Tourism reputation improves in Galicia and Madrid despite social concerns

According to the LLYC Tourism Perception Barometer for the second quarter of 2026, tourism reputation has seen improvements in both Galicia and the Community of Madrid, though social tensions remain high.

In Galicia, the tourism perception score reached 6.2 out of 10, an increase of 1.1 points compared to the previous year. While positive themes such as the promotion of tourist trains were noted, the report highlights significant social unrest. Negative conversations were heavily concentrated on tourist housing, which has caused persistent friction in several Galician cities.

In the Community of Madrid, the reputation score rose to 5.6, up from 4.2 during the same period last year. Positive sentiment was driven by improved air connectivity. However, the region faces significant challenges regarding the proliferation of illegal tourist apartments and the ‘touristification’ of neighborhoods, which residents claim is displacing local commerce and long-term inhabitants.