In July, Spain welcomed 11.7 million international passengers, marking a 4.3% increase compared to the same month in 2024, according to data released by Turespaña. From January to July 2025, the total number of international travelers reached 63.7 million, showing a 6% growth from the same period the previous year. These figures illustrate a significant diversification of markets and stronger connectivity for Spain as a popular tourist destination.

Market Highlights

There was a noticeable rise in arrivals from key source markets, except for Germany. Particularly noteworthy is the increase from China, South Korea, and a recovering Japan, along with significant rises from Turkey and Colombia. Among the top markets, the United Kingdom contributed 2.7 million international passengers to July’s totals, accounting for 23.1% of all arrivals, with a year-over-year increase of 4%. The Balearic Islands proved to be the primary destination for British travelers (27%), followed by the Canary Islands (20.9%). Galicia and Andalusia exhibited the most pronounced increases, exceeding 10%.

In contrast, Germany saw 1.6 million passengers (13.4% of total), experiencing a slight year-over-year decline of -0.6%. The Balearics received the largest share of German arrivals (46.7%), although these too fell by -3.2%. Catalonia and the Canaries followed as major destinations with respective year-on-year changes of -1.0% and +6.1%.

Italy represented 9.8% of arrivals in July (1.1 million passengers) with a 5% year-over-year increase, benefiting all regions except Galicia, which saw a minor decrease. Together, Madrid and Catalonia accounted for 52.2% of Italian arrivals. The Basque Country, Catalonia, and the Canaries recorded notable increases above 10%.

France contributed 7.4% of total passengers in July. The Balearics and Catalonia captured 47% of arrivals from this market, with the Balearics standing out for its significant increase, welcoming 18,499 additional international passengers compared to July 2024.

Passengers arriving from the Netherlands constituted 4.9% of the total and experienced a 11.1% increase. Flows were primarily directed toward Catalonia and the Valencian Community, with shares near 20.4% and 18.6%, respectively. All regions, except Galicia, showed improvements, with Andalusia highlighted among them. In July, the six most significant autonomous communities (Madrid, Catalonia, Balearics, Canary Islands, Andalusia, and Valencian Community) accounted for 97% of total arrivals, with increases in each. The most substantial growth was seen in the Valencian Community (+8.2%), while the Balearics saw the mildest rise (+1.2%).

Infrastructure Insights

The Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport accommodated the highest number of arrivals in July, with 2.2 million international passengers (+2.5%). This was followed by Barcelona Airport, with approximately 2 million arrivals (+4.9%), and Palma de Mallorca, which saw 1.8 million, increasing slightly by +0.8% year-over-year. The Alicante Airport noted the most substantial year-on-year increase, notably +8.3% more arrivals compared to July 2024.

This data reinforces Spain’s status as a leading international tourist destination, showcasing a compelling offer for both traditional and emerging markets. The ongoing diversification of markets and the robust development of major cities and airports may signal a promising autumn/winter season for international tourism towards Spain.