Spain now the second most visited country in the world

Thursday, September 6, 2018

The tourism industry is pivotal for Spain. It accounts for around 11 per cent of the economy, employing more Spaniards than any other industry. Spain is the second most visited country in the world, according to the latest UNWTO report, surpassing the USA and trailing France.

 
In 2017, Spain welcomed 81.8 million international visitors, second after France, according to the UNWTO report released last week. Spain is also second in terms of international tourism receipts, with $68bn spent by visitors in 2017.

 
Over the first seven months of this year, there was a gradual increase in the number of international visitors. The number inched up by 0.3 per cent to 47 million, which is the lowest growth rate in eight years.

 
Spain’s international visitor drop comes as Turkey is experiencing rebirth in tourism, with tour operator Thomas Cook reporting a 63 per cent year on year jump in bookings to Turkey for this year. British holidaymakers are finally returning to Turkey following a series of attacks and an attempted military coup in 2016. The Turkish lira recently reached an all-time low against the pound, making it a sought after destination for visitors from the UK.

 
The tourism industries in Egypt and Tunisia are also gradually picking up.

« Back to Page

• Here is what you need to know why Spain is a great place to visit this Summer 2024

• Proposed new railway line to connect seaside cities along the Spanish coast

• Indulge in coastal luxury: Taj Fisherman Cove, Chennai invites you to a Beachside Sangria Soiree

• How Spain is tackling over-tourism to maintain balance in travel industry ?

• Catalonia to impose water restrictions on tourists