Growth tourist expenses
In 2024 it has been a notable year for tourism around Barcelona, with an increase of 11.9% in average spending per tourist, which has reached 616.8 euros. This amount comprises the total cost of transport, accommodation and other expenses during the stay. Expenditure per night has increased by 14%, with 45.7 euros, with a significant part of this amount for food and drink, which represents 27.7 euros.
Tourist tax and collection
Another highlight is the increase of 9.5% in the collection of the tourist tax, which has reached 10.75 million euros, the highest since its implementation. This amount represents 17.3% of the total collected in the province, while the Barcelonès region continues to dominate with 82.7%.
Increased international tourism
The number of tourists who visited the Barcelona environment has grown slightly, 0.2%, while overnight stays have increased by 6.9%. This trend is mainly due to a growth of 6% in international tourism, while domestic tourism has experienced a decrease of 5.6%.
Stays longer
The average duration of the stays has increased, reaching 3.1 nights, 6.6% more than the previous year. Foreign tourists tend to stay longer, with averages ranging from 2 to 5 nights, depending on the type of accommodation.
Major foreign markets
France and the United Kingdom are the main countries of origin of tourists, with 15.7% and 11.1% respectively of the total number of visitors. In terms of overnight stays, these two nations again lead, with percentages reaching 15.8% and 14.2%.
Tourist profile
Most visitors are men (64.8%) with an average age of 44.3 years. The main motivation for traveling is leisure, with 60.5% of tourists traveling to enjoy leisure. About 30% travel as a couple and another 30% with the family.
Modalities of accommodation and transportation
Own vehicle is the preferred means of transport to reach the destination (40.5%), followed by the aircraft (39.2%). Most tourists choose to organize their own journey (45.3%), with 50% repetition among visitors.
Evolution of the tourism sector
The tourism sector around Barcelona shows remarkable stability, with 13,510 registered companies and an increase of 1.1% in the number of employed ones, which currently reaches 141,300. Despite a slight decrease in tourist unemployment, the unemployment rate is 12,117 in December 2024.
Reports and sustainability
The Tourism Laboratory of the Diputació de Barcelona has published an annual report that analyzes various aspects of tourism in the region. This initiative is aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, with the aim of promoting sustainable economic growth and decent work in the province.
