Spain, favourite destination for international shopping tourism

24-03-25

Spain is consolidating its position as one of the most attractive destinations for shopping tourism worldwide, and the latest data reveal an upward trend in spending by international visitors, especially in the luxury segment. According to Global Blue reports, the country has achieved a 124% recovery from pre-pandemic levels in 2019, surpassing even other European powerhouses in the sector such as France (115%) and Italy (113%). This remarkable growth not only reflects a solid recovery after years of uncertainty, but also a strategic repositioning of Spain on the global luxury retail map.

The profile of the tourist buyer in Spain has diversified notably, with a strong presence of travellers from Latin America, the United States, the Middle East and Asia, especially China. These visitors are not only looking for sun and sand, but also for urban, cultural and, increasingly, exclusive shopping experiences. In this context, major cities such as Madrid and Barcelona are consolidating their position as epicentres of luxury, with areas such as Madrid's Golden Mile and Barcelona's Passeig de Gràcia attracting international brands and consumers with high purchasing power.