The 10 most visited cities in Spain in 2024
According to the latest data from the National Institute of Statistics (INE) up to September 2024, Spain has registered a notable increase in the number of tourists, reaching record figures in the tourism sector. In October, the country welcomed 9 million international visitors, representing a growth of 9.5% compared to the same month last year. From January to October, the total number of tourists amounted to 82.8 million, 10.8% more than in 2023.
These are the 10 most visited cities in Spain in 2024, based on the number of overnight stays:
1. Madrid
The Spanish capital ranks as the most visited tourist destination in the country, with 9,900,897 tourists in 2024. Its cultural and leisure offer, which includes iconic museums such as the Prado and the Reina Sofía, as well as vibrant neighbourhoods such as Malasaña and Chueca, make it a must-see.
2. Barcelona
With 8,239,481 visitors, Barcelona stands out for its modernist architecture, led by the works of Gaudí, such as the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Added to this are its beaches, its rich gastronomy and a lively nightlife.
3. Seville
The Andalusian capital received 3,023,117 tourists, attracted by its impressive heritage, such as the Cathedral with the Giralda, the Real Alcázar and its traditional cultural events such as the April Fair.
4. Palma de Mallorca
Palma, the jewel of the Balearic Islands, attracted 2,475,250 visitors. Its beaches, the majestic Cathedral of La Seu and its charming old town consolidate it as a preferred destination for Europeans.
5. Benidorm
With 2,232,710 tourists, this iconic destination on the Costa Blanca continues to be a benchmark for its skyscrapers, fine sandy beaches and a lively nightlife offer.
6. Valencia
The city of Turia received 2,068,861 visitors thanks to its innovative City of Arts and Sciences, its historic centre and unique events such as Las Fallas.
7. San Bartolomé de Tirajana
Located in Gran Canaria, this town welcomed 1,761,332 tourists. It stands out for the dunes of Maspalomas, a privileged climate throughout the year and a well-developed tourist offer.
8. Granada
With 1,738,660 visitors, Granada fascinates with the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the picturesque Albaicín neighborhood. Its university atmosphere adds a youthful touch to the city.
9. Calvià
This town in Mallorca received 1,709,483 tourists, thanks to its luxury offer, paradisiacal beaches and the nightlife of places such as Magaluf.
10. Adeje
Located in Tenerife, Adeje registered 1,555,813 visitors, standing out for its high-end resorts, water parks such as Siam Park and its proximity to the Teide National Park.
Malaga: remarkable growth
Although Malaga is not in the top ten, it is important to mention its remarkable tourist growth. As of October 2024, the city recorded almost 3 million hotel overnight stays, an increase of 4.68% compared to the previous year.
Conclusion
These figures reflect the diversity and attractiveness of Spanish cities, which continue to attract tourists from all over the world thanks to their cultural, historical and natural richness. Spain continues to consolidate itself as one of the most important tourist destinations worldwide.