The influx of American tourists to Barcelona has surged, with U.S. visitors now outnumbering Spanish nationals in the city’s hotels. According to recent data from the National Institute of Statistics (INE), during the summer months of June, August, and September 2023, Barcelona’s hotels accommodated more guests from the United States than from all across Spain.
This trend, highlighted by La Vanguardia, reflects the growing significance of the U.S. market. This has now become the sixth most important for Spain, trailing only behind the traditional European markets. Barcelona, in particular, has become a top destination for these intercontinental travellers.
Solidifying trend
In 2024, this trend seems to be solidifying rather than being a one-time occurrence. Reports indicate that in both May and June of this year, Barcelona hotels recorded over 145,000 American guests, a figure that exceeds the number of domestic travelLers by approximately 30,000. The same pattern is expected to continue in July, suggesting a strong and sustained interest from U.S. tourists.
Rise in American tourism in Barcelona
While American visitors dominate the summer months, Spanish tourists still lead during the rest of the year. The rise in American tourism in Barcelona dates back to around 2010 and has been steadily increasing, with a brief interruption during the pandemic. Now, the U.S. market has reasserted its position as the leading international segment in the city, only surpassed by domestic tourism.
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