In 2024, Spain welcomed around 94 million international tourists, marking the second most visited country in the world after France. Why is Spain becoming so popular? Well, Spain has an average of 300 sunny days a year, it is the country with most blue flag beaches in the world, is has amazing walkable cities perfect for a city break trip, amazing fresh food and great quality for price, loads of historic landmarks and UNESCO sites, vibrant cultural scenes… for all those reasons and more Spain continues to captivate tourist from all over the world.
Data from the Spanish Statistical Office (INE) reveal the top source of tourists are: the United Kingdom with 18.4 million visitors in 2024, France (13 million), and Germany (12 million), Italy with 5.4 million, US with 4.2 million visitors which has set a new record, this growth is partially attributed for all the new direct flight routes to reach the country.
Below are the 10 most visited cities in Spain in 2024, based on official data where tourist have spent at least one night in the city, each with its own unique charm and reasons for popularity:
1. Madrid: 9,900,897 visitors
Spain’s capital offers the perfect city break with a friendly city full of grand architecture, mouth watering cuisine and tapas, and world-class museums like the Prado and Reina Sofía. The Royal Palace and Retiro Park offer perfect sunset views, while vibrant neighborhoods like Malasaña, Lavapiés and Latina pulse with energy and plenty of options to enjoy tasty tapas. Additional attractions such as the Temple of Debod, Gran Vía for shopping and entertainment, and the bustling Mercado de San Miguel enhance the experience for visitors.
Would you like to know more?: 20 places to see in Madrid
2. Barcelona: 8,239,481 visitors
Barcelona’s magnetic pull comes from its modernist charm, the wonderful architecture of the city (like Gaudí’s Sagrada Família) and Mediterranean lifestyle. Visitors love its mix of culture, beaches, and lively nightlife. Beyond the well known attractions, the city also offers Parc de la Ciutadella, the Picasso Museum, the bustling La Boqueria market, and the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc.
If you want to know more about it: 20 things to see in Barcelona
3. Seville: 3,023,117 visitors
Seville is full of Andalusian culture, flamenco shows, orange scented streets, and iconic monuments like the Seville Cathedral, the Giralda, and the Real Alcázar. Events such as Semana Santa and Feria de Abril attract thousands of international tourists each spring. Other highlights include the lively Plaza de España, Metropol Parasol, and the riverside district of Triana.
Everything Sevilla has to offer: 20 things to see in Sevilla
4. Palma de Mallorca: 2,475,250 visitors
The capital of the Balearic Islands, Palma combines its gothic cathedral, charming old town, beachside promenades, and luxurious resorts. Must see attractions include the Cathedral, Bellver Castle, and plenty of beaches to enjoy a day under the sun.
Discover Palma: 15 things you must see in Palma (the city)
5. Benidorm: 2,232,710 visitors
Benidorm, a Costa Blanca icon, draws millions of UK tourists annually with its long sandy beaches, high rise skyline, and legendary nightlife. Family friendly attractions makes it an old time favorite, especially with European holidaymakers. Popular spots include Levante and Poniente beaches, Terra Mítica theme park, and the Balcón del Mediterráneo viewpoint.
6. Valencia: 2,068,861 visitors
Valencia balances the historic and the futuristic, with its medieval old town and the stunning City of Arts and Sciences. Add in sunny beaches, the Turia Gardens, and world famous paella, and it’s easy to see why this coastal city is gaining more attention every year. Visitors also enjoy the Central Market, the Silk Exchange (La Lonja), the Valencia Cathedral, and the vibrant Ruzafa neighborhood.
Would you like to know more? 20 places to see in Valencia
7. San Bartolomé de Tirajana (Gran Canaria): 1,761,332 visitors
Located in the south of Gran Canaria, this municipality includes Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés: beach resorts famous for golden dunes and sunshine year round. Its appeal is strong among German, British and Nordic tourists seeking winter sun and resort style living. Highlights include the Maspalomas Lighthouse, the sand dunes nature reserve, Aqualand Maspalomas, and the lively Yumbo Centrum shopping and entertainment complex.
8. Granada: 1,738,660 visitors
Granada’s soul lies in the Alhambra, one of Europe’s most admired historical sites. Visitors also love the narrow streets of the Albaicín, the views from Mirador de San Nicolás, and free tapas culture. The city also features the historic Sacromonte district, the Granada Cathedral, the Royal Chapel of Granada, and the nearby Sierra Nevada mountains for hiking and skiing.
9. Calvià (Mallorca): 1,709,483 visitors
A resort heavy municipality on Mallorca’s southwest coast, Calvià is known for luxury hotels, lively beaches, and proximity to the Serra de Tramuntana mountains. It’s especially popular among British and German tourists seeking a polished holiday experience. Visitors can explore Magaluf, Portals Nous, Palmanova Beach, the upmarket marina of Port Adriano, and enjoy scenic coastal hiking trails.
If you would like to know more about everything Mallorca has to offer have a look at 20 places to see in Mallorca (the island), and the best beaches in Mallorca.
10. Adeje (Tenerife): 1,555,813 visitors
Located on the island of Tenerife, Adeje combines beach life and adventure. Resorts in Costa Adeje attract families and couples alike, while proximity to Siam Park (Europe’s top rated water park) and Mount Teide National Park make it an all around destination. Other attractions include the Barranco del Infierno hiking trail, Playa del Duque, La Caleta fishing village, and whale watching tours off the coast.
- Madrid: 9,900,897
- Barcelona: 8,239,481
- Seville: 3,023,117
- Palma de Mallorca: 2,475,250
- Benidorm: 2,232,710
- Valencia: 2,068,861
- San Bartolomé de Tirajana (Gran Canaria)
- Granada: 1,738,660
- Calvià (Mallorca)
- Adeje (Tenerife)
These ten cities represent the best of what Spain has to offer, providing something different for each type of tourist through a unique mix of culture, convenience, natural beauty, and well developed tourism infrastructure. Madrid and Barcelona lead due to their vibrant urban life, iconic landmarks, renowned museums, and global connectivity through flights and trains, making them irresistible to both first time and repeat visitors. The capital’s elegant boulevards and endless cultural offerings contrast beautifully with Barcelona’s whimsical architecture and seaside ambiance, giving travelers a reason to visit both.
Seville and Granada stand out with their deep historical roots, spectacular Moorish architecture, and lively traditions, which captivate culture lovers from around the world. Their combination of romantic alleys, flamenco heritage, and grand palaces provide immersive experiences into Spain’s storied past.
Coastal hotspots like Palma de Mallorca, Benidorm, Adeje, and San Bartolomé de Tirajana provide holiday resort escapes that draw millions of beachgoers year round, especially from Northern Europe. These destinations thrive thanks to their inviting climates, modern resort facilities, scenic coastlines, and abundance of entertainment options, making them perfect for families and couples.
This rich diversity ensures Spain appeals to nearly every kind of visitor: from beach lovers, foodies, adventure seekers, and cultural enthusiasts… helping explain why these cities consistently rank at the top of visitor lists.
