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Spain welcomed 55% more Aussies in 2024 as Turespaña launches sustainable tourism site

Spain saw a strong resurgence among Australian travellers in 2024 with 672,274 arrivals last year – up 54.28 per cent on 2019 visitation levels. In 2025, Turespaña seeks to step up its focus on sustainable travel and responsible tourism.

Spain saw a strong resurgence among Australian travellers in 2024 with 672,274 arrivals last year – up 54.28 per cent on 2019 visitation levels. In 2025, Turespaña seeks to step up its focus on sustainable travel and responsible tourism.

Turespaña (Spain Tourism Board) will continue to promote sustainable travel for 2025, launching a dedicated microsite to help travellers plan conscious trips.

The sustainable travel site includes travel ideas and practical advice to spur travellers to reconnect with nature, immerse themselves in the culture and traditions and support local communities.

It’s part of the Spanish Government’s push to promote lesser-visited regional destinations, where travellers can experience more authentic Spanish offerings and avoid the crowds.

Salburua wetlands on the outskirts of the city of Vitoria-Gasteiz in Spain's Basque Country. Image: Turespaña
Salburua wetlands on the outskirts of the city of Vitoria-Gasteiz in Spain’s Basque Country.

Working in partnership with Basquetour (Basque Country Tourism Board) and the Catalan Tourist Board, Turespaña encourages Australians to look beyond the country’s already popular touristy cities and consider spending time in the regions.

Regional areas within Catalonia, such as Sitges and Tarragona, are easily accessible from Barcelona, the site of overtourism protests last year.

Meanwhile, the Basque Country on Spain’s Atlantic coast, known for its gastronomy and surf culture, is trending among more Australians.

The Monastery of Montserrat in Catalonia, Spain. Image: Turespaña
The Monastery of Montserrat in Catalonia.

Spain will also celebrate several major cultural anniversaries and events in 2025, including Catalonia’s Gastronomy Year, marking the region’s recognition as a World Region for Gastronomy; the 1,000th anniversary of the Monastery of Montserrat; and the 50th anniversary of the Joan Miró Foundation with special exhibitions and events commemorating the artist’s works in Barcelona.

View of the Punto Nuevo in the city of Ronda, Málaga. Image: Turespaña
View of the Punto Nuevo in the city of Ronda, Málaga.

For more info, head to sustainability.spain.info