barcelona tourism revenue

• www.barcelona.cat
• Data and studies

Shared knowledge is an essential tool in addressing the debate on tourism in the city. In this section, data is being made available to citizens, entities, companies and administrations.

Infographic tourist activity. February 2024

Collection of the main indicators of tourist activity in Barcelona during the month of February 2024.

Annual Report on Tourism Activity. Year 2023. Capsule 2.

Summary of the main indicators of tourist activity in Barcelona for the year 2023 compared to 2022.

Perceptions of tourism in the city 2023

 The report presents the results of a survey conducted among Barcelona residents on perceptions of tourism in the city and opinions of current affairs and tourist habits.

Tax on Stays in Tourist Establishments (IEET)

Compilation of data on collection, revenue and expenditure from the IEET and the surcharge applied by the Barcelona City Council.

Statistics and surveys

Annual Report of the Tourist Activity 2023, which collects the data of supply of accommodation, tourist demand and infrastructures, on the profile and expenditure and on the assessment of tourists, public opinion, the labor market and the sustainability of the Destination Barcelona.

Annual report that presents the main data on tourist activity in Barcelona. Observatori del Turisme a Barcelona: ciutat i regió

Presentation of the results of a study on tourist characterisation and profiles. Its main aim is to identify the profiles and habits of tourists spending the night in Barcelona. 

Presentation of results of a survey conducted among Barcelona residents on perceptions of tourism in the city and opinions of current affairs and tourist habits. Department of Opinion Surveys at Barcelona City Council.

Recommended websites

Observatory of Tourism in Barcelona: city and region

Main statistical tourism information of Destination Barcelona

Register of surveys and opinion polls by Barcelona City Council

The register of surveys and opinion polls by Barcelona City Council is a public database containing descriptions of all surveys and opinion polls conducted by City Council.

LABturisme - Diputació de Barcelona

 LABturisme is the department for tourist data at Barcelona Provincial Council in charge of R+D, training and innovation on tourism in municipalities in the province of Barcelona.

Barcelona Economia

Barcelona Economia  is a website by City Council which monitors the economy of the city based on the collation and analysis of the main indicators in Barcelona and its metropolitan area.

Barcelona Cultural Data Observatory

Barcelona Cultural Data Observatory is an initiative by the Culture Institute (ICUB) at Barcelona City Council, created with the purpose of publishing data, indicators and reports on the city’s cultural reality.

Department of Statistics. Barcelona City Council

The Department of Statistics at Barcelona City Council specialises in the theory and practice of data collection and analysis and turning them into useful information. The first yearbook for the City of Barcelona dates back to 1902.

Barcelona Tourist Consortium

The Barcelona Tourist Consortium, an initiative by City Council and the Chamber of Commerce, is the body which promotes tourism in the city. Reports and publications date back to 1989.

Statistical Institute of Catalonia

The Statistical Institute of Catalonia (Idescat) is the statistics body of the Government of Catalonia and is responsible for the planning, normalisation, coordination and management of the statistics system in Catalonia.

National Statistics Institute

The National Statistics Institute (INE) compiles state statistics on demography, the economy and society. The official website offers up to date information on the different fields of study.

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For Barcelona, Tourism Boom Comes At High Cost

Lauren Frayer

Tourists take pictures in front of Barcelona's Sagrada Familia church. The city of 1.6 million gets more than 30 million tourists a year. Manu Fernandez/AP hide caption

Tourists take pictures in front of Barcelona's Sagrada Familia church. The city of 1.6 million gets more than 30 million tourists a year.

On a mild, sunny afternoon, hordes of tourists stroll down Barcelona's famous tree-lined pedestrian avenue, La Rambla. They love it — the weather, the tapas, the laid-back bohemian vibe. One tourist from Australia says he's visited Barcelona 12 times in 10 years.

But the city doesn't always love them back.

In January, thousands of Barcelona residents marched down La Rambla and "occupied" the entrance to a hotel there, to protest the volume of tourists and gentrification in the city.

Such rallies began in the summer of 2014, after a group of Italian tourists rented a flat for a bachelor party in an old fishermen's barrio on Barcelona's seafront. One morning, three of the visitors were photographed gallivanting around the neighborhood grocery store — stark naked — as elderly neighbors looked on, aghast. Their antics made the local newspapers and sparked protests which have spread across the city in recent years.

That incident became a symbol of tourists gone wild in Barcelona, and gave birth to neighborhood anti-tourism groups .

"The promotion of tourism, and all these tourist apartments, is actually driving neighbors out," says Martí Cusó, a member of one anti-tourism group in Barcelona's Gothic quarter, where his family has lived for three generations.

Caricaturists line Barcelona's busy tourist thoroughfare, La Rambla. Lauren Frayer for NPR hide caption

Caricaturists line Barcelona's busy tourist thoroughfare, La Rambla.

He takes NPR on a tour of his barrio, where the dry cleaner and local tailor have closed, their storefronts converted into a 24-hour mini-mart and souvenir shop. A city square that used to be entirely residential is now lined with hotels. The only remaining apartment building has just been renovated into luxury condos, mostly to be used as vacation homes for wealthy foreigners.

"All the community that was living here has been broken — completely broken," Cusó says.

At his local market, the centuries-old La Boquería , most people are not buying vegetables.

Barcelona's Mom-And-Pop Tapas Bars Take On The Big Tourist Chains

"They crowd the passageways, taking photos, so regular people can't do their grocery shopping," says Rocí Gayo, who has sold fruit at La Boquería for 20 years. "Out of 20 tourists, if I'm lucky, maybe one will buy one piece of fruit — but no more."

Two years ago, City Hall banned tour groups of 15 or more people from entering the market altogether on Saturday and Sundays before 3 p.m. — peak shopping hours.

Tourism does bring revenue, and has helped Barcelona grow. It currently makes up about 12 percent of Barcelona's economy — up from less than 2 percent before the 1992 Olympic Games showcased this city to the world.

But tourism revenue is not shared as equitably as many locals would like. As old rent controls expire, restaurant and hotel chains have gobbled up mom-and-pop, family-run businesses. With more than 30 million annual tourists in a city of 1.6 million residents, there may be more tourist rentals in Barcelona than year-long leases for full-time residents, says Janet Sanz, the deputy mayor in charge of urban planning.

Rocí Gayo, who has sold fruit in Barcelona's La Boquería market for 20 years, says she's fed up with tourists who crowd the market passageways to take photos but don't buy anything. "Out of 20 tourists, if I'm lucky, maybe one will buy one piece of fruit — but no more," she says. Lauren Frayer for NPR hide caption

Rocí Gayo, who has sold fruit in Barcelona's La Boquería market for 20 years, says she's fed up with tourists who crowd the market passageways to take photos but don't buy anything. "Out of 20 tourists, if I'm lucky, maybe one will buy one piece of fruit — but no more," she says.

"It started with the '92 Olympics, and it's opened to the world," Sanz told NPR in an interview at her office. "We understand that other people love our city. But we're becoming a tourist theme park, every time a grocery store closes and a souvenir shop takes its place. People live and work here. It's not just a fun weekend place."

In January, City Hall banned new hotel beds in the historic quarter. Late last year, it slapped the home-sharing companies Airbnb and HomeAway each with 600,000-euro fines ($634,000) for listing unlicensed tourist rentals.

Uber, Airbnb Under Attack In Spain As Old And New Economies Clash

Such companies have become targets of public anger over rising real estate prices and a diminishing supply of year-long leases. Homeowners can make much more money renting short-term to tourists than long-term to locals.

Sanz estimates there are 10,000 licensed, short-term rental flats in the city, and about 7,000 illegal ones.

"We agree with them on the need to crack down on unwelcome commercial operators," says Patrick Robinson, regional director of public policy for Airbnb, who traveled from London to negotiate with Barcelona officials. "But the city also needs to come to terms with the fact that Barcelona residents are using space in their homes to generate much-needed income at a time of economic stress."

Starting this spring, Airbnb has agreed to limit homeowners to one property listing per person in the city center. But it disputes the city's rule that every listing must have a tourist license — which requires a long bureaucratic process — especially if you're renting out part of your own home.

That's the new sharing economy, Robinson says, and Airbnb helps disperse tourists throughout the whole city.

"More than 70 percent of guests who travel to Barcelona with Airbnb say they want to live like locals do. That is why so many people are now staying in areas that don't normally see tourists," Robinson says. "This is a different kind of tourism."

After vendors complained of over-crowding, Barcelona's City Hall now limits the number of tour groups allowed to enter the centuries-old La Boquería market. Lauren Frayer for NPR hide caption

After vendors complained of over-crowding, Barcelona's City Hall now limits the number of tour groups allowed to enter the centuries-old La Boquería market.

The city frames the licensing dispute as a security issue and encourages tourists to ask landlords if they have a tourist license before they rent. Otherwise, city inspectors could evict tourists from unlicensed apartments at a moment's notice, Sanz warns.

Late last year, Sanz and her City Hall colleagues conducted a citizens' survey. Residents responded that their No. 1 concern is still unemployment — currently at around 10 percent — even though the Spanish economy has rebounded from the economic crisis.

Their No. 2 concern: Too many tourists.

Correction March 6, 2017

An earlier Web version of this story said Barcelona Deputy Mayor Janet Sanz estimates there are 10 million licensed, short-term rental flats in the city and about 7 million illegal ones. The correct figures are 10,000 licensed, short-term rental flats and 7,000 illegal ones.

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Professionals

• Barcelona Convention Bureau

Studies and statistics

Turisme de Barcelona monitors tourism in the city, compiling data about supply and demand, visitor profiles, ratings and opinions in reports and publications. 

More information about Barcelona Workation, here

Observatory of Tourism in Barcelona: city and region

The Observatory of Tourism in Barcelona (OTB): city and region is the working platform that gathers statistical data and markets intelligence about tourism in Barcelona, its counties and regions.

Tourist activity data

We present the latest statistical reports drawn up by Turisme de Barcelona.

Here you can check the indicators compilled since 1989 with the aim of providing a greater insight into tourism activity in Barcelona.

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Historic archive.

Browse Turisme de Barcelona’s data archive which brings together data from our own and external sources dating back to 1989.

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Because of the coronavirus, Barcelona’s Sagrada Família has been closed to visitors since March 13, but a spokesperson for the site finds inspiration in the building itself, which “has survived wars and many other obstacles in its time.”

• CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE

Barcelona goes from overtourism to no tourism

The coronavirus lockdown is keeping travelers away, but the Catalan spirit is fueling a surprising surge of local optimism.

In recent years, nearly 30 million tourists annually have descended on Barcelona, in northeastern Spain, to savor its sites, beaches, and Catalonian culture. A large number of them (an estimated 3.2 million in 2019) were day-trippers who arrived by cruise ship to the city’s port, the largest in the Mediterranean.

Though tourist spending accounts for nearly a fifth of the revenue generated by the city’s commercial sector, this profit engine has been polarizing, with many of Barcelona ’s 1.6 million inhabitants lamenting the negative effects of overtourism .

But now everything’s changed, for travelers and locals. Soon after the coronavirus arrived in late February, tourism evaporated and residents began to shelter under one of the world’s strictest lockdowns.

So what’s Barcelona like these days?

Mood on the street

On a quiet morning in early April, sunlight illuminates Barcelona’s medieval alleyways. It may sound idyllic, but the silence suggests that all is not well. Squares that a few weeks ago were packed now sit eerily empty. Occasionally a resident hurries by, wearing a face mask and carrying shopping bags, eyes turned downward to avoid attracting attention.

During the coronavirus outbreak, normally bustling streets like those near the Catalan Gothic-style Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar in the El Born neighborhood have been deserted.

Spain has been under lockdown since March 14, and the instructions are clear: leave home for anything other than essential work, groceries, or medical reasons, and face a hefty fine of anywhere from 100 euros to a prison sentence. Even more than the legal ramifications, people fear the virus, which has claimed some 15,000 lives in Spain to date, placing its COVID-19 death toll behind only those of Italy and the United States.

( Related: Here’s what you need to know about the coronavirus and COVID-19, the disease it causes .)

Being confined to their homes is not something people here take lightly. Spain has a high percentage of apartment-dwellers, at about two-thirds of the population. This, combined with a favorable climate and long summer evenings, helps explain why residents spend a lot time en la calle, or in the street. Under the lockdown rules, no outdoor exercise or socializing is permitted. But every night at 8 p.m., people take to their balconies to give a standing ovation to healthcare professionals working in the country’s hospitals, a communal movement that’s spreading across the globe.

A shopper returns from buying groceries, one of the few outdoor activities permitted during the coronavirus lockdown in Barcelona.

Reactions at tourist sites

Lines of visitors normally snake around Sagrada Família , Antoni Gaudí's unfinished basilica and the city’s biggest tourist draw. Since its closure on March 13, the icon stands empty. “While we can’t foresee the future, we’re confident we’ll be able to reopen in a few weeks,” said Oriol Llop, communications and brand director for the site. “Despite the challenges, we’ll remain standing, following the example of La Sagrada Família itself, which has survived wars and many other obstacles in its time.”

At La Pedrera-Casa Milá , another of Gaudí’s famed landmarks, visitor numbers for the month of March were already down 65 percent before it shuttered on March 14.

On La Rambla, Barcelona’s best-known boulevard, stacked café chairs await the return of patrons.

( Related: Seismologists are tracking how coronavirus has ‘quieted’ the world. See charts from seven cities, including Barcelona .)

Marwa Preston, who runs gastronomic experience company Wanderbeak , said her business was on track for its best year ever before the virus hit. Yet she remains hopeful: “Unlike the financial crisis of 2008, where people lost a lot of money, this pandemic has us staying at home, refraining from spending. Once things improve, people will be thirsty for travel and experiences, with money in their pockets,” said Preston, who has already launched a “post-quarantine” wine and vermouth tasting tour to support the comeback of local bars and restaurants.

Her optimism is shared by Inés Miró-Sans, co-founder of Casa Bonay boutique hotel. “This situation has created a sense of community like nothing I’ve seen before,” she said. “People are helping each other in any way they can. Hotels that would normally be competitors are working together as one.”

Questions of identity

Unity has been a central theme of Spanish government statements in recent weeks, a change from the political climate of recent years, which has seen Catalan separatism dominate the news. While some might argue that issues of independence be set aside during the pandemic, others disagree. Oriol Arechinolaza i Escuer, a lawyer, and Marta Ginebra Domingo, a law and political science student, both have long-standing links to the independence movement. Ginebra says many residents—pro-independence or not—were dismayed by the Spanish government’s refusal to allow Catalonia to isolate itself from the rest of Spain to limit the spread of the disease. “When the central government makes bad decisions, it causes resentment among those who believe an independent Catalonia would have done better,” she said.

Despite now-empty streets, such as Carrer de Ferran, above, many Barcelona residents feel hopeful about the post-coronavirus future.

( Related: Wonder why Catalonia has a robust separatist movement? These are the reasons .)

Looking to the future, Ginebra and Arechinolaza think the Catalan separatists may set themselves apart through a willingness to invest in better public services. “The COVID-19 crisis could create an opportunity for the pro-independence parties to propose more left-wing economic policies than the Spanish state, thereby garnering more support,” added Arechinolaza.

Reasons for hope

The desire for self-determination is not the only trait for which Catalonia is known. People here tend to place a high value on seny, a Catalan word that translates as common sense and levelheadedness. While the virus is putting seny to one of its toughest tests yet, this mindset may be something that helps the people of Barcelona get through the ordeal. Xavier Bas, director of public affairs at the Catalunya La Pedrera Foundation , which manages visits to La Pedrera-Casa Milá and tackles social issues, echoed the sentiment. “We’re approaching the situation with a sense of calm and responsibility. By joining forces as a society, we’ll overcome this health crisis together, despite having no means of knowing how long it will take.”

The people of Barcelona have a reputation for resilience in the face of adversity, from nearly four decades under Franco’s dictatorship to the terrorist attack in 2017 , when residents gathered in Plaça de Catalunya to chant “ no tinc por, ” or “I am not afraid.”

At Casa Bonay, Inés Miró-Sans is already preparing for the return of tourism to Barcelona. “This is a rare opportunity to slow down, take stock, and think whether we could be doing things differently or better,” she said. “I believe we’ll come out of this stronger, together.”

Related Topics

• CORONAVIRUS
• OVERTOURISM
• CULTURAL TOURISM
• FOOD TOURISM

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Tourism in Barcelona

Disclaimer: Some posts on Tourism Teacher may contain affiliate links. If you appreciate this content, you can show your support by making a purchase through these links or by buying me a coffee . Thank you for your support!

Tourism in Barcelona is big business, but what? And what are the most important things that we should know about tourism here? Read on to find out!

Geography of Barcelona

Tourism industry in barcelona, statistics of tourism in barcelona, popular tourist attractions in barcelona, popular types of tourism in barcelona, economic impacts of tourism in barcelona, social impacts of tourism in barcelona, environmental impacts of tourism in barcelona, faqs about tourism in barcelona, to conclude- tourism in barcelona.

Situated on the northeastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula, Barcelona stands as a testament to Spain’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. A city where Gothic cathedrals meet Modernist masterpieces, Barcelona offers a diverse array of attractions. This article presents a concise yet comprehensive insight into Barcelona’s touristic landmarks and experiences, tailored for both the uninitiated and the well-versed traveller.

Barcelona is a city located in the northeastern region of Catalonia, Spain. It is situated on the Mediterranean coast, between the Besòs and Llobregat rivers. The city covers an area of approximately 101.4 square kilometres and has a population of over 1.6 million people in the metropolitan area.

The city of Barcelona is divided into ten districts, each with its own unique neighbourhoods and landmarks:

• Ciutat Vella: This is the historic center of Barcelona, and includes the neighborhoods of El Raval, Barri Gòtic, El Born, and Barceloneta.
• Eixample: This district is known for its modernist architecture, including the work of Antoni Gaudí. It includes the neighborhoods of L’Antiga Esquerra de l’Eixample, La Nova Esquerra de l’Eixample, Dreta de l’Eixample, and Sagrada Família.
• Gràcia: This district has a bohemian and artsy vibe, and includes the neighborhoods of Vila de Gràcia, Camp d’en Grassot i Gràcia Nova, and La Salut.
• Horta-Guinardó: This is a hilly district known for its parks and gardens, and includes the neighbourhoods of Horta, Carmel, Font d’en Fargues, and Can Baró.
• Les Corts: This district houses many businesses and is home to the famous soccer stadium Camp Nou. It includes the neighbourhoods of Les Corts, La Maternitat i Sant Ramon, and Pedralbes.
• Nou Barris: This district is located in the northern part of Barcelona and includes the neighbourhoods of Can Peguera, Porta, Vallbona, and Torre Baró.

Some of the most famous landmarks and attractions in Barcelona include the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, La Rambla, the Gothic Quarter, Casa Batlló, Casa Milà (La Pedrera), the Barcelona Pavilion, the Montserrat Monastery, and the Picasso Museum.

Tourism is a major industry in Barcelona, with millions of visitors from all over the world visiting the city every year. Barcelona is the most visited city in Spain and one of the most popular destinations in Europe.

Tourism generates significant revenue for the city, making up a large percentage of the local economy. The tourism industry in Barcelona provides jobs for thousands of people in various sectors, including hotels, restaurants, transportation, and attractions.

The city offers a wide range of attractions and activities for tourists, such as art museums, historical landmarks, beaches, nightlife, shopping, and gastronomy. Popular tourist attractions in Barcelona include the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, Casa Batlló, La Rambla, the Gothic Quarter, and the Picasso Museum.

Barcelona also hosts several international events and festivals throughout the year, which attract even more visitors to the city. Some of the most popular events include the Festa Major de Gràcia, the Barcelona Carnival, the Sant Jordi Festival, and the Barcelona Wine Festival.

However, tourism does pose some challenges for Barcelona, such as overcrowding in popular areas, increased traffic, and rising housing costs. Local authorities and tourism organisations are working to address these issues and balance the benefits of tourism with the needs of the local community.

Now that we know a little bit more about tourism in Barcelona, lets take a look at some of the key statistics about the tourism industry here:

• In 2019, there were over 9 million overnight stays in Barcelona by foreign tourists.
• Barcelona is the most visited city in Spain, with over 30 million visitors in 2019.
• Tourism accounts for around 12% of the city’s GDP.
• The tourism industry provides over 100,000 jobs in Barcelona.
• In 2019, the city had over 16,000 registered tourism establishments, including hotels, hostels, and apartments.
• The average length of stay for tourists in Barcelona is around 2.6 nights.
• The most popular months for tourism in Barcelona are July and August.
• Around 75% of tourists in Barcelona are from outside Spain.
• The most common reasons for visiting Barcelona are for the city’s cultural attractions, art museums, and architecture.
• There has been a recent trend towards more sustainable tourism practices in Barcelona, with an increase in eco-friendly accommodations, bike rental services, and environmentally-conscious tour operators.

One of the major reasons that tourism in Barcelona is so popular is due to its range of tourist attractions. Here are some of the most popular:

Sagrada Família: This is a stunning and iconic basilica that was designed by the famous Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí. It’s been under construction for over 100 years, but visitors can still admire its intricate designs and impressive towers.

Park Güell: This is a unique public park designed by Gaudí that features colourful mosaics, winding pathways, and beautiful views of the city. Visitors can also see some of Gaudi’s famous sculptures and architectural designs at the park.

La Rambla: This is a lively pedestrian street that is lined with street performers, shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat or go shopping.

Gothic Quarter: This is the historic and mediaeval heart of Barcelona, with narrow streets, beautiful architecture, and stunning cathedrals. Visitors can explore the city’s old Roman walls, Gothic churches, and charming plazas.

Montserrat Monastery: This is a stunning monastery located just outside of Barcelona, set against a dramatic mountain backdrop. Visitors can see the monastery’s beautiful chapel, choir stalls, and museum, as well as take in the magnificent views.

Barcelona offers a variety of tourism activities for visitors to enjoy, catering to different interests and preferences. Here are some popular types of tourism in Barcelona:

• Cultural tourism: Barcelona is rich in culture and history, making it a popular destination for those interested in exploring the city’s many museums, galleries, and historical landmarks, such as the Gothic Quarter, the Picasso Museum, and the Sagrada Familia.
• Gastronomic tourism: Barcelona’s cuisine is famous for its traditional tapas and other Mediterranean dishes, making it a popular destination for foodies. Visitors can enjoy food tours, cooking classes, and sampling local delicacies at the city’s many restaurants and markets.
• Beach tourism: Barcelona has several beaches along the coast, such as Barceloneta and Bogatell, which attract many visitors who want to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. Along the coast, visitors can also take part in various water activities like surfing, swimming, and kitesurfing.
• Sports tourism: Barcelona is a popular destination for sports enthusiasts, with FC Barcelona being one of the biggest soccer teams in the world. Visitors can take a stadium tour at Camp Nou, enjoy a game or experience the various sports facilities around the city.
• Art and architecture tourism: Including major works by famous artist Fernando Botero and renowned architect Antoni Gaudi, Barcelona is a mecca of art and architecture. Visit remarkable landmarks like the Park Güell, Casa Batlló, La Pedrera and Montserrat Monastery to satisfy your artistic and architectural cravings.

Overall, Barcelona seamlessly blends many tourism activities providing an enriching and unforgettable experience to its visitors.

Tourism has both positive and negative economic impacts on Barcelona. Here are some of the key economic impacts of tourism in Barcelona:

Negative Impacts:

1 – Overcrowding: With millions of visitors every year, there are concerns of overcrowding in popular areas, which can negatively impact the local community.

2 – Increased costs: Tourism can contribute to increased costs of living, such as rising housing costs, making it difficult for locals who are not in the tourism sector.

3 – Traffic congestion: High tourist numbers can lead to increased traffic congestion, which can impact the overall quality of life for locals and affect public transportation services.

4 – Seasonal employment: Due to the seasonal nature of tourism (such as higher number of visits in summer), many jobs in the industry are temporary and seasonal, resulting in job insecurity during the off-season.

5 – Environmental impact: High tourist numbers can also have a negative impact on the environment, such as the use of natural resources, pollution and increased waste.

Positive Impacts:

1 – Generates revenue: Tourism is a major source of revenue for Barcelona, contributing significantly to the city’s GDP.

2 – Provides employment: The tourism industry in Barcelona provides many jobs in different sectors, including hotels, restaurants, transportation, and attractions.

3 – Encourages investment: Tourism creates opportunities for investment in various sectors, such as accommodation, restaurants, retail, and transportation.

4 – Boosts small business: Tourism helps to support small businesses, such as artisanal shops, souvenir stores, and local restaurants, which contribute to the local economy.

5 – Promotes regional development: Tourism helps to bring investment and development to different neighbourhoods, resulting in increased economic activity and opportunities.

6 – Generates tax revenue: Tourists often pay local taxes and fees, providing an additional source of revenue for the city.

Overall, while there are both positive and negative impacts of tourism on the economy of Barcelona, it is important to manage tourism growth in a way that balances the benefits with the needs of the local community and sustainable development objectives.

Tourism has had significant social impacts on Barcelona, a city known for its rich culture, history, and architecture. While tourism has brought many benefits to the city’s economy and created job opportunities, it has also caused social and cultural changes that have affected the lives of the locals. Here are some of the most notable social impacts of tourism in Barcelona:

Overcrowding: Barcelona has become one of the top tourist destinations in Europe, leading to overcrowding in certain neighbourhoods and overwhelming the city’s infrastructure. Increased tourism has led to an increase in rental fees and a decrease in affordable housing, which has pushed locals out of their neighbourhoods.

Change in local culture: The rapid growth of tourism in Barcelona has caused a substantial shift in the city’s traditional culture, as businesses have shifted their focus to cater to tourists rather than locals. This change has caused a dip in the usage of Catalan, the city’s traditional language, as more tourists and locals now speak Spanish or English.

Employment opportunities: Tourism in Barcelona has created employment opportunities for the city’s residents, providing thousands of jobs in the hospitality and tourism industries. However, the majority of these jobs are low-paying and entry-level positions.

Environmental impact: The overreliance on fossil fuels, increased waste production, and pollutants from heavy traffic and tourism activities have a major impact on the environment.

Loss of community: Barcelona has always been known for its tight-knit and vibrant community, but the influx of tourism has caused locals to feel unwelcome in their neighbourhoods, with many businesses catering exclusively to tourists.

Overall, while tourism benefits the economy and creates much-needed employment opportunities, it has also led to social and cultural changes in Barcelona, impacting the traditional way of life for many residents. To address the issues caused by tourism, the local government has implemented measures such as limiting the number of tourists allowed in certain areas, promoting eco-friendly activities, and encouraging businesses to focus more on sustainability and local culture.

Tourism in Barcelona has had various environmental impacts on the city, some of which include:

Increased waste generation: The influx of tourists has led to the generation of more waste, including food waste, plastic waste, and packaging waste. The city has struggled to handle this increased waste, leading to issues like overflowing rubbish bins, litter on streets and beaches, and a strain on the city’s waste disposal facilities.

Energy consumption: Tourism in Barcelona consumes a lot of energy, especially during peak seasons, leading to an increase in energy consumption and carbon emissions. This includes the use of energy-intensive amenities like swimming pools, heating, air conditioning, and transportation.

Water usage: The high volume of tourists has put a strain on the city’s water resources, leading to water scarcity and pollution. This includes water used for irrigation, swimming pools, and cleaning of tourist facilities.

Strain on natural resources: Increased tourism puts a strain on natural resources like beaches, parks, and forests, leading to erosion, pollution, and loss of biodiversity. This is seen in areas like the beachfront, where increased foot traffic has led to soil erosion, causing damage to the natural landscape.

Transportation: The transportation needs of tourists in Barcelona have led to the increased use of high-polluting transportation, such as taxis, buses, and private cars. This has contributed to the overall carbon footprint of the tourism industry in the city.

The local government of Barcelona has implemented several measures to mitigate the environmental impact of tourism. These include promoting sustainable tourism practices, encouraging visitors to use public transportation, increasing sustainable waste management strategies, and investing in green energy. Additionally, the city has implemented measures to reduce the number of tourists in overcrowded areas, limit cruise traffic in the harbour, and encourage travellers to explore alternative tourism activities that have less environmental impact.

Barcelona’s diverse attractions and activities draw a broad range of visitors to the city, from independent travellers, foodies, and culture-seekers, to families on vacation, sports fans and those who seek relaxation on the beach.

10 Interesting Facts About Tourism in Barcelona

1 – Barcelona is the most visited city in Spain, attracting over 32 million tourists annually.

2 – Tourism is a vital industry in Barcelona and contributes significantly to the city’s economy, accounting for more than 12% of the city’s GDP.

3 – The city attracts tourists from all over the world, with the largest number of visitors coming from France, the UK, Italy, Germany, and the United States.

4 – Barcelona is famous for its architecture, and the most iconic building in the city is the Sagrada Familia, which is still under construction after more than 130 years.

5 – Another famous landmark in the city is Park Guell, designed by renowned architect Antoni Gaudi, which features colourful mosaics, fanciful sculptures, and sweeping views of the city.

6 – Barcelona has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many museums and galleries, including the Picasso Museum, the Joan Miro Foundation, and the National Art Museum of Catalonia

7 – The city has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants staying open late into the night.

8 – Barcelona is also known for its beaches, including Barceloneta Beach, which is one of the most popular beaches in the city.

9 – The city is home to many festivals and cultural events, including the famous La Mercè festival, which takes place every September and features concerts, parades, and fireworks.

10 – The tourism industry in Barcelona has faced some challenges in recent years, including protests by locals over the impact of tourism on the city’s infrastructure and affordability. However, the industry continues to thrive, and efforts are being made to balance the needs of locals with the needs of visitors.

Now that we know a bit more about tourism in Barcelona, lets answer some of the most common questions on this topic:

1 – What is the best time of year to visit Barcelona?

The best time to visit Barcelona is from May to June or from September to November when the weather is pleasant, and crowds are smaller.

2 – How do I get around Barcelona?

You can get around Barcelona by walking, cycling, taking the metro, bus, or taxis. The city also has a public bicycle rental service called Bicing.

3 – What is the currency used in Barcelona?

The currency used in Barcelona, as well as the rest of Spain, is the Euro (EUR).

4 – What is the official language spoken in Barcelona?

The official language spoken in Barcelona is Catalan, but most locals speak Spanish as well.

5 – What are some must-see attractions in Barcelona?

Some must-see attractions in Barcelona include the Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Gothic Quarter, La Rambla, and Camp Nou stadium.

6 – How can I purchase tickets to popular attractions in Barcelona?

You can purchase tickets online in advance, from tourist information offices or from ticket booths located at the attractions

7 – Is Barcelona a safe city for tourists?

Barcelona is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is important to be cautious of pickpocketing and scams in crowded areas.

8 – How much does it cost to travel in Barcelona?

The cost of travel in Barcelona depends on your personal preferences and budget. Accommodation, dining, and sightseeing can vary in cost.

9 – What is the nightlife like in Barcelona?

Barcelona has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants open late into the night.

10 – Are there any cultural etiquettes I should be aware of when visiting Barcelona?

It is important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and to show respect for local customs and traditions. Catalan culture is influenced by a strong sense of regional identity, so it is important to use the proper forms of address and greetings.

Barcelona, renowned for its architectural splendour and cultural vibrancy, remains a cornerstone of European tourism. As the city navigates the complexities of modern tourism, striking a balance between infrastructural advancement and heritage preservation becomes paramount. It is incumbent upon both tourists and sector professionals to ensure Barcelona’s enduring charm is maintained amidst contemporary demands.

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• Tourist tax in Barcelona 2023, by accommodation type

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Where do visitors prefer to stay in barcelona, tourist tax in barcelona, spain as of april 2023, by type of accommodation (in euros per person and night).

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Europe, Spain

April 1, 2023

up to a maximum of seven days in a row in the same accommodation; not applicable to children and teenagers under 16 years

*Including 2,75 euro fee to the Barcelona city council.

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Statistics on " Travel and tourism in Barcelona "

• Quarterly trade, transport & lodging GDP in Catalonia 2017-2022
• Employment in tourism in Catalonia 2010-2022
• Number of trips made by local travelers in Catalonia 2015-2022
• Number of domestic trips to Catalonia 2015-2022
• Spanish cities with the largest number of international hotel guests 2022
• Spanish tourist destinations with the highest hotel investments 2022
• Leading European city tourism destinations 2019-2022, by number of bed nights
• Most common origin countries among foreign hotel guests in Barcelona 2023
• Cruise passenger traffic at Barcelona's port 1990-2022
• Ferry passenger traffic at Barcelona's port 2000-2022
• Main means of travel for tourists in Barcelona 2017-2023
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• Number of hotels in Barcelona 1990-2022
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• Hotel bed occupancy in Barcelona 1990-2022
• Monthly ADR of hotel establishments in Barcelona 2021-2022

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Regional overview

• Premium Statistic Quarterly trade, transport & lodging GDP in Catalonia 2017-2022
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• Premium Statistic Number of trips made by local travelers in Catalonia 2015-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic trips to Catalonia 2015-2022
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Tourism volume

• Basic Statistic Leading European city tourism destinations 2019-2022, by number of bed nights
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• Premium Statistic Passenger traffic at El Prat Airport 2000-2022
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Visitor profile

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Improving and distributing tourism evenly with the Barcelona strategy

13/05/2022 14:55 h

The 21 projects outlined represent a range of actions with a broad geographical reach, focusing particularly on the Besòs, Collserola, the coastline and Montjuïc. Other cross-cutting action is also planned to evenly distribute tourism and prompt innovation in going digital, sustainability and mobility.

• Coastline: in line with the goal of the green and sustainable transition, action here is aimed at making beaches more natural, improving accessibility and safety and adapting them to climate change. The project to improve the beaches and the bathing area at the Fòrum entails an investment of 4 million euros.
• Collserola and Besòs: with an investment of 5,479,750 euros, the idea is to add vitality to the Parc Natural de Collserola and the riverbank of the Besòs through environmental recovery and the historical recovery of different tourist attractions.
• Montjuïc: with a budget of 10,315,000 euros, the plan here is to boost this large public park, improve accessibility and attract visitors linked to culture, sport and the natural environment.
• Sustainable mobility: action here is designed to integrate uses and tourist mobility into the city’s mobility model, with a budget of 8,492,320 euros to help fund three projects.
• New evenly distributed options: the goal is to add more tourism options with new points of competitive interest to help provide balance in a polycentric city. With a budget of 9,789,941 euros, up to six projects are planned in this sphere.
• Innovation: the five projects in this field have a combined budget of 10,466,001 euros. A series of actions are planned to comprehensively help the sector go digital, with a broader vision embracing the private and public ecosystem linked to the visitor economy. Action here will be implemented by the Barcelona Tourism Consortium.

Fifty million euros in investment

The call by the state plan for sustainability in tourist destinations is aimed at local organisations and entails funding of 1.9 billion euros between now and 2023. Of this amount, 194 million corresponds to Catalonia, with a maximum of 50 million euros available for Barcelona. As major urban destinations, the Catalan capital and Madrid are in a category of their own due to their singularity.

Once the strategy has been put forward for the call, it will be evaluated by the Secretary of State for Tourism and the Government of Catalonia.

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The Observatori del Turisme a Barcelona: ciutat i regió (OTB) is the working platform for statistical information on tourism, knowledge and market intelligence in the city of Barcelona and the rest of Barcelona region.