Madrid tourism spending hits record €10 billion in first half of 2026

Madrid has achieved a historic surge in international tourism during the first half of 2026, with foreign visitor spending reaching €10.007 billion. This represents an 11.4% increase compared to the same period the previous year, according to data from the Spanish National Statistics Institute (INE).

Between January and June 2026, the Spanish capital welcomed 5.66 million tourists, a 4.1% increase from the prior year. International visitors now account for 59% of total arrivals and contribute to two out of every three hotel nights stayed. Total overnight stays reached nearly 12 million, with international visitors averaging 2.38 nights per stay.

Almudena Maíllo, head of tourism, noted that this growth revitalizes urban areas, creates jobs, and strengthens city services. The United States has emerged as the primary source market, with over 567,000 American tourists visiting during this period, followed by significant visitor numbers from Italy and the United Kingdom.