Today: First Day at Fitur 2025 in Madrid
Every year, I arrive to #Madrid to visit Fitur, one of the largest international tourism expos, to report on the exhibition itself. This year, however, I decided to focus on something different: Spanish tourism.
#Spain offers an exceptional model for how to develop tourism as a vital industry. In 2024, Spain ranked second globally in tourism, just after France, with an impressive 94 million international visitors. More importantly, the sector generated €126 billion for the Spanish economy, accounting for 12.3% of the country’s GDP.
What stands out is Spain’s ability to attract international travelers and inject substantial foreign revenue into its economy, unlike many countries that primarily focus on domestic tourism.
While Spain is renowned for its sunny beaches, the country has seen a significant shift toward cultural and gastronomic tourism. In 2024, 32% of travelers visited Spain for cultural experiences, and gastronomic tourism grew by 28% compared to 2019, according to Spain’s Ministry of Tourism.
This example highlights Spain’s strategic approach to tourism: focusing on structured sector development, prioritizing cultural and culinary offerings, and promoting the industry beyond just social media campaigns.
Spain’s success provides valuable lessons for other countries aiming to elevate their tourism sectors. The blend of innovation and focus on quality experiences makes Spain not just a destination but a benchmark for the global tourism industry.
What are your thoughts on Spain’s tourism model? Do you think other countries can replicate this success? Let’s meet at #Fitur2025 and discuss!
You can contact me in Madrid by mobile phone or email: Sergey@Stanovkin.London or via the form below.
Sergey Stanovkin 