Else Beekman
The Region of Murcia has set a new tourism record in 2024, primarily driven by an increase in foreign visitors. This has positioned this southeastern part of Spain at the top of the countries tourism rankings.
2024 has proven to be a remarkable year for tourism in the Region of Murcia, with exceptional figures recorded across the board. Over 1.15 million foreign tourists visited the region, marking an 18.6% increase compared to 2023. This represents the highest number of international visitors ever recorded in Murcia’s history. As a result, the region now ranks among those with the greatest year-on-year growth. Only Navarra and Aragón surpass it in terms of tourism growth.
A unique appeal for international tourists
According to data reported by La Opinión de Murcia and based on a FRONTUR survey conducted by the National Institute of Statistics, Murcia excels in a key metric that distinguishes it from other Spanish communities. While the average stay for tourists across Spain is 7.26 days, international visitors to Murcia stay an average of 12.83 days. This exceptional duration has earned the region first place nationally for the longest average stay.
Significant economic impact
The influx of international tourists has had a notable impact on the regional economy. The UK, France, and Belgium were the primary sources of international visitors to Murcia. British tourists accounted for the highest number of visitors, with a total of 313,686. France followed with 230,119 visitors, and Belgium ranked third with 111,394. The overall growth in foreign tourism has had a substantial economic effect. Foreign tourist expenditure in the region reaching €1.606 billion, a 29.2% increase from 2023.
Why tourists opt for longer stays in Murcia
Several factors contribute to the longer stays in Murcia compared to other Spanish regions. The region’s diverse offerings provide a compelling reason for tourists to extend their visits. Visitors can enjoy the Costa Cálida with a wide variety of beaches, like Playa de Calblanca and Playa de Bolnuevo. Furthermore, the lagune of Mar Menor offers a lot of facilities for family holidays. People enjoy here a lovely climate with many hours of sun. Additionally, the cultural heritage in cities like Murcia and Cartagena, with its Roman sites, makes the area very attractive. Nature lovers are attracted to the Sierra de Espuña, near the town of Alhama de Murcia. It offers a variety of landscapes, including mountains, forests, and waterfalls.
Additionally, it is worth noting that many international visitors have second residences in Murcia, which may further contribute to the longer average stay. The longer stays are also beneficial for the region’s economy, fostering greater profitability for local businesses within the tourism sector.