Lorraine Williamson
Spain’s airports ended the summer on a high, welcoming almost 12 million international passengers in August alone. The figures, released by industry tracker Hosteltur, confirm the country’s role as Europe’s holiday heavyweight and hint at a winter season that may stay busy long after the beach towels are packed away.
Madrid-Barajas handled the heaviest load with more than 2.3 million overseas arrivals, edging out Barcelona’s El Prat and Palma de Mallorca. Alicante, traditionally quieter outside the peak months, stole headlines with a double-digit jump in arrivals—proof that the Costa Blanca’s appeal now stretches beyond July and August.
Who is flying in—and why
Britain remains Spain’s most loyal market, sending roughly 2.7 million travellers during the month. Germany followed with 1.6 million passengers, while Italy delivered a 7% rise to 1.2 million. The Netherlands contributed over half a million visitors, with Málaga and other Andalucian hotspots enjoying a noticeable Dutch upswing. Belgium’s numbers are still being finalised, but early-year data already showed a healthy increase.
New long-haul energy, French pause
Beyond Europe, Spain is seeing steady growth from Asia and South America. Travellers from China, South Korea, Japan, Brazil and Argentina all rose in August, helping airlines diversify beyond the classic sun-and-sea markets. The only notable dip came from France, where competition from other Mediterranean destinations trimmed arrivals slightly.
Autumn travel is the insider´s choice
Valencia takes centre stage
Among Spain’s big six regions—Madrid, Catalonia, the Balearics, the Canaries, Andalucia and the Valencian Community—Valencia was August’s breakout performer. A near 10% rise in international visitors reflects new flight connections and a cultural calendar that goes well beyond the beach.
Outlook for the shoulder season
With Alicante and Valencia leading unexpected growth, Spanish tourism officials expect autumn to stay lively. Strong air links, city festivals and a global appetite for late-season sunshine suggest the August boom is no one-off, but a sign of a year-round travel economy in the making.
Source: Hosteltur