MADRID (AP) — Spain celebrated a milestone in tourism with a remarkable influx of 85.1 million international visitors in the past year, marking a significant 19% surge compared to the preceding year, as per the latest report from the National Statistics Institute released on Friday.
In a remarkable rebound, the figure surpassed the pre-pandemic levels of 83.5 million tourists recorded in 2019, signaling a robust resurgence in leisure travel despite the lingering effects of the COVID-19 crisis.
The United Kingdom, France, and Germany emerged as the top contributors to Spain's tourism boom, fueling the nation's thriving hospitality sector and economic growth.
Notably, Spain's tourism revenue soared to an impressive 108.7 billion euros ($117 billion) in 2023, representing a substantial 25% surge from the previous year, underscoring the industry's pivotal role, contributing to a significant 12% share of the country's gross domestic product.
Among the top destinations, Catalonia, encompassing vibrant Barcelona, led the pack, followed closely by the idyllic Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean and the sun-kissed Canary Islands off the coast of North Africa, each offering a diverse array of cultural, historical, and natural attractions to captivate visitors.
With France, Spain, and the United States retaining their coveted positions as the world's premier tourist hotspots, Spain's resounding success underscores its enduring allure and appeal as a must-visit destination on the global travel map.
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