barcelona tourism statistics 2019

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Barcelona Metropolis

barcelona tourism statistics 2019

Tourism, between wealth and residents’ complaints

Retrat d'Astrid Ortiz

Marga Pont is a journalist and editorial coordinator of the magazine Barcelona Metropolis.

© Astrid Ortiz

Barcelona receives more than 12 million visitors per year for both business and pleasure, who stay in the city for an average of 2.5 nights. The tourism sector is one of the main drivers of economic activity in Barcelona, with 150,000 direct and indirect jobs. It generates 8.6% of the city’s employment and is the fourth-greatest wealth-creation activity, accounting for 7.3% of the GDP. Barcelona is the location of one out of every three tourism companies in Catalonia and almost four out of every six jobs and it collects more than half the revenue from the tourist tax in all of Catalonia.

Tourists truly enjoy the city and half of them return. Most local residents relate tourism with wealth, but complaints about the problems involved are also growing: 59.9% of Barcelona’s local residents think that this city has reached the limit of its capacity and the districts with the most visitors, Ciutat Vella and Gràcia, want less of them.

A foreign man about 37 years old flies into El Prat Airport to spend about five days in the city after organising a holiday trip by its own. This is the majority profile of the tourist in Barcelona, according to data from the study Perfil i hàbits dels turistes a la ciutat de Barcelona 2017 [Tourist Profile and Habits in the City of Barcelona 2017], issued by the Barcelona Tourism Observatory. According to the same survey, 86% of the hotel tourists came from outside Spain and more than half (52.11%) came from a country in Europe, while 34% came from elsewhere in the world.

Barcelona is one of the most important tourism and business travel destinations in the world. In 2018, the city had over 12 million tourists and 30 million overnight stays in in hotels, hostels, tourist apartments and housing used for tourism (HUT). Two out of every three tourists stay in hotels. In the last 30 years, the demand for hotel accommodation has increased fivefold and has gone from 1.7 million tourists in 1990 to 9.1 million in 2018, and from 3.8 million overnight stays to 19.3. This demand has not stopped growing every year, except for two dips. The first came in 2008, with the beginning of the financial crisis, and the second in 2017, when Barcelona suffered the attack on the Rambla in August and witnessed the events of 1st October. Remarkably, hotels and housing used for tourism amount to 85.5% of the accommodation available. While the former receive 19.3 million overnight stays, the latter get more than 8.5 million, though with many less tourists, since stays in HUT are longer (up to 3.75 nights on average compared to 2.1 nights at hotels).

According to the Housing Census of 2018, Barcelona has 152,046 vacancies in a total of 10,486 places of accommodation. Over 38% (38.5%) of the vacancies are in housing used for tourism and 47% are located in hotels and hotel-apartments. The Eixample district has 37% of all tourist accommodation vacancies (56,326), and together with Ciutat Vella (27,436) has over half (55.1%) the available vacancies in the city. Sant Martí and Sants-Montjuïc also have a significant amount of vacancies and together account for one fourth of those in the city, while Nou Barris and Sant Andreu have little in the way of vacancies available.

PROFILE OF THE TOURIST VISITING BARCELONA, HOW THEY GET HERE, WHERE THEY COME FROM AND WHERE THEY STAY

PROFILE OF THE TOURIST VISITING BARCELONA, HOW THEY GET HERE, WHERE THEY COME FROM AND WHERE THEY STAY

AVERAGE SPENDING OF VISITOR TO BARCELONA (2018) Source: Profile and Habits of Tourists to the City of Barcelona 2017 . Barcelona City Council.

THE THREE MOST VISITED LANDMARKS IN BARCELONA (2017)

THE THREE MOST VISITED LANDMARKS IN BARCELONA (2017) Source: Barcelona Institute of Culture.

DEMAND FOR ACCOMMODATION (2018)

DEMAND FOR ACCOMMODATION (2018)

ACCOMMODATION SUPPLY (2018)

ACCOMMODATION SUPPLY (2018)

EVOLUTION OF THE DEMAND FOR HOTEL BEDS

EVOLUTION OF THE DEMAND FOR HOTEL BEDS

TRAVELLERS ARRIVING IN BARCELONA (2018)

NUMBER OF TRAVELLERS ARRIVING IN BARCELONA (2018)

NUMBER OF TRAVELLERS ARRIVING IN BARCELONA (2018) in Millions  (Change compared to 2017)  

ORIGIN OF PASSENGERS ARRIVING IN EL PRAT AIRPORT (2018)

ORIGIN OF PASSENGERS ARRIVING IN EL PRAT AIRPORT (2018) in Million

First in international cruises and conferences

Barcelona is near the top of many international rankings. In 2017, it was the sixth most visited city in Europe and the 23rd most visited among 100 cities in the world, according to the Top Cities Destination Ranking by Euromonitor International. The European Cities Marketing Benchmarking Report 2016/2017 ranked Barcelona fifth in Europe in terms of international overnight stays, while Trip Advisor rated it the sixth most attractive destination in the world for tourists in 2017. Also in 2017, Barcelona’s 2.7 million cruise ship passengers enabled it to hold on to its spot as the top cruise ship port based in Europe and the Mediterranean and the fourth greatest in the world. With 47.3 million travellers, Barcelona’s airport, El Prat Josep Tarradellas, had the seventh most travellers and grew the second most (7.1%) in Europe, according to the Airport Traffic Report of 2017.

Barcelona is also a leader in business meetings and broke records in 2018. According to the Barcelona Convention Bureau, the economic impact of Barcelona’s conferences and conventions rose from 1.851 billion euros in 2017 to over 1.901 billion in 2018. The city hosted 1,728 meetings (including conferences, seminars and conventions) that involved 2,393,252 overnight stays, or 7.4% more than the year before and up to 15% for conferences. For the first time, the representatives’ average stay was almost five days.

According to the ranking of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), Barcelona is the only city that is not a country capital and has still ranked among the top five in the number of international conferences in the last 19 years. Even though it dropped from the first to the fourth position in terms of the number of international conferences hosted (163), this year it was the top city in the world regarding the number of representatives attending those conferences (135,000).

INDICATORS OF CONGRESS ACTIVITY (2018)

INDICATORS OF CONGRESS ACTIVITY (2018)

A lot of work at low pay

The tourism sector generates 8.6% of the employment in the city of Barcelona and is the activity responsible for the fourth most wealth creation, accounting for 7.3% of the city’s GDP. By the end of 2018, there were 96,257 people affiliated with social security, after creating 20,000 jobs in just six years. Salaried jobs make up 87.5% of this total, followed by 12.7% self-employed jobs. If we consider a broader definition of the sector, including the transport of passengers, the organisation of conferences, artistic activities or some sporting activities with a significant impact on tourism, the number of jobs approaches 150,000. There have been 30.9% more jobs in the last 10 years, a period in which the city has grown 7.9% in job creation. At the end of 2018, the tourism sector included 8,754 companies with salaried workers, accounting for 11.5% of those in the city. Barcelona is the location of 36.7% of the tourism jobs in Catalonia, which is 3% more than the city’s total share of employment in Catalonia (33.3%). Barcelona is also the location of 29.3% of the companies with Catalan wage earners dedicated to tourism.

In 2018, the hotel industry was the second largest economic sector in Barcelona with the highest employment contract volume in the city, with a total of 216,453 contracts, accounting for 16.7% of the total. Of these employment contracts, 16.1% were indefinite and 83.9% were temporary. Broken down by subsector of activity, the highest volume of employment contracts was for food and beverage services (60.1%), followed by accommodation services (32.6%) and travel agencies and tour operators (7.2%). The average annual salary in the hospitality industry stood at 16,708 euros in 2017, which is just over half the average salary in the city (30,263 euros), making it the sector with the lowest wage level and one of those that have experienced the biggest loss of purchasing power since 2010. However, the hospitality industry is one of the sectors with the narrowest gender pay gap, with a difference between men and women (12.3%) almost 10% lower than the average in Barcelona (21.8%).

In 2018, there were 8,946 unemployed people from the tourist sector in Barcelona, which reported a 7% drop, while the city fell by 6%. Despite creating net employment, in recent years the sector has revealed a less favourable trend in reported unemployment than Barcelona as a whole. Since 2012, unemployment in the hospitality industry has cumulatively decreased by 20% and has fallen by 38.2% in the city in the same period. This is partly due to the strong seasonal orientation of the sector and the influx into the tourism sector of unemployed people from other industries looking for better employment prospects.

IMPORTANCE OF THE TOURISM SECTOR TO BARCELONA’S ECONOMY (2018)

IMPORTANCE OF THE TOURISM SECTOR TO BARCELONA’S ECONOMY (2018)

VOLUME OF CONTRACTS RELATED TO TOURIST ACTIVITIES PER SUBSECTOR (2018)

VOLUME OF CONTRACTS RELATED TO TOURIST ACTIVITIES PER SUBSECTOR (2018)

STRUCTURE OF THE TOURISM SECTOR PER SUBSECTOR (2018)

STRUCTURE OF THE TOURISM SECTOR PER SUBSECTOR (2018)

Tourism and the city: benefits and criticism

Tourist activity produces diverse impacts and assessments for the different actors involved, both among those actively participating in it (the tourists) and those receiving it, meaning the residents of Barcelona. Tourists give it a score of 8.8 points to the city and almost half (46.8%) repeat the experience, according to the study Perfil i hàbits dels turistes a la ciutat de Barcelona 2017 [Tourist Profile and Habits in the City of Barcelona 2017]. The five best aspects of the city are its architecture (9.26), its culture (8.91), its entertainment (8.61), its public transport (8.51) and the character and kindness of its people (8.47).

The Online Reputation Index (iRON), issued by the Tourism Laboratory of Barcelona Provincial Council, awarded its best grade (8.91) in 2017 to the city’s attractions, while accommodation (8.24) and food and drink (8.13) scored lower, but always above 8. Regarding the most popular places, Sagrada Família is the most frequently visited monument in the city, taking in 4.52 million tourists, followed by Park Güell, with 3.12 million, and the Barça Museum, with 1.84 million visitors.

In the local people’s perceptions, the relationship between tourism and wealth is rooted in the idea of Barcelona. According to the Barcelona Tourism Observatory’s study Percepció del turisme a Barcelona 2017 [Perception of Tourism in Barcelona 2017], 57.5% of the people surveyed in 2009 already spontaneously associated both elements, reaching 70.3% in 2017. Over four out of five (83.1%) local residents believe that tourism is beneficial, and three out of every four Barcelonans cites tourism as the sector of the economy that provides the most wealth. Nevertheless, there is an observable trend to be increasingly critical of tourism and the benefits that it represents. The high opinion of tourism has fallen since 2012, when it attained the highest score, with 96.1% of the people feeling that it was beneficial for the city. While the 35.2% of the population now thinks that Barcelona must continue to attract tourists, the 59.9% believe that it has reached the limit of its capacity (and this figure rises to 68.6% among residents of tourist districts). Only people of foreign nationality and residents of Nou Barris have an opinion split almost equally between both options. The rest of the population and the region thinks that Barcelona has reached the limit of its capacity with respect to the services that it can offer to tourists. Only 17.1% of Barcelonans would like to see more tourists in their neighbourhood and 65.8% think that there are enough already.

The effect of tourism on prices is one of the reasons why respondents believe that tourism harms Barcelona. Eight out of 10 respondents think that visitors drive up prices in Barcelona, especially in the restoration and rental of homes. The Barri Gòtic and Sant Pere, Santa Caterina, the Ribera and Vila de Gràcia are the districts that most clearly see this rise in prices due to tourism (around 80%), while in Nou Barris the percentage has fallen by 15%.

Compared to 2016, the perception of tourist behaviour has worsened. Half of the people surveyed say that tourist behaviour is good or very good, whereas 14.5% say that it is bad or very bad. This negative view reaches 38.6% in the Barceloneta district. Complaints about bad behaviour have to do with antisocial or rude behaviour (66.1%, which is 10% more than in 2016) and with drunkenness (16.7%, which is 12% less than in 2016).

LEVEL OF COMFORT WITH THE NUMBER OF TOURISTS IN BARCELONA (2017)

LEVEL OF COMFORT WITH THE NUMBER OF TOURISTS IN BARCELONA (2017)

PERCEPTION OF TOURIST ACCOMMODATION IN ONE’S OWN NEIGHBOURHOOD (2017) (% of people who believe the amount of accommodation in their neighbourhood is excessive: hotels, hostels, tourist-licensed properties, etc.)

PERCEPTION OF TOURIST ACCOMMODATION IN ONE’S OWN NEIGHBOURHOOD (2017) (% of people who believe the amount of accommodation in their neighbourhood is excessive: hotels, hostels, tourist-licensed properties, etc.)

The challenges of tourism management

The assessment of municipal management of tourism in the city has worsened every year since 2013. While in 2013 almost three out of every four people rated it positively (74.7%), in 2017 this number fell to 40.8%. The least happy residents by district are those living in Barceloneta. Their main complaints focus on the mismanagement of tourist apartments (20.5%) and poor management in general (18.3%).

In 2018, the city raised more than half its revenue from the tax on stays in tourist establishments throughout Catalonia. In the 2017-2018 period the figure reached 56.5 million euros, of which 30.65 million were collected by establishments of the Barcelona brand. Hotels are the main contributor to income tax (19.8 million euros), followed by housing used for tourism (HUT) (8.2 million euros). Hotel revenue has fallen by one million euros and the amount from tourist homes has increased by two million, which is mainly due to the increase in the rate from 0.65 to 2.25 euros per person per night in these establishments in 2017. Barcelona’s cruise ships provide 1.2 million euros, and youth hostels 900,000 euros.

The tourist tax is a tool for promoting sustainable quality tourism and for protecting, preserving, recovering and improving tourist resources. For two years, Barcelona City Council has managed half this tax while the city received 34% until 2016. Between 2015 and 2019, more than 22 million euros levied from the tax on tourist establishments (IEET) have been allocated to projects for improving spaces and services for all residents for the purpose of offsetting the negative effects of tourism in the city.

In 2018, 9.6 millions euros were earmarked for the fight against illegal accommodation, district-improvement projects, cultural offering enhancement and other activities. This line of action has been bolstered by the expansion in 2017 and 2018 of regular bus lines coming from and going to the city’s beaches (D20, V15 and 59), the Pla de Convivència in Ciutat Vella, the Pla de Places de Gràcia and the civic agent service for regulating high traffic spaces such as the Sagrada Família and Ciutat Vella or the spider web, which serves to track data to the network and is one of the pillars to detect establishments that do not have a license.

Since 2016, the number of ads for unlicensed tourist use has fallen from 5,875 to 272, and 4,900 apartments have been ordered closed. The year 2018 ended with 95% less illegal tourist apartments in Barcelona. Since the launch of the shock plan in 2015, according to data from March 2019, municipal teams have evaluated 17,000 homes advertised on 140 different websites.

With these and other measures, the Strategic Tourism Plan 2020 (approved in 2015) is being launched to address such a complex phenomenon, with its multiple challenges. The plan aims to respond to it to ensure sustainability and reconcile the interests of the different actors involved: local residents, tourists and professionals from the sector.

TOURIST TAX COLLECTION (2018)

TOURIST TAX COLLECTION (2018)

TOURIST TAX COLLECTION (2018) Source: Generalitat de Catalunya.

MAIN SOURCES LEVYING TOURIST TAX (2018)

MAIN SOURCES LEVYING TOURIST TAX (2018) Source: Generalitat de Catalunya.

Related subjects Economy and business Territory Tourism Work Astrid Ortiz Marga Pont Algueró Marga Pont is a journalist and editorial coordinator of the magazine Barcelona Metropolis. From the issue

Revista Barcelona Metròpolis 112 - Lliçons de la crisi

N 112 - Jul 19 Index

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Welcome to the Barcelona City Council tourism website, where you'll find information on the city's tourism strategy, how tourism is being managed and what action is being taken, as well as data and statistics on tourist activity.

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Barcelona-Destination Tourism-Sustainability Plan

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Barcelona Activa ,  Diputació de Barcelona , the Catalan Association of Specialized Travel Agencies  ACAVE   and the  Gremi d’Hotels de Barcelona  are launching the sixth edition of the FuTurisme   program. 

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Barcelona never stops-Let's get our city back

Owing to the exceptional circumstances caused by the economic crisis arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, Barcelona City Council is launching a plan to reactivate the city’s economy through shock measures and long-term tools not just to regenerate its economic and social fabrics but also to continue making Barcelona a benchmark in innovation, sustainability and quality in work.

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Welcome to Barcelona

Given the steady resumption of tourist activities, Barcelona City Council wishes to welcome all visitors to the city, inviting them to enjoy it, look after it and respect its spaces and community life

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Tourism workshops

Turisme de Barcelona and the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce organise tourism torkshops to provide companies and organisations with a training offer aimed at designing and/or implementing new methodologies or sales tools for products and services, thus helping to improve their positioning. More information  and registration here .

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App Check Barcelona

The new App Check Barcelona allows you to manage the flow of visits to the different areas of interest

Observatory of Tourism in Barcelona: city and region

Observatory of Tourism in Barcelona: city and region

Main statistical tourism information of Destination Barcelona

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Parking for tourist coaches

barcelona tourism statistics 2019

Barcelona City Council welcomes the European Union’s approval of a new regulation to control the illegal supply of tourist flats

1 March, 2024 - 13:41h

Tourism. The European Parliament voted in favour of the proposal, which obliges digital platforms offering short-term rentals to share data regarding the flats they advertise with public authorities.

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The Barcelona City Council relocates the Bus Zone in the vicinity of the Sagrada Família

29 February, 2024 - 17:42h

tourism. This initiative shows the municipal priority to manage tourism and reduce the number of authorised areas for coaches to stop around the Sagrada Família.

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Destination Barcelona now boasts over 1,000 companies holding Biosphere tourism sustainability certification

16 February, 2024 - 15:13h

Sustainable tourism. Destination Barcelona boasts the highest number of certified sustainable tourism establishments in the European Union, over 1,000. This is reflected in the EU's own Environmental Labels and Schemes indicator.

Visitants de la Sagrada Família

Over 70% of Barcelona residents see tourism as beneficial to the city

5 February, 2024 - 12:45h

Tourism. Now that the Covid-19 pandemic is over and tourism has returned to Barcelona, city residents’ opinions of it are similar to those expressed in 2019, according to the 2023 perception survey.

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Main projects

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Strategic Planning

Strategic planning 2020.

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City and Tourism Council

A citizen participation organ created for organisations, associations and political representatives to exchange views and put forward ideas on improving the implementation and development of tourism in Barcelona.

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Data and Studies

Shared knowledge is an essential tool in addressing the debate on tourism in the city. So data is being made available to citizens, entities, companies and administrations.

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Meet Barcelona

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Responsible and sustainable tourism

Barcelona wants its citizens and visitors to enjoy the city in a responsible and sustainable way and therefore promotes tourism based on commitment and respect.

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Special Tourist Accommodation Plan (PEUAT)

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Barcelona and the tourism

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Tourism in Barcelona

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Tourism in Barcelona is big business, but what? And what are the most important things that we should know about tourism here? Read on to find out!

Geography of Barcelona

Tourism industry in barcelona, statistics of tourism in barcelona, popular tourist attractions in barcelona, popular types of tourism in barcelona, economic impacts of tourism in barcelona, social impacts of tourism in barcelona, environmental impacts of tourism in barcelona, faqs about tourism in barcelona, to conclude- tourism in barcelona.

Situated on the northeastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula, Barcelona stands as a testament to Spain’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. A city where Gothic cathedrals meet Modernist masterpieces, Barcelona offers a diverse array of attractions. This article presents a concise yet comprehensive insight into Barcelona’s touristic landmarks and experiences, tailored for both the uninitiated and the well-versed traveller.

Barcelona is a city located in the northeastern region of Catalonia, Spain. It is situated on the Mediterranean coast, between the Besòs and Llobregat rivers. The city covers an area of approximately 101.4 square kilometres and has a population of over 1.6 million people in the metropolitan area.

The city of Barcelona is divided into ten districts, each with its own unique neighbourhoods and landmarks:

  • Ciutat Vella: This is the historic center of Barcelona, and includes the neighborhoods of El Raval, Barri Gòtic, El Born, and Barceloneta.
  • Eixample: This district is known for its modernist architecture, including the work of Antoni Gaudí. It includes the neighborhoods of L’Antiga Esquerra de l’Eixample, La Nova Esquerra de l’Eixample, Dreta de l’Eixample, and Sagrada Família.
  • Gràcia: This district has a bohemian and artsy vibe, and includes the neighborhoods of Vila de Gràcia, Camp d’en Grassot i Gràcia Nova, and La Salut.
  • Horta-Guinardó: This is a hilly district known for its parks and gardens, and includes the neighbourhoods of Horta, Carmel, Font d’en Fargues, and Can Baró.
  • Les Corts: This district houses many businesses and is home to the famous soccer stadium Camp Nou. It includes the neighbourhoods of Les Corts, La Maternitat i Sant Ramon, and Pedralbes.
  • Nou Barris: This district is located in the northern part of Barcelona and includes the neighbourhoods of Can Peguera, Porta, Vallbona, and Torre Baró.

Some of the most famous landmarks and attractions in Barcelona include the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, La Rambla, the Gothic Quarter, Casa Batlló, Casa Milà (La Pedrera), the Barcelona Pavilion, the Montserrat Monastery, and the Picasso Museum.

barcelona tourism statistics 2019

Tourism is a major industry in Barcelona, with millions of visitors from all over the world visiting the city every year. Barcelona is the most visited city in Spain and one of the most popular destinations in Europe.

Tourism generates significant revenue for the city, making up a large percentage of the local economy. The tourism industry in Barcelona provides jobs for thousands of people in various sectors, including hotels, restaurants, transportation, and attractions.

The city offers a wide range of attractions and activities for tourists, such as art museums, historical landmarks, beaches, nightlife, shopping, and gastronomy. Popular tourist attractions in Barcelona include the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, Casa Batlló, La Rambla, the Gothic Quarter, and the Picasso Museum.

Barcelona also hosts several international events and festivals throughout the year, which attract even more visitors to the city. Some of the most popular events include the Festa Major de Gràcia, the Barcelona Carnival, the Sant Jordi Festival, and the Barcelona Wine Festival.

However, tourism does pose some challenges for Barcelona, such as overcrowding in popular areas, increased traffic, and rising housing costs. Local authorities and tourism organisations are working to address these issues and balance the benefits of tourism with the needs of the local community.

barcelona tourism statistics 2019

Now that we know a little bit more about tourism in Barcelona, lets take a look at some of the key statistics about the tourism industry here:

  • In 2019, there were over 9 million overnight stays in Barcelona by foreign tourists.
  • Barcelona is the most visited city in Spain, with over 30 million visitors in 2019.
  • Tourism accounts for around 12% of the city’s GDP.
  • The tourism industry provides over 100,000 jobs in Barcelona.
  • In 2019, the city had over 16,000 registered tourism establishments, including hotels, hostels, and apartments.
  • The average length of stay for tourists in Barcelona is around 2.6 nights.
  • The most popular months for tourism in Barcelona are July and August.
  • Around 75% of tourists in Barcelona are from outside Spain.
  • The most common reasons for visiting Barcelona are for the city’s cultural attractions, art museums, and architecture.
  • There has been a recent trend towards more sustainable tourism practices in Barcelona, with an increase in eco-friendly accommodations, bike rental services, and environmentally-conscious tour operators.

One of the major reasons that tourism in Barcelona is so popular is due to its range of tourist attractions. Here are some of the most popular:

Sagrada Família: This is a stunning and iconic basilica that was designed by the famous Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí. It’s been under construction for over 100 years, but visitors can still admire its intricate designs and impressive towers.

Park Güell: This is a unique public park designed by Gaudí that features colourful mosaics, winding pathways, and beautiful views of the city. Visitors can also see some of Gaudi’s famous sculptures and architectural designs at the park.

La Rambla: This is a lively pedestrian street that is lined with street performers, shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat or go shopping.

Gothic Quarter: This is the historic and mediaeval heart of Barcelona, with narrow streets, beautiful architecture, and stunning cathedrals. Visitors can explore the city’s old Roman walls, Gothic churches, and charming plazas.

Montserrat Monastery: This is a stunning monastery located just outside of Barcelona, set against a dramatic mountain backdrop. Visitors can see the monastery’s beautiful chapel, choir stalls, and museum, as well as take in the magnificent views.

barcelona tourism statistics 2019

Barcelona offers a variety of tourism activities for visitors to enjoy, catering to different interests and preferences. Here are some popular types of tourism in Barcelona:

  • Cultural tourism: Barcelona is rich in culture and history, making it a popular destination for those interested in exploring the city’s many museums, galleries, and historical landmarks, such as the Gothic Quarter, the Picasso Museum, and the Sagrada Familia.
  • Gastronomic tourism: Barcelona’s cuisine is famous for its traditional tapas and other Mediterranean dishes, making it a popular destination for foodies. Visitors can enjoy food tours, cooking classes, and sampling local delicacies at the city’s many restaurants and markets.
  • Beach tourism: Barcelona has several beaches along the coast, such as Barceloneta and Bogatell, which attract many visitors who want to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. Along the coast, visitors can also take part in various water activities like surfing, swimming, and kitesurfing.
  • Sports tourism: Barcelona is a popular destination for sports enthusiasts, with FC Barcelona being one of the biggest soccer teams in the world. Visitors can take a stadium tour at Camp Nou, enjoy a game or experience the various sports facilities around the city.
  • Art and architecture tourism: Including major works by famous artist Fernando Botero and renowned architect Antoni Gaudi, Barcelona is a mecca of art and architecture. Visit remarkable landmarks like the Park Güell, Casa Batlló, La Pedrera and Montserrat Monastery to satisfy your artistic and architectural cravings.

Overall, Barcelona seamlessly blends many tourism activities providing an enriching and unforgettable experience to its visitors.

Tourism has both positive and negative economic impacts on Barcelona. Here are some of the key economic impacts of tourism in Barcelona:

Negative Impacts:

1 – Overcrowding: With millions of visitors every year, there are concerns of overcrowding in popular areas, which can negatively impact the local community.

2 – Increased costs: Tourism can contribute to increased costs of living, such as rising housing costs, making it difficult for locals who are not in the tourism sector.

3 – Traffic congestion: High tourist numbers can lead to increased traffic congestion, which can impact the overall quality of life for locals and affect public transportation services.

4 – Seasonal employment: Due to the seasonal nature of tourism (such as higher number of visits in summer), many jobs in the industry are temporary and seasonal, resulting in job insecurity during the off-season.

5 – Environmental impact: High tourist numbers can also have a negative impact on the environment, such as the use of natural resources, pollution and increased waste.

Positive Impacts:

1 – Generates revenue: Tourism is a major source of revenue for Barcelona, contributing significantly to the city’s GDP.

2 – Provides employment: The tourism industry in Barcelona provides many jobs in different sectors, including hotels, restaurants, transportation, and attractions.

3 – Encourages investment: Tourism creates opportunities for investment in various sectors, such as accommodation, restaurants, retail, and transportation.

4 – Boosts small business: Tourism helps to support small businesses, such as artisanal shops, souvenir stores, and local restaurants, which contribute to the local economy.

5 – Promotes regional development: Tourism helps to bring investment and development to different neighbourhoods, resulting in increased economic activity and opportunities.

6 – Generates tax revenue: Tourists often pay local taxes and fees, providing an additional source of revenue for the city.

Overall, while there are both positive and negative impacts of tourism on the economy of Barcelona, it is important to manage tourism growth in a way that balances the benefits with the needs of the local community and sustainable development objectives.

barcelona tourism statistics 2019

Tourism has had significant social impacts on Barcelona, a city known for its rich culture, history, and architecture. While tourism has brought many benefits to the city’s economy and created job opportunities, it has also caused social and cultural changes that have affected the lives of the locals. Here are some of the most notable social impacts of tourism in Barcelona:

Overcrowding: Barcelona has become one of the top tourist destinations in Europe, leading to overcrowding in certain neighbourhoods and overwhelming the city’s infrastructure. Increased tourism has led to an increase in rental fees and a decrease in affordable housing, which has pushed locals out of their neighbourhoods.

Change in local culture: The rapid growth of tourism in Barcelona has caused a substantial shift in the city’s traditional culture, as businesses have shifted their focus to cater to tourists rather than locals. This change has caused a dip in the usage of Catalan, the city’s traditional language, as more tourists and locals now speak Spanish or English.

Employment opportunities: Tourism in Barcelona has created employment opportunities for the city’s residents, providing thousands of jobs in the hospitality and tourism industries. However, the majority of these jobs are low-paying and entry-level positions.

Environmental impact: The overreliance on fossil fuels, increased waste production, and pollutants from heavy traffic and tourism activities have a major impact on the environment.

Loss of community: Barcelona has always been known for its tight-knit and vibrant community, but the influx of tourism has caused locals to feel unwelcome in their neighbourhoods, with many businesses catering exclusively to tourists.

Overall, while tourism benefits the economy and creates much-needed employment opportunities, it has also led to social and cultural changes in Barcelona, impacting the traditional way of life for many residents. To address the issues caused by tourism, the local government has implemented measures such as limiting the number of tourists allowed in certain areas, promoting eco-friendly activities, and encouraging businesses to focus more on sustainability and local culture.

Tourism in Barcelona has had various environmental impacts on the city, some of which include:

Increased waste generation: The influx of tourists has led to the generation of more waste, including food waste, plastic waste, and packaging waste. The city has struggled to handle this increased waste, leading to issues like overflowing rubbish bins, litter on streets and beaches, and a strain on the city’s waste disposal facilities.

Energy consumption: Tourism in Barcelona consumes a lot of energy, especially during peak seasons, leading to an increase in energy consumption and carbon emissions. This includes the use of energy-intensive amenities like swimming pools, heating, air conditioning, and transportation.

Water usage: The high volume of tourists has put a strain on the city’s water resources, leading to water scarcity and pollution. This includes water used for irrigation, swimming pools, and cleaning of tourist facilities.

Strain on natural resources: Increased tourism puts a strain on natural resources like beaches, parks, and forests, leading to erosion, pollution, and loss of biodiversity. This is seen in areas like the beachfront, where increased foot traffic has led to soil erosion, causing damage to the natural landscape.

Transportation: The transportation needs of tourists in Barcelona have led to the increased use of high-polluting transportation, such as taxis, buses, and private cars. This has contributed to the overall carbon footprint of the tourism industry in the city.

The local government of Barcelona has implemented several measures to mitigate the environmental impact of tourism. These include promoting sustainable tourism practices, encouraging visitors to use public transportation, increasing sustainable waste management strategies, and investing in green energy. Additionally, the city has implemented measures to reduce the number of tourists in overcrowded areas, limit cruise traffic in the harbour, and encourage travellers to explore alternative tourism activities that have less environmental impact.

barcelona tourism statistics 2019

Barcelona’s diverse attractions and activities draw a broad range of visitors to the city, from independent travellers, foodies, and culture-seekers, to families on vacation, sports fans and those who seek relaxation on the beach.

barcelona tourism statistics 2019

10 Interesting Facts About Tourism in Barcelona

1 – Barcelona is the most visited city in Spain, attracting over 32 million tourists annually.

2 – Tourism is a vital industry in Barcelona and contributes significantly to the city’s economy, accounting for more than 12% of the city’s GDP.

3 – The city attracts tourists from all over the world, with the largest number of visitors coming from France, the UK, Italy, Germany, and the United States.

4 – Barcelona is famous for its architecture, and the most iconic building in the city is the Sagrada Familia, which is still under construction after more than 130 years.

5 – Another famous landmark in the city is Park Guell, designed by renowned architect Antoni Gaudi, which features colourful mosaics, fanciful sculptures, and sweeping views of the city.

6 – Barcelona has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many museums and galleries, including the Picasso Museum, the Joan Miro Foundation, and the National Art Museum of Catalonia

7 – The city has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants staying open late into the night.

8 – Barcelona is also known for its beaches, including Barceloneta Beach, which is one of the most popular beaches in the city.

9 – The city is home to many festivals and cultural events, including the famous La Mercè festival, which takes place every September and features concerts, parades, and fireworks.

10 – The tourism industry in Barcelona has faced some challenges in recent years, including protests by locals over the impact of tourism on the city’s infrastructure and affordability. However, the industry continues to thrive, and efforts are being made to balance the needs of locals with the needs of visitors.

Now that we know a bit more about tourism in Barcelona, lets answer some of the most common questions on this topic:

1 – What is the best time of year to visit Barcelona?

The best time to visit Barcelona is from May to June or from September to November when the weather is pleasant, and crowds are smaller.

2 – How do I get around Barcelona?

You can get around Barcelona by walking, cycling, taking the metro, bus, or taxis. The city also has a public bicycle rental service called Bicing.

3 – What is the currency used in Barcelona?

The currency used in Barcelona, as well as the rest of Spain, is the Euro (EUR).

4 – What is the official language spoken in Barcelona?

The official language spoken in Barcelona is Catalan, but most locals speak Spanish as well.

5 – What are some must-see attractions in Barcelona?

Some must-see attractions in Barcelona include the Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Gothic Quarter, La Rambla, and Camp Nou stadium.

6 – How can I purchase tickets to popular attractions in Barcelona?

You can purchase tickets online in advance, from tourist information offices or from ticket booths located at the attractions

7 – Is Barcelona a safe city for tourists?

Barcelona is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is important to be cautious of pickpocketing and scams in crowded areas.

8 – How much does it cost to travel in Barcelona?

The cost of travel in Barcelona depends on your personal preferences and budget. Accommodation, dining, and sightseeing can vary in cost.

9 – What is the nightlife like in Barcelona?

Barcelona has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants open late into the night.

10 – Are there any cultural etiquettes I should be aware of when visiting Barcelona?

It is important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and to show respect for local customs and traditions. Catalan culture is influenced by a strong sense of regional identity, so it is important to use the proper forms of address and greetings.

Barcelona, renowned for its architectural splendour and cultural vibrancy, remains a cornerstone of European tourism. As the city navigates the complexities of modern tourism, striking a balance between infrastructural advancement and heritage preservation becomes paramount. It is incumbent upon both tourists and sector professionals to ensure Barcelona’s enduring charm is maintained amidst contemporary demands.

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Statistics confirm tourism back to full strength in Barcelona

Catalan capital leads hotel occupancy in spain in may.

Group of tourists in the center of Barcelona.

Barcelona That tourism has returned to Barcelona after the pandemic is evident; you only have to go out on the street to see it. But now data from the Spanish Institute of Statistics (INE) confirms it. The Catalan capital's hotel occupancy rate in May was the highest in Spain. Despite the great recovery, however, most indicators are still slightly below May 2019, the year before the arrival of covid-19.

According to data from the statistics institute, hotel occupancy in Barcelona in May was 72.4% (and 79.4% at weekends), well above May 2021 (28%), but only slightly above May 2019, when it reached 74.9%. The number of hotels open in May this year was still lower than before the pandemic, but not so the number of beds on offer. There were 635 establishments open in May 2022, twice as many as a year earlier, but 51 fewer than in May 2019. However, supply reached 82,843 beds in May this year, double the number a year earlier and 202 more than in May 2019.

The recovery of the hotel sector in the city is also noticeable in terms of employment. While in May 2021 there were 4,362 people working in the sector in Barcelona, in May this year there were already 12,793. In other words, occupancy has multiplied by three, despite the fact that it is still below the 15,185 employees the sector had in May 2019.

Foreign tourism has regained full strength. According to INE data, in May Barcelona received 135,050 Spanish tourists, but the great bulk were foreigners: 604,696 visitors from abroad. These figures are very similar to 2019's, albeit slightly lower.

Prices rise

The recovery in occupancy and overnight stays also has an effect on hotel prices. According to the INE, Catalonia ranks as the second region with the second highest average hotel rate (€110) only behind Madrid (€114.45). The average hotel rate in Catalonia has increased by 43% compared to a year ago, an increase only surpassed by Madrid (66.9%) and the Basque Country (51.7%).

In terms of hotel profitability, RevPar or revenue per available room, Catalonia ranks second among Spanish regions, at €73.20, only behind Madrid (€83.25). This indicator, however, shows a clear recovery: the year-on-year increase in Catalonia was 193% (131% in Spain as a whole).

Catalonia, third destination

According to INE data, in May Catalonia received 1.85 million travellers and tripled the 2021 data, when the number of tourists was just over half a million (555,768). This is a strong comeback, despite the fact that the total number of visitors is still 7.2% below May 2019, before the outbreak of the pandemic. The growth is driven by the arrival of visitors from abroad, which multiplied by six in year-on-year terms. Specifically, Catalonia went from receiving 180,053 international tourists in May 2021 to welcoming over 1.16 million in the same month this year. Despite the 542% increase, foreign tourism is still below the highs of 2019 (1.36 million). As for residents in Spain, arrivals have doubled, to 695,200 travellers.

Catalonia was the third main destination in the state, only surpassed by the Balearic Islands and Andalusia. In May, Catalonia accounted for 4.9 million hotel overnight stays, 16.4% of the national total, and overtook destinations such as the Canary Islands, Valencia and Madrid. However, Catalonia had an occupancy rate of 54.2%, lower than the Spanish average (54.9%).

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Barcelona Tourism Statistics And Trends

Updated on May 29, 2023 by Axel Hernborg

Axel Hernborg

As the capital of Catalonia, Barcelona remains one of the world’s most attractive tourist destinations.

It has been said that the 1992 Olympic Games was instrumental in attracting tourists.

Essentially, the city had to be transformed for the games, and the efforts have paid off. The city remains in the top ten for European destinations when considering the number of overnight stays.

In this guide, we will look at tourism statistics and trends for Barcelona. We will also look at Barcelona’s most popular attractions, remote workers trends, and Barcelona’s tourist profile.

Table of contents

  • 1 Tourism Statistics
  • 2 Tourism Trends
  • 3 Remote Workers Trends
  • 4 Most Popular Attractions
  • 5 Barcelona’s Tourist Profile
  • 6 Final Thoughts
  • 7.1 Why Do The Local Residents Of Barcelona Want To Limit The Number Of Tourists?
  • 7.2 What Are The Top Museums To Be Found In Barcelona?

Tourism Statistics

Barcelona Tourism Statistics AndTrends

  • In 2022, hotels and tourist accommodation received 9.7 million tourists
  • Of those 9.7 million tourists, the majority (6.9697m) stayed in hotels with 2.362m staying in homes designed for tourist use. This includes such properties as AirBNBs which remain popular in the city.
  • There was a total of 29.8 million overnight stays.
  • The average length of a stay in Barcelona was up to 3.1 nights, compared to 2.7 in 2019.
  • As a city, the Catalonian capital remains the preferred destination in Spain for tourists from overseas. That’s more than the Spanish capital, Madrid.
  • In total, 79% of the visitors to Barcelona come from abroad with the rest being domestic Spanish tourists.
  • Of those visitors from abroad, France (over 107,000 tourists), the US (70,000), the UK, and Italy (over 54,000 tourists each) brought up the largest numbers.
  • The locals in the city also seem to consider tourism as a positive with 61.7% of those surveyed saying it was beneficial. However, there are calls for the ‘tourist tax’ to be increased and limits placed on the number of tourists coming to the city.
  • A further 80.6% believe that tourism creates jobs and some welcome economic growth. That’s seen in the sheer number of employees in the tourism industry. Many of them have permanent contracts as opposed to temporary ones.
  • In terms of a total spend in the city, as an estimate, those tourists spent around 1.9 million euros during the summer. This does not take into account the travel throughout the city or the cost of accommodation. Such an amount indicates how crucial the restaurants are to the city as gastronomy was a proven reason to visit.

Tourism Trends

  • Both the number of tourists and overnight stays is still impressive yet down on those numbers recorded in 2019 which remains a record year.
  • The number of tourists staying in homes for tourist use continues to increase. Such homes, like AirBNBs, provide an alternative option to hotels and their numbers are up from 923,700 in 2020 to 1.2626m in 2021.
  • Those tourists who stayed in guesthouses and inns also rose from 160,800 in 2020 and 198,600 in 2021 to 411,900 in 2022. That is still down on 2019’s number which hit 770,200.
  • It’s a similar case for the number of tourists staying in tourist apartments which increased from 44,300 in 2020 and rose to 47,600 in 2021. The 2022 figure stands at 145,500 in 2022 which is still down from 2019’s number of 227,700.
  • Tourists from Spain also showed an improved number as there was a 6.8% rise in the number when compared to 2019.
  • The tourism sector continues to do well with 157,000 employment contracts being signed in the past year.
  • Of those contracts, 45.3% of them were permanent which is a growing number.
  • Temporary contracts are also down in the tourism sector at 54.7% in 2022, down from 88.4% in 2019.
  • Unemployment in the tourism sector also fell, down to 6,703 which is 23.5% lower than what it was in 2019 and its lowest amount since 2007.
  • Business travel remained a key element for the number of visitors to the city. A lot of the attraction was down to international and national meetings, exhibitions, and conventions, as well as incentives. You can also count on the number of remote workers in the city too, many of whom are deciding to stay.

Remote Workers Trends

Barcelona Tourism StatisticsAndTrends

  • Barcelona has been featured in the list of best city destinations for remote workers.
  • That placing was down to the second-quickest average Wi-Fi speed and co-working spaces that ranked amongst the third-highest of those cities.
  • For digital nomads, Barcelona also ranked sixth for the most visits.
  • Should digital nomads earn enough to support their stay in the city (double the minimum monthly income in Spain), they can live with their families.
  • To take advantage of the number of remote workers coming to Barcelona, a new ‘digital nomad’ visa has been launched. This is aimed at those from outside Spain who work remotely or use telecommunication for their employment.

Most Popular Attractions

While the 1992 Olympic Games was transformative for the city, a lot of its most popular attractions still remain. That includes some of Europe’s most impressive architecture and cultural buildings.

FC Barcelona remains popular with tourists, even without Lionel Messi playing for them. There is still the club’s tour and museum to enjoy, as well as the club’s home matches.

  • At the top of the list of the most popular tourist attractions in Barcelona are Gaudi’s La Sagrada Família and Park Güell.
  • La Sagrada Família is still not finished but received just over a million visitors in 2021.
  • Further down the list, Barcelona’s Aquarium and Zoo with 692,800 and 621,100 visitors respectively.
  • Next were Montjuic Cable Car, CosmoCaixa, and El Born Centre Cultural. Historical, recreational, and cultural sites remained popular with tourists as Tibidabo Park, CaixiaForum Barcelona, and Montjuic Castle rounded off the top ten.
  • There are nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites across the city of Barcelona, each chosen for its stunning architectural design and value.
  • Alongside La Sagrada Família and Park Güell, the list of UNESCO sites includes five more Gaudi works.
  • These include Palau Güell which is a mansion just off La Ramblas in his modernist style. There’s also Casa Batllo, Casa Mila, and his first work in the city; Casa Vicens which remains popular too.
  • Antoni Gaudí also contributed his own crypt to Colonia Güell, a company town built for textile workers.
  • While Hospital de Sant Pau was closed as a hospital in 2009, the modernist style was designed by Domenech i Montaner. The other UNESCO Heritage World Site designed by Montaner is Palau de la Musica Catalana. A stunning, spacious structure that is well worth a visit simply to see how the arena is filled with natural light.
  • Other top attractions include Barcelona’s History Museum and the museum devoted to the work of Pablo Picasso.

Barcelona’s Tourist Profile

BarcelonaTourism StatisticsAndTrends

In general terms, you can build a profile of the typical tourist that visits Barcelona.

  • The majority of the city’s tourists are male at 59.2%
  • The largest age group amongst these tourists is those aged between 25 and 34 years old.
  • Gastronomy is the most popular reason for visitors to make a trip to Barcelona.
  • Each of these visitors pays five euros as a daily tourist tax fee when it comes to holiday homes.
  • In terms of international visitors, there is a 79.2% share.

Final Thoughts

In terms of the number of overnight stays in hotels, Barcelona is the ninth most popular city in Europe.

That’s 6.1m, up from 3.92 m in 2020 but still down on the record year of 2019 which had 19.85m bed nights.

Across Europe, you can see a similar story where 2019 remains a record year but tourists are coming back since then.

The encouraging thing for Barcelona is that the main attractions are buildings that seem to have an everlasting appeal; such as the unfinished La Sagrada Família.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do the local residents of barcelona want to limit the number of tourists.

Many of the tourism trends for Barcelona show a city that benefits from the rise in visitors, but there is talk of limiting their numbers.

There is the suggestion that the destination has suffered from over-tourism since 2016.

With a population of around 1.65 million, the number of tourists can eclipse that of the local residents during peak season.

Occasionally, this can be seen in anti-tourist graffiti on the walls down popular streets.

What Are The Top Museums To Be Found In Barcelona?

If you are a fan of world-class art then you need to visit Barcelona.

Not only is there a museum dedicated to Pablo Picasso but also one for Salvador Dalí while Antoni Tapies and Joan Miró have foundations dedicated to them.

There’s also a Chocolate Museum which comes with edible tickets and FC Barcelona’s Museum which is essential for football fans.

Bear in mind that certain museums are closed on Mondays though the Picasso Museum is free every first Sunday of the month.

Axel Hernborg

Hello! I am Axel, tripplo.com’s travel savings, deals and discounts expert and founder. I have been in the travel deals and discounts industry for almost a decade now. It’s me who publish and update most of the content and discounts on tripplo.com! I also have a podcast in which I share valuable information about how to get the best travel deals and discounts.

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Compendium of data on tourist activity in Destination Barcelona in 2023

Key figures

Study on profile and habits of tourists during 2022

Results report

Monthly results report on profile and habits of tourists in Destination Barcelona

barcelona tourism statistics 2019

Permanent contracts in tourism outnumbered temporary ones in January

The latest tourism activity data in Destination Barcelona have been updated - January 2024 edition

barcelona tourism statistics 2019

8 out of 10 meeting attendees consider sustainability and social responsibility of meetings important

The results report of the Congress Tourism Survey 2023 have been presented.

barcelona tourism statistics 2019

The sports agenda, highlight of March in Destination Barcelona

The Observatory of Tourism in Barcelona updates the tourism forecast report - March 2024 edition

barcelona tourism statistics 2019

The Observatori del Turisme a Barcelona: ciutat i regió (OTB) is the working platform for statistical information on tourism, knowledge and market intelligence in the city of Barcelona and the rest of Barcelona region.

TravelPulse

Spain Sets Tourism Record With Over 85 Billion Visitors in 2023

P er the National Statistics Institute, 85.1 million visitors traveled to Spain in 2023, a 19 percent increase from the prior year.

According to The Associated Press , the number of foreign visitors last year surpassed the 83.5 million visiting Spain in 2019, the year before the COVID-19 pandemic brought a halt to most leisure travel .

The U.K., France and Germany top the list as the three countries who sent the highest number of tourists to Spain.

The National Statistics Institute revealed that Spain’s income from foreign tourists reached 108.7 billion euros ($117 billion) in 2023, an increase of 25 percent from the previous year. Tourism accounts for 12 percent of the country’s gross domestic product.

Top destinations for travelers to Spain included the northeastern region of Catalonia, including Barcelona, followed by the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean and the Canary Islands off North Africa.  

For many years, France, Spain and the United States have been the world’s three top tourist destinations.

Los Realejos, Tenerife, Spain.

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  • Opinions on tourism as the main problem in Barcelona 2006-2023

Share of population in Barcelona, Spain who considered tourism to be the main problem of the city from 2006 to 2023

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*Total number of people surveyed between January 19 to April 17, 2023. The question was posed as follows: "Em podria dir quin considera que és el problema més greu que té la ciutat de Barcelona en aquests moments?" Data prior to 2013 was retrieved from previous reports.

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Statistics on " Travel and tourism in Barcelona "

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  • Budapest share of inbound tourist visits to Hungary 2022, by country of origin
  • Opinion of Japan and South Korea travelers on Paris 2015

IMAGES

  1. Domestic tourism remains dominant in Destination Barcelona

    barcelona tourism statistics 2019

  2. Chart: Spain's Ailing Tourism Sector

    barcelona tourism statistics 2019

  3. Barcelona gets about twice as many international tourists each year as

    barcelona tourism statistics 2019

  4. travel statistics 2019

    barcelona tourism statistics 2019

  5. Tourism as main problem in Barcelona 2023

    barcelona tourism statistics 2019

  6. The UNWTO Tourism Data Dashboard

    barcelona tourism statistics 2019

VIDEO

  1. Easy Barcelona

  2. Barcelona tourism #explore #trending #travel #viral #music #nature #bgm #animals

  3. Barcelona Travel Guide: Top 10 Must See Spots In 2023

  4. Barcelona#spain

  5. Barcelona Tourism Observatory: City and Region, Spain

  6. Cambodia tourism statistics 2019

COMMENTS

  1. Barcelona tourism activity report 2019

    The Barcelona tourism activity report 2019 unites the four capsules that have been published since february by the Observatory of Tourism in Barcelona. For the second consecutive year, the report has three different levels of territorial analysis: Barcelona city, Barcelona region and Destination Barcelona. Readers will find data ordered in the 10 report's chapters according to each of the ...

  2. Tourism in Barcelona

    Leading city tourism destinations in Europe from 2019 to 2022, by number of bed nights (in millions) Number of hotel guests in Barcelona 1990-2022. Number of hotel guests in Barcelona 1990-2022 ...

  3. Data and studies

    Statistics and surveys. Informe anual 2022. Annual Report of the Tourist Activity 2022, which collects the data of supply of accommodation, tourist demand and infrastructures, on the profile and expenditure and on the assessment of tourists, public opinion, the labor market and the sustainability of the Destination Barcelona. Annual Report 2022.

  4. 2019 tourist activity in Barcelona data has been published

    In terms of tourism demand, in 2019 more than 20 million tourists and 50 million overnight stays were registered in Barcelona Destination, according to available data, since it must be taken into account that there is no demand data for Homes for Tourist Use in Barcelona region or youth-hostels data in the whole of Destination Barcelona.. The growth of tourists and overnight stays has been ...

  5. Reports, studies

    Analysis of the Spanish market in Barcelona city 2018-2019. Observatori del Turisme a Barcelona: ciutat i regió ... Study on the online tourist reputation of Barcelona, to know the added value of accommodation, restaurants and tourist attractions of the destination, based on the scores published by the users in the main online tourism ...

  6. Barcelona 2024

    How many tourists visited Barcelona in 2019 Barcelona received a record number of 12 million visitors in 2019 according to statistics from National Statistics Institute series. INE. This was a growth of 5% on number of visitors and 5.6% growth in overnight stays. The tourism sector represents 9.1% of Barcelona's jobs Related pages

  7. Tourist Profile in Barcelona Region* 2018-2019

    TOURIST PROFILE IN BARCELONA REGION 2018-2019 Multiple choice question 5,5 nights AVERAGE NIGHTS STAY The same day of the trip The previous week 15 days before the trip The previous month > 1 month and < 3 months ago Three months or more ago DK/NR 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 7,5 17,7 8,1 11,2 11,5 17,9

  8. Barcelona 2019

    Font / Fuente / Source: Union of International Associations - "International Meetings Statistics Report for the year 2019" 8.1 Destinació Barcelona / Destino Barcelona / Destination Barcelona 2019 ... Informe de la actividad turística en Barcelona 2019 Barcelona tourism activity report 2019 6 8 Índex GDS (Global Destination Sustainability)

  9. Study on Profile and Habits of Tourists in Destination Barcelona 2018-2019

    The Report on the Profile and Habits of Tourists in Destination Barcelona expands on the information provided in advance by the OTB in March in the second capsule of the Annual Report on Tourism Activity 2019.; It is the result of the Survey on the Profile and Habits of Tourists in Destination Barcelona, which has been conducted altogether in Barcelona city and region, since 2017.

  10. Studies and statistics

    Studies and statistics. Turisme de Barcelona monitors tourism in the city, compiling data about supply and demand, visitor profiles, ratings and opinions in reports and publications. ... city and region The Observatory of Tourism in Barcelona (OTB): city and region is the working platform that gathers statistical data and markets intelligence ...

  11. Barcelona in numbers: Tourism, between wealth and residents' complaints

    A foreign man about 37 years old flies into El Prat Airport to spend about five days in the city after organising a holiday trip by its own. This is the majority profile of the tourist in Barcelona, according to data from the study Perfil i hàbits dels turistes a la ciutat de Barcelona 2017 [Tourist Profile and Habits in the City of Barcelona 2017], issued by the Barcelona Tourism Observatory.

  12. Tourism in Spain

    Tourism sector in Spain - statistics & facts. Spain is an established tourism market in Europe - the region with the most tourist arrivals worldwide - and globally. In 2022, Spain registered ...

  13. Barcelona: number of hotel guests 2022

    Leading European city tourism destinations 2019-2022, by number of bed nights Number of hotel guests in Barcelona 1990-2022 Most common origin countries among foreign hotel guests in Barcelona 2022

  14. Tourism in Barcelona

    Over 70% of Barcelona residents see tourism as beneficial to the city. 5 February, 2024 - 12:45h. Tourism. Now that the Covid-19 pandemic is over and tourism has returned to Barcelona, city residents' opinions of it are similar to those expressed in 2019, according to the 2023 perception survey.

  15. Barcelona's 'Bold Strategy' to Quell the Tourism Crisis

    Although improvements in the impact of tourism are difficult to quantify, some statistics suggest progress has been made. In 2022, Barcelona received 12.4 million tourists, significantly fewer than the record year of 2019, yet the amount spent by each visitor increased. The number of temporary contracts in the labor market also fell from 88.4 ...

  16. Barcelona tourism activity report 2018

    22/11/2019 - 13:45h . The synthesis and ... along with an explanation of the development of the main statistics and future trends and a more extensive reference framework to put the rest of the report's information into context. ... Related link: Barcelona tourism activity report 2018. Share: Related news . 29/02/2024 - 11:00h.

  17. Most popular tourist attractions in Barcelona

    Barcelona's most popular tourist attraction in 2022 was the Park Güell, registering approximately 4.7 million visitors. ... largest worldwide 2019; Tourism volume to Teotihuacán 2009-2020 ...

  18. Tourism In Barcelona

    Statistics of Tourism in Barcelona. Now that we know a little bit more about tourism in Barcelona, lets take a look at some of the key statistics about the tourism industry here: In 2019, there were over 9 million overnight stays in Barcelona by foreign tourists. Barcelona is the most visited city in Spain, with over 30 million visitors in 2019.

  19. Statistics confirm tourism back to full strength in Barcelona

    Despite the great recovery, however, most indicators are still slightly below May 2019, the year before the arrival of covid-19. According to data from the statistics institute, hotel occupancy in Barcelona in May was 72.4% (and 79.4% at weekends), well above May 2021 (28%), but only slightly above May 2019, when it reached 74.9%.

  20. Barcelona Tourism Statistics And Trends

    Here's all you need to know about Barcelona tourism statistics and trends. ... Temporary contracts are also down in the tourism sector at 54.7% in 2022, down from 88.4% in 2019. Unemployment in the tourism sector also fell, down to 6,703 which is 23.5% lower than what it was in 2019 and its lowest amount since 2007.

  21. Observatory of Tourism in Barcelona: city and region

    The Observatory of Tourism in Barcelona updates the tourism forecast report - March 2024 edition. 22/02/2024 - 10:30h. Intercontinental passengers at Barcelona Airport grew by 34.2% year-on-year in 2023.

  22. Barcelona: tourists by travel purpose 2022

    Leading European city tourism destinations 2019-2022, by number of bed nights Number of hotel guests in Barcelona 1990-2022 Most common origin countries among foreign hotel guests in Barcelona 2022

  23. Spain Sets Tourism Record With Over 85 Billion Visitors in 2023

    Per the National Statistics Institute, 85.1 million visitors traveled to Spain in 2023, a 19 percent increase from the prior year. According to The Associated Press, the number of foreign visitors ...

  24. Tourism as main problem in Barcelona 2023

    Share of population in Barcelona, Spain who considered tourism to be the main problem of the city from 2006 to 2023 [Graph], Ayuntamiento de Barcelona, June 1, 2023. [Online].