Tourism trends: monastery stays and senior travel surge in Spain

Staying in monasteries is emerging as a niche tourism trend that blends historic monastic hospitality with modern desires for slow, sustainable travel. Visitors are drawn to the authenticity of historic sites, the quiet atmosphere and the chance to follow monastic routines, while many monasteries now offer hotel‑style accommodations to meet contemporary comfort expectations.

In Spain, seniors aged 55 and older represent a major travel market. The latest "VI Barómetro del Consumidor Sénior" shows that more than 13.3 million Spanish seniors plan leisure trips in 2026, with 71 % intending to travel within the country and 37 % eyeing international destinations. Digital tools are increasingly used for booking, and seniors show strong interest in cultural activities, beach holidays and family‑focused trips.