Tourism is one of the main sources of income for the Spanish economy, and for the last 30 years has grown into a major industry in the country. Spain is ranked the fourth most popular destination in the world for international inbound tourists, and is second placed in terms of tourist expenditure.

Historically, the sector was one of the drivers that brought about the recovery of the Spanish economy as it emerged from the dictatorship of General Franco in 1975. Without doubt, Spain is one of the most distinctive examples of a tourism model that is based on sun, sea and sand, and until the turn of the new century, in 2000, there was little focus on the other aspects of the country, which is incredibly diverse. While France and Italy developed strong cultural aspects to their tourism products, Spain built resorts along its coastlines to attract the mass markets looking for a beach holiday. Consequently, a highly seasonal product was developed, and employment was in high demand in the summer, but less so in the winter months.

Country Reports are tourism profiles of destination countries.

This report is produced by one of a global network of industry analysts, who provide market-based information as well as detailed, insightful and localised interpretation of the facts and figures.

Each profile contains information on:

Tourist arrivals - overnights and expenditure

Purpose of visit - business, leisure or VFR

Accommodation supply - operating performance

Tourism policy - management

Transport - access and infrastructure

Tourism funding - promotion and future development