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€24 Billion Reality: What British Tourists Are Really Worth To Spain

Published

8 hours ago

June 16, 2026

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Tourism is one of Spain’s most important economic sectors. Photo credit: Charlesy/Shutterstock

Spain continues to reap the benefits of its popularity among British holidaymakers. New tourism figures reveal that visitors from the United Kingdom spent an estimated €24 billion across the country in 2025, making Britain’s most valuable international tourism market and highlighting the crucial role tourism plays in the national economy. The figure is based on official Spanish tourism data showing that UK visitors accounted for around 17 per cent of all international tourist spending in Spain.

According to Spain’s Ministry of Industry and Tourism, foreign visitors spent a record €134.7 billion in the country during 2025, meaning British travellers contributed close to one euro in every six spent by international tourists. The UK also remained Spain’s largest source of visitors. Around 19 million British tourists travelled to Spain during 2025, ahead of all other international markets. The spending figures highlight the continued importance of British holidaymakers to Spain’s tourism industry despite the UK’s departure from the European Union and increasing competition from other Mediterranean destinations.

Record tourism revenues for Spain

Spain’s tourism sector continued its strong post-pandemic growth throughout 2025, with both visitor numbers and spending reaching historic highs. According to government data, international tourist expenditure rose to €134.7 billion during the year, representing one of the highest totals ever recorded by the country.

British tourists were the biggest contributors to that revenue stream. Their estimated €24 billion in spending covered accommodation, restaurants, transport, leisure activities, retail purchases and other tourism-related services across Spain.

The Balearic Islands, Canary Islands, Andalucía, Valencia and Cataluña remained among the most popular destinations for UK visitors, with British tourists forming a substantial share of the visitor economy in many coastal areas. Tourism is one of Spain’s most important economic sectors, contributing significantly to employment and national income. The spending generated by foreign visitors supports hotels, bars, restaurants, airlines, tour operators, entertainment venues and thousands of small businesses.

How Britain compares with other European markets

Although Spain attracts visitors from across Europe and beyond, the UK remains comfortably ahead of other source markets when measured by spending.

Germany traditionally ranks among Spain’s most important tourism markets and continues to provide millions of visitors each year. German tourists are particularly important for destinations such as the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands. However, German visitor spending remains below that of British travellers due to lower overall visitor numbers and expenditure levels.

France also remains a major source market, benefiting from its geographical proximity to Spain and strong cross-border travel links. French tourists contribute substantial spending, particularly in northern regions and major cities, but again fall behind the UK in overall expenditure.

The Netherlands is another valuable market for Spain. Dutch visitors consistently rank among the country’s most frequent international travellers and contribute significantly to tourism revenues, particularly in coastal destinations and the islands. However, the Netherlands has a much smaller population than either the UK or Germany, limiting its overall contribution compared with Europe’s largest tourism markets.

While German, French and Dutch tourists remain crucial to Spain’s visitor economy, none currently match the scale of the British market in either visitor numbers or total spending.

Why British tourists spend so much in Spain

Several factors help explain the UK’s dominant position. Spain remains one of the most accessible overseas destinations for British travellers, with extensive flight connections linking airports across both countries throughout the year. The country’s climate, beaches, cultural attractions and established tourism infrastructure continue to attract repeat visitors. Many British tourists also stay for longer periods than visitors from some neighbouring countries, increasing overall expenditure.

In addition, Spain has a large community of British residents and second-home owners. Friends and relatives visiting these communities contribute further spending through accommodation, hospitality, transport and leisure activities. The strength of the British market has also been supported by year-round travel patterns. While summer remains the busiest season, winter tourism to destinations such as the Canary Islands generates significant additional revenue.

What €24 billion means for Spain

The scale of British spending represents a major economic benefit for Spain. An estimated €24 billion in tourism expenditure supports employment across multiple sectors, including hospitality, transport, retail, construction and leisure services. The revenue also generates tax income for national, regional and local administrations.

In many coastal municipalities, British tourism forms a substantial part of the local economy. Hotels, restaurants, bars, excursion companies, car rental businesses and shops often depend heavily on international visitors, particularly during peak holiday periods.

The spending also helps offset economic challenges in other sectors. Tourism remains one of Spain’s largest sources of foreign income, bringing billions of euros into the country each year from overseas visitors. Strong tourism revenues can contribute to economic growth, support business investment and help sustain employment in regions where tourism is a primary industry.

Spain’s tourism outlook remains strong

The latest figures suggest Spain remains one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, with demand continuing to grow despite economic uncertainty across Europe. Government tourism data indicates that international visitors are not only travelling to Spain in greater numbers but are also spending more during their stays.

For Spain, the continued strength of the British market remains particularly important. With around 19 million visitors and an estimated €24 billion in spending during 2025, UK tourists continue to play a central role in the success of the country’s tourism industry. As Spain looks to maintain record tourism revenues, the contribution made by British holidaymakers is likely to remain one of the most significant drivers of the sector and a key source of income for businesses and communities across the country.

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Ceiling Collapse In Benalmadena Restaurant

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Ceiling Collapse In Benalmadena Restaurant

Published

13 hours ago

June 16, 2026

Lucy Ramnought

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The owners of Sopranos Restaurant in Benalmadena woke to a shock alarm alert before discovering part of their restaurant ceiling had collapsed into a dining area leaving a trail of mess and chaos. Tony and Emma of Sopranos had already had a testing week in the business and the ceiling failure was an unwelcome end to an already difficult week.

The incident happened in the early hours of Monday, June 15, when owner Emma received a notification from the restaurant’s alarm system at approximately 6.55am indicating movement in the rear dining room.

After checking the venue’s security cameras, she could see movement but was unable to determine what had happened. It was only when the restaurant was opened later that morning that the cause became clear.

“When we lifted the shutter, you could see all the plaster on the floor,” she said. Fortunately, no one was injured in the collapse.

Alarm alert leads to discovery of ceiling collapse

According to Emma, the damage appears to have been caused by an ageing ceiling structure in the rear dining area.

“It is a very old technique of putting a ceiling up which looks like it has given way,” she explained.

The affected section was quickly cleaned and cordoned off to ensure customer safety, while access to the restaurant’s toilets was maintained. Emma praised helpers Marcia and Liam for assisting with the clean-up operation, allowing the business to continue trading despite the disruption.

“It was a shock, but at least no one was injured,” she said.

Sopranos restaurant ceiling collapse — The ceiling failure
Credit:Sopranos/FB

Benalmadena restaurant faces series of technical problems

The ceiling collapse was the latest setback in what has been a particularly challenging week for the restaurant. Earlier in the week, Sopranos lost power after an electrical fault developed, requiring repairs before normal service could resume.

The problems continued when the restaurant’s main kitchen chiller broke down on Friday night, forcing staff to temporarily rely on alternative refrigeration while repairs were arranged.

“We have had such a bad week,” Emma said.

The good news for the business was that the chiller was successfully repaired, allowing kitchen operations to return to normal.

Landlord steps in after insurance setback

Following the ceiling collapse, the restaurant contacted its insurance company but was informed that the damage was not covered because it was considered general wear and tear.

However, Emma said the landlord immediately became involved and has been absolutely fantastic with his support and response to the situation. With repairs now being organised, the restaurant remains open while work continues.

Customers rally around local Costa del Sol business

News of the difficult week saw an outpouring of support on social media, with customers leaving numerous messages of encouragement on the restaurant’s Facebook page.

Emma said the response from regular customers had helped lift spirits after several days of unexpected challenges.

“Thanks for all the messages of support. It has meant a lot,” she posted on social media.

“We’ve got very good customers,” Emma added.

Despite dealing with electrical issues, refrigeration problems and now a ceiling collapse, the hardworking team at Sopranos Restaurant has continued serving customers and is hoping for a far less eventful week ahead.

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200,000 Visitors Expected At Motril’s 20th International Air Festival

Published

14 hours ago

June 16, 2026

Adam Woodward

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Costa Tropical skies roar once more. Credit: Motril festival aereo FB

Motril council has announced the 20th year of the International Air Festival on Sunday, June 20 with the event taking place along the local coastline and organisers expecting over 200,000 visitors for the full day of jaw-dropping aviation wonder.

Programme details for the milestone year

Mayor Luisa Garcia Chamorro presented the plans and said the festival roots among residents and tourists and called it Spain’s best aeronautical festival. She recalled its 2005 start with three helicopters and 500 spectators, now a key summer date for Motril and Costa Tropical. Organisers have described a balanced programme ranging from gliders to combat jets with helicopters prominent as tribute to the first event. This gathering will do wonders for the local economy and tourism across the Costa Tropical.

Featured international military and rescue aircraft

New elements include the Sikorsky MH-60R Romeo helicopter from the US Navy making its first appearance in Motril. This Rota-based aircraft ranks among the world’s most sophisticated naval helicopters. German air force Demo Team from Ala 51 flies Tornado jets in a rare display in Spain. German helicopters join US Navy, Maritime Rescue, INFOCA, Guardia Civil and National Police units.

Extensive safety measures and access information

Deputy mayor Jose Peña outlined the security plans with Local Police, Guardia Civil, National Police and fire services for thousands of visitors. Extra parking includes a new zone with nearly 500 spaces. Visitors should arrive early preferring public transport to avoid congestion. Attendees should arrive two hours early via Avenida Nuestra Senora de la Cabeza, Rambla de las Brujas or the Playa Granada road. Parking is expected, as in other years, to be slow moving entering the official parking. Not to worry though, as best views are expected to be from the beach. Still, those looking for a day of wonder watching the skies should arrive as early as possible to nab the best parking spots.

Drone flights are banned all day over restricted airspace risking serious penalties for violations. This year confirms the Motril’s airshow status as a top Spanish aviation event and key Andalucian summer draw.

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Bulldozers Demolish Iconic BereBere Chiringuito In Torre Del Mar

Published

14 hours ago

June 16, 2026

Adam Woodward

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BereBere chiringuito removed from Torre del Mar beach. Credit: José María Alba FB

José María Alba expressed deep sadness as excavators reduced his chiringuito beach bar to rubble early on Tuesday, June 16. An 18-year-old establishment in Torre del Mar had been happily serving meals and gatherings beside the sea in the Axarquia area of Malaga. Alba shared footage showing the demolition and voiced his sense of abandonment by the local Tenencia de Alcadia.

Owner blames local officials for lack of backing

Alba claimed national coastal authorities had agreed in principle to a relocation nearby. He stated the local government body had failed to support this move, resulting in the enforced demolition after permits expired. His business had offered lunches, snacks and parties on the beach for nearly two decades.

Council defends action by reciting national coastal legislation

Spain’s Ley de Costas places the entire shoreline public domain under national control and not local councils’. Concessions require competitive bidding and technical approval from the national Demarcacion de Costas office. Local bodies hold no authority for direct awards on this land. Torre del Mar officials said the chiringuito enjoyed an exceptional extension lasting 18 years. They stressed that backing businesses must respect the rules and legal security. Coastal decisions on public land belong to central authorities in Madrid.

Job losses lead to accusations of favouritism

Dozens of workers now face unemployment. Some 54 staff worked in summer, while 30 held year-round posts. Social media posts from supporters accused local leaders of favouring connected entrepreneurs over established employers. Messages suggested residents would remember the events of this in the May 2027 elections. Council statements have not ruled out legal steps to correct inaccurate claims.

Venue built reputation for quality dining and recovery

Chiringuito BereBere earned praise for food that combined traditional beach dishes with refined cooking, admired by top Andalusian chefs. Its location aided Torre del Mar’s appeal to diners seeking quality seaside meals. Owners and staff overcame a 2018 fryer fire that damaged the premises. Rapid repairs let the business reopen shortly after.