Overview

• International arrivals rose 7% to 25.6 million in the first four months of 2025, while visitor spending climbed 7.2% to €23.5 billion.
• Tourism now represents 13.5% of Spain’s GDP—about €225 billion—and employs almost 3 million people after a 3.5% rise in affiliated workers.
• The industry forecasts a record 100 million visitors in 2025, although growth during the summer peak is expected to slow to 2.4%.
• Authorities have tightened controls on vacation rentals to address administrative irregularities and enforce lodging regulations.
• Operators warn that new rules could eliminate up to 70% of tourist apartments, raising concerns over accommodation shortages.