of the State who visited Catalonia, the total rises to 27.2 million. This represents more than three times the local population, which is around 8 million. About half of tourists arrive between June and September, a pattern that has remained stable since the turn of the century.
Evolution of international tourism
The INE data, compiled by the ACN, show a constant increase in foreign visitors to Catalonia since the beginning of the 21st century. This rise was only interrupted in 2009, during the global economic crisis, and in 2020, a year affected by the pandemic. In fact, last year’s figure of 15.6 million is similar to 2019 levels.
Expectations for the future
If no unforeseen events arise, 2024 is expected to break all records. Until May, 5.5 million foreign tourists have spent the night in Catalonia, 11% more than the previous year and 2019. This constant increase has ignited the debate on the sustainability of the tourism sector. Last July 6, more than 140 entities organized a demonstration in Barcelona with the slogan ‘Enough, we put limits on tourism’.
Impressive figures in two decades
In 2023, the 27.2 million visitors, national and international, represent an increase of 85.8% compared to 2003. According to the INE, from the beginning of the 21st century until May 2024, around 450 million people have overnight stay in tourist accommodation in Catalonia.
