A Shift in European Tourism Landscape
Spain is projected to surpass France as the world’s most visited country by 2040, according to a new tourism barometer by Braintrust. This forecast is a stark warning for France’s tourism industry.
Spain’s foreign tourist arrivals are expected to reach a staggering 115 million annually by 2040. This year alone, Spain is poised to welcome over 91 million foreign travelers, with spending exceeding €125 billion.
The report attributes this growth to several factors, including the international context, economic developments, and the appeal of Spanish destinations. While Andalusia, the Balearics, the Canary Islands, Catalonia, Valencia, and Madrid currently receive the majority of tourists, regions like Galicia, Asturias, the Basque Country, Navarre, Castile and Leon, Castile-La Mancha, and Extremadura are expected to gain popularity in the coming years.
The average daily expenditure of visitors to Spain is projected to double by 2030, reaching approximately €280 per day. By 2035-2040, this figure could rise to €340 per day.
This shift in tourism trends presents a significant opportunity for Spain’s economy but also poses challenges for France, which has long been a leading tourist destination. As Spain continues to attract more visitors, France will need to adapt and innovate to maintain its competitive position in the European tourism market.
