Visitors from Spain

1. Executive summary 2023

In 2023, Spain was Scotland’s fifth largest international source market measured by number of visits. It was eighth by expenditure and eighth by number of nights. Spanish visitors accounted for 5% of all overseas visits to Scotland and 3% of all overseas spend in Scotland in 2023.

2023 saw a continued growth in the number of visits. Visits surpassed 2022 levels by 5% and pre pandemic levels by 56%. Spend in 2023 once again surpassed pre pandemic spending but was slightly lower compared to 2022.

The average spend per visit in 2023 was £539. The average spend per night was £75. The average length of stay was 7.2 nights.

Source: IPS, 2023

2. VisitBritain MIDAS research 2022

In 2022, our partner, VisitBritain undertook comprehensive research with international leisure travellers. They spoke to global tourists from many markets, including Spain.

Whilst the research focuses on perceptions and experiences of Britain, there are insights which are useful for the Scottish tourism industry.

Southern European tourists are less interested in relaxing and more interested in cultural exploration.